Category: Australia

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NZ-AU: U.S. Department of Commerce Increases Duties on Chinese Battery-Grade Graphite to 160%+ in Final Determinations

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Feb. 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NOVONIX Limited (NASDAQ: NVX, ASX: NVX) (“NOVONIX” or the “Company”), today acknowledged the U.S. Department of Commerce’s (“Commerce”) final determinations in the antidumping and countervailing duty investigations covering anode active materials (“AAM”) imported into the U.S. from China. The total amount of the tariffs applicable to AAM imported from China will be at least 160%, subject to a final affirmative determination by the U.S. International Trade Commission (“ITC”) that the U.S. AAM industry has been materially impeded because of Chinese AAM imports. The ITC’s final determination is expected in March 2026.

Highlights
Subject to the ITC’s final determination on material impediment:

  • An antidumping duty of 93.5% will be imposed on AAM imports from China from specified companies and a duty of 102.72% will be imposed China-wide on all other exporters
  • A countervailing duty of 66.82% to 66.86% will be imposed on all AAM imports from China producers
  • These duties will remain in effect unless revoked and will be reviewed every five years

“These determinations represent a meaningful step toward restoring fair competition in the U.S. anode materials market,” said Mike O’Kronley, CEO of NOVONIX. “By addressing longstanding trade distortions, these measures strengthen the foundation for domestic production of critical battery materials, accelerate investment in U.S. manufacturing, and support the creation of high-quality advanced manufacturing jobs. We believe this materially enhances NOVONIX’s competitive position as we continue scaling synthetic graphite production in North America.”

The duties apply broadly to anode-graphite materials, as defined by Commerce, including synthetic and natural graphite products, whether coated or uncoated, and blended materials used in lithium-ion battery applications.

The previously imposed 25% tariff under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and 20% tariff under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”) on AAM imports from China remain in effect. The legal validity of the IEEPA tariffs is currently under review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

NOVONIX supports the transparent and rules-based enforcement of U.S. trade laws and believes these determinations represent an important step in promoting fair competition, strengthening domestic battery supply chains, and encouraging long-term capital investment in advanced manufacturing in the United States.

With the most advanced synthetic graphite production capability in North America, NOVONIX is strategically positioned to support customers seeking secure, domestically produced anode materials. The Company continues to execute on its strategy to expand high-performance synthetic graphite production in the United States, reinforcing supply chain resilience, U.S. energy security, and long-term manufacturing competitiveness.

Additional information regarding the determinations is available through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance records.

This announcement has been authorized for release by NOVONIX Chairman,
Mr. Ron Edmonds.

About NOVONIX
NOVONIX strives to reduce supply chain risk, support U.S. energy independence, and establish a resilient battery materials supply chain. The company is building a North American platform for critical battery materials—anchored by its Chattanooga, Tennessee headquarters and anode materials operations, expanding through its patented all-dry, precursor-free cathode synthesis technology, and supported by industry-leading battery cell testing and R&D services.
Together, these capabilities position NOVONIX as an integrated supplier of advanced battery materials and technologies powering the energy storage and electrification economy.

To learn more, visit us at www.novonixgroup.com or on LinkedIn and X.

For NOVONIX Limited
Investors: ir@novonixgroup.com
Media: media@novonixgroup.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements about the Company and the industry in which it operates. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” or “would,” or other similar expressions. Examples of forward-looking statements in this communication include, among others, statements made regarding the creation and development of new technology, anticipated production capacity at its facilities, anticipated customer demand, the impacts of economic uncertainty, tariffs, and other legislation on our timely achievement of targets and customer milestones, our ability to obtain or maintain and benefit from additional government funding and other support, our expectations of the benefit of the antidumping and countervailing duty determinations, tariffs imposed on China and other countries, improving and growing battery testing equipment and research and development services business, continued investment in and efforts to commercialize the cathode synthesis technology, and efforts to help localize the battery supply chain for critical materials and play a leading role in the transition to cleaner energy solutions.

The Company has based such statements on current expectations and projections about future events and trends that it believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Such forward-looking statements involve and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the timely deployment and scaling of its furnace technology, ability to meet the technical specifications and demand of existing and future customers, the accuracy of estimates regarding market size, expenses, future revenue, capital requirements, needs and access for additional financing, the availability and impact and compliance with the applicable terms of government funding and other support, ability to obtain patent rights effective to protect its technologies and processes and successfully defend any challenges to such rights and prevent others from commercializing such technologies and processes, and regulatory and economic developments in the United States, Australia, and other jurisdictions. These and other factors that could affect its business and results are included in its filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F. Copies of these filings may be obtained by visiting the Company’s Investor Relations website at www.novonixgroup.com or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or outcomes, and actual performance and outcomes may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this communication. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement in this communication is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/nz-au-u-s-department-of-commerce-increases-duties-on-chinese-battery-grade-graphite-to-160-in-final-determinations/

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Relying on tug boat from Australia risks lives, council leaders say

Source: Radio New Zealand

Interislander ferry Kaitaki was sailing into Wellington Harbour in January 2023 with 854 passengers on board when it lost power. KiwiRail

Council leaders on both sides of Cook Strait say lives could be put at risk due to its emergency tug being off-contract from this month.

