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.

Two years after the devastating tsunami, Samoa has lost none of its natural beauty, warmth, culture or charm, writes Belinda Henley.

Despite 2009's devastating tsunami, Samoa has lost none of its natural beauty, warmth, culture or charm.

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.

Sir Paul Reeves, an Anglican archbishop who became New Zealand's first Maori Governor-General , has died. He was 78. Sir Paul had been suffering from cancer and said last month he was stepping back from public life.

Vaimoana Tapaleao finds these surreal Samoan volcanic rock fields have a spiritual atmosphere.

Visiting Samoa reveals a little village, Saleaula, which sits entirely on barren lava.

As balls skip across rock pools, Faith Lee resolves to master a spot of reef golf in Fiji.

An outing off Moorea turns Kerre Woodham into a fishing convert.

New Zealand feature film The Orator (O Le Tulafale) has been selected to premiere in competition in the Orizzonti (New Horizons) section of the 68th Venice International Film Festival.

The All Blacks have the advantage of player depth over old foe Australia for the World Cup, says former skipper Sean Fitzpatrick.