Midday Report for Wednesday 31 August 2016

12:35 PM.News from the rural and farming sectors. Audio

12:26 PM.Kiwifruit grower and exporter Seeka Industries has bought the Kiwi Crush and Kiwi Crushies product ranges from Auckland based Vital Food Processors for an undisclosed sum. Audio

12:26 PM.The New Zealand cricket captain Kane Williamson has defended his decision to bowl first after his side fell to a crushing 204 run loss to South Africa in the second and final test in Pretoria. Audio

12:23 PM.For the latest from the markets we're joined by Don Lewthwaite at First NZ Capital. Audio

12:22 PM.Over the Tasman and the supermarket chain, Woolworths, is hoping the heavy losses are behind it as it slashes jobs and prices. Audio

12:20 PM.An energy think tank says too few people understand smart technology that could cut their power bills and reduce the need for expensive investment in electricity. Audio

12:19 PM.The stock exchange operator, NZX, wants to align its rules for listed companies more closely to those of the Financial Markets Authority. Audio

12:00 PM.The Ruataniwha Dam project hits a snag as a key land swap deal is ruled unlawful and Westpac and Fisher Funds dump their investments in arms companies after a public outcry. Audio