Midday Report for Monday 16 March 2020

12:35 PM.Federated Farmers says looming reforms on matters like freshwater should be deferred because of Covid 19. Audio

12:26 PM.There's uncertainty around how New Zealand's BMX Olympic hopefuls will be affected as a result of the coronavirus. Audio

12:25 PM.The NZX stock market operator sees no material impact in response to travel restrictions designed to slow the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Audio

12:23 PM.For the latest from the markets we're joined by Andrew Austin of Jarden Securities. Audio

12:22 PM.Air New Zealand is a trading halt and Auckland Airport has suspended its earnings guidance, as the aviation and travel industry responds to unprecedented border restrictions. Audio

12:21 PM.All the major banks have cut home loan interest rates in response to the rate cut by the Reserve Bank. Audio

12:21 PM.The economic disruption has forced activity in the services sector to its lowest level in eight years. Audio

12:20 PM.Kiwibank's chief economist says a recession now inevitable and the rate cut is a drastic but necessary move. Audio

12:17 PM.The Reserve Bank has moved to batten down the economic hatches with its move to slash the cash rate to a record low and a promise to go 'as big as is needed', in pumping money into the economy. Audio

12:00 PM.Air New Zealand prepares to lay off staff and suspend routes. Some incoming travellers have been surprised by the new travel restrictions. Audio