Category: Asia Pacific

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NZ-funded chatbot to support Ukrainian children’s mental health after four years of war – World Vision

Source: World Vision

This week as Ukraine marks the grim anniversary of four years of war and a growing mental health crisis, World Vision New Zealand is funding a digital chatbot to help caregivers support children living through conflict.

Four years of armed combat, bombings, and death have scarred children and nearly 85% of households report psychosocial distress among children, with nearly one-third of under-fives showing visible signs of anxiety and trauma [i]

World Vision New Zealand Acting Head of Fragile and Developing Contexts, Andy Robinson, says the impact of the war on children will last generations.

“Children in Ukraine are growing up feeling unsafe and scared.  Many have been separated from their fathers, and many will have witnessed death and violence at close quarters.

“We’re seeing high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.  Professional mental health services are limited and families are overwhelmed.   World Vision hopes that this digital chatbot will give parents practical ways to support their children’s mental health and wellbeing right now,” he says.

The Parenting in Crisis Chatbot, locally named Batkivska Opora, is a digital tool that provides Ukrainian caregivers with evidence-based guidance on child protection, psychosocial support, and positive parenting amid the ongoing war.

In partnership with Parenting for Lifelong Health, it delivers practical, culturally-adapted guidance via messaging platforms using text, audio, illustrations, and short videos, and provides strategies for stress management, positive parenting, and child protection.

Its flexible, low-bandwidth format ensures access, even in remote or low-connectivity areas.

“This is not a replacement for professional care, but it will help parents who are already struggling with displacement, lost jobs, reduced income, and ongoing security concerns who tell us that they don’t have the resources to support their children effectively,” Robinson says.

A recent World Vision report found that access to protection and mental health services was extremely limited in Ukraine with only 28% of households reporting that they are able to access services from NGOs or UN agencies, leaving 72% without child protection or mental health support at a time of heightened vulnerability.[ii]

The chatbot will initially be trialled with around 500 parents before being scaled-up to reach thousands and complements World Vision’s other work to support children and families in Ukraine. 

World Vision’s Ukraine Response Director, Arman Grigoryan, says children and families are currently suffering not only the perils of war, but of an extremely cold winter.

“Winter intensified the risk facing children.  It compounds learning loss, emotional distress, and protection concerns all at once.  When power cuts disrupt schooling and displacement interrupts in-person education, children suffer and lose stability.  Children and families in Ukraine need extra support in winter – it is a life-saving intervention,” he says.

More than half of families report disruption to their children’s education. A quarter of children are unable to attend school due to unsafe conditions, and a third cannot access online learning because of power outages.[iii]

As Ukraine enters another winter at war, World Vision New Zealand is calling on New Zealanders to help expand support for children and families facing prolonged trauma.

To help support Ukrainian children, visit www.wvnz.org.nz/CHR

Notes:  

World Vision New Zealand is a children’s charity working to overcome poverty and injustice so that children can build a brighter future.  World Vision works to support the most vulnerable children in more than 100 countries around the world.

World Vision has been working in Ukraine since the war began in 2022 and in that time has supported more than 2.3 million people, including more than one million children.  World Vision has provided food, non-food items, cash assistance, protection, education, livelihoods, and mental health support.  We operate in 22 of Ukraine’s 24 regions and continue to deliver both immediate relief and long-term recovery programmes.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/23/nz-funded-chatbot-to-support-ukrainian-childrens-mental-health-after-four-years-of-war-world-vision/

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Mounjaro now available for weight loss – but it comes with hefty price tag

Source: Radio New Zealand

Mounjaro is now available by prescription in some New Zealand pharmacies. Christoph Reichwein / dpa Picture-Alliance via AFP

A newly approved weight loss drug could improve competition but will still be costly for patients, an obesity doctor says.

Mounjaro is a self-administered injection which received regulatory approval for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management in December last year.

It is now available by prescription in some New Zealand pharmacies.

Obesity doctor Dr Chaey Leem told Morning Report the drug targeted two hormones when Wegovy, a weight-loss medication already on the market, only targeted one.

“You can kind of think of the medication unlocking two doors instead of one in your body’s metabolism,” he said.

Leem said that increased the drug efficacy.

“At the maximum doses of Mounjaro, patients on average have lost 22 percent of the initial weight in the trail, compared to 15 percent on the maximum dose of Wegovy.”

The cost of the drug was a barrier for some patients, he said.

Mounjaro is pricier than Wegovy, ranging from $430 to nearly $900 a month.

“Competition will hopefully help improve the situation for many patients, however, in fact there still might be a long way to go,” Leem said.

“The drugs are very expensive, and I do feel for the patients who need it the most but aren’t able to afford a really great option that’s available.”

Leem said there was a lot of stigma against obesity, which he hoped could be reduced through treatment.

“Once we have the tools to fight them and treat patients, hopefully the stigma towards obesity goes down, and in turn we can look into other options like bariatric surgery, which is usually much more cost effective from a public health perspective,” he said.

