The Securities Commission has appointed an inspector to probe the collapse of the country's second-largest finance company.

The NZ sharemarket's benchmark index fell to a two-month low today as the escalating debt crisis in Europe stoked fears of a new credit crunch.

Homeowners looking to rent their properties out for the Rugby World Cup have been warned to let their insurance company know - or risk being hit with the bill if damage is done.

Australia will impose a new tax on mining projects, cut company tax rates and boost workers' pension savings in a sweeping pre-election overhaul.

House auctions remain popular as buyers and sellers attempt to make the best of the sluggish market.