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LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/visitor-arrivals-pass-3-5-million-international-travel-december-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/
Appier Delivers Record Results Driven by Agentic AI Innovation
Source: Media Outreach
E-Commerce and Online Travel Dual Engines Reinforce Robust Expansion. Strong Guidance Underscores Optimistic Outlook for FY26
Highlights and achievements for fiscal year 2025
- Delivered record high revenue of JPY 43.7 billion, up 28% YoY. (JPY 45.0 billion, up 32% YoY on an FX neutral basis)
- Substantial growth in E-commerce (49% YoY) and Other Internet Services (59% YoY) led by the Travel sector, reflects dual engine growth, driving high revenue quality
- All key regions demonstrate strong growth. NEA and US & EMEA both achieved 36% YoY revenue growth on an FX-neutral basis
- Profitability improved consistently, operating profit hit a record JPY 3.0 billion, up 50% YoY with a 6.8% margin (JPY 3.8 billion with an 8.5% margin on an FX-neutral basis)
- Gross profit achieved 32% YoY rise, driven by revenue scale, technology differentiations and a high-margin product mix
- Q4 FY25 revenue growth accelerated to 34% (up from 26% in Q3), reached the highest level in the past 9 quarters, fueled by a strong E-commerce peak season
Guidance for fiscal year 2026
- Core organic growth is expected to accelerate, with revenue projected to JPY 54 billion, up 24% YoY, driven by Agentic AI advancement and dual-engine market penetration
- Gross profit expected to grow 25% YoY to JPY 29.4 billion, with 54.5% gross margin, propelled by sustained technology-led efficiency and margin expansion
- Operating income is expected to grow 45% YoY to JPY 4.3 billion (8.0% margin) and EBITDA to grow 37% YoY to JPY 9.4 billion (17.4% margin)
- Proven track record in leading enterprise-wide transformations, transitioning from legacy software and manual workflows to a future of Agentic AI-driven operational excellence
Scaling new heights: A landmark year of Agentic AI–led growth acceleration
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Appier Group Inc. (TSE: 4180), hereafter referred to as “Appier,” today announced its financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, and issued guidance for FY26. The company achieved record revenue of JPY 43.7 billion, a 28% YoY increase (JPY 45.0 billion, up 32% YoY on an FX-neutral basis). This stellar performance was fueled by dual growth engines: core E-commerce grew 49% YoY, and Other Internet Services surged 59% YoY, led by the Travel sector. Since FY19, Appier has delivered a sixfold surge in total revenue, a record performance anchored by consistent expansion in incremental revenue.
Profitability surged to a record high, with operating income growing 50% YoY to JPY 3.0 billion, representing a 6.8% operating margin (JPY 3.8 billion with an 8.5% margin on an FX-neutral basis). Gross profit outpaced revenue growth, reaching a historical high of JPY 23.5 billion, up 32% YoY. Gross margin climbed to 53.8% (53.9% FX-neutral), bolstered by increased revenue scale, technological differentiation, and a high-margin product mix. This upward trajectory underscores Appier’s ability to scale customer value while driving operational leverage.
Balanced regional expansion and deepening vertical penetration drive quality growth
In FY25, all key regions delivered strong growth. Northeast Asia (68%) and the U.S. & EMEA (19%) both achieved 36% YoY growth (FX-neutral). NEA was supported by balanced expansion in E-commerce and continued vertical diversification, while the U.S. & EMEA benefited from solid momentum across E-commerce and Other Internet Services. Together, this regional strength and deeper vertical penetration reflect the effective scaling of Agentic AI-first strategy, driving sustained, high-quality, and resilient growth.
Revenue growth remains balanced, with 56% of incremental revenue driven by ROI-led upsells to existing E-commerce customers and 44% fueled by new customers, primarily from Online Travel. By leveraging Agentic AI to secure large enterprise catalysts, Appier delivered 13% YoY growth in both its customer base and FX-neutral ARPC. This strategic focus—coupled with disciplined OPEX—drove operating leverage. Furthermore, the operational productivity surged, driven by a 23% YoY growth in gross profit per headcount.
Entering FY26 with strong profitable momentum
Appier projects revenue growth to reaccelerate in FY26, with organic revenue expected to outpace total growth, driven by our dual-vertical growth engines. Forecasting revenue to reach JPY 54 billion, up 24% YoY and gross profit to hit JPY 29.4 billion, up 25% YoY, with a 54.5% margin. This optimistic outlook is anchored by a Q4 FY25 inflection point, where revenue growth surged to 34%, validating Appier’s strategic focus on key accounts and high-growth verticals. Operating income is projected to rise 45% YoY to JPY 4.3 billion, while EBITDA is expected to grow 37% YoY to JPY 9.4 billion—representing a 17.4% margin fueled by disciplined investment and operational leverage.
“2025 marks a defining year for Appier as we evolve into a global leader in Agentic AI as a Service. Our record profitability and consistent customer wins validate the strong momentum heading into FY26,” said Chih-Han Yu, CEO and Co-founder of Appier. “By combining differentiated Agentic AI with deep domain expertise, we have moved beyond single-point solutions to deploy coordinated multi-agent intelligence that delivers trusted, enterprise-grade performance. We are transforming our organization and customers’ workflows, replacing legacy software and manual processes with an autonomous, AI-led execution engine while scaling a highly efficient foundation for long-term, profitable growth.
Agentic AI empowers dual success of customer ROI and profitable growth
Appier’s Agentic AI competitive edge stems from a unique combination of proprietary data and vertical-specific and customer-centric AI models. This foundation empowers it to develop domain-specific agents that help leading organizations transition from traditional software to autonomous, ROI-driven Agentic workflows. The company’s AI capabilities also enable it to rapidly build Agentic AI models that adapt to customer workflows at enterprise level to drive broader market penetration and strengthen customer stickiness.
Powered by a world class Generative AI research team, Appier’s Agentic AI platform goes beyond conventional automation through proprietary LLM calibration and self-aware reasoning. This foundation of Trustworthy AI accelerates deployment, autonomously self-corrects, and delivers enterprise-grade safeguards, superior cost efficiency, and the reliability required for large-scale production. Together, these strengths position Appier to lead the next era of enterprise AI—turning autonomous intelligence into measurable, scalable business impact for customers worldwide.
https://www.appier.com/en/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/2774891/
https://www.facebook.com/appierinc?locale=zh_TW
Wechat: Appier 沛星互动科技
Hashtag: #Appier #AgenticAI #AIAgent
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/14/appier-delivers-record-results-driven-by-agentic-ai-innovation/
AsiaBC Introduces Award-Winning Incorporation & Asia Market Entry Expertise to UAE’s Global Founders
Source: Media Outreach
HONG KONG SAR/DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Asia Business Centre (AsiaBC), a Hong Kong-based leader in corporate services and cross-border startup consultancy, has been named “Outstanding Company Formation Services of the Year“ at the HKCT Business Awards 2025.
