Simon Hartley

Queenstown businessman Jim Boult, acting chief executive for Christchurch International Airport, says he is not on the shortlist for the full-time chief executive role.

A slew of listed companies is expected to join the present "dash for cash" from investors to deal with debt levels while they are still able to raise funds.

The viability of some shipping lines is being questioned with hundreds of ships laid up across the globe and at anchor as trade and cargo volumes dwindle.

The failed developer of Dunedin's former chief post office and recent bankrupt Dan McEwan has had three Queenstown apartments taken over by the ANZ-National bank in default of loans.

More than $1 billion in institutional share issues and bonds was raised this week by Fletcher Building, Contact Energy and the Kiwi Income Property Trust, including a $250 million oversubscription for the Contact bonds.

Specialist hard-coking coal-miner Pike River Coal has pledged a minimum 50% of after-tax cashflow will be returned to shareholders in dividends, as the company seeks a capital boost of $43 million in ordinary shares and options which could total a further $73 million.

The Otago Chamber of Commerce, Otago Regional Council and five companies have launched an Environment Court challenge against the Dunedin City Council's contentious harbourside development.

Wide restructuring of New Zealand Post's mail services will begin next week, with the potential for redundancies from its 6000-strong postal services division, including administration and support staff.

Fletcher Building - the country's third largest listed company - has launched a share issue to raise $465 million to $505 million to boost its balance sheet and re-position itself for growth opportunities when markets recover.

The profit of Australian-listed ag-chem manufacturer Nufarm rose more than 80%, on the back of 25% increased sales from acquisitions in Europe and the United States.