Overseas interest in New Zealand's World of Wearable Art show has grown following its first sell-out international show in Hong Kong.

Peter Bills has travelled the country, interviewing a diverse range of New Zealanders. The interviews are appearing over the next four weeks.

In a four-part series, experts take a look at the toxic surprises that could be lurking in the backyard, beach or bush - or even the bathroom - this summer. We start with a look at the beach.

Does it exist, what is its raison d'être - and do the answers lie in the stars?