Leem had patients he believed would benefit from the new medication, if price weren’t a factor.

“There’s risks and benefits to everything, but for the many, many patients, the benefits greatly outweigh the risks that the medications can impose.”

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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/2026/02/23/mounjaro-now-available-for-weight-loss-but-it-comes-with-hefty-price-tag/

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Luxon must act after Peters caught making false claims on employment bill

Source: Green Party

The Green Party is calling on Christopher Luxon to hold Winston Peters accountable for making false claims about union engagement on the Employment Relations Amendment Bill.

“Winston Peters’ behaviour following the passing of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill is a disgrace,” says Green Party Workplace Relations spokesperson Teanau Tuiono.  

“He has falsely claimed that unions didn’t raise their concerns with NZ First early enough. That is simply not true.  

“We fully back unions’ calls for Luxon to step in and act.  

“Not only did Peters sell out workers when he voted for this bill, now he’s accusing their representatives of lying. The receipts lay it out clearly.  

“Every party, including NZ First, knew exactly what the unions’ concerns were as soon as the Bill was introduced.  

“Peters was caught out making up nonsense about the Green Party last year which he had to correct in Parliament, so it’s obvious he has prior form.  

“Luxon is setting a dangerous standard for his Cabinet by letting Ministers get away with blatantly lying.”  

“Peters sits around the Cabinet table which agreed to strip workers’ rights, gut pay equity for low-paid women, and allow below inflation minimum wage increases, yet claims to be on the side of the regular working New Zealander.  

“Unlike this government, the Greens back workers. And we are proud to let everyone know our position and stick to it,” says Teanau. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/23/luxon-must-act-after-peters-caught-making-false-claims-on-employment-bill/

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Wanted to arrest: John Joseph Paparoa

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are seeking the public’s assistance to locate John Joseph Paparoa, who is wanted in relation to dishonesty, assault and firearm-related offending.

The 52-year-old is believed to be actively avoiding arrest, but Police are also concerned for his welfare.

Anyone who sees Paparoa, or knows where he may be hiding, is asked to contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 250131/8937.

Information can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers, by calling 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/22/wanted-to-arrest-john-joseph-paparoa/

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Move-on orders build on progress in Auckland CBD

Source: New Zealand Government

New move-on powers for Police, announced today, are a key part of the Government’s action plan to create a thriving Auckland city centre, Auckland Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Move-on orders give Police an important tool to address antisocial behaviour that makes people feel unsafe. When people are intimidating others, blocking doorways, or engaging in threatening behaviour, Police need the ability to act.

“These powers build on the work already underway through our city centre action plan announced last year and will help restore confidence that Auckland’s CBD is a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place for families, workers and visitors.

“Auckland’s city centre is a vital part of New Zealand’s economy, contributing around 8 percent of our GDP and serving as the gateway to our tourism sector. Ensuring the CBD is safe and welcoming for those who live, work, and visit is essential.”

The city centre action plan is already seeing good progress in making the city centre safer and more welcoming. 

  • 146 people have been placed into housing through our Housing First initiative by the end of January – up from 33 when the plan was announced in November last year.
  • Crime victimisations have fallen from 1,010 in January 2024 to 638 in December 2025, with a new Police Station opened in the CBD last year and Police increasingly on the beat.

“Our approach balances support with accountability. We’re helping those who need housing and mental health services, while taking firm action against behaviour that intimidates others.

“Auckland Council has also made good progress improving city centre safety, including redesigning Pocket Park to reduce anti-social behaviour, and ensuring street lighting and cameras cross the CBD are operational to support Police.

“Our city centre has never been more important. The International Convention Centre has recently opened, the City Rail Link opens this year, and cruise ships are bringing thousands of visitors into Auckland. 

“I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the progress we’ve seen so far – from frontline Police and outreach workers to council staff and community groups. While we’re heading in the right direction, there’s still more work to do to ensure Auckland’s city centre is a place where everyone feels safe and welcome.

“Our Government is backing Auckland to succeed.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/22/move-on-orders-build-on-progress-in-auckland-cbd/

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Consumer NZ – Support for surcharge ban getting stronger

Source: Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ urges the government to push ahead with a surcharge ban, with research finding almost three in five New Zealanders support a ban on card payment surcharges, and only 15% oppose the proposal.

It’s estimated that excessive card payment surcharges cost New Zealand shoppers approximately $65 million a year. Yet since December 2025, businesses’ costs associated with accepting card payments have reduced, saving businesses an estimated $90 million a year.

“Two-thirds of New Zealanders think that businesses should cover the cost of card payments themselves,” says Jessica Walker, Consumer NZ campaign manager.

Since 2023, Consumer has received over 300 complaints about excessive surcharges. The highest reported surcharge was 25%.

Walker says New Zealanders are frequently being stung by excessive, hidden and unavoidable surcharges.

“Too many businesses are flouting the guidelines which say surcharges should be transparent, avoidable and not excessive.    