Presented by the Hong Kong Commercial Times (HKCT), the award recognises AsiaBC’s excellence in helping global founders establish, scale, and succeed in business hubs across Asia and the Middle East. With deep expertise in regulatory frameworks and banking ecosystems, AsiaBC helps entrepreneurs overcome market-entry challenges faced by SMEs and new ventures.
AsiaBC plays a key role in simplifying and accelerating incorporation, bank account setup, and international compliance in Hong Kong, Singapore, and offshore centres.
AsiaBC’s Expertise Solves Hong Kong Setup Challenges
Since 2009, AsiaBC has turned entrepreneurial vision into operational businesses through end-to-end support. Beyond company registration, the team guides clients through structuring, documentation, bank onboarding, tax planning, and accounting, ensuring that each step fits the business model.
AsiaBC demystifies cross-border operations by leveraging market insight and ties with over 100 banks and FinTech providers. The firm delivers reduced setup time, guaranteed bank account results under its “No Win, No Fee” programme, and proven legal readiness. One recent case saw a client complete company formation and bank account opening in Hong Kong on the same day, just before flying home. Another client, a tech startup, secured banking approval within 48 hours, enabling rapid launch into the APAC market.
AI-Powered Compliance & UAE Hub to Serve Global Founders
To better serve international entrepreneurs, AsiaBC is broadening its presence and technology.
In 2026, AsiaBC will open its first advisory hub in Dubai to support UAE entrepreneurs entering Asia. Services will include offshore company planning, tax coordination, risk assessment, and compliance across jurisdictions.
AsiaBC is also launching AI-enabled tools to make bank onboarding more predictable. A smart matching engine will analyse each client’s profile – including business model and risk category – and map it to onboarding preferences across AsiaBC’s banking network. Drawing on 6,000+ cases, this tool aims to shorten approval time and improve success rates, especially for founders under scrutiny.
“For 16 years, we’ve followed one principle: ‘Professionalism is the foundation, but solving problems is the core,’” said Raymond Wong, Managing Director. “This award affirms our commitment to outcome-driven solutions that help clients expand smoothly and sustainably.”
Championing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
AsiaBC’s client-first strategy includes:
- Tailored support from incorporation to compliance
- Guaranteed banking results
- Strong ecosystem relationships
- Multilingual support in English, French, Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin
Hashtag: #AsiaBC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/14/asiabc-introduces-award-winning-incorporation-asia-market-entry-expertise-to-uaes-global-founders/
Stuart Rees: Cowardice over Gaza dressed up as authority on Sydney’s streets
COMMENTARY: By Stuart Rees
The violence surrounding protests against the visit of Israel’s president was not an accident of crowd control. It reflects a deeper political failure – where authority suppresses dissent rather than confronting uncomfortable truths about Gaza, protest rights and democratic responsibility.
In official explanations of violence outside Sydney Town Hall on Monday evening, February 9, it sounds as though police were only trying to maintain public safety through various professional measures taken against the thousands outraged that President Isaac Herzog of Israel, charged with incitement to commit genocide, should be in the country.
Those explanations are false. Behind the extensive police powers to control and suppress protest lies a cancerous-like cowardice, facilitated by a cornered Prime Minister and by an Israeli sympathising, authoritarian NSW Premier.
Cowardice can be nurtured by pleasure in dominating, by fear of losing control, by being frightened to face truths, by deceits in pretending that all is well when it manifestly is not.
Restricting protests in order to stifle concern about slaughter in Gaza and the West Bank, or the PM asking the Australian public to “turn the temperature down” so that justifiable outrage about the Bondi massacres will deflect attention from an ongoing genocide in Palestine, is a cowardly technique.
And the PM is not the worst offender, even though government cowardice began when wedged by the Zionist Federation into supporting their invitation to the Israeli President.
Who runs the show you might ask?
Suppression-oriented Premier Chris Minns delegates responsibility for his anti-protest laws to the chief of NSW police who is happy to oblige. In and out of uniform, cowards appear as strong men, usually men, who like to manhandle or beat up people.
There is no manliness in the police thuggery witnessed in Sydney streets on Monday.
Facile Premier Minns – or is he just naive – with no recognition of his own hypocrisy, says on Tuesday’s news “NSW police are not punching bags”. His holier than thou stance is shown alongside a man held down by police who are punching him repeatedly in the kidneys.
We then switch to the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, in Federal Parliament describing police action in general, “what the police were trying to do was sensible”.
source Jared Kimpton
As if thuggery on one man is insufficient, other police punch Greens MP Abigail Boyd in the head and shoulder, knock her over and are completely indifferent to her explanations of who she was and the civil and legal reasons for her presence at a legitimate, peaceful protest.
Cameras switch to police apparently unaware that their presence increases conflict, comprehending little, annoyed, then angry at the sight Moslem citizens in prayer on public pavements.
Then we witness no rationality, no civility, only the raw emotions of cowards not getting their way. The men kneeling in prayer are seen being picked up, removed and thrown aside. We’ll never know if deep-seated prejudice affected police conduct, but the question should be raised.
On Tuesday, the mood of thuggery on the streets moved to the House of Representatives when a Greens MP Elizabeth Watson-Brown inquired of the Prime Minister whether the invitation to the President of Israel had undermined the unity of the country, whether the PM would condemn police violence and send Herzog home.
In response, before the Prime Minister could answer, the opposition benches found a unity which had eluded them for months.
United in their apparent support for Israeli slaughter in Gaza, wanting to be seen to be brave in their dislike of protest about Herzog, and apparently unable or unwilling to know much about genocide continuing during a ceasefire, one of the esteemed members of the newly reformed Coalition, was heard to advise colleagues as to how to deal with the Greens MP.
“Rip her apart,” he was reported as saying. It sounds as though this was exactly what he said. Asked by the Speaker to withdraw his comment, the offending MP did so.
But further support for cowardice camouflaged by thuggery was not far away. Keen to revive his image as macho man at large, former Prime Minister Tony Abbot recommended that police accused of punching protesters should receive a commendation and in future be armed with tear gas and be able fire rubber bullets.
Abbot would never regard himself as a coward but when denial of the existence of a genocide, a failure to face truths, is being multiplied by cowardice evident in acceptance of authoritarianism as the way to conduct politics, policing and even techniques for debate, there should be cross party and widespread public concern.
To meet the Prime Minister’s requests to lower the temperature, the country needs to replace the cowardice with sufficient courage to admit the truths about a genocide, the truths about the values of freedom of speech and the right to protest.
Cowardice may be disguised by violence but is demeaning.
Courage is a way to speak truths. Courageous action can be mentally and physically life enhancing, encourages justice, depicts what Bertolt Brecht called “the bread of the people” and in current Australian culture could infect almost everyone and lower the temperature. Try it.
Dr Stuart Rees AM is professor emeritus at the University of Sydney and recipient of the Jerusalem (Al Quds) Peace Prize. This article was first published in Pearls and Irritations: John Menadue’s Public Policy Journal and is republished with permission.
Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz
Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/02/13/stuart-rees-cowardice-over-gaza-dressed-up-as-authority-on-sydneys-streets/
Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble to Present “Symphony of Light & Legacy” Concert in March
Source: Media Outreach
Supporting Sustainable Social Development through Arts and Education Celebrating the Power of “Music Changes Lives”
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Great Eagle Group (Stock Code: 41) today announced that the Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble, supported by the Group, will present its annual concert, “Symphony of Light & Legacy”, on 29 March 2026 at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in Wanchai. Through the children’s performances, the concert will share their growth and transformation along their music-learning journeys.
Titled “Symphony of Light & Legacy”, the concert reflects the belief that music, like starlight, can gently illuminate children’s paths forward. “Light” symbolises music as a guiding presence, while “Legacy” represents the continuation of care and encouragement—so that each generation of children may feel supported as they explore a broader future.
Following the inaugural “Grow & Glow” concert in 2023, the Ensemble once again appears on a professional stage. The performance offers a glimpse into the children’s learning journeys and the values nurtured through music training, including discipline, confidence and a sense of responsibility. It also reflects the steady efforts of dedicated educators and the support of the wider community.
For many years, Great Eagle Group has supported the Music Children Foundation (the “Foundation”) in providing underprivileged children with access to structured, quality early music education. In 2018, the Group established the Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble under the Foundation to offer outstanding students a continuous and progressive platform. Through professional training, public performances and competitions, the programme seeks to nurture children’s musical abilities and whole-person development. Currently, the Ensemble comprises 73 orchestra members and 24 choir members. To date, the programme has benefited more than 187 children and delivered over 40 public performances.
Mr Alexander Lo, Executive Director of Great Eagle Group, said: “At Great Eagle, our vision is ‘Sustainable Growth’. We believe a company’s responsibility extends beyond business, and that we must use our resources thoughtfully in support of the communities we serve. Over the years, we have focused on arts, youth education and environmental protection, and remain committed to working alongside partners who share these values. We hope, in our own small way, to help create more opportunities for children to be seen, encouraged and supported, so they may move forward with greater confidence and choice.”
Ms Annike Pong and Ms Monique Pong, Co-founders of the Music Children Foundation, said: “Music brings together art and education in a way that can help children build confidence, broaden their horizons and discover their potential. We are thankful for Great Eagle Group’s long-standing support, which allows us to reach more communities and provide quality music education to more children.”
Tickets for “Symphony of Light & Legacy” are available via Cityline starting today. The concert is also supported by Cordis, under Langham Hospitality Group, a member of Great Eagle Group. Cordis’s brand manifesto, “Let Your Heart Rule”, encourages people to stay true to themselves and cherish authentic connections, which resonates with the positive messages conveyed through music.
“Symphony of Light & Legacy” – Concert Details
Date: 29 March 2026 (Sunday)
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Venue: Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre,
The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
Ticketing: Cityline https://cultural.cityline.com/en/2026/symphonylightlegacy.html
Programme Highlights and Concert Narrative
The concert will be led by renowned music educator Mr Ray Tsoi as Orchestra Conductor, with Dr Lo Po Yan serving as Choral Director and Choir Conductor.
First Half: Choral works portraying children’s inner journeys from enlightenment to growth.
Second Half: Orchestral performances that, through richly layered melodies, express the strength and momentum of moving forward.
Sustained Commitment, Creating a Shared Future
Great Eagle Group believes the role of a corporation extends beyond achieving business success to making good use of its resources and uniting collective efforts to bring meaningful and sustainable positive impact to the community. Through continued investment in children and youth development, mental wellbeing and cultural education, the Group will continue to move forward hand in hand with society to help create a better future.
At the “Symphony of Light & Legacy” Concert, children will write their dreams through music and pass on hope.
Hashtag: #GreatEagleGroup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/great-eagle-music-children-ensemble-to-present-symphony-of-light-legacy-concert-in-march/
International Ophthalmic Extravaganza “APAO 2026 Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Congress” Concludes Successfully
Source: Media Outreach
Over 11,000 Experts from 111 Countries Converge Reaffirming Hong Kong’s Position as a Global Ophthalmic Hub
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – The four-day “APAO 2026 Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress” successfully concluded last week, marking a significant milestone in the global ophthalmic community. As the largest and most authoritative ophthalmic academic event in the Asia-Pacific region, this year’s Congress was hosted in Hong Kong for the fifth time, attracting over 11,000 ophthalmologists, vision scientists, and ophthalmic professionals from 111 countries and regions worldwide. This landmark event not only reaffirmed Hong Kong’s distinguished position as a prominent international ophthalmic hub but also fostered profound exchange and extensive collaboration within the global ophthalmic community.
Ophthalmic experts from around the world converge at APAO 2026 Opening Ceremony
Over 1,200 Ophthalmic Sessions: Exploring Clinical Applications and Translational Impact of Cutting-Edge Technology
The Congress was organized by APAO and jointly hosted by the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society and the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong. Operating under the theme “Eyes on the Future: Innovating Ophthalmology,” it presented an impressive agenda featuring over 1,200 specialized ophthalmic symposia and sessions. More than 1,000 distinguished speakers engaged with the 11,000 attendees, collectively exploring the clinical applications and translational potential of state-of-the-art technologies, thereby generating numerous thought-provoking and insightful discussions.
The comprehensive academic agenda spanned 19 ophthalmic subspecialties, offering a rich and diverse array of topics. It delved into not only foundational areas such as cataract, cornea, glaucoma, retina, paediatric ophthalmology, and oculoplastic surgery, among others, but also extended its focus to emerging fields including artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and virtual health. This extensive scope is poised to significantly advance global ophthalmology.
Hong Kong’s First Interdisciplinary Myopia Control Expert Research Group Formed to Propose Comprehensive Control Strategies to the Government
During the congress, four major ophthalmic organizations in Hong Kong – Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Association of Private Eye Surgeons, and the Hong Kong Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Society – jointly established Hong Kong’s first Interdisciplinary Myopia Control Expert Task Force. This group will pioneer the integration of academic research, clinical services, and public education to formulate myopia control strategies for Hong Kong and propose comprehensive recommendations to the HKSAR government. Furthermore, it will promote more holistic, cost-effective, and long-term myopia management solutions by incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, wearable devices, and novel therapies for the public’s benefit.
Special Chinese Sessions Accelerated Cross-border and Global Collaboration
To enhance regional cooperation and academic exchange, this year’s APAO Congress, in addition to its regular English lectures, has specially introduced Chinese-language sessions. The organisers have invited over a hundred authoritative ophthalmology experts from Chinese Mainland to Hong Kong for in-depth exchanges and participation in discussions in Chinese, aiming to accelerate collaboration between the ophthalmology communities of Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, and indeed, the world. The congress also attracted 3,000 Chinese Mainland experts and scholars, fully demonstrating the close ties as well as continuous cross-border and international cooperation.
