The online dark ages

All we can offer in our future defence is that showing off is an opioid-grade addiction, as is putting others down.

Acting the ass

As a braying donkey, Hurst happened to bear an eerie resemblance to one of our nation's current mayors.

A walking target

I'd happily share a road filled with idiots if it meant there were fewer maniacs nearby.

The going-nutty professor

Better Call Saul's Bob Odenkirk plays a university head of department in crisis in new black comedy Lucky Hank.

Those left behind

The tale of a GI, a bar girl and an Amerasian child from the Vietnam War leaves a lasting impression.

Good girls don't leave

Author's memoir a lively and nuanced exploration of a woman defying the expectations of society.

The lost decade

ChatGPT has left digital voice assistants like Siri and Alexa looking dumb and oh so 10 years ago.

Grin and bear it

We're not kidding ourselves that the more active we are, the better we feel however bracing it may be out there.

Forward thinking

Time pressures can make dinner preparation a chore. Meal plans are one way to ensure your family enjoys more healthy, homemade meals.

Carry on moving

Exercising consistently at all stages in life is best for brain health, but late starters can reap benefits, too.

Next stop: Australia

The challenge of crossing the Tasman solo, against prevailing winds, has lured a certain breed of sailor to New Plymouth for more than half a century.

In the sand

Golf's Saudi-backed LIV tour has driven a wedge through the genteel sport and risks coming up short in its sportswashing aim.

Serving the people

Disillusionment with democracy is understandable, says a Kiwi helping the next generation of world leaders to raise their game.

Double visions

The doppelganger has fascinated for centuries, and many of us have one. Now, there's interest in using lookalikes for medical diagnosis and crime-solving - and for more sinister purposes.

Senses of wonder

Human powers of perception are far more complex than just the famous five of sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch.

Wilde bunch

How an Oscar Wilde classic has been reinvented as 21st-century theatre involving 26 characters performed by a cast of one.

'Out with the bins'

Irish author Liz Nugent talks about trauma and isolation, being inspired by an American classic, and why New Zealand features in her new novel.

That's a pass

Time to check out the streaming competition now that Netflix has cut one of its best features.

Third-round knockout

Michael B Jordan distance  goes the in and out of the ring.

Cinema of unease

Celebrated Swedish director Ruben Östlund talks about why his portraits of human failure come from a positive place.

Coming unstuck

Growing evidence shows damaged Teflon pans may release particles that endanger human health.

Man out of time

How the film Living has become the role of a lifetime for Bill Nighy.

Celestial wobbles

Small deviations in Earth's orbit cause climate change, but not today's version.

On the road again

The book that graced many Kiwi coffee tables back in the 80s has been given new life in another large-format edition.

Go nuts for dessert

Need a spectacular dish for a special occasion? Australian home cook BELINDA JEFFERY presents two that fit the bill.

Kicked into touch

New Zealand Rugby has been blasted for seeking a new All Blacks coach before the World Cup. PAUL THOMAS has a different view.

Raw power

Nuts are packed with nutrients and fats that benefit heart and gut health. But those roasted at high heat, while tasty, can be risky.

Twin peaks

Two prominent South Auckland siblings have used art and academia to show what it means to be Māori.

Sweet relief

The tools to better manage type 1 diabetes could soon be within reach of more New Zealanders.

Operation brief freeze

From blood sugar control to mental health and brain cell benefits, research suggests an icy plunge may be a fad that floats.