“Over a quarter of New Zealanders told us they think they are rarely or never informed of surcharges ahead of payment, and more than four in ten said they’ve paid a surcharge because they couldn’t use a no-fee option.”

According to Consumer, the best way to fix the surcharge mess is an all-out ban.

“A ban would be simple for businesses and would stop consumers from being hit with hidden or excessive surcharges. If a business chooses to pass on additional costs due to the ban, we expect those costs to be minimal.

“Internationally we are seeing a more progressive stance when it comes to surcharging, with Australian regulators signalling they will ban surcharges on debit and credit card payments from mid-2026. In the UK and EU, surcharging is already largely banned. We don’t think it’s fair New Zealand consumers are expected to continue shouldering these costs.”

Consumer says there’s widespread surcharge frustration amongst shoppers and it’s time for the government to fix the surcharge mess.  

Notes

Survey data is from the Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker; a nationally representative survey of 1,000 New Zealanders aged 18+ conducted 21-29 January 2026 (margin of error ± 3.1% at the 95% confidence level). Respondents were excluded if they had completed the Sentiment Tracker at any point in the previous 12 months.

About Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/22/consumer-nz-support-for-surcharge-ban-getting-stronger/

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Property Market – $40m wiped from property market in Q4, but figures show improvement on last year – RealEstate

Source: RealEstate.co.nz

  • 1,374 listings recorded a price drop in Q4 2025, the lowest number in two years
  • Only 3% of all listings were reduced, the lowest portion in two years 
  • $41,309,345 million was the total value of price reductions, the lowest total price drop in a quarter
  • Stable OCR could be first sign of a property market recovery in 2026.

Latest data from realestate.co.nz shows that more than $40 million was trimmed from property asking prices across New Zealand in the last quarter of 2025.

In a shift that may signal improving market conditions, the total amount that dropped out of the market was $14 million less than the $55 million slashed in Q4 of 2024 *

In Q4 2025, fewer properties reduced the price of their listing. And of the listings that did drop their price, they did so by slightly less than any other quarter.

*This data reflects the difference between a property’s original asking price when listed on realestate.co.nz and its price at the point of sale or withdrawal. While it doesn’t show the final sale price, it provides a strong signal of how much sellers are adjusting to meet buyer demand.

Is the property market in recovery?

Vanessa Williams, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says the latest figures could be an early indicator that the market is beginning to swing in a different direction.

“While $40 million coming out of the market is still significant, fewer vendors reduced the price of their property last quarter than we’ve seen over the two years prior, an indication that the overall amount trimmed from the market in Q4 is a result not of smaller reductions but by fewer properties needing to reduce their price.”

Williams says: “This indicates that sellers may be starting to price more realistically from the outset, and buyer confidence could be slowly returning. It’s not a full recovery yet, but it could be one of the first signs that conditions are beginning to stabilise.”

How much are sellers cutting property asking prices by?

Nationally, vendors who reduced their asking prices in Q4 2025 took an average of $30,065 off each listing.

Regionally, Marlborough recorded the largest average drop, with sellers trimming $50,500 from their original asking prices. Gisborne followed at $49,333, while Northland, Wellington, and Coromandel rounded out the top five with average reductions of $38,479, $37,607, and $35,645, respectively.

Overall, fewer vendors dropped their prices in the final quarter of 2025, with the lowest percentage of price drops occurring in 11 of the 19 regions.

Signs of stabilisation heading into 2026?

The data suggests the intense repricing seen throughout 2025 may be easing.

“The significant amounts we saw slashed from the market in the earlier quarters of 2025 certainly hasn’t continued, which is a sign confidence is slowly returning to the market,” says Williams. “The stability of the OCR in this week’s announcement should also be an encouraging sign that the market may not be too far away from hitting its stride in 2026.”

realestate.co.nz is helping buyers and sellers move. Properties listed on realestate.co.nz that drop their price can receive free billboard advertising, while buyers who have saved them are alerted instantly.

About realestate.co.nz | New Zealand’s Best Small Workplace (2025)

Realestate.co.nz – your home for property search.

We’ve been helping people buy, sell, or rent property since 1996. Established before Google, realestate.co.nz is New Zealand’s longest-standing property website and the official website of the real estate industry. We are certified carbon neutral (2024 & 2025) and in 2025, realestate.co.nz was crowned Best Small/Micro Workplace in New Zealand by Great Place to Work.

Dedicated only to property, our mission is to empower people with a property search tool they can use to find the life they want to live. With residential, lifestyle, rural and commercial property listings, realestate.co.nz is the place to start for those looking to buy or sell property.  

Whatever life you’re searching for, it all starts here.  

Want more property insights?

Market insights: Search by suburb to see median sale prices, popular property types and trends over time: https://www.realestate.co.nz/insights

 Glossary of terms:  

Average asking price (AAP) is neither a valuation nor the sale price. It is an indication of current market sentiment. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with the sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold. As it looks at different data, average asking prices may differ from recorded sales data released simultaneously.  