Among these, a public health luncheon themed “China’s Myopia Prevention and Control Model” was held. Chinese Mainland experts elaborated to their international ophthalmic peers on how China has successfully established a far-reaching comprehensive myopia prevention and control system through robust public health management, solid scientific research, cutting-edge technologies, and effective policies. It offered valuable experiences for global myopia control efforts.
Cross-border Societies Sign Memorandum of Understanding
New Societies Established to Advance Ophthalmic AI and Stem Cell & Gene Therapy Development
To further strengthen collaboration between Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong in the field of ophthalmology, Chinese Ophthalmological Society, the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, and the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during this congress. The MOU aims to jointly deepen and advance the long-term development of ophthalmology in both regions, charting a new chapter for the field.
Concurrently, the Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society (GOATS) and the Asia-Pacific Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Society (APSOCGT) were officially established during the conference. The formation of these two new societies will provide substantial impetus for the advancement of ophthalmic artificial intelligence, technological innovation, stem cell and gene therapy, facilitating their translation from foundational research to clinical application across the Asia-Pacific region and globally.
APAO Congress Held for the Fifth Time in Hong Kong Solidifying the City’s Status as an International Ophthalmic Hub
Professor Jason Yam Cheuk-sing, President of APAO 2026 Congress & President of The Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society concluded, “The APAO Congress being held in Hong Kong for the fifth time has underscored the city’s internationally recognised excellence in ophthalmology. It not only enhances our clinical capabilities in managing complex cases but also allows this city to showcase its cutting-edge ophthalmic medical technology and research prowess to the world. “
He continued, “On this occasion, I would like to extend my most sincere gratitude to all co-organizers, invited speakers, participants, and sponsoring organizations, especially for the staunch support from the Funding Schemes under the Innovation and Technology Commission, which made APAO 2026 a resounding success. We look forward to Hong Kong securing the hosting rights for APAO again in the future.”
This press release is issued by the APAO 2026 Congress.
Hashtag: #APAO2026
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/international-ophthalmic-extravaganza-apao-2026-asia-pacific-academy-of-ophthalmology-congress-concludes-successfully/
WRISE Group Launches Client Service Centre in Taipei
Source: Media Outreach
New client service centre expands WRISE’s regional footprint by serving as a bridge for cross-border capital flow and integrated family office services in East Asia
HONG KONG SAR AND SINGAPORE AND MAINLAND CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – WRISE Group, one of Asia’s fastest-growing wealth management firms, today announced the strategic expansion of its regional footprint with the opening of a new client service centre* in Taipei, Taiwan. This expansion reinforces the Group’s commitment to providing localised expertise while supporting the complex, long-term wealth needs of clients across the region.
The establishment of a physical presence in Taipei underscores WRISE’s dedication to the Taiwan market and its role within the broader family wealth landscape. With the combined assets of Taiwanese ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) expected to reach US$1.9 trillion by 2029, the new centre is strategically positioned to address the increasing demand for sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional wealth management and intergenerational planning.
In addition to client advisory and consultation services, WRISE will introduce family wealth–related educational and engagement initiatives in Taipei. These programmes will focus on sharing long-term perspectives and encouraging next-generation dialogue, offering a dedicated space for families to explore the foundations of lasting wealth stewardship.
“The establishment of our client service centre in Taipei is a strategic step in WRISE’s broader strategy to build a borderless, 360-degree wealth management ecosystem across Asia. Taiwan’s wealth landscape is evolving rapidly, and we are positioning WRISE to be the nexus for families seeking to navigate this complexity,” said Derrick Tan, Group Executive Chairman, WRISE Group. “By strengthening our presence in East Asia, we ensure our integrated platform provides the seamless connectivity and global reach necessary to preserve and transition wealth across generations.”
The centre will be led by Andrew Wang, Managing Director of WRISE Taipei. With previous experience as chairman of several publicly listed companies, including Jhen Vei Electronic, United Fiber Optic Communication, and Jye Tai Precision Industrial, as well as a board director of multiple listed entities, he brings extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, capital investments, venture capital and public listings. Andrew also brings a strong strategic and governance-oriented perspective to supporting long-term engagement with family-owned businesses.
“As Taiwan transitions into an increasingly sophisticated wealth hub, we are seeing a significant shift towards institutionalised family governance and global asset diversification among UHNW families,” said Andrew Wang, Managing Director, WRISE Taipei. “The establishment of our client advisory centre in Taipei allows WRISE to maintain closer engagement and provide the coordinated, on-the-ground support necessary for families looking to secure their legacies across the region.”
The new centre’s opening was officially marked by a ceremony in Taipei’s Xinyi District, attended by key industry partners, long-standing clients, and WRISE senior leadership.
Headquartered in Singapore, WRISE Group operates across Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Changsha, Tokyo and Taipei, and is built on three core business lines, WRISE Private, WRISE Prestige and WRISE Capital, serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth families through an integrated regional platform.
Hashtag: #WRISE #WealthManagement #FamilyWealth #UHNW #CrossBorderWealth
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/wrise-group-launches-client-service-centre-in-taipei/
Banyan Group Residences Introduces Angsana Golf Residences Topaz at Laguna Phuket
Source: Media Outreach
A new standard of tropical luxury with panoramic golf, mountain and Andaman Sea views.
PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Banyan Group Residences, Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer, proudly unveils Angsana Golf Residences Topaz, an exceptional new branded residential development within the iconic Laguna Phuket integrated resort. Designed to reflect the clarity, elegance and rarity of the topaz gemstone, these branded residences combine contemporary design with Phuket’s cultural heritage to deliver an elevated tropical lifestyle.
Comprising three elegantly curved low-rise buildings, each divided into two interconnected blocks, the architecture harmonises with the surrounding landscape. Tropical muted tones and Sino-Portuguese design accents subtly reference Phuket’s heritage, creating a balance of timeless elegance and modern sophistication.
The development offers spacious two- and three-bedroom residences, including exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools and alfresco dining areas, as well as ground-floor residences with garden access. Inspired by Phuket’s natural contours, the building’s curved façades create a harmonious flow, while expansive terraces connect indoor and outdoor living spaces.
Communal facilities include a signature rooftop ring-shaped pool with panoramic 360-degree views of the golf course, mountains and ocean, alongside a peaceful ground-floor BBQ area set within lush tropical gardens – ideal for relaxation and social gatherings.
Bang Tao Beach: Phuket’s Most Prestigious Address
Located minutes from Bang Tao Beach, at the heart of one of Phuket’s most sought-after coastal destinations, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz offers residents a vibrant community environment, exceptional lifestyle amenities and strong long-term investment appeal.
Spanning over 1,000 acres of parkland, lagoons and 5km of beachfront, Laguna Phuket provides access to the award-winning Laguna Golf Phuket 18-hole course, luxury spas, fine dining establishments, the exclusive new RAVA Beach Club and curated year-round events. A seamless transportation network of shuttle buses and boats ensures convenient connectivity throughout the community.
Exclusive Ownership Benefits
Owners receive complimentary membership to Laguna Golf Phuket and The Sanctuary Club, Banyan Group’s signature programme offering benefits at over 100 luxury properties worldwide, including dining and spa privileges.
