December 2009
Commerce Commission releases emerging views on input methodologies
23 December 2009
The Commerce Commission today released papers detailing the Commission's emerging views on input methodologies for electricity distribution services, gas pipeline services and specified airport services supplied by Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch International Airports.Relates to: Pan Industry Projects, Electricity, Gas Pipelines, Airports
Flight Centre warned over advertising and promotion
22 December 2009
The Commerce Commission has warned a travel agency that some of its advertising and promotions of travel deals risk breaching the Fair Trading Act.Relates to: Fair Trading
Draft guidance on Telecom's non-discrimination obligations released for consultation
21 December 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released a paper which sets out the Commission's draft guidance on Telecom Corporation of New Zealand Limited's non-discrimination obligations under the Telecom Separation Undertakings. The Commission is seeking submissions from Telecom and other interested parties.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission considering final mobile termination undertakings
18 December 2009
The Commerce Commission today released further revised undertakings received in relation to mobile termination access services from Telecom and Vodafone, and correspondence from 2degrees withdrawing all of their earlier undertakings.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission's view of Telecom's regulatory financial reporting
18 December 2009
Telecom New Zealand Limited today released its first set of audited regulatory financial statements for the financial year ending 30 June 2009.Relates to: Telecommunications
Confidentiality order investigation closed by Commerce Commission
17 December 2009
The Commerce Commission has closed an investigation into a potential breach of a confidentiality order. The investigation followed the disclosure in the Independent and the National Business Review in August 2009 of details of a confidential commercial interconnection agreement between 2degrees and Vodafone.Relates to: Telecommunications
Holiday voucher company pleads guilty to Fair Trading Act breaches
15 December 2009
Discount Premium Holidays Limited, a New Zealand registered company that operated from Australia selling holiday vouchers in New Zealand, has pleaded guilty to 38 charges of breaching the Fair Trading Act and has been fined $209,000 in the Auckland District Court today. Discount Premium Holidays has also been ordered to pay $4,940 in court costs and $7,500 in solicitor's fees.Relates to: Fair Trading, Business Competition
Consultation on Input Methodologies extended
12 December 2009
The Commerce Commission has released two revised process papers today, following the granting of an extension to the timeframe for determining Input Methodologies and the Information Disclosure Requirements for Airports.Relates to: Pan Industry Projects
Telecom fined $500,000 for misleading over Go Large plan
7 December 2009
Telecom New Zealand Limited has pleaded guilty to 17 charges of breaching the Fair Trading Act over claims made in 2006 when promoting Xtra's Go Large broadband plan. Telecom has been fined $500,000 in the Auckland District Court today.Relates to: Fair Trading, Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases two TSO Determinations for 2008/09
4 December 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its 2008/09 final determinations on:Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases draft Telecom TSO cost calculation for 2008/09
4 December 2009
The Commerce Commission today released a telecommunication service obligation (TSO) Cost Calculation Determination for the Local Residential Telephone Service covering the 2008/09 year. The draft cost is $69.7 million.Relates to: Telecommunications
Next steps for mobile termination investigation
3 December 2009
As part of the Commerce Commission's investigation into mobile termination rates, the Commission has today written to 2degrees, Telecom and Vodafone inviting them to submit final revised undertakings.Relates to: Telecommunications
Draft divestment guidelines released for consulation
3 December 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released draft guidelines on how divestment undertakings as part of a merger or acquisition application will be treated.Relates to: Business Competition
November 2009
Determination for electricity distribution businesses' price-quality path released
30 November 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released its determination and decisions paper for the price-quality path which will apply to electricity distribution businesses from 1 April 2010. This marks the first determination published by the Commission under the Commerce Act's new Part 4 regime and announces significant decisions for electricity distribution businesses on price and quality.Relates to: Electricity
Supreme Court allows Commerce Commission appeal
27 November 2009
A Supreme Court judgment issued today allows the Commerce Commission to proceed with a significant compensation claim against Carter Holt Harvey related to mis-graded timber. The Supreme Court has overturned a previous Court of Appeal ruling that the Commission had filed proceedings against Carter Holt Harvey outside of the limitation period allowed by the Fair Trading Act.Relates to: Fair Trading
Energy companies warned over alleged anti-competitive behaviour
24 November 2009
The Commerce Commission has issued a formal warning to two energy companies alleged to have attempted to engage in anti-competitive conduct during the purchase by tender of a power station near Nelson in 2002.Relates to: Business Competition, Electricity
Inghams warned over GM free chicken claims
18 November 2009
Release no 50, Issued 18 November 2009
Relates to: Fair Trading
Fourth property management company fined for Fair Trading Act breaches
18 November 2009
A fourth company involved in an Invercargill scheme which misled people into believing that they were buying their own homes has been convicted of eight charges of breaching the Fair Trading Act in a hearing in the Invercargill District Court today.Relates to: Fair Trading
Electricity Industry Reform Act: Commerce Commission grants exemption to Mark Tume
16 November 2009
The Commerce Commission has granted Mark Tume an exemption under the Electricity Industry Reform Act 1998 (EIR Act) in relation to his potential appointment to the board of Powerco, subject to certain conditions.
