CORPORATE GOVERNANCE PRACTICES AND PERFORMANCE IN NEW ZEALAND

This thesis investigates the efficacy of the principle-based corporate governance practices have on the financial performance of publicly listed companies and public corporate entities in New Zealand. This research examines: (i) whether the NZSC recommendations have encouraged institutions to develop entity and/or industry specific governance structures; and (ii) whether the differences in governance practices at entity and industry level contribute to the differences in the financial performance. This research extends the understanding of responses to smaller entities, both private and public sector, in a small open economy with a mature capital market. As a result of this study, the relationship between 'soft regulations' and entities' financial performance is better understood, and in terms of public/regulatory requirements, the issues associated with compliance cost burdens are better informed. This study offers insights for policy makers around the world who have adopted principle- based approaches and to those jurisdictions that are interested in adopting similar governance approaches in the future.