Through the Laguna Advantage programme, owners enjoy complimentary first-year property management, free insurance and priority access to leading international schools, as well as healthcare benefits through BDMS Chivawattana membership. Flexible deferred payment plans further enhance this investment opportunity.
Banyan Living: A Rental Management Solution
For owners seeking rental income, Banyan Living provides a comprehensive rental management solution, ensuring professional upkeep alongside strong returns and a worry-free ownership experience.
A Lifestyle of Tropical Elegance
With inspired design, a prime location and resort lifestyle, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz sets a new benchmark for tropical luxury living in Phuket — whether as a primary residence, holiday home or investment property.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/banyan-group-residences-introduces-angsana-golf-residences-topaz-at-laguna-phuket/
Super Rugby Pacific: Highlanders v Crusaders
Source: Radio New Zealand
Caleb Tangitau scores a try during the Super Rugby Pacific – Highlanders v Crusaders at Forsyth Barr Stadium. Marty Melville/Photosport
Jamie Joseph may well have a new job next by weekend, but he can enjoy a brilliant start to his unfancied Highlanders side’s season for now. They scored a thoroughly deserved 25-23 win over the defending champion Crusaders at Forsyth Barr Stadium, first five Cam Millar ice cold when he knocked over a 50m penalty goal in the 78th minute.
It was sweet redemption for Millar, who missed a similar shot the last time these sides met that would’ve sent the game to extra time. He wasn’t alone in his heroics, with the entire Highlanders squad playing their part in an outstanding defensive effort.
The first half featured some big plays from the home side, who effected crucial turnovers through Jack Taylor, Lucas Casey and Timoci Tavatavanawai to snuff out some excellent Crusaders’ chances close to the tryline.
Down the other end, the one real chance the Highlanders had was taken when Caleb Tangitau showed his pace to burn around two defenders, after a messy move in midfield saw space open up out wide.
The Crusaders’ only first half try came off a fair bit of luck, after Millar spilled the ball only for it to fall for Sevu Reece. One good pass and a quick ruck later Noah Hotham saw an empty blindside to scoot away and score in the corner.
A Rivez Reihana penalty goal on the stroke of halftime gave the Crusaders the lead, but that only lasted a few minutes after the break when the Highlanders scored back to back tries. Angus Ta’avao first found himself far too much space after a Jonah Lowe break, then Lowe got in on the act himself when he finished off a sweeping move from inside their own half.
The Crusaders hit back with a try to Will Jordan after Rob Penney elected to make six substitutions at once, but even the injections of key All Blacks couldn’t crack the resolute Highlanders defence again.
The defending champs had to settle for a Taha Kemara penalty to edge out in front, which only set up Millar’s big kick at the end to give the Highlanders a morale-boosting win. They came in with a cloud over Joseph’s future, plus the loss of All Black lock Fabian Holland for the season. It will still be an uphill battle for the traditional strugglers, but they certainly showed what they’re capable of when in the mood.
It won’t get any easier next weekend, when the Highlanders host the Chiefs. Meanwhile, the Crusaders will be licking their wounds before a meeting with the Brumbies in Christchurch.
Read how the game unfolded here:
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/super-rugby-pacific-highlanders-v-crusaders/
South-western Waikato: Flooding, avoid travel
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are advising motorists in the south-western Waikato area, including Otorohanga District, Waipa District and Te Awamutu, to stay off the roads this evening due to heavy rainfall and flooding.
SH39 south of Pirongia is closed, and it’s expected that other roads, including SH3 south of Kihikihi, may close over the coming hours.
Police recommend delaying travel if at all possible.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/south-western-waikato-flooding-avoid-travel/
Significant flooding, SH1, Oruanui, Taupō
Source: New Zealand Police
State Highway 1 is currently experiencing significant flooding in the Orauanui, Taupō area.
Police began receiving reports of flooding around 6.30pm.
Thankfully, no one has been reported to be injured.
Police are advising the public to stay sheltered and delay travel.
ENDS
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/significant-flooding-sh1-oruanui-taupo/
Updated – Maritime NZ statement on Vega seafarers
Source: Maritime New Zealand
Maritime NZ takes the welfare of seafarers extremely seriously. We have spoken with the vessel’s Master, agent and Flag State, who confirm they are comfortable with the crew’s arrangements for this foreign flagged vessel. We understand the crew are adequately provisioned and doing well.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take any action necessary to ensure compliance with all applicable international and domestic maritime regulations.
As with any foreign ship in New Zealand waters, anyone with concerns about crew welfare is encouraged to notify Maritime NZ. Seafarers or others can make notifications via the homepage of our website: www.maritimenz.govt.nz.
Editor’s note:
Master – the ship’s captain, responsible for the vessel and crew
Agent – the person or company in port who arranges things for the ship, such as supplies and paperwork
Flag State – the country the ship is registered to, responsible for ensuring it meets safety and welfare rules
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/updated-maritime-nz-statement-on-vega-seafarers/
Ditch NZ Super entirely, minor party says
Source: Radio New Zealand
Opportunity Party leader Qiulae Wong said her party would replace NZ Super – along with all other forms of government assistance – with a new citizens’ income. RNZ / Supplied
The Opportunity Party says New Zealanders would be better served by dropping NZ Super and replacing it with an entirely new support system.
Questions about the sustainability of NZ Super have been raised again, this time at the Waikato University economics forum, by Milford Asset Management chief executive Blair Turnbull.
It follows earlier [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/business/574085/gst-at-32-percent-pension-age-of-72-among-treasury-solutions-to-financial-crunch
warnings from Treasury] about the increasing cost of an ageing population.
TOP leader Qiulae Wong spoke to Midday Report and said it was a huge structural problem for New Zealand that had been known about for a long time.
She said it was frustrating that successive governments had “continued to kick it down the road”.
Wong said TOP would replace NZ Super – along with all other forms of government assistance – with a new citizens’ income.
This is similar to a universal basic income but is means tested so that people who earn more than $350,000 a year cannot access it.
She said this weekly payment would be a bit lower than NZ Super but in the interim a top-up would be paid for people who qualify for NZ Super.
Then, over time, means testing would be applied so high-income earners were not receiving extra.
Wong said it would be fairer that raising the pension age or taxes to pay.
The policy would be paid for by a land value tax, and savings on the benefits that would be replaced.
Financial coach Liz Koh said there were some other factors being missed in the discussion at the Waikato forum.
“At present, average KiwiSaver balances are relatively low at retirement because people haven’t been saving into it for their entire working life.
“This will change over time. In 20 years time, most people retiring will have been in KiwiSaver for about 40 years and the average balance at retirement will be significantly more than it is now. Between now and then the average balance will gradually increase.”
She said people could be given more encouragement to save more, although that could be difficult for people on low incomes.
