PRESS DIGEST-New Zealand newspapers - July 8

WELLINGTON, July 8 (Reuters) - Following are some of the lead stories from New Zealand metropolitan newspapers on Tuesday.

Stories may be taken from either the paper or Internet editions of the papers.

Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy.

DOMINION POST(www.stuff.co.nz)

Put on your hard hats, MPs warned: The Treasury has joined the chorus of warnings that the country may be in the grip of a recession as Prime Minister Helen Clark cautions her MPs of a "vexatious winter" ahead.

- - - -

Staking out a new Patch: Jan Cameron is widening her net of New Zealand retail interests but leaves market watchers guessing about her plans.

- - - -

Retailers struggling as cards kept in check: Wellington retailers are finding trading tough as consumers face rising food, fuel and interest costs.

- - - -

Broker wary of Marac Finance bonds: Marac Finance (PGC.NZ) says demand for its offer of NZ$125 million of bonds is widespread, but a large broker is not recommending the bonds to investors.

- - - -

NEW ZEALAND HERALD (www.nzherald.co.nz)

Nats will open TV charter cash to all: New Zealand's state-owned television company will have to compete for millions of dollars it receives for screening local programmes should the National Party win the election.

- - - -

Kathmandu founder's Pumpkin Patch buy-in revives lagging share: Shares in Pumpkin Patch (PPG.NZ) have soared since Kathmandu founder Jan Cameron increased her stake in the children's clothing retailer.