In November it was announced the government had sunk plans to station an open ocean tug in the Cook Strait long-term after it said the costs outweighed the benefits.

The government also announced it would end the contract for the MMA Vision open ocean tug this month, rather than June when it was contracted for.

For years local government leaders on either side of the North and South Island had been calling for open ocean tugs after several near-miss accidents.

One of these was in January 2023 when the Interislander ferry Kaitaki was sailing into Wellington Harbour with 854 passengers on board and lost power, which resulted in a mayday call.

Greater Wellington Regional Council chair Daran Ponter said the absence of an emergency tug posed unacceptable risks.

Daran Ponter. RNZ / Dom Thomas

“Cancelling the MMA Vision contract puts lives and economic lifelines in peril.”

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor agreed, saying it was one of the most complex stretches of water in the world to navigate.

“It’s also a shipping route of national significance where the government is responsible for safety.”

The two leaders had penned a letter to Transport Minister Chris Bishop asking for an extension of the MMA Vision’s contract. They said not having the tug nearby would risk human safety, financial stability and the environment given the clean-up cost and damage if a large ship sank.

Ponter said from July, the closest vessel that would have emergency open ocean tug capability would be 1200 nautical miles away in Australia.

“That’s about five days of travel time. We cannot depend on harbour tugs for open-ocean rescues. They are not designed, equipped or crewed for towing large vessels in Cook Strait – where conditions are frequently beyond their operating parameters.”

RNZ has approached Bishop for a response.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/relying-on-tug-boat-from-australia-risks-lives-council-leaders-say/

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All Stars countdown kicks off in Hamilton

Source: New Zealand Government

Hamilton is set to come alive this weekend as rugby league fans descend on the city for the 2026 NRL All Stars event, backed by the Government. 

“The NRL All Stars event is a unique, trans-Tasman celebration of sport, community and culture, bringing together Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori players to represent their countries,” Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.

“With a large influx of passionate fans and international broadcast reach, the event will give an economic boost to Hamilton and the wider Waikato region.

“It’s a fantastic event not only delivering an economic boost to the region but helping grow grassroots rugby league from the ground up – one tackle at a time.

Last hosted in New Zealand in 2023 in Rotorua, the All Stars event includes a men’s and women’s game, a welcome ceremony, player appearances and community events.

“It will attract league fans from across New Zealand and Australia to the Waikato, giving a boost to our local tourism and hospitality businesses,” Louise Upston says.

“Events like these generate a buzz in our regions, keeping our communities and local businesses humming. The Government is committed to supporting more events like these, establishing New Zealand as a go-to destination for major events.”

The NRL All Stars fixture is scheduled for Sunday 15 February 2026 at FMG Stadium, Hamilton.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/all-stars-countdown-kicks-off-in-hamilton/

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Lever Style Reports Full Year 2025 Financial Results

Source: Media Outreach

Full Year 2025 Financial Results Summary

  • US Tariffs wreaked havoc on industry in 2025;
  • 2025 Revenues: $200.2 million down 10.2% while proactively managing down business from 2 largest clients in 2024; 2025 revenue on balance of business would have grown 2.7% when excluding these 2 clients;
  • Record-high 7.9% net profit margin despite 10.2% reduction in revenue;
  • Debt free with record-high US$41.5 million cash balance;
  • Acquisition of activewear maker AAG’s business positions us for growth in 2026;
  • Early success of digitalization and platformization helping competitiveness and profitability going forward;
  • Final dividend to remain at HK$7.0 cents despite the 7.4 % reduction in net profit.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – Lever Style Corporation (HKEX: 1346, “Lever Style”), the world’s premier apparel production platform, today reported financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2025.

For the full year 2025, Lever Style reported revenues of US$200.2 million (a decrease of 10.2% from the prior year) and a net profit of US$ 15.9 million (down 7.4% from 2024). The group also reported a record-high 7.9% net profit margin and maintained gross profit margin of 28.5%. Further, the group was debt-free once again and had a record net cash position of US$41.5 million at the end of the full year 2025.

