Huge growth in the retirement village sector, particularly in Auckland, has prompted listed specialist Metlifecare to upgrade its earnings guidance range.

NZ shares rose yesterday, led by Goodman Property Trust, after the property investor said full-year net profit rose 72 per cent. Trade Me and Xero paced the gains while Ryman Healthcare fell ahead of reporting earnings today.

The NZX will run out of steam unless companies, particularly the larger ones, can take advantage of the stronger economy, writes Brian Gaynor.

Metlifecare has changed the terms of its much debated $216 million merger deal, as shareholders prepare to vote on the proposal today.

Metlifecare's $216m merger with two other retirement village operators has been approved in a report prepared by indepdendent assessors.

Metlifecare, the retirement village operator, sold shares to institutional and experienced investors at a 7.1 per cent discount as part of its capital raising.

Metlifecare, the retirement home operator, is to seek up to $45.5 million in new capital, while 82 per cent-owner Retirement Village Group will sell down its stake.