Category: Asia Pacific

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Beneficiaries responding to traffic light system, government says

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Quin Tauetau

The government says a new survey shows its traffic light system for those on a job seeker benefit is working as planned.

In August 2024, the coalition set up a traffic light system – alongside sanctions – for beneficiaries who don’t meet their obligations.

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston said an evaluation had now found MSD clients were more on top of their job search responsibilities.

“Ninety percent of clients surveyed as part of the Ministry of Social Development’s latest evaluation said they found the traffic light system has been helpful for understanding their obligations, which include a range of activities towards finding employment.

“We’re also seeing nearly 99 percent of clients are fulfilling their obligations, along with a 10.6 percent drop in the number of sanctions issued between the September 2024 and September 2025 quarters.”

Upston said the traffic light system had been designed to reset expectations for those on welfare and it was clear the reset was working.

“The traffic light system ensures the welfare system is more integrated and helps jobseekers understand and navigate their obligations, helping them to be prepared, proactive and seize opportunities when they come along.

“Welfare is conditional on recipients meeting their responsibilities.”

Upston said the coalition remained committed to reaching its target of 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support by 2030.

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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/2026/03/03/beneficiaries-responding-to-traffic-light-system-government-says/

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Conflict in Iran shows ‘risk’ of government’s plan to import LNG as back-up to Taranaki facility

Source: Radio New Zealand

A navy vessel is seen sailing in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which much of the world’s oil and gas passes on March 1, 2026. SAHAR AL ATTAR / AFP

A spike in the price of LNG because of conflict in Iran shows how risky the government’s plan to import the fuel as a back-up is, experts say.

The government said last month it would proceed with plans to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) import facility in Taranaki, with the cost spread across all electricity users through a levy.

Energy Minister Simon Watts said that it would result in overall savings to households, because it would help to lower electricity premiums during dry years.

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz – a crucial shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf with open ocean – has ground to a halt since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran.

Alan Brent, chair of sustainable energy systems at Victoria University, said the strait was a “key choke-point” for the global energy market and its closure had prompted price spikes for many different fuels.

“LNG has been slower to respond than crude oil but it is up more than one percent already, just in the last few hours,” he said.

“The commentary that’s coming through is that they’re expecting this to be quite significant, especially for LNG.”

More than 100 billion cubic litres of LNG moved through the strait every year – roughly 20 percent of the global LNG trade, Brent said.

Energy Minister Simon Watts. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Goldman Sachs forecast price rises of 130 percent – more than double – if the disruption continued throughout March.

Both a Cabinet paper and a report commissioned by the four electricity gentailers warned that exposure to price shocks was a risk of proceeding with LNG imports.

“LNG-dependent markets saw extreme spikes in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine … illustrating the volatility imported into domestic bills,” the gentailer report said.

The government’s plan has been widely criticised, with even a report it commissioned last year finding that LNG should only be used as a last resort.

Energy advocates have pushed for the government to pursue alternatives, saying even burning a stockpile of coal at Huntly would be preferable.

Independent climate policy analyst Christina Hood said New Zealand already experienced the effect of petrol price shocks during periods of geopolitical turbulence.

“It’s a huge risk for the New Zealand economy to be exposing even more of our energy system to volatile international prices,” she said.

“That really worries me, and that risk analysis does deserve a re-think and we should be pivoting towards more stable, domestic energy sources.”

The government’s own analysis had found that using biomass pellets at Huntly was cheaper and had benefits for the local economy, she said.

That option was ruled out because, according to that analysis, it would take the longest to deliver.

Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said that “very quickly, the risks outlined around LNG access have come true”.

Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“Current events make it harder to immediately buy into why this LNG facility is likely the best option, because it has potentially fallen over at the first hurdle.”

It was true that high prices might not persist, he said.

“But if the whole idea of the LNG facility was to provide that short-term relief, well, if New Zealand hit a dry-year time and something’s happening in the Starit of Hormuz, then you’ve got a very expensive white elephant that might be sitting there.”

There was still time for the government to pivot to a different solution.

“From what I understand we haven’t signed commitments,” Olsen said.

“If there’s some real feeling of need around emergency supply in dry years, I do wonder if water take around the hydro lakes is a much more readily accessible option.”

There were environmental concerns to factor into that alternative, he said.

“But if you want to get stuff done quickly, then using the water in the lakes that’s already there … is going to be a lot easier.”

The government should also be telling those gentailers in which it held a majority stake to not return such a large dividend to the Crown, and instead invest it into renewables and other options to provide security of supply, he said.

Energy Minister Simon Watts’ office has been approached for comment.

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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/2026/03/03/conflict-in-iran-shows-risk-of-governments-plan-to-import-lng-as-back-up-to-taranaki-facility/

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Two before the courts after supermarket catch in Queenstown

Source: New Zealand Police

A pitstop to curb a chocolate craving led to the arrest of two wanted shoplifters in Queenstown.

On Tuesday 24 February an officer stopping in at a supermarket in Frankton noticed two men matching the description of offenders from a previous shoplifting incident.

Upon enquiries, the officer located further evidence indicating the pair were also shoplifting at the time, and they were subsequently arrested.

Otago Lakes Central Area Commander, Inspector Paula Enoka, says this is a great catch and a further step towards Police’s crackdown on retail crime.

“I would like to commend the officer – their keen eye and attention to detail is what has led to this arrest.

“This type of offending puts a big strain on our local businesses and will not be tolerated by Police or the community.

“Police are committed to targeting retail crime and holding offenders to account, which these arrests are testament to,” says Inspector Enoka.

The two men, aged 19 and 20, are due to appear in Queenstown District Court on 23 March, charged with shoplifting.

If you witness any retail crime, or any other crime, please call 111 if it is happening now, or for historic offending, please make a report, with as much information as possible, either online or by calling 105.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/two-before-the-courts-after-supermarket-catch-in-queenstown/

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Traffic light system proves results

Source: New Zealand Government

An evaluation has found MSD clients are more on top of their job search responsibilities under the Government’s traffic light system, Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says. 

“90 per cent of clients surveyed as part of the Ministry of Social Development’s latest evaluation said they found the traffic light system has been helpful for understanding their obligations, which include a range of activities towards finding employment,” Louise Upston says. 

“We’re also seeing nearly 99 per cent of clients are fulfilling their obligations, along with a 10.6 per cent drop in the number of sanctions issued between the September 2024 and September 2025 quarters.”

“The traffic light system was designed to reset the expectations for those on welfare and we now know this reset is having a big impact. 

“The traffic light system was introduced in August 2024 and uses traffic light colours to help beneficiaries stay on track with their obligations. The system was a cornerstone of our Government’s welfare system reset, which incentivises employment over welfare dependency.” Louise Upston says.

“The welfare system will continue to support unemployed New Zealanders into work as labour market conditions improve.

“Welfare dependency in New Zealand often begins when young and capable people don’t gain employment. 

“The traffic light system ensures the welfare system is more integrated and helps jobseekers understand and navigate their obligations, helping them to be prepared, proactive and seize opportunities when they come along. Welfare is conditional on recipients meeting their responsibilities.

“Our Government has invested heavily in a range of frontline services to help jobseekers stay on track with their obligations and support clients with complex needs” Louise Upston says. 

“We’ve already introduced a number of initiatives including phone-based employment case management service, more frontline staff for more contact with jobseekers, regular work seminars, increases to the number of community job coaches and the option of non-financial sanctions for some clients.” 