Relates to: Electricity
Commerce Commission report highlights enhanced mobile competition
12 November 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its report on telecommunications markets in New Zealand covering the first six months of 2009. The report also provides some more recent information about mobile prices in New Zealand following the launch of the 2degrees network in August.Relates to: Telecommunications
Juice company pleads guilty to breaching Fair Trading Act
12 November 2009
Brownlie Brothers Limited trading as Simply Squeezed, a juice manufacturing and distribution company pleaded guilty to six charges of breaching the Fair Trading Act and was fined $45,000 in the District Court in Auckland today. An order for court costs and solicitors fees of $6,780 was also made by the Court in respect of the charges.Relates to: Fair Trading
Compliance review of electricity distribution business asset management plans for 2009 released
11 November 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released a review of the asset management plans disclosed by electricity distribution businesses for the period beginning 1 April 2009. The Commission notes the continued progress made by many electricity distribution businesses toward achieving best practice in asset management planning.Relates to: Electricity
Draft TSO determinations for 08/09 released by Commerce Commission
10 November 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its 2008/09 draft determinations on the:Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission to issue proceedings against Telecom over loyalty offers
6 November 2009
The Commerce Commission is issuing proceedings alleging that three separate loyalty offers made by Telecom Corporation of New Zealand Limited's Wholesale business unit between December 2008 and July 2009 are likely to have breached its obligation not to discriminate between service providers under the Telecom Separation Undertakings.Relates to: Telecommunications
October 2009
'Failing firm' guidelines issued by Commerce Commission
30 October 2009
The Commerce Commission today released guidelines on how applications for mergers and acquisitions involving the 'failing firm' argument will be treated. The guidelines are designed to assist businesses and their legal representatives by explaining how the Commission will assess claims that the target firm (or division of a firm) is failing as well as outlining the types of supporting evidence that may be required. These guidelines supplement the Commission's Mergers and Acquisitions Guidelines.Relates to: Business Competition
Electricity Industry Reform Act: Commerce Commission grants exemption to Marko Bogoievski
29 October 2009
The Commerce Commission has granted Marko Bogoievski an exemption under the Electricity Industry Reform Act 1998 (EIR Act) in relation to his potential appointment to the board of Auckland International Airport Limited (AIAL), an electricity lines business, subject to certain conditions.Relates to: Electricity
Fair Trading Act charges laid against Vodafone
23 October 2009
The Commerce Commission has laid charges against Vodafone for alleged breaches of the Fair Trading Act 1986 in relation to various broadband and mobile phone promotions.Relates to: Telecommunications
Warning for importing unsafe toy tool set
22 October 2009
An Auckland-based importer has been warned by the Commerce Commission that a toy tool set imported from China and sold in budget variety stores may have breached an unsafe goods notice relating to levels of lead in children's toys. Anyone in possession of one of these toy sets is advised to dispose of them immediately.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission consults on Telecom Wholesale loyalty offers
16 October 2009
As part of its investigation into alleged breaches of the Separation Undertakings by Telecom's Wholesale business unit, the Commerce Commission is seeking submissions on its preliminary views on the meaning of the 'equivalence of inputs' and 'non-discrimination' obligations contained in the Undertakings.Relates to: Telecommunications
Electricity company fined for misleading power bill review
16 October 2009
An energy company has pleaded guilty to breaching the Fair Trading Act and has been fined $17,000 in the Tauranga District Court on Wednesday. TrustPower, an electricity generator and retailer, was fined for misleading its customers about the nature of a power bill review service.Relates to: Fair Trading
Franchise prosecution welcomed
16 October 2009
The Commerce Commission has welcomed the conviction and sentencing today of Stewart John Brown and Robert Llewelyn Parr. Mr Brown and Mr Parr both pleaded guilty to Crimes Act charges of obtaining by false pretences and obtaining by deception in relation to franchise companies Wizard Vapour Technology Ltd and Clean Co International Limited. In the Christchurch District Court today Mr Brown was sentenced to nine months home detention and ordered to pay $24,000 reparation, which is to be paid at the rate of $300 per week. Mr Parr was sentenced to four months community detention and 150 hours community work.Relates to: Fair Trading
Telecom blocked competition in high-speed data transmission markets
14 October 2009
The High Court has found that Telecom (Telecom Corporation of New Zealand and Telecom New Zealand Limited) used its substantial market power to prevent and deter competition in markets involving high-speed data transmission. The Commerce Commission claimed that Telecom contravened section 36 of the Commerce Act, which prohibits firms with a substantial degree of market power from taking advantage of that power for an anti-competitive purpose.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases final Telecom TSO cost calculation for 2006/07
