Boeing's giant 747-8 freighter - the biggest plane the company has built - took off on its first flight today.

Mainfreight says it in experiencing month-on-month revenue growth after a dire first quarter.

Mainfreight has reported a 36.5 per cent fall in half year profit to $10.9 million.

Ports of Auckland says growth in worldwide container shipping is likely to remain weak for two years.

The Russian-crewed ship allegedly carrying timber and hijacked by pirates earlier this month may have actually been carrying secret missiles bound for the Middle East as cargo.

Projects which boost economic growth, productivity and employment targeted.

Auckland Harbour Bridge has been left off a list of highway upgrades needed to cope with heavier trucks.