“In late 2025 we also announced a $1000 bonus for young people who move from community job coaching into work and stay off the benefit for more than a year. We’ve also improved the way MSD works with businesses. 

“Times have been tough, but the welfare system needs to be fair, firm and simple. We know jobs are out there and work will always be the best way for New Zealanders to support their families and get ahead in life. 

“We’re committed to fixing the basics and building the future and reaching our target of 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support by 2030.”

The evaluation report is available here: https://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/publications-resources/evaluation/traffic-light-system/tls-evaluation-findings.html

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/traffic-light-system-proves-results/

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MWC 2026 | China Telecom President Liu Guiqing Delivers Keynote Speech

Source: Media Outreach

BARCELONA, SPAIN – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – On March 2 local time, the 2026 Mobile World Congress (MWC 2026) opened in Barcelona, Spain. China Telecom President Liu Guiqing attended the Congress and delivered a keynote speech entitled “The Transformation of a Large Telco to a Key Promoter in AI Era.”

Liu Guiqing stated that China Telecom is fully embracing AI and advancing its corporate strategy toward the “Cloudification, Digital Transformation and AI for Good” upgrade, consistently placing technological innovation at the core of its corporate strategy and driving the company’s transformation from a traditional telecommunications operator into a technology-oriented enterprise. China Telecom’s eSurfing Cloud has already become the world’s largest carrier cloud service provider and China’s largest hybrid cloud service provider, and is now stepping into a new phase of intelligent cloud development.

Liu Guiqing noted that, in advancing the commercial deployment of 5G networks, how to achieve industrial coordination and promote green, sustainable development is a question that operators around the world have been continually exploring. China Telecom and China Unicom have jointly explored 5G co-construction and sharing, overcoming a series of world-class technical and engineering challenges to build the world’s first and largest 5G SA co-built and shared network, providing invaluable experience for large-scale 5G deployment globally. The two parties have now shared over 1.54 million 5G base stations and over 2 million 4G base stations, cumulatively saving USD 56.5 billion in investment, reducing annual operating costs by USD 6.5 billion, and cutting carbon emissions by 13 million tonnes per year.

Liu Guiqing introduced that, in the era of AI, China Telecom is fully leveraging the operator’s integrated advantages in “computing power + algorithms + data” to build its core technology “Xirang” and construct a five-in-one intelligent cloud system encompassing “computing power, platform, data, models, and applications.” At the IaaS layer, it has built a computing power layout covering general computing, intelligent computing, supercomputing, and quantum computing, achieving three-dimensional coverage across all-optical networks, computing-power internet, mobile communications networks, and satellite networks. At the PaaS layer, it provides one-stop computing scheduling and AI development services. At the DaaS layer, it builds high-quality datasets and a trusted data circulation toolchain. At the MaaS layer, it independently develops AI large models, establishing leading advantages in the fields of semantics, speech, vision, and multimodal capabilities. At the SaaS layer, it builds standardized AI products and launches industry-specific large models and intelligent agent services. Simultaneously, it is actively building a mutually beneficial and win-win cooperative ecosystem and a security framework spanning models, data, and applications, releasing the “Jianwei” security large model and open-sourcing China’s first foundational security guardrail for large models.

China Telecom is advancing cloud-network integration to provide customers with integrated computing-network services offering ultra-strong computing power, ultra-low latency, and full-domain scheduling. It is continuously upgrading intelligent computing data center construction, with a total data center rack scale exceeding 590,000 racks. It is continuously upgrading fundamental network capabilities, building a millisecond-access computing network, deploying AIDC-centric inter-node networks and lossless intra-node networks, and completing the world’s largest 100G/400G all-optical network, reducing inter-hub node round-trip latency to 12 ms. It is continuously upgrading the integrated computing-network system — the Xirang integrated intelligent computing service platform — with schedulable computing power reaching 87 EFLOPS. The Triless platform architecture has been launched, achieving triple decoupling of resources, frameworks, and tools to provide users with flexible scheduling of cross-domain and heterogeneous computing power. China Telecom is also deepening “computing-power and electricity coordination.” In Shanghai, it has established the world’s first subsea data center, deployed directly on the seabed and powered directly by an offshore wind farm, with a green electricity utilization ratio exceeding 95% and electricity costs reduced by 50%.

China Telecom is working to become a provider of data and foundational large model services. It has built a Data Intelligence Middle Platform that aggregates proprietary, open-source, and third-party data — including 10 trillion tokens of telecommunications-industry data and over 350 TB of industry data spanning 14 sectors — to empower model training and applications, and to provide customers with dataset and annotation services. It independently develops the Xingchen large model system and the intelligent agent service platform, and actively introduces third-party foundational large models and various industry-specific large models to meet the needs of different industries and customers for large model selection and application scenario innovation, accelerating the drive toward more inclusive model services.

Liu Guiqing emphasized that only by continuously expanding the breadth and depth of applications can AI bring about qualitative change. China Telecom integrates AI into the core processes of its own network operations, customer service, and technology R&D, using AI to transform corporate workflows and comprehensively enhance operational efficiency. For example, in network operations, it has built a cohort of digital employees based on network large models to handle repetitive and foundational operational tasks, reducing the average monthly number of on-site repair visits by field technicians by 35%. Leveraging R&D large models, AI-generated code now accounts for 40% of all code produced, improving R&D efficiency by 20%. AI is comprehensively reshaping core services, with the development of a series of intelligent products including eSurf Smart Ring, eSurf IntelliHub, AI Cloud Computer, and AI Phone. For instance, the “eSurf IntelliHub” has reengineered the traditional “FTTR + IPTV” home service model, becoming the unified gateway for home AI and integrating full-scenario services including security and protection and healthcare. It is also driving AI empowerment of enterprise clients’ core processes, providing AI services to customers in industrial manufacturing, education, healthcare, and other sectors, facilitating the digital-intelligent transformation of the economy and society.

Liu Guiqing stated that operators inherently possess the resource endowments of extensive network connectivity and rich data scenarios. How to transform these core advantages into forward-looking core competitiveness in the era of AI is a question requiring in-depth exploration and collaborative resolution. Drawing on China Telecom’s own practice, Liu Guiqing put forward five proposals:

  1. 6G standard innovation and network deployment must fully account for the rapid development of AI. Global operators should consolidate industrial efforts to build a globally unified 6G standards framework. 6G standard-setting must proactively adapt to the rapid iteration of AI development, achieving deep integration between network connectivity and the intelligent engine.
  2. Cloud-network integration will play an ever greater role in the AI era. Global operators should fully leverage the core driving force of “cloud-network integration,” actively advancing the upgrade of DCs to AIDCs, providing customers with integrated computing-power interconnection and scheduling services, fulfilling the strategic mission of AI infrastructure providers, and building a solid computing-power foundation for AI.
  3. AI security governance will become a mandatory topic for global operators, and is also a watershed defining the strength of operational and service capabilities in the intelligent era. Security has become a vital cornerstone of AI — “no security, no intelligence.” Global operators must collaborate in governance, actively participating in the improvement of AI security governance frameworks, and steering the healthy and orderly development of AI in a beneficial, safe, and equitable direction.
  4. Computing-power and electricity coordination capability will become the key to the sustainable development of intelligent computing infrastructure. Global operators must jointly address the challenges posed by energy supply, coordinate and schedule computing-power resources, deepen computing-power and electricity coordination — strengthening computing power through electricity — and promote the integrated development of AI and green, low-carbon practices.
  5. The flourishing development of AI applications requires operators to open up and cooperate with greater force. Global operators should deepen communication and collaboration, promoting the open sharing of AI models and the inclusive prosperity of AI applications, so that the fruits of AI innovation benefit global industry partners.