7 October 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its telecommunication service obligations (TSO) determination covering the 2006/07 year for Telecom's local residential telephone service. The final TSO cost is $61.36 million for 2006/07.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases final Telecom TSO cost calculation for 2007/08
7 October 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its telecommunication service obligations (TSO) determination covering the 2007/08 year for Telecom's local residential telephone service. The final TSO cost is $72.1 million.Relates to: Telecommunications
Credit card settlements lower New Zealand business costs
5 October 2009
The Commerce Commission has reached separate agreements with seven financial institutions settling the Commission's claims that they breached the Commerce Act, and ushering in a new competitive landscape for the credit card industry in New Zealand.Relates to: Business Competition
September 2009
Commerce Commission receives application for EIR Act exemption from Marko Bogoievski
28 September 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Marko Bogoievski seeking exemption from section 17 of the Electricity Industry Reform Act 1998 (EIR Act) in relation to his nomination as Infratil Limited's alternate director of Auckland International Airport Limited while Lloyd Morrison is on medical leave of absence.Relates to: Electricity
Commerce Commission to investigate resale services
25 September 2009
The Commerce Commission today announced that it will commence an investigation into whether the services Telecom Corporation of New Zealand provides to other telecommunications companies to be resold should be deregulated.Relates to: Telecommunications
Average broadband performance continues to improve
23 September 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its report on New Zealand broadband quality for the three months to June 2009. The report examines the quality of broadband services provided by New Zealand's internet service providers (ISPs). The data has been collected by independent benchmarking consultant Epitiro from central sites using premium residential plans.Relates to: Telecommunications
Telecom complies with the Telecommunications Service Obligations
18 September 2009
The Commerce Commission has advised the Minister for Communications and Information Technology that Telecom Corporation of New Zealand Limited has complied with all its Telecommunications Service Obligations (TSO) quality measures for the 2008/09 financial year.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission reports to Minister on Sprint's compliance with Telecommunications Service Obligations
18 September 2009
The Commerce Commission has reported to the Minister for Communications and Information Technology on Sprint International New Zealand Limited's performance in complying with the Telecommunications Service Obligations (TSO) Deed for Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) for the period from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009. This Deed sets out the service quality requirements for the provision of the TSO relay services which enable hearing impaired telecommunications users to make relay calls.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases draft decisions paper relating to electricity distribution businesses
8 September 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released its draft decisions paper on the default price-quality paths to apply to electricity distribution businesses from 1 April 2010. This is the fourth paper released for consultation by the Commission as part of a process to reset the default price-quality paths that currently apply to electricity distribution businesses under Part 4 of the Commerce Act 1986.Relates to: Electricity
Commerce Commission publishes draft revised leniency policy
3 September 2009
The Commerce Commission is seeking feedback from interested parties on its draft revised leniency policy on cartels.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission opens investigation into Telecom Wholesale loyalty offers
1 September 2009
The Commerce Commission announced today that it has launched an investigation into an alleged breach of the Separation Undertakings by Telecom's Wholesale business unit. This decision follows receipt of the Independent Oversight Group's (IOG) findings that Telecom Wholesale's loyalty offers constitute a breach of Telecom's Undertakings. The Commission is also in receipt of complaints on the same matter.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission seeks leave to appeal 0867 case to Supreme Court
1 September 2009
The Commerce Commission will seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court in its case against Telecom Corporation of New Zealand Limited (Telecom) over Telecom's introduction of the 0867 dial-up prefix in 1999.Relates to: Business Competition
August 2009
Commerce Commission to defer commencement of mobile roaming investigation
28 August 2009
The Commerce Commission announced that it will not at this stage commence an investigation into whether regulation of the national mobile roaming service should be extended to include price. The Commission will reconsider the matter after it has finalised its investigation into whether mobile termination access services (MTAS) should be subject to regulation.Relates to: Telecommunications
Property management companies fined for Fair Trading Act breaches
27 August 2009