Price drop reflects the difference between a property’s original asking price when listed on realestate.co.nz and its price at the point of sale or withdrawal. While it doesn’t show the final sale price, it provides a strong signal of how much sellers are adjusting to meet buyer demand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/22/property-market-40m-wiped-from-property-market-in-q4-but-figures-show-improvement-on-last-year-realestate/

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‘War orphans’ express gratitude to Chinese foster parents

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 February 2026 – Organized by the Japanese Repatriates and Japan-China Friendship Association, a delegation of 90 Japanese “war orphans,” along with their descendants and family members, visited Harbin in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province on September 11, 2025, for a cultural performance. The event served as an opportunity for participants to convey heartfelt gratitude to their Chinese foster parents who raised them, while also promoting messages of peace and historical reflection through their artistic expressions.

The association is dedicated to fostering mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and China. Its mission includes supporting the social welfare of Japanese “war orphans” left behind in China—individuals who endured significant hardship during the post-war turmoil and are still facing various challenges today. The organization also seeks to preserve and transmit the memories of these experiences to younger generations and to deepen bilateral exchanges.

Following Japan’s surrender in 1945, more than 4,000 Japanese children were left behind in China and raised by Chinese families. Now advanced in age, the group has decided to undertake what they call their final “gratitude tour,” which coincides with the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Since 2009, these orphans have been traveling to China every few years to acknowledge the kindness of their Chinese foster parents and other benefactors who supported them.

Sumie Ikeda, 81, head of the association of friendship of repatriates from China, is herself one of the Japanese orphans left behind in China. In an exclusive interview with CNS, she spoke in the fluent northeastern Chinese dialect of her childhood, reminiscing about her upbringing in Heilongjiang. “How could I be Japanese?” she reflected, her early identity obscured by the war’s aftermath. Separated from her biological family as an infant, she was raised in Mudanjiang, Heilongjiang Province. “My foster mother was truly an exceptional Chinese woman,” Ikeda said, noting that memories of her foster mother’s strength continue to sustain her.

A pivotal moment occurred when she was eight and local Chinese authorities identified her Japanese heritage. The words of her foster mother, who insisted “This child is mine,” left an indelible mark on Ikeda. As an adult, her search for biological roots in 1980s Japan ended in hardship and betrayal, leaving her destitute and suicidal until rescued by the Chinese consulate.

“My first life was given by my birth parents; my second by my adoptive parents,” she recounted. “In the most difficult times, it was always the Chinese people who reached out to us.”

Ikeda’s story reflects a broader historical experience. Official Japanese records recognize 2,818 such “war orphans.” Their lives, Ikeda stresses, are a living indictment of the catastrophes caused by war.

Yet, despite their hardships, their enduring sentiment is one of profound gratitude towards China. “Though Japanese by birth, we would not have survived without Chinese people,” Ikeda said.

Their collective narrative delivers a dual message of profound gratitude and solemn warning. It pays tribute to the extraordinary compassion of ordinary Chinese people—a love that chose nurture over vengeance. “We must never let war happen again. Situations like ours must never be repeated,” Ikeda urged.

“We are a group with the dual identity of both perpetrators and victims,” she reflected, a statement that embodies the complex legacy of history, humanity, and a plea for lasting peace.

Hashtag: #ChinaNewsService

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/2026/02/22/war-orphans-express-gratitude-to-chinese-foster-parents/

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Statement from Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay in respect of US Supreme Court Ruling on ‘Liberation Day Tariffs’

Source: New Zealand Government

The US Supreme Court announcement overnight has the potential to be important for NZ exporters, however considerable uncertainty is likely to remain. 

Our exports have been holding up well in the US market since the Administration imposed a 15 per cent tariff on New Zealand, with evidence that in many cases cost increases are being passed on.

Any reduction in tariffs is welcome news. New Zealand does not believe the 15 per cent tariff imposed on many of our exporters is warranted given the average tariff rate applied to US goods into New Zealand is just 0.3 per cent.

Our Embassy in Washington will engage with their counterparts to get more information so we can continue to work with exporters, however uncertainty around US tariff policy is likely to remain for an extended period of time.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/21/statement-from-trade-and-investment-minister-todd-mcclay-in-respect-of-us-supreme-court-ruling-on-liberation-day-tariffs/

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Electrical and mechanical machinery lead imports for year ended January 2026 – Overseas merchandise trade: January 2026 – Stats NZ news story and information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/21/electrical-and-mechanical-machinery-lead-imports-for-year-ended-january-2026-overseas-merchandise-trade-january-2026-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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Dolphin carrying dead calf seen in marine sanctuary

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  20 February 2026

A marine tour operator first saw the dolphin on Wednesday this week, and it has been observed several times since by DOC and members of the public.

DOC’s Senior Marine Species Team Advisor Dave Lundquist says while it is heart breaking to see, this is natural dolphin behaviour.