Finally, Liu Guiqing stated that China Telecom is willing to use this Congress as a bond to join hands with GSMA and global industry partners, and together build a bright future for operator development in the era of AI.

Hashtag: #ChinaTelecom #LiuGuiqing #MWC2026

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/2026/03/03/mwc-2026-china-telecom-president-liu-guiqing-delivers-keynote-speech/

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Wellington council releases first triennium plan in almost a decade

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington’s mayor says making building cheaper through a one-stop shop for consents and fixing the failed Moa Point plant will be part of a three-year council plan.

On Tuesday morning, the council released a triennium plan for the first time in nearly a decade.

It outlined a range of policy ideas councillors were advocating to get done over the council term such as establishing an office that streamlined the building consent process, improving confidence in the council and fixing its ageing infrastructure.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little said an overwhelming majority of councillors and pou iwi had pledged to support the plan at a meeting next week.

Little said the plan’s purpose was to align council staff with councillors’ priorities.

Moa Point

A major element of the plan was the Moa Point sewage plant which Little admitted to RNZ was added to the plan recently.

“Moa Point has become a prominent issue for us just in a matter of the last few weeks and we have to address it.”

One of the priorities of the council was supporting the region to negotiate a regional deal with the government after it missed a deadline to show interest in doing so, which Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described at the time as “pretty lame-o”.

Little told RNZ it was possible funding for fixing the Moa Point sewage plant could be part of those negotiations.

“It might be something that goes on the table at the beginning.”

He said he could not predict “what the prospects of that would be”.

The mayor said generally it could be possible to get Crown funding for infrastructure through those negotiations.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Consents

As part of the plan the council would develop an urban development office which it described as similar to Auckland’s Eke Panuku which was an organisation that supported development in the city.

Little told RNZ the idea would be that one person would take responsibility for a consent rather than builders being passed between several people.

“It is about trying to co-operate with applicants because, look, we want to get these developments done.”

He said there was a large amount of support for the idea amongst councillors, so he believed once the plan was signed off it would not take “too long” before it worked through council.

The council would also set KPIs for building and resource consent timelines and review fees for consents in order to bring time and cost down.

Transparency

In a pre-election report released last year, it said less than a third of Wellingtonians surveyed had trust in the council.

In the introduction to the triennium plan, Little said “that must change”.

He told RNZ transparency, particularly when a councillor or staff member made a mistake, was important.

“Most of these things are more you know, cock-up than conspiracy.”

Little said he expected there to be fewer publicly excluded meetings around the council table.

“I am paying close attention to suggestions that something might be taken to publicly excluded and I want to be satisfied it genuinely is justified.”

He said there was one situation where a councillor suggested a meeting be publicly excluded, which was rejected.

A spokesperson for the mayor confirmed it was relating to when councillor Diane Calvert was chairing a briefing which was made publicly excluded in December.

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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/2026/03/03/wellington-council-releases-first-triennium-plan-in-almost-a-decade/

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Only lunar eclipse of 2026 taking place tonight

Source: Radio New Zealand

A montage of pictures shows the phases of the Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse as it is seen in Depok City, West Java province, Indonesia, on September 8, 2025. Aditya Irawan / NurPhoto via AFP

A total lunar eclipse is taking place tonight – and New Zealand has the “best seat in the world” to view it.

According to Stardome, the only lunar eclipse of 2026 (also known as a blood moon) will begin about 9.45pm.

“We are one of a few countries that will be able to witness the eclipse for its entire duration,” it said on social media.

“The best time to see the blood moon will be from midnight to 1am, with the peak of the eclipse occurring just after 12.30am (Wednesday).”

Send us your pictures of the blood moon to iwitness@rnz.co.nz

Stardome astronomer Josh Aoraki earlier told RNZ lunar eclipses were not rare per se – the rarity was whether or not it was visible from your location.

“For this one in particular, we really have the best seat in the world, really. It’s really only visible for its entirety over the Pacific. And it’s the only one that we’re going to see this year. I don’t think we have another until 2028, about two years.”

With Nasa’s Artemis missions and sending people back to the moon, Aoraki said there was a lot of buzz and excitement around the moon and space exploration.

“Having this lunar event is just one of those reminders that there’s really cool things happening up there all the time.”

Aoraki said he had his “fingers crossed” that it wouldn’t be cloudy during the event.

Stardome has outlined the timings for the total lunar eclipse tonight – and when is best to view it. Supplied / Stardome

According to MetService meteorologist Dan Corrigan, the South Island and upper North Island will be the best places to see the lunar eclipse “If you’re daring enough to leave the comfort of a warm bed”.

It is likely to be cold – with single digit temperatures possible for much of the country.

“These next couple of days are for everyone who loves the feeling of being wrapped up in a cozy bed. If you had to grab an extra blanket (Sunday night), it’s probably going to be needed for the next three nights as well.”

But what do you need to see the eclipse?

Nothing special, just your eyes, Stardome said.

“Just your eyes and a clear view of the sky. Be sure to check the forecast for your local area if you’re planning to watch this dazzling celestial display.

“There will not be another total lunar eclipse until 2028, and we are among the few locations able to watch the entire event unfold over the Pacific. Only an estimated 2 percent of Earth’s population will be able to view this eclipse from beginning to end.”

According to Nasa, totality of the eclipse will also be visible in eastern Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and North and Central America.

Partial visibility will be visible from central Asia and much of South America – but it will not be visible in Africa or Europe.

Key events – Auckland time

  • 8.11pm Tuesday 3 March – Moonrise (AKL time, varies slightly between regions)
  • 9.44pm Tuesday 3 March – Penumbral eclipse begins: Earth’s outer shadow starts to touch the moon.
  • 10.50pm Tuesday 3 March – Partial eclipse begins: The moon begins to darken as Earth’s main shadow moves across it.
  • 12.04am Wednesday 4 March – Total eclipse begins: The moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow and appears red.
  • 12.33am Wednesday 4 March – Maximum eclipse: The moon is closest to the centre of Earth’s shadow.
  • 1.02am Wednesday 4 March – Total eclipse ends: The moon begins to exit Earth’s shadow.
  • 2.17am Wednesday 4 March – Partial eclipse ends: The dark shadow fully clears the moon.
  • 3.23am Wednesday 4 March – Penumbral eclipse ends: The Earth’s outer shadow leaves the moon completely.

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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/2026/03/03/only-lunar-eclipse-of-2026-taking-place-tonight/

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Previously unknown faultlines discovered in Auckland

Source: Radio New Zealand

123rf

Dozens of previously unknown faultlines have been discovered under Auckland – and new work is set to find out if they are likely to cause quakes.

Scientists will soon start to dig trenches across some of the lines to see if they are active.

So far the discovery has not increased the known risk to the city.

One of the scientists, Auckland University senior lecturer James Muirhead, said any fault that had moved in the past 125,000 years was considered active.

Some of the faults could have been still for six million years – which meant they were technically not active. Others were suspected faults.

