HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2026 – CrazyLive, a platform dedicated to investor education and behavioral finance research, today announced that it will host a free public investment seminar on March 8, 2026 (Sunday) at Hotel ICON in Hong Kong.
Titled “Investor Behavior and Decision-Making Frameworks in High-Volatility Environments,” the seminar is designed for retail investors seeking to improve decision-making discipline amid rising market volatility. The event will explore common cognitive biases and behavioral traps that often lead to emotional investing, and introduce a systematic and repeatable decision-making framework to help participants strengthen consistency, structure, and execution in real-world market conditions.
Warren Wang, Founder of CrazyLive, stated:
“Over the years, I have observed that many retail investors do not underperform because they lack intelligence or information, but because they lack discipline and structure. Volatility is not an exception—it is the market’s normal state. The key is whether investors have a clear and executable framework to reduce emotional interference. This seminar is designed to share practical tools and structured thinking approaches grounded in behavioral finance.”
The seminar will feature three seasoned financial market professionals as keynote speakers:
• Cecilia Kwok — Market Sentiment Specialist at CrazyLive and senior financial news anchor, with over 10 years of hands-on investment and trading experience. • Angel Xu — Wharton School graduate (University of Pennsylvania); former Morgan Stanley (New York) analyst; currently a fund manager; CFA and FRM charterholder. • Jolin Zhu — With over 17 years of experience in financial market research and trading, she has participated in large-scale asset management projects and institutional investment operations. She is a specially appointed lecturer for the National Association of Financial Market Institutional Investors (NAFMII) and an editorial board member of the China Asset Management Industry Development Report. She is also a CFA and FRM charterholder.
Key seminar topics will include behavioral bias analysis, case studies of common decision-making errors, and practical decision-support tools such as a streamlined decision checklist and a cash flow stress-testing framework. The discussion will also incorporate insights from recent market developments and volatility cycles.
CrazyLive emphasized that the seminar will focus strictly on academic framework sharing, market phenomenon analysis, and practical experience exchange. The event will not involve the promotion of any financial products, nor will it provide any return guarantees or investment advice.
Event Details
Date: March 8, 2026 (Sunday) Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Venue: Function Room 1–3, Hotel ICON, 17 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong Admission: Free of charge Registration Link: https://crazylivehk.netlify.app/
Hashtag: #CrazyLive
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 February 2026 – Media Architects Pte Ltd, a systems integrator specialising in live production streaming and education technology solutions, marked its 25th anniversary in January 2026. Established in 2001, the company has spent the last two and a half decades supporting institutions, organisations, and government agencies in Singapore, providing integrated systems for video production and educational use.
Media Architects Celebrates 25 Years of Innovation in Live Production Streaming and Video Learning Technologies
From DVD Authoring to Systems Integration Founded on 20 January 2001 as DVD Power (Asia) Pte Ltd, the company was launched to address a gap in the local video production landscape. Its founder, a key member of Singapore’s first film school at Ngee Ann Polytechnic, had recently produced an award-winning interactive DVD and identified a gap in the market for professional DVD authoring services in Singapore.
Early milestones included authoring projects for New Line Cinema, Miramax Films, Columbia TriStar and Sony Pictures, as well as locally commissioned educational and heritage content for the Ministry of Education and the National Heritage Board. As DVD technology matured, the company shifted into systems integration, rebranding as Media Architects and expanding its offerings to support professional video workflows and technical training.
Following its 25th anniversary, Media Architects continues to evolve with the industry, building on its original vision while adapting to new technologies and client needs.
Continuous Evolution with Industry Trends Over the past two decades, Media Architects has kept pace with the evolution of media technologies. These include collaborative editing systems (2006), computer-based live production systems (2008), file-based post-production workflows (2010), and bonded cellular streaming systems for remote broadcasting (2012). More recently, the company has focused on video learning platforms, auto-tracking camera solutions, and hybrid classroom systems.
Today, Media Architects supports more than 10 higher education institutions in Singapore with integrated systems that enable lecture recording, hybrid learning, and streamlined content delivery.
Pandemic-Era Pivot to Live Streaming Services When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted live events, Media Architects adapted quickly. Drawing on its early experience in bonded cellular systems, the company developed compact live production setups with robotic cameras and a minimal crew, allowing clients to conduct virtual AGMs and live broadcasts under social distancing restrictions.