“Because the presumed mother will be under significant stress, everyone should do their best to give the dolphins space,” Dave says. “The pod will be providing all of the support needed.”

“This behaviour has happened in waters around the country before, including in the same area in 2019, and Whangarei in 2011. The cause of the calf’s death is unknown, but it may have been stillborn or died shortly after birth.”

DOC asks anyone who may find the calf after it has been abandoned to call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) so DOC can take samples from the remains. The dolphin may continue carrying the calf for days or weeks.

The Te Pēwhairangi Marine Mammal Sanctuary rules require all vessels to stay 300 m or more away from marine mammals, including dolphins once observed, and to remain stopped until they are at least that far away. No one is allowed in the water within 300 m of a marine mammal. There is also a 5-knot speed limit in safe zones located around the Sanctuary.

Outside of the sanctuary, DOC asks everyone to follow the rules for sharing our waters with marine mammals.

Bottlenose dolphins are classified as Nationally Vulnerable. The number of dolphins regularly present in the Te Pēwhairangi/Bay of Islands has declined in the past, with high calf mortality rates and high levels of vessel interactions. The Sanctuary was set up to reduce these vessel-based pressures.

Marine mammals like bottlenose dolphins are protected under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978.

For more information about bottlenose dolphins: Bottlenose dolphin: New Zealand marine mammals

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/dolphin-carrying-dead-calf-seen-in-marine-sanctuary/

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Have you seen Katherine?

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are asking for the public’s help finding Katherine, who has been reported missing from Glenfield.

Katherine, 45, has not contacted her family since yesterday, which is out of character for her.

Katherine is known to frequent the wider Glenfield area, however often visits Churches around Auckland when not on the North Shore.

Police and Katherine’s family have concerns for her welfare and would like to find her as soon as possible.

If you have seen Katherine or have any information that might help us locate her, please call 105, quoting file number 260220/8088.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/have-you-seen-katherine/

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$3.5m boost to restore fire-damaged Tongariro

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing $3.5 million in the restoration of 3000-plus hectares of Tongariro National Park destroyed by two major fires last year, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

“Tongariro is a Dual World Heritage site, a taonga, and a cornerstone of the Ruapehu District economy. The fires have damaged biodiversity, disrupted recreation, and affected the livelihoods of families and businesses across Ruapehu District,” Mr Potaka says.

“That is why we are investing $3.5m from the International Visitor Levy (IVL) over five years to fund weed control, pest management and biodiversity monitoring. 

“The IVL ensures visitor revenue goes back into maintaining and improving the places that support local jobs, businesses and communities.”

Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro is working alongside DOC to deliver Maunga Ora, a restoration plan based on science, tikanga and mātauranga Māori.

“Recovery is already visible, with native plants pushing through the charred ground. But without sustained weed control and pest management, including managing deer, that regeneration will be at risk,” Mr Potaka says.

“I want to acknowledge the commitment of Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro, DOC staff and the wider Ruapehu community who have been working on the ground since the fires. Their partnership is critical to restoring the mauri of this sacred landscape.

“The investment restores ecological resilience while backing the regional economy and people who depend on it.

“Tongariro is our taonga and restoring its mauri is essential. That’s why the Government is working to secure its long-term future.”
 

Note to editors: 

Photos attached can be published. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/3-5m-boost-to-restore-fire-damaged-tongariro/

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Transforming Knee Surgery: Columbia Asia Combines Expertise and Robotics for Better Outcomes

Source: Media Outreach

Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau is dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of the Johor community with compassion, professionalism, and clinical excellence. Equipped with advanced medical technology—including a Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Mammography services, a 128-slice CT Scan, and a 1.5 Tesla MRI—the hospital delivers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment capabilities to support timely and accurate clinical decision-making.

The hospital offers a broad range of medical specialties, including Cardiology, Nephrology, Internal Medicine, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT), General Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology (O&G), Respiratory Medicine, Orthopaedics, and Dermatology. A fully operational 24/7 Emergency Room, supported by on-call Emergency Physicians, ensures that patients receive immediate and appropriate care at any time of the day.

At the core of Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau’s philosophy is a strong commitment to personalized, patient-centred care—ensuring that every individual feels heard, supported, and well cared for throughout their healthcare journey.

Looking ahead over the next five years, Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau will align its strategic direction with Rancangan Malaysia Ke-13 (RMK-13), with a focused emphasis on addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). In particular, the hospital will strengthen its efforts in obesity management through integrated, multidisciplinary care models encompassing prevention, early intervention, medical management, surgical intervention and long-term follow-up. This reflects a proactive approach to tackling one of the most pressing public health challenges affecting the Johor community.

In parallel, the hospital has advanced its surgical capabilities through the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery. This investment is aimed at enhancing surgical precision, improving clinical outcomes, reducing recovery times, and elevating overall patient experience, in line with global best practices.

To meet the growing healthcare demands of Johor, Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau is also planning for future expansion, including the addition of more inpatient beds. This expansion will enable the hospital to better serve the increasing needs of the community while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and accessibility in care delivery.