Muirhead’s team would begin by looking at some of the most likely – near Pukekohe or Drury in the city’s rural south.

Diggers would carve out four-metre deep trenches across the fault which would then be analysed to see how recently they had moved.

Likely faults, possible faults and possible structures identified in the study superimposed on a shaded relief map of Auckland and plotted alongside Auckland Volcanic Field centres and earthquake epicentres since 1988. Supplied

“So hopefully two years from now we have a really good answer to that question – whether these faultlines in Auckland are active and whether they represent a significant seismic hazard,” he said.

There was a common perception that Auckland was not very seismic but that was probably because it was compared with other places in New Zealand which was a very seismic country, he said.

It had actually experienced some significant events, like the 1891 Port Waikato quake which was strong enough to shatter windows in the city, he said.

The new potential faults were discovered when researchers analysed borehole samples.

“Basically holes that have been drilled around Auckland to look at how the sub surface has moved both up and down below our feet through time,” Muirhead said.

The team divided the lines into likely faults, possible faults and possible structures – lines that showed signs of ground movement but it was unclear why.

Two of the most prominent probable faults ran from the Waitematā to the Manukau harbours, one through Avondale, the other from Glendowie to Blockhouse Bay.

They had already been suspected but the latest research had shored them up and more accurately measured them, Muirhead said.

Some of the possible faults were around Northcote, Birkenhead and Wiri.

There were many more in the “possible structure” category which meant they needed a lot more investigation, such as in Sandringham, Newmarket and Ōtāhuhu.

The research said it was possible intense urbanisation could mask faults.

The report also revealed Auckland experienced more small earthquakes than previously thought, but Muirhead said that was likely because there was better monitoring.

The work has been partly funded by the Natural Hazards Commission which has highlighted them in its latest Resilience Highlights Report which looked into the impact of natural hazards.

The commission said even though major earthquakes remained unlikley, the findings could help decide how land is used as the city grew.

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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/2026/03/03/previously-unknown-faultlines-discovered-in-auckland/

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US-Israeli strikes on Iran could last ‘weeks’, 48 Iranian leaders and 3 US soldiers killed

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above

Israel and the US have begun a fresh waves of strikes on Iran, with Israel saying it is continuing large-scale strikes against targets across Tehran.

The US military says it has sunk nine Iranian warships and is “going after the rest” in attacks which US President Donald Trump says have killed 48 top Iranian leaders – including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump said he envisages the conflict could last four weeks.

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour says the government has not taken a position on whether or not it is in support of the US and Israeli led attacks on Iran.

Australia has ruled out deploying troops if the conflict escalates.

The attacks have sparked warnings about KiwiSaver, fuel and inflation in New Zealand.

Major Middle Eastern airports have been shut and regional gateways including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi were closed.

MFAT is advising New Zealanders in affected areas to shelter in place and leave when it is possible to do so.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks on Saturday, which US President Donald Trump said were aimed at overturning Tehran’s government.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of the page

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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/2026/03/03/us-israeli-strikes-on-iran-could-last-weeks-48-iranian-leaders-and-3-us-soldiers-killed/

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Compax MVNE continues to support Airalo’s eSIM platform

Source: Media Outreach

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Newsaktuall – 2 March 2026 – Compax, a leading solution provider in the MVNO and telco space, will continue to support Airalo, the world’s first and largest eSIM platform.

Airalo and Compax have extended their partnership for another five years, ensuring Airalo continues to run on the powerful Compax backend platform. This technology allows Airalo to quickly launch and manage data plans across more than 200 destinations. By using the Compax real-time charging system, Airalo can accurately track data usage and set custom pricing independently, without having to rely on the technical systems of local phone carriers. This total control ensures that Airalo can offer its 20 million users the most flexible and competitive travel eSIM rates on the market.

Compax is proud to support Airalo as it continues to launch new products and services, ensuring its 20M+ customers can stay connected seamlessly across more than 200 destinations, regardless of their travel plans.

“At Airalo, our goal is to provide our customers with reliable connectivity and a seamless experience. Extending our partnership with Compax MVNE for another five years ensures we have the technical foundation to keep that promise,” explained Peter Nussbaumer, VP of Networks at Airalo. “Compax MVNE’s platform gives us the independence to launch new products and manage complex global data plans in real-time, allowing us to stay agile and focus on what matters most: keeping our 20 million users connected, no matter where their journey takes them.”

“The Airalo team set out to transform the way travelers enjoy connectivity abroad forever and they are not falling short on their goal. It’s an absolute pleasure for us to be a part of their journey and assist them on their mission. Connectivity is at the heart of everything we do in our modern ways of life and the Airalo offering is perfectly tuned to that beat.” said Werner Kohl, CEO of Compax.

Hashtag: #CompaxMVNE

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/2026/03/03/compax-mvne-continues-to-support-airalos-esim-platform/

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Many happy returns as Kai Tak Sports Park celebrates first anniversary

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) celebrated its milestone first anniversary on Sunday (1 March), successfully hosting nearly 50 major events and delivering over 120 international and local sports and entertainment days since its grand opening.

KTSP has established a unique identity as the city’s new “Home Venue” for major sports and entertainment events. Highlights have included the Hong Kong Sevens (rugby), the Hong Kong Football Festival featuring top teams such as Liverpool, AC Milan, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as concerts by British rock band Coldplay, Mandopop rock band Mayday, singer Jay Chou and global pop icons BLACKPINK.

Kai Tak Sports Park has established a unique identity as Hong Kong’s new “Home Venue” for major sports and entertainment events

Sports activities at the Park have welcomed more than 840,000 participants so far. In terms of sports activities, the three major facilities—Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Arena and Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground—together with the bowling centre, outdoor sports facilities and open spaces in the precinct, are expected to surpass 200 event days from the Park’s opening through to the end of March 2026.

In the past year, the utilisation rates of the Kai Tak Stadium and Kai Tak Arena have reached close to 90%. Kai Tak Stadium has already attracted over 1.8 million attendees, rapidly becoming a powerful new driving force in advancing Hong Kong’s sports industry, events economy, and tourism development.

“Our first anniversary is not only a major milestone for Kai Tak Sports Park, but also a moment of pride for Hong Kong. Over the past year, we witnessed athletes’ determination, outstanding performances from artists, and the unforgettable energy of cheering audiences. Each event has touched and inspired us.

“As Hong Kong’s largest integrated sports, leisure and entertainment landmark, we are committed to bringing the community together while strengthening Hong Kong’s connection with the Greater Bay Area and the international stage,” said a spokesperson for KTSP.

The centerpiece 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium was ranked third in the world and top in Asia for total ticket sales in 2025 just nine months after its debut, according to Pollstar’s 2025 year-end stadium charts (published mid-December 2025). Pollstar also ranked Kai Tak Stadium No.5 worldwide and No.1 in Asia for total gross revenue (1.25 million passes worth US$191.34 million). Meanwhile, the 10,000-seat Kai Tak Arena, was ranked Asia’s No. 8 in terms of total gross revenue.

“Seeing the Park evolve over the past year into a major sports destination for Hong Kong has been incredibly inspiring,” said Hong Kong, China karatedo team former representative, Lee Chun Ho. “Every time I walk in, I can feel the energy. The professional facilities not only support large-scale events but also make it easier for the public to access different sports, whether they’re beginners or experienced enthusiasts.”

