But for some, buying bullion has been a costly mistake...

Fresh Pasifika flavour with French flair ... Sophie Bond's in the markets for a treat.

Despite the Pacific's reputation as a region of beaches and abundance, there is no place further from the internationally agreed poverty reduction targets.

Thomas R. Nides writes that the United States, as a Pacific nation, has an enduring bond with the Pacific region.

Foreign Minister Murray McCully says around 40 per cent of school children in Pacific Island countries do not complete a basic primary education, and only 20 per cent graduate from secondary school, in opening a Pacific conference ahead..

A no-frills break on the island of Savaii proves uniquely soothing, writes Vaimoana Tapaleao.

With 17 days to go until the start of the World Cup, and 42 days for the tournament to run, ticket sales are still $30.5 million short of the $268m target. NZ will still lose $39m if all the tickets are sold.

Palm-fringed beaches and tropical rainforests merge in Savai'i, writes Adrienne Kohler.