Several of the world's weathiest countries also lay claim to a title they would not be so proud of - the biggest gaps between rich and poor.

Bill English is confident New Zealand would have no trouble raising a loan of $40 million.

New Zealand has been named the 20th best country for quality of life by a UN report on migration and development.

A study indicates 70 per cent of parents who abuse their children were abused themselves.

Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia and Labour's Annette King are calling for action over a report slamming New Zealand's treatment of children.

The biggest problem the tax system faces is that in a globalised era we are taxing all the wrong things.