With an expanding line‑up of exciting events, enhanced visitor experiences and an increasingly compelling programme of global attractions, KTSP will further advance the integration of culture, sports and tourism, ushering in an even brighter and more vibrant chapter for Hong Kong.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/many-happy-returns-as-kai-tak-sports-park-celebrates-first-anniversary/

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Green SM Named “Best EV Carpooling App” In the Asia-Pacific Region

Source: Media Outreach

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – GreenSM has been honored at the Sensor Tower APAC Awards 2025 with the title of “Best EV Carpooling App.” The annual awards program, organized by global digital intelligence firm Sensor Tower, recognizes mobile applications demonstrating outstanding performance across the Asia–Pacific region.

Sensor Tower honored Green SM as the “BEST EV CARPOOLING APP” in the Asia-Pacific region. (Photo source: Sensor Tower)

Award recipients are evaluated entirely based on independent performance data, including key indicators such as downloads, monthly active users (MAU), growth rates, in-app purchase revenue, and user engagement. These metrics reflect sustained operational effectiveness and performance over time. Green SM’s recognition not only marks a breakthrough for the brand but also demonstrates consistent growth and sufficient operational stability to be recognized at a regional level.

According to the published results, Green SM achieved 114.4% year-on-year MAU growth in 2025 and ranked No. 1 in downloads among EV-focused carpooling platforms in the region. This performance reflects steady expansion across the company’s operating markets, including Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Behind these growth figures lies a systematically built operational foundation. Green SM maintains that growth is only sustainable when accompanied by the ability to deliver consistent service quality across all operating markets. Scaling its electric fleet while ensuring a uniform and reliable user experience has remained a central priority throughout the company’s development.

This operational stability benefits both sides of the platform. Passengers experience transparent, dependable services, while the Green Driver community operates within a clearly structured, long-term-oriented work environment. For Green SM, growth and quality control are pursued in parallel as two core pillars of sustainable development.

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh – Global CEO of Green SM stated: “Recognition through an independent data evaluation system affirms that the fully electric mobility model we are pursuing is on the right track. More important than growth speed is the trust we earn from users in every market where we operate. That trust motivates us to continuously refine our fully electric mobility model, ensuring stable operations, structured technology deployment, and sustainable long-term development.”

In the context of an increasingly competitive mobile application landscape, recognition grounded in independent performance data demonstrates that Green SM’s growth is built on a structured, scalable operational platform. The ability of an electric mobility model to achieve strong regional growth while maintaining consistent service quality confirms that this is no longer an experimental alternative, but a practical direction for modern urban transportation.

Previously, Green SM was also honored at the VnExpress Tech Awards 2025 with the titles “Outstanding Ride-Hailing App” and “Vietnamese Tech Brand of the Year,” and received the “CXP Best Customer Experience Award,” which recognized its implementation capabilities and consistent operational standards across the system.

Hashtag: #GreenSM

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/green-sm-named-best-ev-carpooling-app-in-the-asia-pacific-region/

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Employment indicators: January 2026 – Stats NZ information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/employment-indicators-january-2026-stats-nz-information-release/

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Club 666 to Debut as Singapore’s First Micro Club, Featuring Capsule rooms for an Intimate, Curated Nightlife Experience

Source: Media Outreach

A discreet, reservation-led space in TPI Building designed for intimate experiences, elevated service, and a new kind of all-in-one entertainment destination

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – Singapore’s nightlife is about to get a new kind of pulse. One that beats smaller, sharper, and far more intentional. Opening on 6 March 2026, Club 666 will debut at TPI Building, positioning itself as Singapore’s first micro club built around exclusivity, discretion, and thoughtfully curated, intimate experiences.

In recent years, the city’s idea of a great night out has shifted. Less “big room, big chaos,” more considered corners, good company, and spaces that feel designed, not accidental. Club 666 arrives with that same instinct, created for guests with busy schedules, little appetite for wasted time, and a growing preference for nights that feel polished rather than frantic. It is a club concept that leans into the art of going smaller, with the confidence that intimacy can be its own kind of luxury.

Inspired by the secretive allure of world-class private clubs, Club 666 is designed for guests who prefer refinement over noise, and atmosphere over volume. The concept is not about scaling up. It is about stripping back, tightening the room, and making every detail count, from the ambience and acoustics to the art of hosting itself. Anchoring the experience are capsule rooms designed for closeness and comfort, creating intimate pockets where groups can settle in, stay present, and move through the night together.

While the space is intentionally intimate, Club 666 is not designed to stay quiet all night. Each evening will feature two signature hype programmes created to shift the room’s energy at key moments, delivering show-led crowd activation and interactive rituals that are designed to feel unexpected, elevated, and distinctly Club 666, without relying on the usual playbook.

Among the club’s signature offerings is a service style not commonly experienced in Singapore’s nightlife landscape, including personal butler service tailored to guest preferences. With a focus on comfort, privacy, and seamless hosting, Club 666 aims to deliver an experience that feels less like a typical night out and more like being welcomed into a carefully orchestrated space, where the night flows and the service anticipates.

Club 666 is helmed by Glenn, who will be known publicly by his first name only. He is also behind The Gentleman’s Club, located within the same building. With plans for another nightlife concept still under wraps, Glenn’s vision for TPI Building is shaping into a one stop destination made up of distinct spaces that move like chapters, each with its own mood, energy, and purpose.

“People go out because they want variety, but the reality is they end up spending half the night moving from place to place,” said Glenn, owner of Club 666. “I want to build a one-stop entertainment hub where guests can experience different moods and environments without wasting time club-hopping. When we do it right, the night flows better, and guests can focus on enjoying themselves.”

What to expect at Club 666

  • Singapore’s first micro club, built for intimate capacity and elevated ambience
  • Discreet, curated experiences inspired by private club culture
  • Personal butler service and hospitality-led nightlife tailored to guest preferences
  • A new chapter within TPI Building’s evolving entertainment ecosystem
  • Two signature nightly hype programmes, designed as crowd-led moments you will not find elsewhere in Singapore

More than a dance floor and more than a bar, Club 666 positions itself as a social room for people who value belonging as much as atmosphere. By keeping the experience intentionally intimate, the club aims to make it easier to return, reconnect, and share nights that feel considered from the first arrival to the last song.

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Hashtag: #Club666 #Clubbing #Singapore #Lifestyle #Nightlife

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/club-666-to-debut-as-singapores-first-micro-club-featuring-capsule-rooms-for-an-intimate-curated-nightlife-experience/

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Smart Design Global Awards 2026 Call for Final Applications Introducing Dual Incentive Scheme to Empower Local Talents to Go Global

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – The “Hong Kong Smart Design Awards” has officially been renamed “Smart Design Global” (SDG), marking a new start to Hong Kong’s annual flagship design event as it enters its fifteenth year running. The name change signifies the convergence of local design talents, with the competition serving as a gateway to the world. Organised by the Hong Kong Exporters’ Association and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the program has been instrumental in taking Hong Kong’s original design global since its inception in 2012.

This year’s rebranding represents a strategic transformation to further establish a holistic design ecosystem, with the goal to shape creativity as a new economic driver for Hong Kong. SDG will implement an incentive scheme which merges creativity with business to help winners connect with international markets. The program will consist of two key phases: the “Smart Design Global Awards 2026” competition, followed by a series of overseas trade shows.