These efforts led to the establishment of a new business vertical focused on live event video streaming services and virtual event service platforms, which continued to support clients throughout the pandemic and beyond.
Future Growth: AI Tools, Partnerships, and Regional Reach A Milestone Tender Reflecting the Next Phase of Growth Upon celebrating its 25th anniversary, the company has secured a significant milestone tender to design and implement a clinical observation and recording system with AI-powered video analysis and reporting for a major medical institution in Singapore. This project represents a clear step forward in the company’s transition from traditional AV integration to intelligent, data-driven ecosystems that support high-stakes education and training.
The deployment spans more than 20 specialised clinical training rooms and shared spaces, with provisions for future expansion. At the system’s core is a fully redundant Q-SYS architecture powered by dual Core X10 DSP engines. This setup ensures operational continuity during critical simulations and medical examinations. Audio is captured through high-fidelity, beamforming ceiling microphones, and all network traffic is handled by NETGEAR AVLine switches configured for high-throughput, low-latency AVoIP environments.
Centralised control is achieved through the Q-SYS platform, which unifies audio, video, and automation under a modern IT framework.
What distinguishes this project is the integration of AI-powered video analytics. The system leverages a SaaS platform to enable real-time transcription, video tagging, and structured AI-powered analysis based on clinical rubrics such as SBAR (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation). This allows users to reference specific tagged moments during debriefs, providing objective, measurable feedback aligned with learning outcomes.
Students benefit directly from recorded sessions, instructor notes, transcripts, AI analysis, and reports saved to their accounts. This supports reflective practice, skill tracking, and individual learning progress. The implementation reflects Media Architects’ ongoing focus on scalable, systems-based innovation that transforms live video into actionable educational intelligence.
As the company embarks upon its next chapter, this project illustrates how its technical capabilities are now being applied to future-focused environments where reliability, adaptability, and data integration are essential.
Preparing the Team for the Next Chapter In anticipation of future growth, Media Architects is focusing on organisational development and leadership transition. Current team leads are being supported through new hires and strategic mentorship, with plans for the founder to move into an advisory role. The company is also evaluating the addition of industry practitioners to strengthen its system solutioning capacity and broaden its technical depth.
“Our mission at Media Architects has always been to harness the transformative power of video technology. With the latest system, we aren’t just installing cameras; we are architecting an intelligent feedback loop for self-reflection and self-improvement. By integrating AI-powered transcription and analysis, we are turning clinical simulations into objective, measurable data that empowers the next generation of medical professionals.”
— Nick Tay, Founder and Managing Director, Media Architects Pte Ltd
Looking Ahead Following its 25th anniversary, Media Architects remains committed to helping clients deliver high-impact content through integrated, future-ready technologies. Visit their website to learn more about their products and services.
An Ōtorohanga mum of four waded through knee-deep water in the early hours of Saturday morning to raise the alarm of flooding with her neighbours.
The South Waikato town was put into a State of Emergency shortly before 1am on Saturday as torrential rain lashed out on the region.
The block of flooded homes off Phillips Avenue.RNZ/Marika Khabazi
About 80 people were evacuated across homes on Phillips Avenue, Rangiatea Road, Kio Kio Station Road, a marae, and a camping site, sheltering at Te Kotahitanga Marae or with friends.
Trish Osterman said the rain had eased on Friday night when she went to bed, and she didn’t expect that things would pick up again in the early hours of the morning.
Trish Osterman’s flooded home in Ōtorohanga.RNZ/Marika Khabazi
She said she was woken about 3am by the sound of water gurgling.
When she went out and saw her street flooded, she decided to go door to door knocking on her neighbours’ homes to warn them, wading through water that was already knee deep, in her gumboots.
Trish Osterman, Otorohanga Kindergarten teacher and mum of four.RNZ/Marika Khabazi
“I did have to take a light with me, because you couldn’t see through the water, it was pretty murky it was dark, really hard to wake people up, had to do a lot of banging on windows, obviously everyone was sleeping…but eventually they did wake up.”
Osterman’s eldest son Callum called Fire and Emergency for help, as she was alerting the neighbours, and the family of six were able to shelter at a friend’s house for the night.