Through strategic alignment, technological advancement, and capacity expansion, Columbia Asia Hospital Tebrau remains committed to supporting the long-term health and well-being of the Johorean population.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/transforming-knee-surgery-columbia-asia-combines-expertise-and-robotics-for-better-outcomes/

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NZ-AU: EIS Approval for Patterson Lake South Project

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Feb. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN, TSX:PDN, OTCQX:PALAF) (Paladin or the Company) announces it has received Ministerial approval for the Company’s Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) under The Environmental Assessment Act (Saskatchewan) for the development of its Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project, located in the Athabasca Basin, Canada.

The Saskatchewan Minister of Environment has formally approved the Company’s EIS for the shallow, high grade PLS Project. The approval follows technical acceptance of the document in June 2025 and an extensive public review period from July to September this year.

The Environmental Assessment approval is an important regulatory milestone for the PLS Project and a prerequisite for permits and licences issued by provincial and federal authorities leading to construction and operation.

Paladin continues to work closely with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to progress the PLS Project within its licensing process at the federal level. Paladin is advancing the technical detail needed to support the application for a construction licence submitted to the CNSC.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said: “We welcome the continuing focus by Paladin in progressing the development of the PLS Project in a sustainable and safe way to benefit the people and communities of Saskatchewan. Our province continues to be a leader in all aspects of uranium production and the Environmental Approval will assist this project to move forward and further enhance our world-class energy sector.”

“The Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project supports the province’s Growth Plan and Saskatchewan’s role as an energy supplier. I am pleased to see this project moving forward with strong environmental safeguards” Minister of Environment Darlene Rowden said. “The environmental and sustainability aspects of the PLS Project have been subject to our robust Environmental Assessment process including scrutiny of our review panel of subject matter experts and having undergone considerable public and indigenous consultation. I commend Paladin on its approach to the approval process and congratulate their team on achieving this important milestone in their development.” 

Paladin Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Hemburrow said: “Paladin is delighted that the Minister, the Saskatchewan Government and its environmental regulatory agency have formally recognised that our approach to delivering a sustainable and safe development at the PLS Project is both environmentally and socially appropriate and achievable. The PLS Project is an economically and strategically important development within Canada and we will continue to progress the construction licencing process with the CNSC.”

This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Directors of Paladin Energy Ltd.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/nz-au-eis-approval-for-patterson-lake-south-project/

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Queensland fruit fly operation in Mount Roskill ends

Source: Radio New Zealand

Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis. RNZ / Maia Ingoe

Controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Auckland’s Mount Roskill have been lifted after Biosecurity New Zealand announced no further evidence of Queensland fruit fly in the area.

The announcement comes after a six week intensive fruit fly trapping operation, and the inspection of more than 230kg of fruit.

Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis thanked the local community for their support during the operation, and said all restrictions could now be lifted.

“It wouldn’t have been possible to get to this point without the support of the local community. Every person who has kept an eye out for fruit flies, complied with movement controls, and safely disposed of their fruit waste, has played an important role in protecting our horticultural sector.

“We are satisfied that with no further detections, the Controlled Area Notice restrictions can be lifted, and response operations closed.”

The biosecurity wheelie bins in the area will also be removed.

While the operation has ended in Mount Roskill, Biosecurity New Zealand’s routine nationwide surveillance continues, with a system of nearly 8000 fruit fly traps spread across the country. More than 4600 of these are in the Auckland area.

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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/2026/02/20/queensland-fruit-fly-operation-in-mount-roskill-ends/

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Builder who bought former Wellington mayoral desk happy to give it back

Source: Radio New Zealand

The desk was bought at a tip shop. Raymond Morgan

A builder who bought Wellington’s most embarrassing historical desk says he would be happy to gift it back to the city if it goes into a museum.

A furniture historian said it was “outrageous” the desk, that four mayors had used, was got rid of by the city council in the first place.

But the city council disputed it had any historical value.

It does, however, have a lot of stories to tell: The large rimu desk made perhaps 120 years ago had graced the mayoral chambers through four incumbents from the 1980s, then the Happy Valley tip’s secondhand shop in 2025, and now sits beside a boat on Breaker Bay Road exposed to Wellington’s sewage-laced wind.

“I’d happily give [it] back to the council if they were to keep it forever in posterity,” Raymond Morgan told RNZ on Friday, as he popped out to take photos of the desk sitting by a neighbour’s runabout.

He bought it for $200 last year then found over 200 documents in it, dated between 1988 and 2004, in a locked side cupboard – “obvious and poking out”, he said.

They turned out to be what the city council called “sensitive and confidential historic documents”; it quickly sent out a public alert in September, apologising over how it had disposed of furniture from the old Town Hall via the tip shop.

It got the documents back, and this week also got back a damning report from an inquiry into the farce that it had ordered up from consultants Grant Thornton.

Morgan said he is going to use the desktop as part of his whiskey cabinet. Raymond Morgan

But Morgan said he had not been contacted at any stage, even for the inquiry.