“In a year when Trump’s Liberation Day tariffs wreaked havoc on the industry, we managed down our business to safeguard our current and future financial health. Revenues retreated 10.2% from the prior year to US$200.2 million for the 2025 reporting period, which was a result of applying stringent credit risk control on our former top two clients from 2024 rather than an across-the-board weakening of demand.” said Stanley Szeto, Executive Chairman of Lever Style.

“Against the tariff backdrop, we did well to have achieved record-high net profit margin and registered growth for the rest of our customer portfolio outside of the former two top clients from 2024. This is a testament to the strength of our versatile, asset-light business model” Mr. Szeto added.

Commenting on Lever Style’s inorganic growth strategy in 2025, Szeto said, “We put more focus on pursuing inorganic growth through acquisitions. In December 2025, we announced our largest acquisition to date, the acquisition of certain assets and businesses of Active Apparel Group (“AAG“), an Australia-based supplier of activewear such as golf shirts, running shorts and yoga leggings. This acquisition is our seventh since our 2019 IPO and will continue to strengthen our activewear capability in a segment important to our growth. As is customary from our past 6 acquisitions, we acquired AAG’s business but not its factory to safeguard our asset-light business model … By concluding the AAG acquisition in late 2025, we put ourselves back on the growth path for 2026 in spite of the challenging economic environment.

Future Prospects

On future prospects, Szeto commented “Even though US tariffs on most garment-producing countries have come down to the 20% range, the US economy remains on edge … There is a growing trend of retail bankruptcies, which have knock-on effects on brands and the supply chain.”

“Despite such headwinds, we feel confident that we’ll once again out-perform the industry due to the sustainable competitive advantage provided by our asset-light business model…We are continuing to explore other strategic merger and acquisition opportunities to further strengthen our product category portfolio, expand our production base, and gain scale that creates synergies and operating leverage…With little relief in sight from a US-tariff impacted world, we expect there will be more merger and acquisition opportunities at reasonable valuations.”

Digitalization and Platformization

Executive Chairman Stanley Szeto said Lever Style has “embarked on a new phase of digitalization,” using automation and AI for “fully automated factory invoice handling” and “reading purchase orders and translating tech packs,” “saving processing time on some mundane tasks by up to 90%.”

On platformization, he said, “Transforming into a digital two-way marketplace platform which automatically computes costing and digitally matches the optimal factory for each order is a long journey.” and noted “We are enjoying early success with more than 35 factories having joined this platform …”

For more details, please visit: https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2026/0212/2026021200299.pdf

https://www.leverstyle.com/en/home/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/lever-style-inc./
https://www.facebook.com/leverstyleofficial
https://www.instagram.com/leverstyle/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2xFoI4FpTh5SOU6O63nNUQ

Hashtag: #LeverStyle

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/2026/02/12/lever-style-reports-full-year-2025-financial-results/

Posted on

Slavery victims tell of their years-long ordeal

Source: Radio New Zealand

Moeaia Tuai was sentenced to jail for more than 16 years on Thursday. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

This story discusses details of slavery and sexual abuse.

Two young people have told how they were held in slavery by an Auckland man for several years.

Former prison officer Moeaia Tuai, who is 63, was found guilty by a jury last year of two charges of slavery, two counts of rape and a string of other sexual assaults. He was on Thursday jailed for more than 16 years.

In a victim statement, one of the complainants said he took her youthful happiness, her voice and virginity, and she sometimes felt like her soul had left her body. “A lot of the time, I wish I wasn’t here,” she said, adding she wished she was living a normal girl’s dreams and living her life.

“But sadly, instead, I am one of those girls fighting demons and emotions I don’t deserve, every day,” she said.

“I find it very hard to communicate with others because I was always stopped from speaking with anyone and everyone… I often have flashbacks that just hold me back and I’d rather be home alone.

“To hear my mother’s heartbreak after 10 plus years of being kept apart – my mother’s first time in New Zealand was for a court case.”

She described Tuai and his relatives as a “narcissistic and hypocritical family”.

Suppression orders prevent any information likely to identify the victims from being published.

The second victim, a young man, spoke through tears about the good Samaritans who helped him when he ran away, frightened and not able to sleep at night.

The High Court in Auckland was packed with family and friends of Tuai and his victims, with several crying while the details of the offending were read out.

‘False testimony’

“My parents are now trying to rebuild the good life that was broken because of these people… A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

He spoke through an interpreter to the defendant and his relatives – some of whom gave evidence to the jury, but also faced allegations during the trial that they too were involved in the offending.