Trish Osterman’s eldest son Callum.RNZ/Marika Khabazi
Returning to her house on Saturday morning, Osterman said the water had risen to about 2 inches deep across her rooms, before slowly dropping throughout the day.
Water levels receded slowly throughout Saturday, but as of Saturday afternoon, large puddles remained surrounding some homes on Phillips Avenue, the local school was still surrounded by water, and many paddocks remained inundated.
The mayor said in his update this morning that the weather event in the Otorohanga district and wider region was significant, with about 150mm-300mm of rain recorded within the period of an hour.
The Osterman family’s flooded backyardRNZ/Marika Khabazi
The family’s backyard remained flooded on Saturday, and their garden where Osterman’s eight-year-old son planted pumpkins and watermelons has also been soaked in contaminated flood waters.
The weekend flood has devastated Otorohanga and its surrounds, claiming the life of a man who was trapped in a submerged car at Puketotara on State Highway 39, about 7 kilometres south of Pirongia.
RNZ had also spoken to an Otorohanga man who had to be evacuated by boat after finding himself in waist deep water in his bedroom.
Moana Pasifika captain Miracle Faiilagi goes over for a try during the Fijian Drua v Moana Pasifika, Super Rugby Pacific match, Churchill Park, Lautoka.ActionPress
Moana Pasifika have stunned the Fijian Drua in Lautoka, winning 40-26 at Churchill Park. Captain Miracle Faiilagi was the hero for Moana, scoring a hat trick and putting in a massive shift in the humid conditions. Faiilagi has taken over the unenviable task of following Ardie Savea’s massive season in charge of Moana, but showed that he has the presence to inspire the competition underdogs.
The home side looked strangely listless in the opening stages at their traditional fortress, at which they’ve beaten every New Zealand Super side apart from the Hurricanes since their admission to Super Rugby Pacific. That lethargy helped Moana shoot out to a 21-0 lead through tries to Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa and two to Faiilagi.
The Drua finally woke up after 20 minutes, with Tuidraki Samusamuvodre finishing off a sustained period of attack, but Tevita Ofa answered back for Moana 10 minutes later.
Faiilagi completed his hat trick straight after the break to make the score 33-12 and setting Moana up for a comfortable victory, but the Drua mounted a far more comprehensive fightback that saw Ilaisa Droasese and Temo Mayanavanua score to pull them within a converted try of the lead.
However, committed defence from the well-conditioned Moana side and some solid performances from their bench saw them close out the game, Ofa Tauatevalu tacking on some insurance at the end with a well taken try.
The win will give Moana plenty of confidence when they head to Wellington next weekend to face the Hurricanes, while the Drua go to Sydney for a meeting with the Waratahs.
Warriors Ali Leiataua scores a try, NRL Pre Season Challenge, NZ Warriors v Sea Eagles. McLean Park, Napier. Saturday 14 February, 2026Kerry Marshall / www.photosport.nz
It’s only pre season. That’s what Warriors fans will be telling themselves after an uninspiring, error-ridden performance in Napier in their first hit out of the year.
An ugly outing in Napier saw the Warriors go down 33-18 to a young Manly Sea Eagles side, an ominous sign for Andrew Webster’s men.
Solace will be taken in the fact several frontliners were missing through All Stars duty, and there was plenty of energy provided late by the rookies off the bench.
Harry Inch, Paea Sikuvea and Jack Thompson had brief shining moments, but their introduction was darkened by dozens of mistakes which didn’t allow the home side any momentum or cohesion.
Ali Leiataua bagged a brace, both from Manly errors with the greasy conditions wreaking havoc, and while some rust is to be expected in pre season, the Warriors were far from a well oiled machine at McLean Park.
They have just six days to fix their faults, as they head across the Tasman to meet the Dolphins on Friday.
Laghlan McWhannell during the Chiefs v Blues, Super Rugby Pacific Qualifying Final match, FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand. Saturday, 7 June 2025, (Photo by Mark Taylor / action press)Mark Taylor
The Chiefs have rolled up State Highway 1 for a date with the Blues on Valentine’s Day, as both sides open their Super Rugby Pacific seasons at Eden Park. Kick-off is at 7:05pm NZT.
Health Minister Simeon Brown is encouraging New Zealanders to use Valentine’s Day as a reminder to look after their own heart health, as well as the people they care about.