Upgraded Perks: Shortlisted Participants to Secure Exhibition Spots

This year’s “Smart Design Global” comes with an upgraded suite of rewards for participants, and particularly those who qualify for the Corporate Group in order to reward SMEs and local designers that invest in creativity. All shortlisted participants will be allocated a dedicated display space at the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, where they can showcase their competition entries and other company products. This provides a comprehensive platform for participants to interact with thousands of international buyers, boosting brand exposure and fostering collaboration. The final judging will also take place on the first day of the Gifts & Premium Fair, allowing participants to present their design concepts directly to the jury panel. This face-to-face interaction enables contestants to gather professional feedback and gain deeper insights into their product’s strengths and weaknesses.

Furthermore, award winners will be given the opportunity to take their winning products abroad for touring exhibitions. By taking part in major global trade shows, homegrown designs will shine on an international stage. The SDG Awards also offers a prototype subsidy, which grants crucial early-stage funding to help top winners transform innovative concepts into market-ready products for the world, maximizing value for all participants who enter.

Four Categories: Showcasing Hong Kong’s Unique Charm

“Smart Design Global Awards 2026” is now open for application. This edition focuses not only on the aesthetic appeal of products, but also the market potential, calling for entries from innovative products across four categories:

  • Live: Designs that elevate living spaces and personal style, such as distinctive furniture and home décor.
  • Dine: Kitchen innovations, tableware, and dining decorations that redefine culinary aesthetics and experience.
  • Gift: Exquisite, personalized gifts designed to create lasting memories, including festive products, personal collectibles, and corporate gifts.
  • Play: Nostalgic recreational items or educational games with pedagogical design, such as figures, STEM games, and cross-generational collectibles.
Seize the final chance to showcase unique designs to the world. For detailed information on entry requirements, judging criteria, and registration for “Smart Design Global Awards 2026”, please visit the official website: https://www.sdawards.org.hk.
Smart Design Global 2026 Submission Details
Corporate Group
Application Deadline: 10 March 2026 (Tues)
Application Fee: HK$600 per product category
Exhibition Fee*: HK$3,500 per product category
Conceptual Group
Application Deadline: 10 March 2026 (Tues)
Application Fee: HK$300 per product category (Waived for students)
Exhibition Fee*: Waived

* Shortlisted entries will enjoy an HK$600 registration fee waiver, bringing the actual exhibition fee to HK$2,900.
**For details, please visit the Smart Design Global website: https://www.sdawards.org.hk

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Hashtag: #HongKongSmartDesignAwards #SmartDesignGlobal #SDG

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/smart-design-global-awards-2026-call-for-final-applications-introducing-dual-incentive-scheme-to-empower-local-talents-to-go-global/

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Bridge Data Centres and Concord New Energy to Develop Singapore’s First Barge-Based Hydrogen Power Generation Solution for AI-Ready Digital Infrastructure

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE- Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – Bridge Data Centres (BDC) and Concord New Energy (CNE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation solution tailored for next-generation AI digital infrastructure, marking a significant milestone in advancing low-carbon energy pathways for the data centre sector.

Mr Eric Fan, Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Data Centres (left) and Mr Joe Zhou, Group Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Global Business of Concord New Energy (right) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation solution tailored for next-generation AI digital infrastructure.

The partnership represents a strategic step in BDC’s long-term roadmap to diversify power sourcing pathways, enhance energy security, and future-proof its Singapore data centre portfolio amid evolving grid constraints and decarbonisation dynamics.

The collaboration brings together BDC’s extensive expertise in developing and operating hyperscale data centres across Asia Pacific and CNE’s technical leadership in renewable and hydrogen energy systems. The parties will also collaborate with Nanyang Technological University (NTU), one of the world’s top universities, to support the development of Singapore’s hydrogen ecosystem Together, the parties will accelerate the research, engineering, and deployment of scalable clean energy solutions across the value chain.

Integrated Renewable and Hydrogen Pathways

Under the MOU, the parties will explore advanced power system architectures and generation configurations designed to enhance the resilience and reliability of AI-ready data centre campuses.

A key focus of the collaboration is the development of Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation model — an innovative marine-integrated deployment approach designed to deliver flexible and modular clean power capacity.

Compared to conventional land-based generation assets, a barge-based configuration offers structural advantages particularly suited to Singapore’s operating environment, including optimisation of scarce land resources through offshore or nearshore deployment, enhanced safety risk segregation between hydrogen handling infrastructure and core data centre operations, and greater flexibility in hydrogen transport and storage leveraging Singapore’s maritime ecosystem.

In parallel, the parties will develop scalable hydrogen supply chain frameworks covering storage, transport, and system integration to support high-density, AI-driven digital infrastructure. The alliance will also assess customised long-term power procurement structures, including renewable power purchase agreements (PPAs) and integrated energy storage solutions, to enhance operational flexibility and overall energy system resilience.

Mr Eric Fan, Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Data Centres, said, “The accelerating demand for AI-ready data centres requires new energy architectures that are resilient, scalable, and sustainable. This collaboration with Concord New Energy reflects our commitment to diversifying long-term power pathways. By pioneering Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen generation solution, we are exploring innovative models that integrate clean energy with advanced digital infrastructure.”

Mr Joe Zhou, Group Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Global Business of Concord New Energy, said, “Singapore’s hydrogen ambitions and its position as a global maritime and energy hub create a strong foundation for piloting advanced hydrogen power solutions. Through this partnership, we aim to contribute engineering expertise and scalable system design to support the decarbonisation of AI-intensive data centre environments.”

Advancing Singapore’s Clean Energy and Digital Infrastructure Ambitions

The collaboration is expected to anchor advanced hydrogen system engineering and barge-based deployment capabilities within Singapore’s energy ecosystem. Through its Concord Clean Energy Research Centre, CNE will expand applied clean energy research and collaborate with local institutions, including NTU and public agencies, to drive the development of scalable clean hydrogen energy solutions in Singapore.

The partnership will facilitate structured knowledge transfer and local talent development in hydrogen systems integration, renewable optimisation, and advanced energy engineering. The initiative is expected to support the creation of high-value jobs and specialised technical competencies in these domains.

In addition, the collaboration is anticipated to catalyse investment in hydrogen-related infrastructure, including storage, transport, generation assets, and associated supply chains, strengthening Singapore’s clean energy transition.

As Singapore scales AI-driven workloads and high-performance computing capacity, energy reliability, flexibility, and sustainability are becoming decisive enablers of digital growth. The collaboration between BDC and CNE reflects BDC’s proactive strategy to future-proof its power architecture, diversify long-term sourcing pathways, and strengthen infrastructure resilience.

By anchoring advanced hydrogen engineering and marine-integrated deployment capabilities in Singapore — a global maritime and energy trading hub — the initiative not only strengthens Singapore’s ability to pilot innovative hydrogen solutions within a land-constrained urban environment, but also establishes a scalable offshore-integrated clean power framework that can be extended to Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding AI-driven data centre markets.

Hashtag: #BridgeDataCentres

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/bridge-data-centres-and-concord-new-energy-to-develop-singapores-first-barge-based-hydrogen-power-generation-solution-for-ai-ready-digital-infrastructure/

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Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary: MemeStrategy (HKEX:2440) Launches World’s First Tokenized Collectible Card Fund

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 — MemeStrategy, Inc. (“MemeStrategy” or “the Company”; HKEX: 2440), an Asia-based publicly listed digital asset company, today announced the launch of the world’s first tokenized Pokémon trading card fund (the “Fund”). The Fund is designed to offer professional investors institutional-level access to the collectible trading card market through EVIDENT Platform Services Limited (“EVIDENT”), a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform, marking a significant step in establishing trading cards as a recognized alternative asset class. Scheduled to launch during the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, the Fund represents a unique initiative that bridges culturally iconic collectibles with traditional institutional-level financial services.

