The tourism industry is gathering in Queenstown for its annual sales pitch to buyers from around the world, with high hopes the Hobbit movies will prove an irresistible lure to tourists.

Disaster or 'grief' tourism: a travel trend sweeping the world, proving there's no scene so grim that hordes of tourists won't want to visit and take photos.

Australian Lord of the Rings fans have accused Kiwis of exploiting tourists by overcharging for tours of the major movie attraction.

DoC has indicated it will approve a concession to build a 43km monorail through conservation land, subject to public submissions.

Fiordland National Park is at risk of being turned into a theme park warn opponents of a proposed monorail.

Mike Hosking stood to gain up to $48,000 this year in cash and perks from casino giant SkyCity, according to financial information obtained by the Herald on Sunday.

The largest privately owned residential yacht on earth, aptly called The World, will anchor at Whitianga tomorrow.