“Valentine’s Day is about connection and care, and that starts with looking after yourself. Making time for your heart health is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give the people who love you.
“Heart disease and stroke remain two of the biggest health challenges facing New Zealanders. The good news is that many of the risks are preventable, and even small, positive changes can protect your health for years to come.
“A good place to start is understanding your personal risk. A simple conversation with your GP or nurse about a heart and diabetes check can help identify your risk of a heart attack or stroke, and support early action to keep you well and active for longer.”
New Zealanders can also use the Heart Foundation’s free online heart health assessment at myheartcheck.org.nz to get an indication of their heart health.
“Everyday habits, built into normal life, also make a lasting difference. Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, supports a healthy weight, and lifts overall wellbeing. Even a gentle walk is a great place to start, and it’s even better when you do it with family, friends, or someone you love.
“If you smoke, quitting is one of the most important steps you can take for your heart and your future. Support is available, and you don’t have to go through it alone.”
Mr Brown says the Government is focused on prevention and making sure people can get help early.
“We’re backing efforts to reduce risk factors that contribute to heart disease, and we’re strengthening access to diagnostics so conditions can be picked up sooner and treated faster.
“Looking after your heart means more healthy time with the people who matter most – and that’s something worth celebrating this Valentine’s Day.”
A collision between Black Foils driven by Peter Burling and Blair Tuke and DS Team France, driven by Quentin Delapierre at the start of race 3.Phil Walter
Sailors from the New Zealand and France teams have been rushed to Auckland hospital, after a high-speed collision in race three of the New Zealand SailGP event off Wynyard Point.
Racing was suspended, when the two boats came together on the opening leg, with the Black Foils seemingly losing control of their rudder and spinning back into the French.
France had nowhere to go and flew over the bow of Amokura, as their rivals disappeared up the course towards the first mark.
The windward hull of the NZ boat has been sliced in half, so they won’t be seen on the water again this weekend.
The collision left two injured from each team.Phil Walter
As they rounded the mark and headed back towards the two entangled boats, race organisers called the race off and safety crews rushed to the wreckage.
All crew members were quickly accounted for, but two sailors – one from each team – were injured and taken ashore, conscious and alert.
NZ driver Peter Burling stayed on his boat, overseeing the salvage. He and counterpart Quentin Delapierre looked shaken.
Race three has been abandoned, and organisers have cancelled Saturday’s remaining races.
This is New Zealand’s second major crash in as many events.
Moments into the season-opening race at Perth last month, the Black Foils collided with Switzerland, losing their stern, and were unable to race again that weekend.
They faced an anxious repair process over following weeks, but Amokura was apparently back to full integrity for their home regatta, as the home team finished third and first in the first two races to lead the event into race three.
This time, the damage to boat and crew is even more serious.
After the Perth incident, NZ driver Peter Burling was judged at fault and became the first to incur demerit points under newly introduced SailGP ‘Super Licence’ protocols.
New Zealand SailGP marks the first occasion 13 boats have contested racing, with the addition of Artemis Sweden for this year’s series.
Spain missed the season’s opening event at Perth, after suffering damage in practice, but the fleet was at full strength for the first time at Auckland.
All 13 teams were jostling for position off the startline, making the tight run to the first mark chaotic. That leg is usually the fastest of the race, exacerbating the risk.
Next year, organisers hope to add a 14th team to the championship and will likely split the fleet into smaller heats of seven, as they for practice racing currently.
The SailGP professional sailing league returns to the ‘City of Sails’ for the second event of the 2026 series, performing in front of an expanded Wynyard Point grandstand.
Can New Zealand bounce back from last year’s disappointment and a hectic few weeks of repairs to their boat, or will the Aussies retain bragging rights on the Waitematā Harbour?
Follow all the action with RNZ’s live blog:
A collision between Black Foils driven by Peter Burling and Blair Tuke and DS Team France, driven by Quentin Delapierre at the start of race 3.Phil Walter
Black Foils lead Denmark during New Zealand SailGP off Auckland.Felix Diemer for SailGP
A collision between Black Foils driven by Peter Burling and Blair Tuke and DS Team France, driven by Quentin Delapierre at the start of race 3.Phil Walter
Sailors from the New Zealand and France teams have been rushed to Auckland hospital, after a high-speed collision in race three of the New Zealand SailGP event off Wynyard Point.