Three South Island companies involved in a scheme which misled people into believing that they were buying their own homes pleaded guilty to breaching the Fair Trading Act in the Invercargill District Court on 24 August.Relates to: Fair Trading
Frucor Beverages cleared to acquire Simply Squeezed
25 August 2009
The Commerce Commission has cleared Frucor Beverages Limited (Frucor) to acquire Simply Squeezed Holdings Ltd and/or Brownlie Brothers Ltd (Simply Squeezed).Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission and MasterCard agree to settle credit card interchange fee proceedings
24 August 2009
The Commerce Commission and MasterCard International Incorporated (MasterCard) have signed an agreement settling the Commission's claims that MasterCard's credit card scheme rules providing for the payment of multilateral interchange fees, together with related rules, breached the restrictive trade practices provisions of the Commerce Act.Relates to: Business Competition
Pfizer granted clearance to acquire Wyeth
20 August 2009
The Commerce Commission has granted clearance for Pfizer Inc. to acquire Wyeth Corporation.Relates to: Business Competition
Schering-Plough granted clearance to merge with Merck
20 August 2009
The Commerce Commission has granted clearance to Schering-Plough Corporation in respect of the proposed merger between Schering-Plough Corporation and Merck & Co., Inc.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission and Visa reach agreement to settle credit card interchange fee proceedings
12 August 2009
The Commerce Commission has signed an agreement with the Visa International Service Association and Visa Worldwide Pte Limited (Visa) settling the Commission's claims against Visa in relation to credit card interchange fees. The Commission's proceedings allege that the rules of the Visa scheme providing for the payment of multilateral interchange fees, together with related rules, breached the restrictive trade practices provisions of the Commerce Act.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission settles with pawnbroker over interest rate misrepresentations
11 August 2009
The Commerce Commission has settled with an Invercargill based pawnbroker over breaches of the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act (CCCF Act) and the Fair Trading Act.Relates to: Fair Trading, Consumer Credit
Commerce Commission confirms dates for input methodologies conference
7 August 2009
The Commerce Commission's input methodologies conference will be held in Wellington from Tuesday 15 to Friday 18 September 2009. The conference will enable the Commission to test written submissions received and advance its understanding of the key points of difference between submitters and the Commission. The conference is part of the Commission's consultation process on the implementation of the Part 4 requirements of the Commerce Act and is open to all interested parties.Relates to: Pan Industry Projects
Commerce Commission warns of potential breach of Commerce Act
5 August 2009
Information contained in a National Business Review article entitled Revealed: Vodafone's secret deal with 2degrees potentially breached a Commerce Commission confidentiality order and section 100 of the Commerce Act.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission considers Court of Appeal 0867 decision
4 August 2009
The Commerce Commission is studying a decision by the Court of Appeal, released today, in a case brought by the Commerce Commission against Telecom Corporation of New Zealand Limited (Telecom) under section 36 of the Commerce Act.Relates to: Business Competition
July 2009
Commerce Commission releases draft guidelines for the telecommunications sector
31 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has released draft guidelines to provide greater clarity for the telecommunications industry on how the Commission exercises its powers and functions under the Telecommunications Act. The guidelines set out the key factors that the Commission takes into account in making regulatory decisions for the telecommunications sector.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission begins consultation on information disclosure regime
29 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released a discussion document which forms the first step in a consultation process to develop information disclosure requirements for the suppliers of regulated electricity lines, gas pipelines and specified airport services.Relates to: Pan Industry Projects, Electricity, Gas Pipelines, Airports
Op Shop operator ordered to pay reparation for Fair Trading breach
24 July 2009
A Palmerston North man has pleaded guilty to breaching the Fair Trading Act by misleading consumers about the nature of a charity shop. He was ordered yesterday by the Palmerston District Court to pay $10,000 in reparation to two women's refuges.Relates to: Fair Trading
Guidelines on carbon claims and the Fair Trading Act released
24 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released guidelines which inform businesses about their obligations surrounding carbon offset and neutrality claims and how they are affected by the Fair Trading Act.Relates to: Fair Trading
Statement of preliminary issues available for Frucor Beverages Ltd clearance application
23 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues relating to an application seeking clearance received from Frucor Beverages Ltd (Frucor). The application, received on 7 July 2009, sought clearance for Frucor Beverages to acquire up to 100 per cent of the assets or business of Simply Squeezed Holdings Ltd (Simply Squeezed).Relates to: Business Competition
