What's in a name? Shelley Bridgeman discovers that society can be slow on the uptake when it comes to the patronymic.

Almost all of Auckland's licensed karaoke bars breach liquor laws in their first year.

A new study has found that alcohol is to blame for most suicide attempts involving overdosing.

Economists are surprised at the massive drop in unemployment stats released today, with the rate dropping from 7.1pc to 6pc in the March quarter.

Whether it's a backlash against the feminist movement of the 1970s or a natural progression into making the most of choices, statistics show that an increasing amount of women - and men - would choose home over full-time work.

Young children should not watch any TV because it sets them up for obesity and poor academic performance at school, say experts.

Parents, beware: watching television makes toddlers fatter and stupider at primary school, according to new research.

Thousands of protesters rallied in cities across America demanding that President Obama tackle immigration reform immediately.

Police were called to SkyCity casino yesterday after a child was found abandoned while his grandparents played bingo.

High-profile fixtures and events would struggle to survive if bans on alcohol advertising are adopted.

Some 'doulas' - women who provide personal support during childbirth are now also offering their services during abortions, writes Dita De Boni.

The Govt has cancelled pumping $430m into superannuation, tax credits and benefits that would have, in effect, been compensation for higher tobacco taxes.

Elton John says he's been sober for 20 years, since shortly after the death of an Indiana teen with Aids who the musician credits with inspiring him to turn his life around.

A law expert says Waitakere City Council is wrong to think it cannot help a school that wants a nearby brothel removed.

Australia is poised to introduce the world's harshest anti-smoking laws, with tobacco companies forced to sell cigarettes in plain packets resembling prescription drug packs.