Racing was suspended, when the two boats came together on the opening leg, with the Black Foils seemingly losing control of their rudder and spinning back into the French.
France had nowhere to go and flew over the bow of Amokura, as their rivals disappeared up the course towards the first mark.
The windward hull of the NZ boat has been sliced in half, so they won’t be seen on the water again this weekend.
The collision left two injured from each team.Phil Walter
As they rounded the mark and headed back towards the two entangled boats, race organisers called the race off and safety crews rushed to the wreckage.
All crew members were quickly accounted for, but two sailors – one from each team – were injured and taken ashore, conscious and alert.
NZ driver Peter Burling stayed on his boat, overseeing the salvage. He and counterpart Quentin Delapierre looked shaken.
Race three has been abandoned, and organisers have cancelled Saturday’s remaining races.
That’s the second event in a row that the Black Foils have suffered major damage.
New Zealand SailGP marks the first occasion 13 boats have contested racing, with the addition of Artemis Sweden for this year’s series.
Spain missed the season’s opening event at Perth, after suffering damage in practice, but the fleet was at full strength for the first time at Auckland.
All 13 teams were jostling for position off the startline, making the tight run to the first mark chaotic. That leg is usually the fastest of the race, exacerbating the risk.
Next year, organisers hope to add a 14th team to the championship and will likely split the fleet into smaller heats of seven, as they for practice racing currently.
Pictures and stories coming out of Ōtorohanga tell of the extent of the flooding and hasty evacuations, after a deluge overnight caused waters to rise rapidly in the Waikato district.
The town was put into a State of Emergency in the early hours of Saturday. Houses and buildings have been surrounded by floodwaters and cars have been submerged. About 80 people were evacuated from a camping site, marae and at least two houses overnight.
Ōtorohanga mayor Rodney Dow has spoken of his sadness after a man was found dead in a submerged car at Puketotara on State Highway 39, and urged those affected to be careful and to stay safe.
Many roads and highways are closed, and people in the area have been warned to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Forecasters are calling for people to stay up to date on weather updates, as more wild weather has stamped orange and red weather warnings across much of the North Island, and some of the South Island, with heavy rain and strong wind warnings and watches for many places for Saturday and Sunday.
Flooding in Ōtorohanga, captured by drone from the air, on Saturday.RNZ/ Marika Khabazi
Phillips Avenue, Ōtorohanga.RNZ/ Marika Khabazi
David and Joy Wickham were evacuated from a campervan camping site after water from the nearby river began to rise. They returned to find it underwater today.Supplied/ Joy Wickham
Less than a year after it was refreshed, the Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa is bringing $3.39 billion into New Zealand, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford announced today.
“These results show that the significant changes the Government has made to the visa is achieving our goal of making an investor visa available that attracts high-value global investors and supports the Government’s Going for Growth approach,” Ms Stanford says.
To date, 573 applications have been made, totalling $3.39 billion. In comparison, 116 applications were received with around $70 million of investment committed over two-and-a-half years under the settings introduced by the previous Government.
Ms Stanford made the announcement today during a visit to Hectre, an orchard‑technology firm that has received AIP investment to support its growth and create high‑skilled jobs.
“Hectre is another excellent example of New Zealand innovation and potential taking flight, supported by great investors who are keen to create value together with us and do business here.
“International investment is critical for lifting productivity, supporting jobs, and helping New Zealand businesses to expand. The results we are seeing indicate strong overseas confidence in our direction and economic ambition.”
Since the April 2025 refresh:
573 applications have been received
$1.05 billion is already invested with $2.34 billion in the pipeline, expected in the next six months
The Growth Category is the most popular, with most investment flowing through managed funds.
“Investments are already supporting growth across various sectors, including in tech, healthcare, aged care, horticulture, and digital media,” Ms Stanford says.
“Benefits are numerous, with AIP investment helping our companies access critical capital for growth – that is helping local firms to expand, hire more skilled workers, and grow export revenue.”
Ms Stanford says that investment has also been unlocking productive capital for businesses across New Zealand, from cybersecurity and cloud technology to regional infrastructure.
“These investors bring not just capital, but global experience, expertise, and networks. I have had the pleasure of meeting some of these investors over the last year and I have seen firsthand their love for, and commitment to, New Zealand.