Court confirms Wings and Wheels funds held on trust
22 July 2009
A judge in the Auckland High Court confirmed yesterday that the money paid for tickets to the postponed airshow Wings and Wheels over Waikato was being held on trust by the airshow's organisers and that the money should be used to pay refunds to entitled ticket holders. This clears the way to begin a process to refund eligible ticket holders.Relates to: Fair Trading
Yan fruit 'juice' products voluntarily recalled
20 July 2009
A distributor of a range of imported products marketed as fruit juice has agreed to recall all their products after tests as part of a Commerce Commission investigation found that at least two of the products had inaccurate labels.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission takes action against juice company
17 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has concluded an investigation into the promotion and labelling of juice products by Brownlie Brothers Limited trading as Simply Squeezed, a juice manufacturing and distribution company.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission consults on 'failing firms' guidelines
9 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released draft supplementary guidelines on how merger and acquisitions applications involving the 'failing firm' argument will be treated.Relates to: Business Competition
Frucor applies for clearance to acquire Simply Squeezed
7 July 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Frucor Beverages Ltd seeking clearance to acquire Simply Squeezed Holdings Ltd.Relates to: Business Competition
June 2009
Commerce Commission releases draft recommendation to regulate mobile termination prices
30 June 2009
The Commerce Commission today released its draft report recommending that the mobile termination prices should be regulated. The Commission also recommended that the undertakings submitted in lieu of regulation by Vodafone, Telecom and 2degrees should be rejected.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission to commence mobile roaming investigation
30 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has today announced that it intends to commence a Schedule 3 investigation into whether regulation of the national mobile roaming service should be extended to include price.Relates to: Telecommunications
Fullers Group cleared to acquire 360 Discovery
30 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has granted clearance for Fullers Group Limited to acquire most of the assets of the business called 360 Discovery operated by Kiwi Kat Limited.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission receives application for EIR Act exemption from Joan Withers
26 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Joan Withers, seeking exemption from section 17 of the Electricity Industry Reform Act 1998, in relation to Mighty River Power Limited's proposal to appoint Ms Withers to its Board of Directors.Relates to: Electricity
Commerce Commission receives application for EIR Act exemption from Mark Tume
26 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Mark Tume, seeking exemption from sections 17 and 17A of the Electricity Industry Reform Act 1998, in relation to PowerCo Limited's proposal to appoint Mr Tume to its Board of Directors.Relates to:
Update on Commerce Commission investigation into ING
24 June 2009
The Commerce Commission's investigation under the Fair Trading Act into ING (NZ) Limited's Diversified Yield and Regular Income Funds is not expected to be completed for at least six months.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission declines Transpower request to amend settlement
22 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has declined a request from Transpower that the Commission amend the administrative settlement it reached with Transpower last year.Relates to: Electricity
Furniture store fined for Fair Trading Act breaches
22 June 2009
A furniture store has pleaded guilty to 28 charges of breaching the Fair Trading Act by providing misleading information about the savings that consumers would make by buying goods on sale. The company has been fined $28,000 plus court costs of $3,640in the Manukau District Court.Relates to: Fair Trading
Farmers fined for Fair Trading breach
22 June 2009
A New Zealand department store chain has been found guilty of breaching the Fair Trading Act and was fined $10,000 in the Christchurch District Court today.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission releases discussion documents on Part 4 of the Commerce Act
19 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released three key discussion documents relating to regulation under Part 4 of the Commerce Act. This represents a significant step forward in the implementation of the Part 4 requirements of the Commerce Act. In addition, the Commission has released its revised draft guidelines on the Commission's approach to estimating the cost of capital. These four documents are being released at the same time because they are interrelated.Relates to:
Commerce Commission releases revised draft guidelines on the cost of capital
19 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released its revised draft guidelines on its approach to estimating the cost of capital.Relates to:
Voluntary recall of Mary Lou wooden toy
19 June 2009
A distributor of the Mary Lou doll, an iconic New Zealand wooden toy, is undertaking a voluntary recall of all Mary Lou dolls sold in New Zealand since 1 June 2008.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission issues sub-loop decision