“To anyone who has given false testimony here, I pray that you feel repentance in your heart. A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

Only Tuai has been charged in connection to the offending, which occurred from 2016 to 2024.

The court heard he might face poor treatment, and need to be segregated if prisoners found out he was a Corrections officer.

Justice Michele Wilkinson-Smith was asked to consider whether Tuai could have a shorter sentence because of that, and also due to the effect his sentence would have on his sick wife. She granted a small reduction to the jail term – and noted his wife had also benefited from the offending.

Funding Tuai’s lifestyle

Sentencing Tuai, Wilkinson-Smith said the older complainant had been assured before arriving in New Zealand that he could finish his secondary school education, but he was immediately put to work at a boarding lodge that his wife’s sister owned.

After moving to Australia, Tuai took control of the male complainant’s internet banking, his bank card and passport, allowing him only $100 of his weekly pay for full-time work.

“He was funding your lifestyle,” she told Tuai, saying that only ended when the man ran away and managed to get a new passport to return to New Zealand.

Tuai, his wife and the second victim also returned to New Zealand, where she was told she could not go to school – and instead must supplement his state benefits by working cash in hand jobs.

“At one point, the female victim worked 57 consecutive days without a single day off, including weekends,” Wilkinson-Smith said.

“The evidence for that came from your own diary which recorded her working hours…You were using her as a source of labour and income, as you had previously used the male complainant. She had no autonomy and no access to the money she was earning.”

When she had a formal job, her estimated (lost) wages were $80,000.

Saddled with debts

She was ‘treated as property in every way’ by Tuai, who made her work for free, have sex with him, controlled her movements and restricted her ability to get help or report him.

Before he raped her, he bought alcohol to ply her with, using money from her own bank account.

“It is clear that as far as you were concerned, she was in New Zealand only for your benefit,” Wilkinson-Smith added.

He felt entitled to the money the two earned, ‘drained their bank accounts’ and threatened them with deportation, she said, leaving them saddled with debts through loans they were forced to take out.

Both young people suffered threatened and actual violence, and were told they would lose the right to stay in New Zealand if they did not “obey his orders” or alerted authorities.

The judge said slavery was not a “cultural misunderstanding” and she was worried about how widespread it might be.

“I hope that this case highlights for others that this is slavery. It is not legal. You cannot bring people to New Zealand to exploit them for their labour and income.”

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

Sexual Violence

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/slavery-victims-tell-of-their-years-long-ordeal/

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NZ-AU: LHM Investor Site Visit Presentation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Feb. 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN, TSX:PDN, OTCQX:PALAF) (“Paladin” or the “Company”) advises that it has released a presentation for the Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) investor site visit being held on 12 February 2026, in Namibia.

The presentation is available on the Company’s website (https://www.paladinenergy.com.au/investors/asx-announcements/).

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

Contacts

About Paladin

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN TSX: PDN OTCQX:PALAF) is a globally significant independent uranium producer with a 75% ownership of the world-class long life Langer Heinrich Mine located in Namibia. In late 2024 the Company acquired Fission Uranium Corp. in Canada, resulting in a dual-listing on the both the ASX and TSX. With the integration of Fission’s operations, the Company now owns and operates an extensive portfolio of uranium development and exploration assets across Canada, which include the Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project in Saskatchewan and the Michelin project in Newfoundland and Labrador. Paladin also owns uranium exploration assets in Australia. Paladin is committed to a sustainability framework that ensures responsible, accountable and transparent management of the uranium resources the Company mines – both now and in the future. Through its Langer Heinrich Mine, Paladin is delivering a reliable uranium supply to major nuclear utilities around the world, positioning itself as a meaningful contributor to baseload energy provision in multiple countries and contributing to global decarbonisation.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/nz-au-lhm-investor-site-visit-presentation/

Posted on

NZ-AU: December 2025 Half Year Financial Results Overview

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Feb. 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN, TSX:PDN, OTCQX:PALAF) (“Paladin” or the “Company”) advises that it has released its December 2025 Half Year Financial Accounts and Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) for Paladin Energy Ltd and its controlled entities for the three and six month periods ended 31 December 2025 (“FY2026 Interim Financial Results”).