“Secondly, most people want to work past the age of 65 through a desire to keep active and have a purposeful life. I believe attitudes towards retirement have changed and most people now understand that, due to increased life expectancy, retirement can last a very long time and there are some real downsides to retiring early – not only financial downsides but psychological ones.
“It may be that the age of eligibility for NZ Superannuation increases over time. If it does, I believe people should have options to still retire at 65 if they choose but perhaps on lower payment than those who choose to retire later.
“This is important, as increasing the age has negative effects for some people, for example, people of ethnicities whose life expectancy is lower on average or people whose job requires physical strength and agility.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/ditch-nz-super-entirely-minor-party-says/
Super Rugby Pacific: Highlanders v Crusaders live updates
Source: Radio New Zealand
Timoci Tavatavanawai. © Photosport Ltd 2025 www.photosport.nz
Super Rugby Pacific opens with a southern clash under the roof, with the banged up Highlanders taking on the defending champion Crusaders. Kick-off is at 7:05pm NZT.
Follow all the action with RNZ’s live blog:
Team lists
Highlanders: 1 Ethan de Groot, 2 Jack Taylor, 3 Angus Ta’avao, 4 Oliver Haig, 5 Mitch Dunshea, 6 Te Kamaka Howden, 7 Sean Withy, 8 Lucas Casey, 9 Folau Fakatava, 10 Cameron Millar, 11 Jona Nareki, 12 Timoci Tavatavanawai, 13 Jonah Lowe, 14 Caleb Tangitau, 15 Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Bench: 16 Henry Bell, 17 Josh Bartlett, 18 Rohan Wingham, 19 Will Stodart, 20 Veveni Lasaqa, 21 Adam Lennox, 22 Reesjan Pasitoa, 23 Tanielu Tele’a
Crusaders: 1 Finlay Brewis, 2 George Bell, 3 Seb Calder, 4 Antonio Shalfoon, 5 Jamie Hannah, 6 Dom Gardiner, 7 Ethan Blackadder, 8 Christian Lio-Willie, 9 Noah Hotham, 10 Rivez Reihana, 11 Leicester Fainga’anuku, 12 David Havili (c), 13 Braydon Ennor, 14 Sevu Reece, 15 Chay Fihaki
Bench: 16 Codie Taylor, 17 George Bower, 18 Fletcher Newell, 19 Tahlor Cahill, 20 Corey Kellow, 21 Kyle Preston, 22 Taha Kemara, 23 Will Jordan
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/super-rugby-pacific-highlanders-v-crusaders-live-updates/
Businesses face hard times in months following Tongariro fire
Source: Radio New Zealand
A fire in November burnt through almost 3000 hectares of the Tongariro National Park Kristina Montgomerie / @kristinamonts
- Waimarino business owners work through tough summer after November fire
- Many hope for decent winter snow dump to boost coffers
- DOC says burned area rejuvenating.
In early November, a wall of smoke loomed large over the tourism-dependent, central North Island town of Waimarino.
After a couple of days wet weather and the round-the-clock efforts of firefighters put out the blaze, which had burned through almost 3000 hectares of the Tongariro National Park.
But Waimarino continues to feels its effects. The fire closed the popular Tongariro Crossing walking track for more than a week – meaning the peak season started slowly.
And there were further blows when a smaller fire ignited in December, while wet weather has hit the region too.
All this has left business owners in the town hoping for a good dumping of winter snow on Mt Ruapehu to get the area and its tills humming again.
Worst summer in a decade: motel owner
Adventure Lodge and Motels was fully booked when RNZ visited this week, but owner Gillian Visser said until now the usual summer peak season had not taken off.
“I’ve been here 10 years and, I have to say, this is probably the worst summer we’ve had, income wise.
“This makes us a little bit worried for winter because normally we can be like little squirrels and squirrel away the money.”
Adventure Lodge and Motels owner Gillian Visser says this summer is the worst in her 10 years in the town. RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
Without that to see them through winter, Visser was among those hoping for lots of snow.
“We made no money in three quarters of November because people stayed away because of the fire. Then, everything was delayed.
“There was a trickle-over effect of people putting off their trip and now we’re really busy. February is fabulous.”
Chrissi Phillips-Ryburn at her food truck Tātahi – The Beach. RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
On State Highway 4, Chrissi Phillips-Ryburn’s food truck Tātahi – The Beach faced the wall of smoke shrouding the central plateau when the 8 November fire spread.
“It was quite catastrophic for the area to watch, as all events like that are,” she said.
“They take a personal toll on people.”
She said people were asking what was going to happen and how would it affect them.
And it has had an effect – this week Phillips-Ryburn had to let go an employee.
“The following weeks beyond that fire were quite catastrophic. Customers didn’t come. There was no tourism.
“It’s been really difficult for all the businesses locally because the numbers just haven’t been there.”
Poor summer weather a battle
Sam Wilson opened The Station cafe at Waimarino’s railway station last year and so far has traded through a tough winter and then the fire.
“The effect was short term and we got back up to pace pretty quickly,” he said.
The Station Cafe owner Sam Wilson says bad weather has affected trade more than the fire. RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
“Where we’ve seen a potential slowdown in trade is where they’ve put restrictions on the start of the crossing, whereby no private vehicles are allowed up there and it’s only accessed via commercial operators.”
The cost of about $70 for that could put off some travellers, he said.
RNZ visited the cafe during a busy weekday early afternoon with the sun shining.
But, for Wilson, the weather’s the biggest battle.
“This summer’s been horrendous, so that’s had a big effect.
“When the crossing is not doable due to wind and low visibility, that’s had a big effect on trade.
“Talking to other operators in the area, they say it’s down considerably and you wouldn’t put that down to the fires. I’d put that down to the atrocious weather.”
Enjoying the sun outside while his friends waited for a train was Adrian Boden, who spends summer in Waimarino – formerly known as National Park.
While he said the town had returned to normal, the nearby landscape was still scarred.
“When you drive along the main road of that area you do see it from a distance and it’s so different,” he said.
“You actually can see, wow, that was some fire. I think it was 3000ha and you can see the destruction that it wreaked.”
From left, English tourists Eva Eustace, Izzie Robertson and Lara Berzins say they didn’t see much fire damage from the Tongariro Crossing, which they walked this week. RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
English tourist Izzie Robertson also saw some fire damage when doing the Tongariro Crossing.
She said she and her friends did not consider cancelling after they had checked the walk was still possible.
“When we were driving up towards the site of the trail there was a lot of burnt vegetation and stuff like that.
“But, after we started doing the trail we didn’t notice much damage.”
Short-term effect
Tongariro Crossing Lodge owner Louis van Wyk said the fire’s effects didn’t last, but the region was owed a decent winter.
“We had quite a few cancellations because people couldn’t do the crossing for at least a week and there was uncertainty about how long that would last.
“We did definitely have an impact for those first few days and couple of weeks. Since then it’s almost like it didn’t happen.”
Van Wyk is a volunteer firefighter. He helped with efforts battling the November blaze and was one of the first on the scene for the smaller December fire.
