Govt plans to partially sell some state assets, including power companies, could free up to $10bn, but critics say the move will lead to higher electricity prices and put too much control of strategic assets in foreign hands.

Wind generation has grown 10-fold since 2003, to more than 4 per cent today. This year alone wind capacity will grow nearly 25 per cent as three new wind farms are commissioned.

Up to 50 redundant Pike River Coal mine employees could soon be crossing the Tasman to take up lucrative positions in Australian pits.

Three out of four New Zealand homes are failing to meet new energy-efficiency standards.

Electricity has been restored to the 5500 Wairarapa households that suffered power cuts after strong winds snapped power poles yesterday.