Half Year Highlights

  • Revenue of US$138.3M driven by strong sales of 1.96Mlb U₃O₈ at an average realised price of US$70.5/lb U₃O₈1, reflecting the quality of the Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) contract book and strengthening uranium pricing environment
  • Cost of sales totalled US$112.3M in the period, reflecting the continued ramp up of production at LHM
  • Gross profit of US$26.0M for the period, a significant increase from previous period
  • Net loss after tax of US$6.6M driven by the ongoing production ramp-up at LHM, business expansion following the Fission Uranium Corp (now Paladin Canada Inc.) acquisition and TSX listing and financing activities
  • Successful completion of a fully underwritten A$300M equity raising and a A$100M share purchase plan (SPP), primarily to advance the development of the Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project towards a final investment decision alongside the ongoing ramp up of the LHM
  • Enhanced balance sheet following completion of the equity offering, and the restructure of the syndicated debt facility with cash and investments of US$278.4M and an undrawn US$70M Revolving Credit Facility at year end

“The first half of the year demonstrated strong and continually improving performance at Langer Heinrich Mine as our team increased its knowledge and experience of how to optimise the production process, including the mining activities that were gathering pace at the start of this financial year. With the remaining mining fleet arriving on site, the foundations are now in place to successfully complete our ramp-up at Langer Heinrich Mine during the remaining months of the year.

The half year results also highlight the robust financial position of Paladin Energy with increasing revenue from strong sales augmented by a successful equity raising and a restructure of the debt portfolio that will enable us to complete our ramp-up activities at the LHM and continue to progress the PLS Project in Canada, including our winter drilling program.”

Paul Hemburrow
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

Financial Performance

Key Operational and Financial Metrics Units Six Months Ended
31 December 2025		  
OPERATIONS2    
U₃O₈ Sold Mlb 1.96  
Average Realised Price1 US$/lb 70.5  
Cost of Production3 US$/lb 40.5  
EARNINGS    
Sales Revenue US$M 138.3  
Cost of Sales US$M 112.3  
Gross Profit US$M 26.0  
Loss After Tax US$M (6.6)  

LHM sold 1.96Mlb of U₃O₈ at an average realised price of US$70.5/lb, generating sales revenue of US$138.3M. Cost of sales totalled US$112.3M, reflecting the continued ramp up of production, with a higher proportion of mined ore fed into the plant resulting in higher production and sales volumes.

This resulted in an increased gross profit for the period of US$26.0M (H1FY2025: US$0.9M).

Net loss after tax of US$6.6M (H1FY2025:US$15.1M) was driven by the ongoing production ramp-up at LHM, business expansion following the Fission Uranium Corp (now Paladin Canada Inc.) acquisition, TSX listing and financing activities.

Financial Position

    31 December 2025 30 June 2025 Change
%
Cash and cash equivalents US$M 121.0   89.0   36%  
Short-term investments US$M 157.4   –   n.m4  
Total unrestricted cash and investments US$M 278.4   89.0   213%  
Debt Facility (Drawn)5 US$M (40.0)   (86.5)   54%  
Net Cash/(Debt)6 US$M 238.4   2.5   9,260%  
Total Equity US$M 1,051.9   801.6   31%  

Total unrestricted cash and investments increased by 213% during the period to US$278.4M (30 June 2025: US$89.0M), following the successful completion of a fully underwritten A$300M equity offering and a A$100M share purchase plan (SPP) (both before transaction costs).

On 19 December 2025, Paladin completed the restructure of its Debt Facility with its lenders, Nedbank Ltd (acting through its Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking division), Nedbank Namibia Ltd and Macquarie Bank.

The restructure aimed to right-size the overall debt capacity, reducing it from US$150M to US$110M leveraging Paladin’s enhanced liquidity position following the successful completion of the equity raise and SPP. The restructure also reflects Paladin’s increasing maturity as a uranium producer as it continues to progress the ramp up at LHM, while providing greater undrawn debt capacity and balance sheet flexibility.

The restructure provides Paladin with a US$110M Debt Facility including a US$40M Term Loan Facility (following a repayment of US$39.8M as part of the restructure) and an undrawn Revolving Credit Facility of US$70M (US$50M prior to the restructure). No additional debt was drawn during the period.

Presentation of information
This announcement should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Interim Financial Report lodged on 11 February 2026 and available on Paladin’s website (https://www.paladinenergy.com.au/investors/asx-announcements/). The Condensed Interim Financial Report relates to the six month period ended 31 December 2025. This Condensed Interim Financial Report also includes information relating specifically to the three month period ended 31 December 2025, which has been included in this Condensed Interim Financial Report to comply with quarterly reporting disclosure requirements of the Toronto Stock Exchange. Further information regarding the inclusion of the 31 December 2025 quarterly information is included in Note 1 to the Condensed Interim Financial Report.

