The Kiwi dollar extended its slide as the crash of a Malaysian jet in rebel-held Ukraine and a ground offensive in Gaza sapped risk appetite worldwide.

Big changes lie ahead for the international dairy trade when the European Union (EU) dismantles its 30-year-old quota system next year.

The pressure is on Fonterra’s $7.00 a kg farmgate milk price forecast for this year after another sharp fall in international dairy prices overnight.

Competition among banks to attract companies trading in the fast-growing market between New Zealand and China is ramping up

Furuno Electric Co, best known for its fish finder systems, has purchased a 10 per cent stake in Electronic Navigation, owned by the Hodson family.

New Zealand's dollar is the most overstretched in three years, trading patterns suggest, putting in jeopardy its chances of surpassing a record high.

Japan's Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, must have noticed a striking difference between New Zealand and Australia when he visited the countries on consecutive days this week.

The New Zealand dollar is within striking distance of its post-float high against the US dollar and may surpass it, says an analyst.

Shinzo Abe didn't quite throw his weight around when he met John Key at Government House in Auckland this week.

It may have been a little early for wine, but Japan's Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, was on a tight schedule in Auckland so lunch at Villa Maria winery started about 11.45am.