Buoyant trans-Tasman retailers bolster NZX

New Zealand shares rose, led by retailers with stores in Australia such as Kathmandu and Pumpkin Patch after figures this week showed stronger-than-expected consumer spending across the Tasman.

The NZX 50 Index rose 1.08 points, or 0.03 per cent, to 3484.20. Within the index, 20 stocks rose, 18 fell and 12 were unchanged.

Turnover was about $99.6 million.

Kathmandu, the outdoor equipment chain, rose 4.3 per cent to $1.46 after government figures in Australia yesterday showed retail sales rose 0.5 per cent in May, more than twice the expected pace.

The shares have climbed from a record low $1.27 on June 29. Pumpkin Patch, the children's clothing retailer, rose 1.2 per cent to 88 cents.

"All those figures aren't translating into earnings but it could have some follow through to Kathmandu," said Grant Williamson, director at Hamilton Hindin Greene.

"We are seeing some bargain hunting in these stocks which have been aggressively sold down in recent times."

Fisher & Paykel Healthcare rose 1.5 per cent to $2.05, having touched a nine-year low last month. Fisher & Paykel Appliances rose 0.9 per cent to 56 cents.

The NZX gained 2.2 per cent to $1.37. The stock exchange regulator on Thursday announced it will include a requirement for listed companies to disclose their gender diversity as part of the annual reports starting on December 31, subject to Financial Markets Authority approval.

OceanaGold fell 2.3 per cent to $2.53.

Telecom fell 0.2 per cent to $2.49. Fletcher Building fell 0.6 per cent to $6.22.

Pyne Gould was unchanged at 29 cents. The company, which is being investigated by the markets regulator over related-party loans, says no decision has been made on whether to relocate to the ASX and divest its Perpetual Trust.

The wealth manager halted trading in the 23 per cent of its stock that isn't owned by managing director George Kerr and US hedge fund Baker Street Capital after Fairfax Media reported the plans.

Pyne Gould said the report was based on a leaked email.

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