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

Contacts

About Paladin

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN TSX: PDN OTCQX:PALAF) is a globally significant independent uranium producer with a 75% ownership of the world-class long life Langer Heinrich Mine located in Namibia. In late 2024 the Company acquired Fission Uranium Corp. in Canada, resulting in a dual-listing on the both the ASX and TSX. With the integration of Fission’s operations, the Company now owns and operates an extensive portfolio of uranium development and exploration assets across Canada, which include the Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project in Saskatchewan and the Michelin project in Newfoundland and Labrador. Paladin also owns uranium exploration assets in Australia. Paladin is committed to a sustainability framework that ensures responsible, accountable and transparent management of the uranium resources the Company mines – both now and in the future. Through its Langer Heinrich Mine, Paladin is delivering a reliable uranium supply to major nuclear utilities around the world, positioning itself as a meaningful contributor to baseload energy provision in multiple countries and contributing to global decarbonisation.

Forward-looking statements

This document contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Australian securities laws and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (collectively referred to in this document as forward-looking statements). All statements in this document, other than statements of historical or present facts, are forward-looking statements and generally may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate”, “expect”, “likely”, “propose”, “will”, “intend”, “should”, “could”, “may”, “believe”, “forecast”, “estimate”, “target”, “outlook”, “guidance” and other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding continued development of the PLS Project; permitting approvals and community engagement; advancement of the PLS Project through to FID; development and ramp-up of operations at the LHM; LHM guidance for FY2026; the equity offering; debt and related restructurings and the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals.

Forward-looking statements involve subjective judgment and analysis and are subject to significant uncertainties, risks and contingencies including those risk factors associated with the mining industry, many of which are outside the control of, change without notice, and may be unknown to Paladin. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to liabilities inherent in mine development and production, geological, mining and processing technical problems, the inability to obtain any additional mine licences, permits and other regulatory approvals required in connection with mining and third party processing operations, Indigenous Peoples’ engagement, competition for amongst other things, capital, acquisition of reserves, undeveloped lands and skilled personnel, incorrect assessments of the value of acquisitions, changes in commodity prices and exchange rates, currency and interest fluctuations, various events which could disrupt operations and/or the transportation of mineral products, including labour stoppages and severe weather conditions, the demand for and availability of transportation services, the ability to secure adequate financing and management’s ability to anticipate and manage the foregoing factors and risks. Readers are also referred to the risks and uncertainties referred to in the Company’s “2025 Annual Report” released on 28 August 2025, in Paladin’s Annual Information Form for the year ended June 30, 2025 released on 12 September 2025, and in Paladin’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the quarter ended December 31, 2025, released on 11 February 2026, each of which is available to view at paladinenergy.com.au and on www.sedarplus.ca.

Although as at the date of this document, Paladin believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements due to a range of factors including (without limitation) fluctuations in commodity prices and exchange rates, exploitation and exploration successes, environmental, permitting and development issues, political risks including the impact of political instability on economic activity and uranium supply and demand, Indigenous Peoples engagement, climate risk, operating hazards, natural disasters, severe storms and other adverse weather conditions, shortages of skilled labour and construction materials, equipment and supplies, regulatory concerns, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions and risk factors associated with the uranium industry generally. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate.

Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and should rely on their own independent enquiries, investigations and advice regarding information contained in this document. Any reliance by a reader on the information contained in this document is wholly at the reader’s own risk. Recipients are cautioned against placing undue reliance on such projections without conducting their own due diligence with appropriate professional support. The forward-looking statements in this document relate only to events or information as of the date on which the statements are made. Paladin does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No representation, warranty, guarantee or assurance (express or implied) is made, or will be made, that any forward-looking statements will be achieved or will prove to be correct. Except for statutory liability which cannot be excluded, Paladin, its officers, employees and advisers expressly disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the material contained in this document and exclude all liability whatsoever (including negligence) for any loss or damage which may be suffered by any person as a consequence of any information in this document or any error or omission therefrom. Except as required by law or regulation, Paladin accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in this document or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information. Nothing in this document will, under any circumstances, create an implication that there has been no change in the affairs of Paladin since the date of this document. To the extent any forward-looking statement in this document constitutes “future-oriented financial information” or “financial outlooks” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws, such information is provided to demonstrate Paladin’s internal projections and to help readers understand Paladin’s expected financial results. Readers are cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose and readers should not place undue reliance on such information. Future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks, as with forward-looking statements generally, are, without limitation, based on the assumptions, and subject to the risks and uncertainties, described above.