“I think if they come to me and make an offer, I mean, I wouldn’t charge the city for it… they never contacted me,” he said.

The desk was of national significance, made about 120 years ago for the council and, unusually, with its full history known, said art historian Dr William Cottrell.

“Clearly it was just somebody just taking truckloads down there [to the tip shop],” said Cottrell.

“This is an outrageous example of where somebody’s just taken it upon themselves in ignorance and lost this furniture, which is furniture that belongs to the citizens of Wellington.”

But the city council rejected that.

“We disagree with the claim it has any great significance – otherwise it would likely already be in a museum,” a spokesperson said on Friday, adding they would see if anyone had any use for the desk.

It would likely be brought up at a committee meeting next week.

The council disputed that it was obvious the documents were in the side cupboard – though Morgan said someone had been in touch who had seen them at the tip shop, sticking out, and tried to pull them out.

The Grant Thornton report said three lots of checks by council staff on the desk had failed to find them. They should have been destroyed, it said.

Earlier this week, before the idea of gifting it back was raised with him, Morgan said he had other plans for it.

“I”m going to use the desktop as part of my whiskey cabinet.”

As it was, the desk was proving a “showpiece” for people walking past. “People that live in Wellington who do the Eastern Walkway stop and admire it and they recognise straight away what it is.”

It seemed to him the desk had been renovated in some way a few decades ago.

But it was still a “damn good idea” to save and display it, Morgan said.

“Because there’s a story to it and it raised a few eyebrows and I think it’s always interesting to have an interesting story around Wellington city… [It was] not necessarily an embarrassment. I think it adds to the flavour of it.”

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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/2026/02/20/builder-who-bought-former-wellington-mayoral-desk-happy-to-give-it-back/

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Woman charged over retirement village burglaries

Source: New Zealand Police

A prolific burglar allegedly targeting a west Auckland retirement village is facing numerous charges in court.

The arrest comes as Police investigate other burglaries at villages across the Auckland region.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting, Waitematā West Area Investigations Manager, says five charges have been laid so far.

“We have been investigating a spree of offending on one day in late January, where five residents were allegedly targeted in their residences,” he says.

“Three residents have been the victims of burglaries with expensive jewellery and cash allegedly stolen.”

Police estimate the offending to be valued at nearly $8,000.

The 60-year-old has been charged with three counts of burglary and two counts of being unlawfully in a building.

She will appear in the Waitākere District Court today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says following Thursday’s arrest, enquiries are ongoing into recent burglaries reported at other Auckland retirement villages.

Further charges cannot be ruled out, he says.

“It’s unfortunate when vulnerable members of the community are targeted in this matter, and we will oppose the woman’s bail at her court appearance.”

  • Remain vigilant:

Recent burglaries are a reminder for residents at retirement villages to be cautious.

“It’s important that residents be mindful of people who might be out of place in these villages, and keep an eye out for your neighbours,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says.

“Never let someone inside your unit unless you know who they are or have confirmed their identity with management.

“I’m encouraging families to check in on their loved ones and reiterate this advice.”

Always keep your valuables hidden and secure wherever possible.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/woman-charged-over-retirement-village-burglaries/

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What you need to know ahead of sixth NZ A-League derby

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington Phoenix captain Alex Rufer and Auckland FC’s Lachlan Brook scored for their sides the last time they met in the A-League in December. Photosport

Wellington Phoenix vs Auckland FC

Kick-off: 5pm Saturday February 21

Sky Stadium, Wellington

Live blog updates on RNZ

A one-sided rivalry is still a rivalry.

That is the opinion of the Auckland FC players and coach ahead of the sixth New Zealand A-League derby between the Wellington Phoenix and Auckland.

Auckland have won all five previous derby matches, including the two games this season.

In December Auckland won 3-1 at home and a month earlier Auckland had won 2-1 in Wellington.

Across all derbies there is an average of 3.8 goals a game and only one clean sheet in the first game played back in November 2024.

Injuries and unavailability have hit both teams and prevented two of the competition’s leading goal-scorers going head-to-head on Saturday.

One of the Phoenix’s key signings Sarpreet Singh will not play in his first derby after his return to the A-League club was cut short after picking up a long-term injury in his first game back in seven years.

Despite Singh’s absence there are still All Whites in both sides hoping to get on the plane to the Football World Cup in June and to use the match-ups against their national team team mates to impress All Whites coach Darren Bazeley.

Form

Auckland are sitting in second on the A-League ladder coming off a 1-all draw to Sydney FC on Tuesday night.

The Black Knights are trying to move on from a start to the calendar year which included three losses, two draws and a win in January.

The Phoenix are 10th following a 2-all draw with Central Coast Mariners in the last round.

Last month Wellington had two wins, two draws and a loss.

By the numbers

Across the season the Phoenix have lost more times than they have won at home this season – three wins, four losses.

