New Zealand's first tide-driven power station has been given Environment Court approval.

Now, to sell it...

Political unrest in Egypt could mean Kiwis paying more at the petrol pump, after oil prices climbed to their highest point in 28 months.

Two more power providers are putting up prices, with some customers facing an 8 per cent rise.

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.

Commodities slid, taking stocks on Wall St. lower overnight, amid concern that rising food and raw materials prices would cut into corporate profits.