A Booming, Multi-Billion Dollar Market

This February, a PSA 10 “Pikachu Illustrator” card, widely regarded as the holy grail of Pokémon cards and previously owned by internationally renowned influencer Logan Paul, achieved a record-breaking auction price of USD 16.492 million (approximately HKD 128 million). This sale surpassed the previous record for the most expensive sports card, the one-of-one dual-signed Logoman card featuring NBA legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. The event brought the global spotlight back onto collectible cards and underscored the growing cultural and collector interest in high-end trading cards.

The global collectibles market is projected to reach USD 628 billion by 2031, with the Asia Pacific region demonstrating particularly rapid growth momentum.[1] Within this market, the collectible card games segment is expected to reach USD 37.42 billion by 2034, rising from a projected USD 14.7 billion in 2025.[2] This expansion is driven by increased participation from digital native consumers and heightened institutional attention towards alternative assets. This surge also reflects a broader cultural shift among younger generations, who are increasingly engaging and investing in alternative cultural assets.

Among trading cards, Pokémon cards hold a distinguished position in the collector community. They are viewed not merely as game cards, but also as culturally significant assets supported by active secondary markets and well-established collectible value. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal and historical data from the authoritative platform CARD LADDER[3], Pokémon card values have exhibited long-term appreciation of more than 30x over the past 20 years, reinforcing their status as a resilient alternative asset class.

Crossing the Chasm, Moving Towards Institutional-Level Collection Investment

Although the trading card market presents substantial growth, direct participation by professional and institutional investors has historically been limited due to several structural challenges, including:

  1. Authentication Risks: Concerns over asset provenance and widespread presence of counterfeits remain major deterrents for institutional-grade capital.
  2. Custody Complexities: The high cost and operational difficulty of museum-grade physical storage, including security, insurance and climate-controlled facilities, make proper custody prohibitively expensive and operationally burdensome.
  3. Market Fragmentation: A highly fragmented secondary market, dispersed inventory, and inconsistent sourcing channels make it difficult to acquire curated collections in bulk from reliable counterparties.

In view of this, MemeStrategy aims to deliver a comprehensive, institutional-ready one-stop solution. By launching the Fund through a publicly listed company platform and partnering with a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform, vault custodians supported by a professional third-party, and independent auditors and certifiers, MemeStrategy seeks to establish a robust, transparent, and institutional-level framework for professional investors to access the emerging cultural-asset market.

“Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat”: A Flagship Cultural Asset with Institutional Provenance

The Fund’s portfolio is anchored around a leading Pokémon card: the PSA 10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” card. Created through an official cross‑disciplinary collaboration between The Pokémon Company and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the card draws inspiration from Van Gogh’s iconic “Self‑Portrait with Grey Felt Hat.” It represents a rare convergence of the world’s highest-grossing entertainment franchise and a globally renowned fine art institution.

Widely recognized as one of the most prominent Pokémon cards worldwide, the PSA 10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” is estimated to have a total market capitalization of over USD 94 million.

In light of its prominence and established market status, the Fund aims to acquire exposure representing approximately 25% of the PSA10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” cards currently available in the market, underscoring its strategic focus on this key asset. This positioning is supported by the following characteristics:

  • Appreciation: Secondary market prices for the card have risen more than 400% since its limited release in late 2023, based on publicly available historical data[4].
  • Scarcity: The Pokémon–museum collaboration was a time-limited initiative that concluded earlier than planned due to overwhelming demand. With a PSA 10 population of approximately 47,000[5] cards now permanently capped, its rarity is firmly established.
  • Authenticity and Grade Assurance: All cards held by the Fund undergo expert verification and are PSA 10 graded, consistent with market-recognized standards for condition and authenticity.


An Institutional-Level Infrastructure for a New Asset Class

Building on its focus on flagship cultural assets, MemeStrategy complements the Fund’s portfolio construction with an institutional-grade operational framework. By partnering with EVIDENT, a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform through which tokenized interests in the Fund will be made available for professional investors, MemeStrategy aims to provide a secure, transparent and robust structure for accessing cultural-asset investment.

  • Institutional-Level Custody: All physical cards are authenticated, insured, and stored in a museum-grade environment with temperature control and 24-hour surveillance, operated by Grade10 Vault, the Company’s professional card-vaulting service.
  • Enhanced Accessibility: Tokenization facilitates primary transactions on a licensed and secure platform, enabling professional investors to access tokenized interests in the Fund with greater efficiency and transparency.
  • Independent Audits: All underlying assets are subject to biannual Proof-of-Reserve audits by Deloitte or another Big4 international audit firm, ensuring full transparency and independent verification of asset holdings.

Ray Chan, Chief Executive Officer of MemeStrategy, said, “This initiative is about harnessing the distinctive market dynamics of cultural assets through institutional-level financial rigor. The collectibles market is expanding rapidly, yet institutional participation has remained limited due to logistical and security barriers. We are solving that problem. For the first time, we are providing a convenient and secure structure that allows professional investors to engage in this growing market without the burdens of physical ownership. This reflects our core mission to bridge culture and capital by creating accessible structures for the professional market.”

Florian M. Spiegl, Founder & CEO of EVIDENT, said, “Collectibles represent one of the most compelling frontiers in alternative assets — a market with proven performance but, until now, without the infrastructure to serve institutional capital. This fund demonstrates exactly what EVIDENT’s platform is built to do: take high-conviction asset verticals and structure them to the highest regulatory and institutional-grade standards. From custody to compliance to secondary liquidity, every layer is designed for professional investors. As we continue to expand our asset base into new verticals, the standard remains the same: institutional rigor, full regulatory compliance, and market infrastructure that investors can trust.”

MemeStrategy will serve as the General Partner (GP) through its wholly owned subsidiary, RWA Labs Limited, and will also make a strategic investment as a Limited Partner (LP), reflecting its strong conviction in the long-term cultural significance and market relevance of cultural collectibles. By combining blockchain-enabled transparency with institutional-level real-world custodianship, MemeStrategy aims to help shape the evolution of how collectibles are valued and traded in the Web3 era, contributing to the development of a structured cultural-finance landscape.

Disclaimer: This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to the public in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“HKSAR”) to invest in the Fund or to acquire or subscribe for any securities or interests in any collective investment scheme. The Fund has not been authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission of HKSAR and is only available to “professional investors” (as defined in section 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 to the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571)). This announcement is not intended for distribution to, or use by, any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation.

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Hashtag: #MemeStrategy #Grade10 #EVIDENT #Culture #Collectibles #Pokémon #TradingCards #TokenizedFund #AlternativeInvestment #AlternativeAssets

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/pokemons-30th-anniversary-memestrategy-hkex2440-launches-worlds-first-tokenized-collectible-card-fund/

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AIA Alta Club Launches Brain Health Programme

Source: Media Outreach

Pioneering World-First AI Retinal Scan for Early Detection and Proactive Prevention of Cognitive Decline

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – AIA Alta Club, an exclusive membership programme for high-net-worth customers by AIA Hong Kong, announced the launch of the Brain Health Programme.* Featuring a world-first AI-driven retinal imaging health management solution, the programme makes AIA Hong Kong the first insurer in the market to offer this innovative, proven screening experience.