18 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released its decision on the price and non-price terms on which Telecom must make the unbundled sub-loop services available to other telecommunications providers.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission welcomes appointment of new Commissioners
18 June 2009
The Chair of the Commerce Commission Dr Mark Berry said he welcomes the appointment of two new Commissioners to assist with the competition agency's high workload.Relates to:
Pfizer applies for clearance to acquire Wyeth
10 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Pfizer Inc. seeking clearance to acquire Wyeth Corp.Relates to: Business Competition
Fullers Group applies for clearance to acquire assets of Kiwi Kat
9 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Fullers Group Limited seeking clearance in relation to the proposed acquisition of most of the assets of 360 Discovery, operated by Kiwi Kat Limited.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission enables streamlined authorisations
8 June 2009
Following public consultation, the Commerce Commission has developed a new streamlined authorisation process. This process has been designed to enable faster decisions for straightforward authorisation applications that have clear public benefits and a relatively limited impact on competition.Relates to: Business Competition
Assembled in New Zealand not enough to claim 'New Zealand made'
8 June 2009
Another New Zealand office furniture company has been fined for breaching the Fair Trading Act for claiming in advertising brochures that two models of office chairs were made in New Zealand.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission determines that Kaimai and Grate Kiwi are independent processors
5 June 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its final determination regarding disputes between Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited and both Kaimai Cheese Company Limited and The Grate Kiwi Cheese Company Limited.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission releases quarterly report on broadband quality
3 June 2009
The Epitiro/IDC report on New Zealand broadband quality for the March 2009 quarter has been released. The report examines the quality of broadband services provided by New Zealand's internet service providers (ISPs) as measured by Epitiro from central sites using premium residential plans.Relates to: Telecommunications
May 2009
Medical Mortgages Limited settles with Commerce Commission
29 May 2009
The Commerce Commission has settled with a company that specialises in providing finance to medical professionals over the incorrect calculation of mortgage break fees.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission will not appeal Avanti Finance decision
29 May 2009
The Commerce Commission has decided that it will not appeal against the recent decision of the High Court in Commerce Commission v Avanti Finance Limited.Relates to: Consumer Credit
Schering-Plough applies for clearance to merge with Merck
22 May 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Schering-Plough Corporation seeking clearance in relation to the proposed merger between Schering-Plough Corporation and Merck & Co., Inc.Relates to: Business Competition
Arrangements for release of Commerce Commission electricity investigation report
21 May 2009
The Commerce Commission will release its report following an investigation into the electricity market today, Thursday 21 May.Relates to: Business Competition, Electricity
Commerce Commission finds that electricity companies have not breached the Commerce Act
21 May 2009
The Commerce Commission has concluded its principal investigation into whether any participants in the wholesale or retail electricity markets may have breached Part 2 of the Commerce Act. The Commission has found no evidence of breaches of the Act, although it will be issuing one warning regarding a risk of a breach.Relates to: Business Competition, Electricity
Commerce Commission finalises review of backhaul services
1 May 2009
The Commerce Commission today finalised its first review of backhaul services. Backhaul is the final link connecting competitors' networks to Telecom's local loop, so those competitors can provide services such as landlines and broadband to consumers.Relates to: Telecommunications
April 2009
Update on Commerce Commission bank break fees investigation
30 April 2009
The Commerce Commission has completed the first part of its investigation into banks' break fees.Relates to: Fair Trading, Consumer Credit
Telecommunications market monitoring report for 2008 released by Commerce Commission
14 April 2009
The Commerce Commission has released its 2008 telecommunications monitoring report analysing the state of New Zealand telecommunications markets.Relates to: Telecommunications
Reasons published for clearance granted to Fletcher Building to acquire Stevenson masonry
3 April 2009
The Commerce Commission has published its reasons for granting clearance to Fletcher Building Limited to acquire up to 100 per cent of the assets of both Stevenson Group Limited's Whangarei masonry business and Stevenson's Auckland masonry business.Relates to: Business Competition
Arrangements to ensure continuity of telecommunications decisions at Commerce Commission
2 April 2009
Plans have been put in place at the Commerce Commission to ensure continuity of the large workload of telecommunications decisions, during a period of transition. The new Chair Dr Mark Berry has asked Paula Rebstock to remain in her role as a member of the Commission to complete a number of determinations pending in the telecommunications work.
Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases quarterly report on broadband quality
1 April 2009
The Epitiro/IDC report on New Zealand broadband quality for the December 2008 quarter has been released. The report examines the quality of broadband services provided by New Zealand's internet service providers (ISPs) as measured by Epitiro from central sites using the highest speed residential plans.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission warns Schindler Lifts over alleged bid-rigging conspiracy
1 April 2009
The Commerce Commission has issued formal warnings to Schindler Lifts New Zealand Limited (Schindler) and one current and one former employee for participating in a longstanding cartel arrangement which shared elevator installation contracts in the South Island. The Commission alleges the cartel operated from the early 1980s until late 1995. The warning was issued following an admission from the Schindler manager concerned.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission releases draft guidelines for credit fees
1 April 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released draft guidelines which inform creditors and consumers about the Commission's approach to enforcing the fees provisions under the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act. The Commission is consulting on the guidelines before they are finalised.Relates to: Consumer Credit
March 2009
Commerce Commission issues warning to Real Estate Network
31 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has warned the Real Estate Network Limited (REN) that it and its members risk breaching the Commerce Act. REN is a cooperative company representing approximately 95 per cent of licensed residential real estate agents in and around Christchurch. Last year it adopted a by-law setting a minimum for commissions payable between its members.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission defers decision on national roaming investigation
30 March 2009
The Commerce Commission today announced that it is deferring its decision on whether to investigate extending the regulation of the national mobile roaming service to include price.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission consults on streamlined authorisation process guidelines
30 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has developed a new streamlined authorisation process that will enable faster decisions on certain authorisation applications. This should result in more timely and cost-effective decisions by businesses.Relates to: Business Competition
Raise your IQ by being an informed consumer
27 March 2009
Consumers who respond to online IQ tests and love compatibility tests should be sure they have read the fine print.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission responds to mobile termination undertakings
25 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has today given feedback to three telecommunications companies on their proposed undertakings for mobile termination access services. The undertakings were submitted to the Commission as an alternative to regulation.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases final requirements for regulatory financial reporting by Telecom
25 March 2009
The Commerce Commission today issued the regulatory requirements for the accounting separation of Telecom.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission files waste oil domestic cartel case
23 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has today filed proceedings in the High Court in Auckland alleging the collusive fixing of prices in the waste oil industry.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission procedure in accordance with standard best practice
20 March 2009
The Commerce Commission is disappointed that Air New Zealand has chosen to file what the airline itself describes as "unnecessary litigation" and in so doing, is seeking to delay the proceedings that seek to determine whether or not Air New Zealand was a party to a sophisticated international price fixing arrangement.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission releases draft review of backhaul services
19 March 2009
The Commerce Commission today released a draft report on backhaul services. Backhaul is the final link connecting competitors to Telecom's local loop, so those companies can provide services such as landlines and broadband to households.Relates to: Telecommunications
Commerce Commission releases consultation document on Kaimai and Grate Kiwi disputes with Fonterra
19 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has released a consultation document regarding disputes between Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited and both Kaimai Cheese Company Limited and The Grate Kiwi Cheese Company Limited.Relates to: Dairy Industry
Court of Appeal upholds Commission's ability to pursue overseas residents
18 March 2009
The Commerce Commission welcomes a Court of Appeal ruling today confirming the New Zealand Courts' jurisdiction over overseas residents alleged to have breached the Commerce Act.
Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission - New Chair
16 March 2009
The Commerce Commission welcomes the announcement today, by Commerce Minister Simon Power, of the appointment of a new Chair, Dr Mark Berry.
Relates to:
David Ferrier cleared to acquire Godfrey Hirst's wool scours
6 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has given clearance today for Auckland businessman Mr David Ferrier, or his company New Zealand Woolscourers Limited, to acquire wool scouring and wool dumping assets of Godfrey Hirst NZ Limited and shares in Cavalier Wool Holdings Limited. The acquisition will result in the wool scouring businesses of Cavalier Wool and Godfrey Hirst coming under common ownership.Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission consults on draft guidelines on carbon claims
3 March 2009
The Commerce Commission has today released draft guidelines which inform businesses about their obligations surrounding carbon offset and neutrality claims and how they are affected by the Fair Trading Act. The Commission is seeking feedback on the guidelines before they are finalised.Relates to: Fair Trading
Xtra fined for false claims of endorsement by Commerce Commission
3 March 2009
Xtra Ltd, a division of Telecom New Zealand Ltd, has been found guilty of breaching the Fair Trading Act and has been fined $45,000 in the Wellington District Court today. Xtra must also pay $10,000 in costs.Relates to: Fair Trading, Telecommunications
Commerce Commission warns about fakes
2 March 2009
The Commerce Commission is cautioning consumers to be alert after issuing more than 70 warnings relating to the sale of possible counterfeit clothing and footwear on the Trade Me website. The traders have been warned that they risk committing an offence under the Fair Trading Act if they are selling or offering for sale goods that are not genuinely manufactured 'labelled' items.
Relates to: Fair Trading
February 2009
The Warehouse fined $209,600 for Fair Trading Act breaches
27 February 2009
One of New Zealand's biggest retail stores has pleaded guilty to multiple breaches of the Fair Trading Act and has been fined a total of $209,600 in the Auckland District Court today.Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission review of enforcement framework relating to single-firm conduct
25 February 2009
The Commerce Commission has commenced a review of the effectiveness of the enforcement framework for addressing allegations under section 36 of the Commerce Act that a firm has taken advantage of its market power.