Whereas Auckland have won more times on the road than they have lost – four wins, two losses.

In derby games, the Phoenix have scored four goals compared to Auckland’s 15.

This season Phoenix have had 11 different goal-scorers, while Auckland have had six different players find the back of the net.

The Phoenix are ranked the most accurate team in the league when it comes to shooting, with 91 of 160 shots on target. Auckland sit in fourth in this statistic with 97 of 210 shots on target.

Auckland can be vulnerable at set pieces with five goals conceded including three from corners. Wellington have conceded three goals from set pieces.

Squads

Sam Cosgrove will miss the derby. photosport

Auckland FC will be without striker Sam Cosgrove who picked up his fifth yellow card of the season, which requires him to miss a match.

Marlee Francois has bone bruising following Tuesday’s game and is in doubt to play.

Auckland FC squad: Michael Woud, Hiroki Sakai, Jake Girdwood-Reich, Nando Pijnaker, Louis Verstraete, Cam Howieson, Felipe Gallegos, Sam Cosgrove, Guillermo May, Marlee Francois, Jimmy Hilton, Francis De Vries, Callan Elliot, Jesse Randall, Jake Brimmer, Dan Hall, Logan Rogerson, Jonty Bidois, Lachlan Brook, Bailey Ferguson

Sarpreet Singh will miss the derby after getting injured in his first appearance for the Phoenix in seven years. www.photosport.nz

All Whites attacking midfielder Singh will be sidelined for up eight weeks after getting a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury in his left knee in the last round. Fullback Tim Payne has also been ruled out of the derby with a hamstring injury.

Wellington Phoenix squad: Joshua Oluwayemi, Alby Kelly-Heald, Eamonn McCarron, Lukas Kelly-Heald, Isaac Hughes, Matthew Sheridan, Bill Tuiloma, Manjrekar James, Jayden Smith, Dan Edwards, Tim Payne, Tze-Xuan Loke, Alex Rufer, Paulo Retre, Anaru Cassidy, Fin Roa Conchie, Kazuki Nagasawa, Carlo Armiento, Sarpreet Singh, Sander Kartum, Luke Brooke-Smith, Ramy Najjarine, Nathan Walker, Nikola Mileusnic, Gabriel Sloane-Rodrigues, Ifeanyi Eze, Corban Piper, Luke Supyk

What they said

Nando Pijnaker. Photosport

All Whites defender Nando Pijnaker said Auckland’s dominance put a bit of a burden the players.

“I’ve never really been a part of something like this where we’ve won so many times in a row so it’s interesting. Every game that goes by that we win I guess puts a little bit more pressure on you because you want to keep winning and you want to make this the normality which I don’t think it is, but we’re really confident.”

Auckland FC coach Steve Corica said despite winning five out of five it was still a rivalry with the Phoenix.

“We don’t want to get carried away with that, we want to continue winning obviously we want to make it six from six in the first two years but we know it’s going to be a tough game. I think they’re playing some good football we’re going to have to be on our game definitely need to perform well, we need three points as badly as they do.”

Bill Tuiloma and Paulo Retre of Wellington Phoenix. www.photosport.nz

Wellington Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano said he felt good heading into the derby despite the record.

“I must have smashed a couple of mirrors somewhere because the amount of bad luck we’ve had over the last couple of seasons, especially in the derbies, we haven’t had things go for us but I feel like we’re due for one.”

Another All Whites defender Bill Tuiloma will play in his first New Zealand derby after joining the Phoenix at the start of the year and said there was a “determination” to get the first win over Auckland.

“I’m just fired up and I’m excited… you could see it that I’m playing against my home team from where I’m from but I’m very excited, the whole team’s pumped for it.”

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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/2026/02/20/what-you-need-to-know-ahead-of-sixth-nz-a-league-derby/

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Police warn Clutha and Gore farmers: be aware

Source: New Zealand Police

Southern District Police urge people in rural areas of Clutha and Gore to keep an eye out after reports of multiple burglaries. 

A number of burglaries in the heart of Southland are under investigation. Offenders have targeted fuel and equipment on farming properties in the Clutha and Gore districts. 

Sergeant Tim Coudret, from Southern District Police, urges people to help Police by reporting suspicious behaviour. 

“If you see something, say something. 

“Look around you and let us know if you notice something, or someone, out of the ordinary.” 

Suspicious or illegal activity should be reported by calling 111 immediately if it’s happening now, or via 105 if it’s afterwards. 

“We’ve had an increase in reports of burglaries lately. 

“Update your inventory of farm equipment, including model and serial numbers. 

“Lock up, even if you’re still on the property, and call 111 if you see something happening.” 

Sergeant Coudret says there are crime prevention actions you can take to secure your home and buildings.

He recommends that you keep an eye out, reduce the risk of theft, keep in touch with neighbours and report anything that you find suspicious. 

“If it looks dodgy it probably is dodgy, no matter how minor, we want to know.” 

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/police-warn-clutha-and-gore-farmers-be-aware/