“Just seeing it go was very sobering and sad. I was thinking, ‘is this going to be the same again?’ – but fortunately that one went on to be a bit smaller.”
Ruapehu mayor Weston Kirton said the region was busy now, as plenty of groups of visiting walkers and cyclists took advantage of the more settled weather.
He expected electronic figures reported by council-controlled organisation Visit Ruapehu would show the effects of the fire.
Department of Conservation technical adviser, flora and ecosystems Paul Cashmore said the fire destroyed vegetation, and killed native birds, lizards and insects.
No critically endangered species were known to live in the burned area.
“Anyone who has visited the area recently can attest to the regrowth of plants and presence of birds in the burned zone,” he said.
“This regeneration began within the first couple of weeks post fire and shows the resilience of this landscape. While the system will naturally recover, pressures like invasive weeds threaten this process.
“Maunga Ora, the recovery plan led by Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro with DOC, will largely be focused on weed control.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/businesses-face-hard-times-in-months-following-tongariro-fire/
More than 30 kittens available for adoption at south Auckland animal shelter
Source: Radio New Zealand
Senior feline attendant Michaela Foggin’s job involves caring, feeding, cleaning, medicating and giving love and attention to the cats during the day. RNZ / Amy Williams
Saturday is Caturday at a south Auckland animal shelter, where a bumper crop of kittens are in desperate need of forever homes.
The SPCA has more than 30 kittens available for adoption at its Māngere Centre, where it says the 40-year-old building is crumbling and part of the cattery floods when it rains.
The organisation has seen a surge in cats needing to be adopted across the country, and it hopes its Caturday events will see people heading home with a new family member in tow.
At the Māngere shelter, Michaela Foggin has a cat-lover’s dream job.
“I am a senior feline attendant so my job during the day is caring for the cats, feeding them, cleaning them, medicating them, making sure they get all the love and attention possible.”
The part of the Māngere animal shelter that does not flood. RNZ / Amy Williams
She will be helping to adopt out the bumper crop of kittens.
“We’ll do walk-ins and they can come through, look at all the kittens we have available for adoption, meet some, cuddle some and they usually pick you so it can be pretty easy when you’re coming in to meet and adopt a kitten.”
More than 30 kittens are available for adoption at the Māngere shelter, where vet Nathan Wong has worked for five years.
“We’re inundated with cats and kittens at this time. The reason for that is with the warmer weather they always want to have babies at this time of year which is really cute,” he said.
“There’s more cats than we’ve got cages to deal with so Caturdays is one of those things where we try to adopt out as many cats as we can because the more cats we adopt out, the more we can take in.”
The SPCA has more than 30 kittens available for adoption at its Māngere Centre. RNZ / Amy Williams
The decades-old shelter is falling apart, riddled with asbestos and rust.
The SPCA said the buildings would need to be vacated this year – a new purpose-built centre is being built in Wiri, due to be finished in November.
Graeme Ford manages the Māngere shelter and said the run-down buildings were risky for both staff and the animals.
He said a worker recently tripped and broke their wrist and thumb – and part of the cattery flooded when it rained.
“We’ve got 18 pens here and nine of them flood, every time we’ve got rain and it’s not heavy rain anymore now it’s just any rain.”
Graeme Ford says the run-down buildings are risky for both staff and the animals. RNZ / Amy Williams
The pens flood deep enough to fill the cats’ water bowls – there are platforms in each pen the cats can safely jump to.
“It’s not ideal for the animals and it’s not ideal for the staff who’ve got to come in the next morning and think this is what they’ve got to take an hour or two out of their day to clean up the mess from the flood.”
A rusty dog kennel at the shelter. RNZ / Amy Williams
Ford said some of the dog kennels were rusting and asbestos had been found in parts of the buildings.
“There’s a lot of asbestos on site. It is stable and it is marked where it is but it’s not ideal especially as the building starts to show some deterioration, we wouldn’t want the deterioration to be shown around the asbestos and put anyone at risk.”
The SPCA’s new shelter in Wiri is due for completion in November and will be a much larger hub, it’s still fundraising for $10 million.
“We need someone with some deep pockets to try and help out and get us there and get these cats and dogs into a better space,” Ford said.
The Māngere centre cared for more than 5500 animals last year and bigger buildings at Wiri will allow an additional 2000 animals to be helped.
Roma Timpson is a vet nurse and seasoned animal foster parent. RNZ / Amy Williams
Meanwhile, Ford said they also needed more foster parents to take animals home for short stays and relieve pressure on their kennels and pens – animal food and any medications are provided.
Roma Timpson is a vet nurse and seasoned foster parent, the day RNZ visited she was taking home two kittens, one had an eye removed, the other a leg amputated.
“It doesn’t have to be forever, it is really hard giving them back but knowing that you’ve done your part to help, you can send them off just knowing they’re ready to go to homes.”
The SPCA said anyone ready to give some T-L-C to some four legged friends can check online when Caturdays are held in their region.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/more-than-30-kittens-available-for-adoption-at-south-auckland-animal-shelter/
Roads blocked, SH 31 and SH 39, Otorohanga District
Source: New Zealand Police
State Highway 31 and State Highway 39, Otorohanga District, are both currently blocked due to significant flooding and slips.
Police were notified of these slips around 5.30pm.
Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
The public is advised to delay travel, where possible, and to avoid the area.
ENDS
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/roads-blocked-sh-31-and-sh-39-otorohanga-district/
American Magic team with Denmark SailGP, as fastest get faster
Source: Radio New Zealand
Denmark in action at Australian SailGP in Sydney 2025. Felix Diemer for SailGP
SailGP’s fastest may just have found even more speed.
Rockwool Denmark have never won the professional sailing league, but have the distinction of clocking the fastest-ever speed in the F50 boat, when they reached 103.93km/h at Sassnitz, Germany, last August.
In the process, they became the first team to top 100km/h.
As the fleet prepares for the New Zealand SailGP at Auckland this weekend, the Danish have confirmed they will join forces with American Magic in a deal reportedly worth US$60 million (NZ$99.3m), as they strive for more consistency in their racing performance.
American Magic founder Doug DeVos is one of the world’s leading investors, with ownership of the Orlando Magic NBA basketball franchise, but the organisation is perhaps best known to Kiwis as a challenger for the America’s Cup at Auckland and Barcelona.
At Auckland 2021, their boat ‘Patriot’ capsized and almost sank during round-robin stages of the Prada Cup. While they returned to competition for the challenger semi-finals, they were quickly dispatched by Italians Luna Rossa.
Four years later, they suffered an identical fate and, last October, announced they would not contest the next America’s Cup off Naples in 2027.
American Magic chief executive Mike Cazar (right) and SailGP boss Russell Coutts announce the new partnership. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
Instead, the organisation has created a new training facility at Pensacola, Florida, where the Danish SailGP outfit will now develop their programme.
“It’s super exciting,” driver Nicolai Sehested. “I think it’s a vote of confidence that such a cool team as American Magic believe in our team and what we’ve built over the last few years.