Non-IFRS measures
Paladin uses certain financial measures that are considered “non-IFRS financial information” within the meaning of Australian securities laws and/or “non-GAAP financial measures” within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (collectively referred to in this announcement as Non-IFRS Measures) to supplement analysis of its financial and operating performance. These Non-IFRS Measures do not have a standardised meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

The Company believes these measures provide additional insight into its financial results and operational performance and are useful to investors, securities analysts, and other interested parties in understanding and evaluating the Company’s historical and future operating performance. However, they should not be viewed in isolation or as a substitute for information prepared in accordance with IFRS. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any Non-IFRS Measures. The Non-IFRS Measures used in this announcement are described below.

Average Realised Price
Average Realised Price (US$/lb U3O8) is a Non-IFRS Measure that represents the average revenue received per pound of uranium sold during a given period. It is calculated by dividing total revenue from U₃O₈ sales (before royalties and after any applicable discounts) by the total volume of U₃O₈ pounds sold. This measure provides insight into the actual pricing achieved under the Company’s uranium sales contracts and spot sales during the reporting period, taking into account the mix of base-escalated, fixed-price and market-related pricing mechanisms within contracts. The Company uses Average Realised Price to assess revenue performance relative to market prices, contractual pricing structures, and production costs. It is also a key measure used by investors and analysts to evaluate price exposure, contract performance, and profitability potential.

It is important to note that Average Realised Price is distinct from both the spot market price and the term market price for uranium, and it may vary significantly from quarter to quarter based on timing of deliveries, customer contract structures, and the prevailing market environment.

Revenue from uranium sales is reported in the Company’s financial statements under IFRS. The Average Realised Price is derived directly from IFRS revenue figures and disclosed sales volumes.

The table below reconciles the Average Realised Price for the quarters ended 31 December 2025 and 31 December 2024:

    Three Months
Ended
31 December
2025		 Six Months
Ended
31 December
2025		 Three Months
Ended
31 December
2024		 Six Months
Ended
31 December
2024
Sales revenue US$M 102.4 138.3 33.5 77.3
U3O8 Sold lb 1,426,820 1,960,6091 500,1432 1,123,2072
Average Realised Price US$/lb 71.8 70.5 66.9 68.8

1.   Includes 85,000lb loan material delivered into existing contracts
2.   Includes 200,000lb loan material delivered into existing contracts

Cost of Production 
The Cost of Production per pound represents the total production costs divided by pounds of U₃O₈ produced. The Cost of Production is calculated as the total direct production expenditures incurred during the period (including mining, stockpile rehandling, processing, site maintenance, and mine-level administrative costs), excluding costs such as cost of ore stockpiled, deferred stripping costs, depreciation and amortisation, general and administration costs, royalties, exploration expenses, sustaining capital and the impacts of any inventory impairments or impairment reversals. This measure helps users assess Paladin’s operating efficiency.

Cost of Production per lb = Cost of Production ÷ U₃O₈ Pounds Produced.

Cost of Production is a unit cost measure that indicates the average production cost per pound of U₃O₈ produced. This is not an IFRS measure but is widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark of operational efficiency and cost competitiveness. Paladin’s Cost of Production metric is calculated as the total direct production expenditures as defined above (in US dollars) incurred during the period, divided by the volume of U₃O₈ pounds produced in the same period. The Company uses Cost of Production per pound to track progress of operational performance, to assess profitability at various uranium price points, and to identify trends in operating costs. It is also a key metric for investors and analysts to evaluate how efficiently the Company is producing uranium, independent of depreciation and accounting adjustments.

This measure allows stakeholders to monitor trends in direct production costs and to assess the Company’s operating breakeven threshold relative to uranium market prices. Investors are cautioned that our Cost of Production metric may not be comparable with similarly titled “C1 cash cost” metrics of other uranium producers, as there can be differences in methodology (e.g., treatment of royalties or certain site costs). Paladin’s Cost of Production figure as defined above, focuses strictly on the on-site cost to produce uranium concentrate in the current period. All figures are in US$/lb U₃O₈. We provide this information in good faith to enhance understanding of our operations; however, the IFRS financial statements (particularly the Cost of Sales line in the income statement) should be considered alongside this metric for a complete picture of our cost structure.

The table below reconciles the Cost of Production for the for the quarters ended 31 December 2025 and 30 December 2024:

    Three Months
Ended
31 December
2025		 Six Months
Ended
31 December
2025		 Three Months
Ended
31 December
2024		 Six Months
Ended
31 December
2024
Cost of Production US$M 48.9 93.2 26.9 53.7
U3O8 produced lb 1,233,128 2,299,624 638,409 1,278,088
Cost of Production/lb US$/lb 39.7 40.5 42.3 42.1


Net Cash/(Debt)
Net Cash/(Debt) is a non-IFRS liquidity measure that represents the surplus of cash and cash equivalents over total interest-bearing debt. It is calculated by subtracting gross debt (including face value and accrued interest on borrowings) from unrestricted cash and cash equivalents. The Company uses Net Cash/(Debt) as an indicator of the Company’s net liquidity position at a point in time, providing a simple measure of financial flexibility after accounting for existing debt obligations. This measure is useful to investors and analysts because it isolates the Company’s net cash or net debt balance, enabling better assessment of balance sheet strength and funding capacity, particularly as it relates to capital allocation decisions and ability to finance operations and growth.