“I am delighted that our new visa settings are helping to open up possibility and opportunity for investment. New Zealand is famous for its ingenuity. Overseas investment and partnership with extremely talented people is boosting our economy and helping us to build for the future.
“New Zealand is open for business. I look forward to seeing the jobs, development, and long-term growth our changes continue to generate in key sectors.”
To encourage deeper connection to New Zealand, investor visa holders can also now buy or build one home valued at $5 million or more.
Note to editors:
The Growth category for the AIP visa focuses on higher-risk investments, including managed funds and direct investments in New Zealand businesses. It requires a minimum investment of NZD $5 million for a minimum period of 3 years.
The Balanced category focuses on mixed investments, with the ability to choose ones that are lower risk. There is a minimum investment of NZD $10 million over 5 years.
More information on the Active Investor Plus visa can be found online:
The Warriors take on the Manly Sea Eagles in their opening pre-season trial at McLean Park in Napier.
Winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is out, after picking up a low-grade hamstring injury at training ahead of the team’s trip to Hawke’s Bay.
He will also miss the 20 February game against the Dolphins, but is expected to return for the round one clash with the Roosters at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium on March 6.
Wellington psych rock duo Earth Tongue’s latest album was recorded old school in LA with Ty Segall on production duties.
Multi-instrumentalist garage king Segall is famous for his lo-fi approach to recording, the result was Dungeon Vision a raw record, drummer Ezra Simons told Music 101.
“I don’t wanna say rough around the edges, but it’s a raw record. And we worked with a pretty punk rock producer, you know. It was all fully analogue.
Earth Tongue.
Nicola Sandford
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
The SailGP professional sailing league returns to the ‘City of Sails’ for the second event of the 2026 series, performing in front of an expanded Wynyard Point grandstand.
Can New Zealand bounce back from last year’s disappointment and a hectic few weeks of repairs to their boat, or will the Aussies retain bragging rights on the Waitematā Harbour?
Follow all the action with RNZ’s live blog:
Fans celebrate a Black Foils win from the Wynyard Point grandstand.Iain McGregor for SailGP
Initial assessments indicate that some tracks and bridges have been damaged or washed away, creating potential safety risks for visitors. As a precaution, DOC staff have closed the following tracks while detailed assessments are undertaken: Bell Track, Hihikiwi Track, Mahaukura Track, Nikau Track, Ruapane Track, Tahanui Track and Mangakara Track.
DOC Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones says Waikato DOC staff are currently on-site installing closure signage and will be assessing track conditions and infrastructure over the coming week.
“Tracks will be reopened on a case-by-case basis once they are confirmed to be safe for public use.”
Bookings for Pahautea Hut and Pahautea Campsite for the coming week have been removed temporarily. Visitors with existing bookings for this weekend and next week are being contacted by DOC and refunded. At this stage, closures apply only to affected Pirongia tracks.
Niwha Jones advises visitors to respect track closures, avoid affected areas, and check the DOC website for the latest updates before planning any visit.
“Public safety is DOC’s priority, and we appreciate the public’s patience while assessments and any necessary repair work is completed.”
Got questions? RNZ has a podcast, Got questions? RNZ has a podcast [www.rnz.co.nz/podcasts/nostupidquestions No Stupid Questions with Susan Edmunds].
We’d love to hear more of your questions about money and the economy. You can send through written questions, like these ones, but – even better – you can drop us a voice memo to our email questions@rnz.co.nz
Re my joint family home and joint savings. I believed these are owned by (me) the surviving partner?
Nothing is in my partner’s name only. I invited my partner’s far-flung adult children and adult grandchildren to the funeral weekend.
My own grandchild overheard them talking about a legal claim to force me to sell my home for their benefit.
My partner and I registered it as our joint family home when we built it three decades ago and it took me more than two decades to care for my non working partner and pay off the mortgage.
I am fit and well and live in my home. My friends, children, grandchild and activities are nearby.
I am extremely upset by their claims as are my own children?
Can my “steps” legally force me to sell my home to provide money for them? My legal firm said this is “not possible” then changed their position.
This is a tricky question and we got into it a bit more on the podcast this week.
Michelle Pope, who is principal trustee at Public Trust, said usually assets held in joint names, as in your family home and savings, will automatically pass to the surviving joint owner.
