Irradiated tomatoes are on shop shelves, but some customers and even retailers are still unaware that they have been treated.

There is a different side to this mad city, one that'd get a tick of approval from even the most hardened hipster. Or aesthete. Or whatever that group with cynical world views and ironic clothing is being called these days.

Isn't the weekly food shop a drag? Whingeing children, supermarkets that move the products you like, misleading sales, and the eventual decapitation of your bank balance at the checkout.

Banks could be forced to allow customers to take their account number with them when they shift to a new bank, in the same way customers can take their cellphone number with them when they move telcos.

I don't shop in the "sales". That's because it's much better to wait for "clearance". Why get a 10 per cent or 20 per cent discount?

Buying supermarket own-brand products may save you money - but often means choosing something not made in New Zealand.

Parents everywhere want the best for their babies. And millions worldwide will be watching just what Wills and Kate buy and use for baby George.

Fancy the chance to try new, free beauty products and tell the world what you think of them?

I am concerned that loyalty schemes, such as the Farmlands card, result in consumers who are not members being disadvantaged.

The internet is awash with great wine deals. Google "buy wine online" and you'll be hit with pages and pages of offers.

When I bought a USB charger, the shop said if there were any problems they would replace it, but not refund my money. I thought this was odd. And it broke the first time I used it. What are my rights here?

The debate over GST on international purchases is raging in retail. Ask any cycle shop owner and you'll get an impassioned speech on the subject.

At least one retailer in Devonport is blaming the downturn in her business on British immigrants.

Home delivery of fruit and vegetable boxes is a booming industry. Chances are, several companies deliver in your area.

Shopping via mobile devices is on the rise in New Zealand, according to new research.

Want a break from the kids on your family holiday? Danielle Wright discovers kids clubs in Fiji.

Three stylish women, frequent visitors to France, share their favourite Parisian haunts.

Bad eyesight can prove to be expensive. A friend just spent $1,500 on a pair of glasses.

Luxury steps up to new high-tech levels at a renowned Hong Kong institution.

NZ shoppers are some of the smartest and most budget-conscious in the world - with new consumer research showing locals favour quality over designer labels and brand imaging.

Year 6 children at Willowbank School don't just know their brands - they know which brands go with each sport, age group and gender.

Kris Shannon and Andrew Koubaridis get suited and booted in China.

I shop online as much as I can. It saves time, hassle, petrol and sometimes money. Yet, in my opinion, New Zealand is poorly served for online shopping.

Kiwis spend $1.6 billion on their pets annually. We pamper our pooches more than our grandparents ever could have imagined.

Once upon a time headphones were boring. Now they're to die for. Any self-respecting gamer or music-lover probably owns several sets.