Monday's papers: electricity investigation stuck on first base; little hope is held for missing helicopter pilot; queries over new AA panelbeating agreement.
NZ Herald
The New Zealand Herald says banks have promised to relax mortgage repayment conditions for struggling home-owners as part of a deal with the Government guaranteeing their overseas debts.
Some panelbeaters believe a new agreement between AA Insurance and approved repairers will compromise the safety of repaired vehicles if it goes ahead. AA Insurance has asked the panelbeaters it uses to reapply for "approval status" under new conditions that some panelbeaters say will force many out of business and others to take short cuts.
Dominion Post
The Dominion Post says United Future leader Peter Dunne was offered "thousands of dollars" from a wealthy businessman after agreeing to oppose international fishing restrictions.
Mr Dunne confirmed on Sunday that he received a donation from the Vela family but said United Future has "never been in the business of selling votes for policy".
The Press
The Press says a search for a helicopter pilot will continue on Monday after his Robinson R22 helicopter crashed into Lake Wanaka. Family and friends fear the worst after Morgan Saxton failed to arrive at Wanaka from Haast on Saturday evening.
A Commerce Commission probe of the electricity industry that has taken three and a half years and cost $2 million to date - is still stuck on first base.
Information obtained by The Press under the Official Information Act shows the investigation into the retail and wholesale electricity markets, is still waiting for an initial report that was originally expected by the end of 2006.
ODT
The Otago Daily Times says little hope is held for missing pilot Morgan Saxton. The Rescue Co-ordination Centre is focussing on an oil slick discovered on Sunday morning near Mou Waho Island at Lake Wanaka.