AIA Alta Club, an exclusive membership programme for high-net-worth customers by AIA Hong Kong, announced the launch of the Brain Health Programme, featuring a world-first AI-driven retinal imaging health management solution, which makes AIA Hong Kong the first insurer in the market to offer this innovative, proven screening experience.

The Brain Health Programme provides a non-invasive and highly accurate solution for early detection of cognitive conditions, effectively enabling early identification and proactive prevention of cognitive decline. More than a screening service, the programme provides personalised coaching and tailor-made, science-backed wellness plans targeting cognitive health based on each member’s evaluation. Each member receives customised guidance that is not just preventive, but transformative.

Dementia leads to the loss of daily self‑care ability and is among the top three retirement concerns,1 with care reaching around HK$200,000 annually.2 In Hong Kong, one in three people aged over 85 lives with significant impairment.3

By positioning cognitive health as one of the core pillars of healthspan, AIA Alta Club empowers its members to take charge of their wellbeing and enjoy longer, more fulfilling lives. The programme pioneers the world’s first AI-powered retinal imaging technology for brain health, a non-invasive retinal scan with up to 92% accuracy. The technology was developed by i-Cognitio Sciences, a research-based company originating from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), and launched through the collaboration of AIA Hong Kong and Humansa. This makes AIA Hong Kong the first insurer in Hong Kong to offer such an innovative and reliable screening experience.

Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said: “Cognitive decline often begins years before symptoms appear. More than 70% of AIA Alta Club members, who are aged 40 years and above,4 see protecting brain health as a priority. Meanwhile, research shows that up to 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed.5 Once the condition is detected, the programme can provide members with personalised, science-based care and coaching based on the results.”

Ms Liang added: “At AIA Alta Club, we believe longevity is about quality as much as quantity, adding life to years, not just years to life. The Brain Health Programme brings this vision to life by making cognitive health a central pillar of healthspan. By being the first insurer in Hong Kong to offer the world’s first AI-powered retinal scan for cognitive health, we are setting a new industry benchmark by integrating health, wealth and lifestyle into a truly holistic ecosystem. In addition to protecting brain health, we empower our customers to embrace genuine wellbeing and enjoy Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

Brain Health Programme: Combining Technology with Care

The programme combines advanced AI diagnostics with personalised support:

  • i-Cog Retinal Imaging Scan – World’s first AI-powered retinal scan for brain health
  • Montreal Cognitive Assessment 5-minute Protocol (MoCA-5) Test – A five-minute test to quickly assess memory, attention, and thinking skills
  • Comprehensive Brain Health Assessment to identify risk factors that influence brain ageing

The programme also includes wellness coaching and anti-ageing supplements that support antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detox functions. Each service comes with prevention strategies and medical guidance. AIA Alta Club members can redeem complimentary sessions.

Since its establishment in 2023, AIA Alta Club has been renowned for its bespoke privileges and diverse services for members to find their optimal balance of wealth and wellness. It provides science-based, personalised healthcare services and health management solutions. Through Infinite Health Programmes, launched in 2024, AIA Alta Club adopts a proactive and preventive approach, using early detection, precise measurements, and continuous monitoring to optimise physical functions, mental health, and metabolic performance.

Remarks:

  • This “Brain Health Programme” is operated by a third-party service provider – Humansa Company Limited. AIA shall not be responsible for any act, negligence or omission of medical advice, opinion, service or treatment on the part of the service(s) provided by them. AIA reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate the service without further notice. AIA is not the service provider, or the agent of the service provider, of the Services. AIA makes no representation, warranty or undertaking as to the quality and availability of the Services, and shall not be responsible or liable for the Services provided by the service provider. Under no circumstance shall AIA be responsible or liable for the acts, omission or negligence in provision of the Services (including but not limited to diagnosis, treatment and medical and healthcare services) by the service provider.
  1. Source: AIA Hong Kong Internal data (a total of 650 Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland residents were interviewed between 17 and 24 June 2025 to understand their attitudes towards retirement life and their retirement planning.)
  2. Source: Alzheimer’s Disease International (2016). Cost of Community Care for Dementia and Cognitive Impairment in Hong Kong Chinese: Social and Informal Care Time Analysis
  3. Source: The Chinese University of Hong Kong (2017). CUHK Launches World’s First Study Utilizing Retinal Imaging for Alzheimer’s Disease Screening in Chinese Population
  4. Source: AIA Hong Kong internal data (as at Dec 31, 2025).
  5. Source: Livingston, G., Huntley, J., Liu, K.Y. , Costafreda, S.G., Selbæk, G., Alladi, S. (2024). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission. The Lancet, 404(10452), 572-628.

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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/2026/03/02/aia-alta-club-launches-brain-health-programme/

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Health Policy – ‘Hospitals and health workers should never be targets’ – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

The right of health care workers to provide care during international conflicts must be protected, Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO says.
NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku says hospitals and health care workers are increasingly being targeted in war torn nations.
“Hospitals and health workers should never be targets. Health care workers must have the right and freedom to provide care in conflict zones,” she says.
International media have reported an Israeli air strike hit a hospital in Tehran’s north, badly damaging the facilities and forcing patients to be evacuated. The air strikes were part of the ongoing US-Israel military campaign against Iran.
“Sadly, attacks on hospitals and health care workers are not a new development,” Kerri Nuku says.
“The World Health Organization last week said attacks on Ukraine’s health care facilities had increased by 20% last year and hit a staggering total of 2881 since the war with Russia began four years ago.
“In Myanmar, at least 34 people were killed and dozens more injured late last year after air strikes from Myanmar’s military hit a hospital in the country’s west.
“ NZNO is supporting Myanmar health care workers providing care on the Thai border. We have heard firsthand the struggles of providing health care in a conflict,” Kerri Nuku says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/health-policy-hospitals-and-health-workers-should-never-be-targets-nzno/

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Police seek robbery victim following arrests

Source: New Zealand Police

Auckland City Police are seeking the victim of an aggravated robbery in Ellerslie this afternoon to come forward.

Six people have been arrested over the offending which occurred at the Ellerslie Train Station.

Sergeant Tim Roberts, of Mt Wellington Police, says the victim left the area before Police could speak with her.

“Auckland Transport contacted Police at around 2pm, after observing the offending take place,” he says.

“A group have allegedly stood over the victim in a threatening manner, taking her personal belongings before the victim has fled visibly upset.”

Sergeant Roberts says the offenders left the scene onboard a train, with camera operators tracking their movements.

“Thanks to the expert eye of a Police camera operator, they have been tracked on the rail network with Police units being directed to Newmarket Train Station, and all six people were taken into custody,” he says.

An 18-year-old woman has now been charged with aggravated robbery and will appear in the Auckland District Court tomorrow.

Five other offenders, all youth, are being referred to Police Youth Aid over the offending.

The Police focus is now on identifying the victim.

“This woman was wearing a grey hooded top with a NASA space agency logo on the front,” Sergeant Roberts says.

“We want to contact you to make sure you are okay and to ensure there is further support in place for you.

“If this is you, or you know who this woman is, please contact Police.”

You can contact Police on 105 using the reference number 260302/5584.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/police-seek-robbery-victim-following-arrests/