A dramatic new image has emerged of the volcanic eruption which has disrupted air travel to and from Tonga.

Hundreds of travellers and holidaymakers have been left stranded after flights to and from Tonga were cancelled yesterday because of a huge volcanic ash cloud.

Flights between Australia and Tonga should be back up and running by Wednesday after plumes of volcanic ash above the small island nation grounded planes.

Large ash cloud from a volcano in Tonga is affecting flights in the region, with aviation authorities issuing an alert.

Awards are all the rage at this time of year. Surfing won't trouble the gong department though. Indeed, the board brigade might rank as New Zealand's worst performing sport.

Pacific Island people, the poor and the young are bearing the brunt of Auckland's housing crisis through falling home ownership rates and crowding, a new report shows.

Hawaii celebrates its design heritage in a show that offers a welcome break from the beach, writes Janetta Mackay.

Belinda Henley explores beyond Noumea and discovers a land of red earth and dramatic scenery.

The Solomons' underwater denizens introduce themselves to Richard Moore.

A failed Fiji resort development that Bridgecorp directors poured $106 million has today been officially restarted by the island's nation's prime minister.

New Zealand's own mother of the nation, Judy Bailey, visits internet mogul Larry Ellison's Hawaiian island - and is impressed by his preservation project.

On a cruise around Fiji's islands Sue Baxalle surrenders to a restorative pleasure of the flesh and befriends colourful characters.

If flying and flopping is too boring for you, there are a few options to amuse the energetic - or hungry - on Fiji's Denarau Island.

In Samoa, Anika Moa heals her heartbreak and replaces lost lovers with newfound friends.

Niue is a an intriguingly rough diamond, writes Paul Rush.

Cheap babysitters, blissful massages, adult-only fine dining... Leah McLennan settles into life on Malolo.

The best way to see Hawaii's marine life is to get wet, so Heather McCracken rides a paddleboard in Oahu.

This election has seen the highest ever number of Pasifika candidates voted in as members of parliament.

Experience French fare or go kite surfing, says Megan Singleton.

Golfer James Henderson finds that Fiji challenges with intelligent and provoking course designs.

The striking topography instantly marks these islands out as great walking territory, writes Peter de Graaf.

Tristram Clayton finds a different side of Fiji at an adults-only resort on Viti Levu.

Ditch the sunbathing for some action, writes Megan Singleton.

For a long time the Pasifika vote has always gone to the party draped in red. But something has changed in the community.

The Fijian focus on first-class care for children means adults get plenty of time to unwind, writes Adam Ray.

Fiji's first foodie ambassador and celebrity chef leads a new wave of South Pacific cuisine, writes Maureen Dettre.

All you'll hear at this quiet resort is the tide lapping at the nearby beach, the odd fish slapping back into the water and perhaps the twitter of a bird now and then.

Gayle Dickson stays in a luxurious overwater fale.

Language is no barrier where enjoyment is a universal concept, writes Julia Carlisle.