“It gives us the opportunity to go all the way, which we’ve dreamt of since we started.”
“We’ve been watching SailGP grow in terms of the excitement, the fans, the number of teams and incredible venues, but also the product is incredibly compelling,” said American Magic chief executive Mike Cazer.
“We’ve been rooting for it and, along the way, we said we needed to be part of this incredible league.
“We believe in this team and what Nicolai and his team have developed is a high-performance platform on the water, but also their values off the water. We’re embracing the Danish character of the team, we’re investing in it and we’re developing it.”
NEW SPEED RECORD!! 103.93KM/H@SAILGPDEN officially break both racing and overall F50 speed record!#SailGP pic.twitter.com/Y4wktdvJUX
— SailGP (@SailGP) August 16, 2025
SailGP boss Russell Coutts hinted that American Magic’s interest may accelerate the creation of a second-tier ‘minor league’ to the professional sailing competition.
“American Magic bring a lot of expertise, not just in the sailing field, but in the business field,” he said. “To have them involved in the league and driving the league forward is enormous.
“The training centre at Pensacola is a state-of-the-art facility. They have an objective to train young talent, we obviously have a need to train young talent, so those goals are aligned.
“We are looking at a smaller catamaran, probably 25-30 feet [7.5-9 metres] long.
“We think there’s a model similar to other minor leagues in professional sports. We can develop a product that allowed the top young athletes in the world to develop their skills and be drafted into the top teams.”
That’s a hugely exciting pathway going forward, he said.
Denmark joined SailGP in 2021 and won their first event at Abu Dhabi last November.
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Super Rugby Pacific: Cody Vai set to fly for the Blues
Source: Radio New Zealand
Cody Vai was signed straight out of school to travel the World Sevens circuit as an 18-year-old. PhotoSport NZ
Blues v Chiefs
Kick-off: 7:05pm Saturday 14 February
Eden Park, Auckland
Live blog updates on RNZ
Cody Vai doesn’t take the slow road.
The Auckland flyer was signed straight out of school to travel the World Sevens circuit as an 18-year-old.
His rapid ascent continued at his first event in Hong Kong, opening the scoring for New Zealand in the final after just 25 seconds.
The teenager was suddenly surrounded by his idols, including one who had been on the circuit since Vai was a toddler.
“I can’t really put it into words just how amazing it was. I watched those guys as a kid and to get to play with the likes of Joe Webber, Regan Ware, Scott Curry, Tim Mikkelson, it was pretty unreal. Tim started he debuted in 2007 or something like that, and I was only three years old, which is pretty funny.”
After three years ripping it up on the sevens scene, Codemeru ‘Cody’ Vai is back in Tamaki Makaurau, and has been quickly thrust into the 23 for the Blues as they open their season against the Chiefs at Eden Park tomorrow night.
“The end goal is to be in that All Blacks jersey.”
Vai never had to look outside his family for inspiration, with his brother Kitona also an All Black Sevens member, sister Corina Nanai-Vai a former Auckland Storm player, and father Kitiona Nanai Vai, a Samoan international who played at the 1991 World Cup.
However, the biggest influence came via former Blues star Melani Nanai, who played 64 times for the franchise between 2015-19.
“My older brother came through here as well. So it’s always been a dream of mine to be here and I watched some of these guys as well. And then getting the chance to put the jersey with them is obviously going to be special as well.”
Vai recalls playing in the backyard as a teenager with Nanai and his Blues teammates such as AJ Lam, whom Vai will line up alongside this weekend.
“I always grew up watching them and they used to come over to the house and play a bit of games as well. So yeah, it was pretty cool that now that I’m getting to play with them, it’s a crazy full circle moment.”
Vai said Nanai instilled a strong work ethic in him.
“He always told me to train hard, learn as much as you can. I take a lot of things as a joke and I like to have fun, but he told me you can have fun as long as you’re still 100 percent in the mind.”
Vai celebrates his try against South Africa and New Zealand in the Hong Kong Sevens in 2025. PhotoSport NZ
Vai admits the shoulders are still getting used to the transition.
Getting back into 15s, in preseason, that’s where you find your true self with the hard fitness and all the contact with the boys as well. The difference is the contact with tackling the big boys, but that’s another part of rugby and my favourite part of rugby is the contact part as well. So I enjoy getting some shoulders into the props, even if they can’t feel it.”
Named to wear the 23 jersey on Saturday night, Vai said his ultimate ambition is number 13.
“My end goal is probably around centre this year, but right now, I’m still learning the game.”
The Blues will be plugging a hole at centre in 2026 in the wake of Reiko Ioane’s sabbatical in ireland.
“Reiko was probably some of the players that I loved watching most, Beauden Barrett as well, so it’s actually an unreal experience coming in and just they’re really down to earth people and just so easy to talk to as well.”
Upon Ioane’s return however, Vai is excited to tussle for the start with his idol.
“This part of rugby is just that competitive side. And I love it. Obviously that’s their goal but I want to be there as well. “
Vai puts in a bit fend against Spain in the HSBC Hong Kong Sevens at Kai Tak Stadium on March 28, 2025. PhotoSport NZ
Teams
Blues: 1 Joshua Fusitu’a, 2 Bradley Slater, 3 Ofa Tu’ungafasi, 4 Sam Darry, 5 Josh Beehre, 6 Torian Barnes, 7 Dalton Papali’I (c), 8 Hoskins Sotutu, 9 Finlay Christie, 10 Stephen Perofeta, 11 Caleb Clarke, 12 Pita Ahki, 13 AJ Lam, 14 Cole Forbes, 15 Zarn Sullivan
Bench: 16 James Mullan, 17 Mason Tupaea, 18 Marcel Renata, 19 Laghlan McWhannell, 20 Anton Segner, 21 Sam Nock, 22 Xavi Taele, 23 Codemeru Vai
Chiefs: 1 Jared Proffit, 2 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3 George Dyer, 4 Josh Lord, 5 Tupou Vaa’i, 6 Kaylum Bosher, 7 Jahrome Brown, 8 Luke Jacobson, 9 Xavier Roe, 10 Josh Jacomb, 11 Liam Coombes-Fabling, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 13 Daniel Rona, 14 Kyren Taumoefolau, 15 Etene Nanai-Seturo
Bench: 16 Tyrone Thompson, 17 Benet Kumeroa, 18 Reuben O’Neill, 19 Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 20 Samipeni Finau, 21 Cortez Ratima, 22 Tepaea Cook-Savage, 23 Kyle Brown
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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/super-rugby-pacific-cody-vai-set-to-fly-for-the-blues/
Wanted to arrest: Regan Brown
Source: New Zealand Police
Police is seeking information on the whereabouts of Regan Alan Brown.
The 29-year-old man has a warrant for his arrest for assault with intent to injure.
We believe Brown is actively avoiding Police and is known to frequent many areas across the Auckland region.
If you see Brown, please contact Police.
Anyone with further information on his whereabouts should contact 105 using the reference number 260203/1600.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/wanted-to-arrest-regan-brown/