Relates to: Business Competition
Broadband at a Crossroads conference to be webcast
25 February 2009
The Commerce Commission conference Broadband at a Crossroads being held at the Langham Hotel in Auckland on 26 and 27 February will be webcast.
Relates to: Telecommunications
Media Monitors granted clearance to acquire Chong
19 February 2009
The Commerce Commission has granted clearance for Media Monitors Pty Limited to acquire all the business and assets of Chong Bureau Limited.
Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission grants clearance to Fletcher Building to acquire Stevenson masonry assets in Auckland and Whangarei
13 February 2009
The Commerce Commission has today given clearance to Fletcher Building Limited to acquire up to 100 per cent of the assets of both Stevenson Group Limited's Whangarei masonry business and Stevenson's Auckland masonry business.
Relates to: Business Competition
Statement of preliminary issues available for Media Monitors application
5 February 2009
The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues relating to an application received on 22 January 2009 from Media Monitors Pty Limited seeking clearance to acquire all the business and assets of Chong Bureau Limited.
Relates to: Business Competition
Broadband at a Crossroads conference - programme announced
5 February 2009
The Commerce Commission today released a full programme for the upcoming Broadband at a Crossroads Conference being held at the Langham Hotel in Auckland on 26 and 27 February. The conference is part of a wider study on the impact of new technology on telecommunications markets. Under the Telecommunications Act, the Commission has responsibility for monitoring and reporting on developments in telecommunications markets, as well as conducting studies into telecommunications matters.
Relates to: Telecommunications
January 2009
Statement of preliminary issues available for New Zealand Woolscourers application
30 January 2009
The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues relating to an application received from Mr David Ferrier on 12 December 2008, seeking clearance for himself, or his company, New Zealand Woolscourers Limited, concerning the acquisition of certain assets of Godfrey Hirst New Zealand Limited and shares in Cavalier Wool Holdings Limited.
Relates to: Business Competition
Coca-Cola Amatil cleared to acquire Baker Halls Brands from Old Fashioned Foods
29 January 2009
The Commerce Commission has cleared Coca-Cola Amatil (NZ) Limited (CCA) to acquire the Baker Halls and Baker Halls Original brands, a hot-fill production line and other associated assets from Old Fashioned Foods Ltd (OFF).
Relates to: Business Competition
Statement of preliminary issues available for Fletcher Building clearance application
28 January 2009
The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues relating to an application received from Fletcher Building Limited. The application, received on 19 December 2008, sought clearance for Fletcher Building to acquire up to 100 per cent of the assets of Stevenson Group Limited's (Stevenson) Whangarei masonry business and up to 100 per cent of the assets of Stevenson's Auckland masonry business.
Relates to: Business Competition
Media Monitors apply for clearance to acquire Chong
23 January 2009
The Commerce Commission has received an application from Media Monitors Pty Limited seeking clearance to acquire all the business and assets of Chong Bureau Limited.
Relates to: Business Competition
Aerolineas Argentinas fined for non-compliance with Commerce Act
22 January 2009
An airline company has pleaded guilty to failing to supply information requested by the Commerce Commission under section 98 of the Commerce Act. It has been fined $11,000 in the Auckland District Court.
Relates to: Business Competition
Commerce Commission warns over hybrid comparative advertising
21 January 2009
A car company has been warned by the Commerce Commission about comparative claims made in advertising for one of its hybrid vehicles.
Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission warns KLM over incorrect internet fares
16 January 2009
The Commerce Commission has concluded its investigation into complaints received from consumers when KLM Royal Dutch Airlines declined to honour very cheap airfares booked via KLM's website. In the Commission's view, KLM is at risk of having breached the Fair Trading Act.
Relates to: Fair Trading
Commerce Commission commences review of backhaul
15 January 2009
The Commerce Commission today commenced a review of the links that provide access seekers using the unbundled copper local loop (UCLL) service with a backhaul link between the telephone exchange housing their equipment and their interconnect point.
Relates to: Telecommunications
Company fined for 'energised' water claims
13 January 2009
Misleading customers by claiming its product was '100% Pure New Zealand Mineral Water' and making false scientific claims about the benefits of its supposedly 'energised mineral water', which was really just processed tap water, has cost an Auckland-based company after it was prosecuted by the Commerce Commission.
Relates to: Fair Trading
Reasons published for decline of Tegel's application for clearance to acquire Brinks
9 January 2009
Tegel Foods Limited (Tegel) application to acquire the assets and undertaking of the poultry businesses of P H Van den Brink Limited, VDB Industries Limited, Brinks South Island Limited, Southland VDB Limited, and BAT Promotions Limited, collectively known as Brinks, is declined.
Relates to: Business Competition
