Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard's use of the word "misogyny" in attacking Tony Abbott has prompted a recasting of its meaning in the national dictionary.

US President Barack Obama is taking on Republican challenger Mitt Romney in their second debate today starting at 2pm NZ time. Watch it live and read commentary here.

Australia is always being held up as an example for New Zealand to follow. But who could admire the toxic way they do politics in Australia, writes Sue Kedgley.

The men campaigning to be America's next vice-president clashed over the Obama administration's policy in Libya and Iran in a debate today.

As Bali commemorates 10 years since twin bombings killed 202 people, relatives of the dead cling to memories of their loved ones - and vow that terrorism will never win.

Australia's Prime Minister Julia Gillard has accused Opposition Leader Tony Abbott of being sexist and a misogynist.

A New Zealander is arrested overseas or detained at an airport every week, a third of them by the strict authorities in the United States.

Veteran Aussie broadcaster Alan Jones says "21st Century cyber bullying'' is the reason all commercials have been pulled from his radio breakfast show.

The wife of Australia's Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has spoken out against critics of her husband - saying he has no problem dealing with women.

US President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney have faced off in their first debate. Follow the commentary here.

Alan Jones's comments about the Australian prime minister's father are costing his radio station dearly.

Foreign Minister Murray McCully says the UN must do more to help small Pacific nations, and he's warned it risks losing its credibility over its inaction on Syria.

Alan Jones, the Australian radio host, has learned the perils of being loose-lipped at an ostensibly private function, after a secret recording of his jibe at the PM.

Former NZ diplomat Warren Searell called Damascus home until the Arab spring made life far too dangerous. This is his story.