“However, it’s important to confirm whether the property is legally owned jointly or in equal/unequal shares.
“If it’s jointly owned, it will in most cases pass directly to the surviving owner through what’s called ‘survivorship’ in legal language and will not form part of the deceased person’s estate.
“If not, the deceased’s share will need to be administered as part of their estate, which can add complexity.”
As for whether your stepchildren could force a sale, she said probably not.
But your partner’s estate could make a claim to claw back assets that could then be subject to a claim from the stepchildren.
“An example could include if they believe they are not adequately provided for in their father’s will. If successful, selling assets might be an outcome of any legal decision.”
Pope said because your partner had a will, there would be more clarity about what was intended to happen.
“Having a will can help reduce the risk of legal disputes and give clarity for families but cannot prevent claims being made.
“Blended families are increasingly common and estate planning in these situations can be complex.
“We strongly recommend people seek professional advice to explore options and ensure your estate plan reflects your intentions.”
How do I find a financial adviser who will give me truly independent financial advice?
I’m reasonably happy with my financial plans but it’s always good to check with an expert.
However I know many advisers are remunerated through commissions and therefore are only going to recommend products or providers that pay them.
My current investment plans mainly revolve around low fees broad market index funds so I’m worried by seeking financial advice someone will try to steer me away from this and towards higher fee actively managed products because of commission. I want truly objective advice and to not be suspicious of what’s in it for the adviser.
You’re right that many financial advisers are paid by the organisations that they place their clients with.
Historically, I think that’s been because people have been really reluctant to pay an upfront fee – and the advisers need to be paid somehow.
If you want to avoid that, you could look for an adviser who is going to charge you a fee instead. You might pay by the hour for their time, or a set amount for a financial plan or ongoing monitoring and advice.
But all advisers are bound by rules including the need to disclose how they are paid and by whom as part of their advice process.
Nick Hakes, who is chief executive of Financial Advice NZ, which represents advisers, said they would need to explain how they charged, what they were paid and the scope of their advice.
“My encouragement to any client seeking a financial adviser is to go with a whole list of questions so not just about how they might be remunerated but have they helped someone in similar circumstances to you? And how did they help? Remuneration method is just one of a series of questions which all client should be asking financial advisers.”
He said Financial Advice NZ had a directory online that listed all the members of the professional body. That could be a good place to start to look through your options and see who might be a good fit.
A local state of emergency has been declared in Ōtorohanga, Waikato, after the district was lashed by heavy rains.
The declaration was made at 12:57am on Saturday and will stay in effect for seven days.
Mayor Rodney Dow said the district had experienced widespread flooding, slips and inundation.
“The situation in Ōtorohanga is serious.”
He said the community was grieving following news that a man had died after his car became submerged in floodwaters.
Here is some of the footage and imagery that emerged following the deluge:
Flooding on nearby Kio Kio Station Road.Supplied / Colin Payne
Floodwaters in Ōtorohanga, on Saturday 14 February, 2026.RNZ/ Marika Khabazi
Ōtorohanga Mayor Rodney Dow said the community was grieving following news that a man had died after his car became submerged in floodwaters.RNZ/ Marika Khabazi
A car near Ōtorohanga Primary School was submerged following the flooding.RNZ/Marika Khabazi
Flooding in Ōtorohanga, on 14 February 2026.Supplied/ Joy Wickham
Flooding on Corcoran Road on Saturday morning.Facebook/Waipā District Council
Flooding on Kio Kio Station Road, where residents were evacuated overnight.Supplied / Colin Payne
Flooding at Ōtorohanga Museum.Supplied / Amanda Kiddie
A slip on State Highway 39, Ōtorohanga.Supplied / Otorohanga Volunteer Fire Brigade
Flooding on State Highway 39, Ōtorohanga.Supplied / Otorohanga Volunteer Fire Brigade
Flooding in Ōtorohanga, on 14 February 2026.Supplied/ Joy Wickham
Bystanders observe flooding around Phillips Avenue in Ōtorohanga on 14 February 2026.RNZ / Marika Khabazi
A garden bed floating on a flooded property on Phillips Avenue following flooding in Ōtorohanga.
Flooding on Phillips Road, Ōtorohanga.RNZ / Lucy Xia
Trish Osterman’s home following flooding in Ōtorohanga.RNZ / Lucy Xia