Latest from Italy

Ferrari FF: Fire and ice
The FF is possibly the world's most glamorous and exciting intercontinental ski express. But is it relevant in New Zealand?

France, Italy push for tighter EU border controls
The leaders of France and Italy have called for an overhaul of the system of passport-free travel across 25 European nations.

Bulls and a piano lead the way to Venice
The morning started with a call from Creative New Zealand to say Michael Parekowhai had notified them of the interview.

A grand restoration
A Steinway grand piano carved with Maori patterns is part of Michael Parekowhai's installation at this year's Venice Biennale.

Man who put the Ferrero into Rocher dies
The Italian man whose company is responsible for those tasty Ferrero Rocher chocolates has died, aged just 47.

Book Review: <i>Pereira Maintains</i>
The small, superb story has become a talisman in the author's Italy. Since its publication there 15 years ago, it's won plaudits and prizes and been made into a Mastroianni film.

Kings of style
The new editor of MrPorter.com lists his favourite male fashion icons of all time.

Mobsters make offers legal doctors can't refuse
Italian mobsters will try anything to convince judges they are suffering from depression or anorexia.

'Teflon tycoon' Berlusconi battles back
Silvio Berlusconi, the Teflon Tycoon, will stop at little to avoid a prison sentence.

Tuscany: Carnival steeped in cultural identity
Political satire on floats is probably not what you'd expect in this town on the Tuscan coast, writes John Watson.

Fast cars to Latin lovers: Italy's top 15 cultural exports
In honour of Italy's 150th birthday, John Walsh rounds up its top cultural exports.

Summer of greed (+recipe)
A new cookbook written by two old friends exploring their culinary heritage should reignite your zest for Italian food.

Book Review: <i>Dolci Di Love</i>
Lynch fans will delight in her latest offering of love and heartache in the Italian hills. Sarah-Kate Lynch even helped smooth the reviewer's own path to love.

At home: Lust for life
Amanda Taylor-Ace had a dream and, through the sheer force of her personality, made it her reality, upping sticks and creating a most enviable life in France.

<i>The Refreshment Room</i>, Titirangi
Gorgeous views and simply delicious Italian fare are getting tongues wagging in the Waitakeres.

Suzuki: Sporty Swift hard act to follow
How New Zealand takes to Suzuki's latest Swift could make or break the brand here.