Net Cash/(Debt) is distinct from individual IFRS line items as it combines and offsets gross financial liabilities and cash balances into a single figure. As such, it is classified as a non-IFRS measure.

The table below reconciles the Net Cash/(Debt) at the end of the quarters ended 31 December 2025 and 30 June 2025:

US$M As at 31 December 2025   As at 30 June 2025  
Cash and Investments 278.4   89.0  
Borrowings – syndicated debt facility (40.0)   (86.5)  
Net Cash/(Debt) 238.4   2.5  


_______________________________________
1 Average Realised Price is a Non-IFRS Measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures” for more information
2 Refers to LHM’s operational results on a 100% basis
3 Cost of Production is a Non-IFRS Measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures” for more information
4 The percentage movement is not meaningful due to nil balance in the prior period
5 Excludes shareholder loans from CNNC Overseas Limited (CNOL) and capitalised transaction costs
6 Net Cash/(Debt) is a Non-IFRS measure. See “Non-IFRS Measures” for more information

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/nz-au-december-2025-half-year-financial-results-overview/

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Black Ferns to play in Sacrementon and Kansas City

Source: Radio New Zealand

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe of New Zealand scores a try against the USA Eagles Women. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

The remaining two fixtures of the Pacific Four Series have been revealed by hosts USA Rugby, with the Black Ferns playing matches in Sacramento and Kansas City.

The Black Ferns’ schedule will start against the US at Heart Health Park on Sunday, 12 April at 11.00am NZT.

Kansas City will then host the Black Ferns clash with Canada on Saturday, 18 April at 10:15am NZT.

The Black Ferns last played the US last year in Auckland with the hosts winning 79-14 on their way to winning the Pacific Four Title.

Jorja Miller in action for the Black Ferns against the USA women. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

Canada beat the Black Ferns 34-19 in last year’s World Cup semi-finals, with the two teams drawing 27-27 in the 2025 Pacific Four series.

New Zealand Rugby general manager of professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said it’s a great opportunity for the Black Ferns to showcase their talent in front of new audiences.

“The United States is an important market for rugby, as we build toward the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033.

“The Pacific Four Series is a chance for the Black Ferns to inspire and connect with other sports fans, through fast-paced, dynamic and entertaining rugby.”

USA Rugby boss Bill Goren said he was excited to bring the world-class tournament and teams to the US fanbase.

“With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033 now one year closer, these multi-match events act as building blocks towards our goal of record success in 2033.

“Last year was a historic year for women’s rugby, we’re ready to continue that momentum this spring with a strong collective of host cities, partners and players.”

The Black Ferns will end their Pacific Four Series run when they meet the Wallaroos in a historic match at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Anzac Day as previously announced.

Black Ferns Pacific Four Series 2026 Schedule:

Black Ferns v USA

Saturday, April 11, 4.00pm PT (Sunday, April 12, 11.00am NZT) kick-off

Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

Black Ferns v Canada

Friday, April 17, 5.15pm CT (Saturday, April 18, 10.15am NZT) kick-off

CPKC Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

Black Ferns v Australia

Saturday, April 25, 7.45pm AEST (9.45pm NZT) kick-off

Sunshine Coast Stadium

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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/2026/02/12/black-ferns-to-play-in-sacrementon-and-kansas-city/

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Skellerup posts record profit for first half

Source: Radio New Zealand

Skellerup makes products for water supplies and wastewater, foam for boats and roofing products.

Rubber goods manufacturer Skellerup has posted a record first half profit on the back of higher sales across the business.

Key numbers for the six months ended December compared with a year ago:

  • Net profit $28.9m vs $24.2m
  • Revenue $183.5m vs $165.3m
  • Pre-tax earnings $40.6m vs $35m
  • Forecast profit range $57-62m
  • Interim dividend 10 cents per share vs 9 cps

Skellerup chief executive Graham Leaming called its record half year result an “excellent” start to the year, with growth in all its key divisions.

“The growth in revenue and earnings was broad-based with the most notable contributions coming from the key dairy, potable and wastewater applications.”

He said the company had met increased demand, brought new products to market and coped with the imposition of tariffs.

The industrial division, which makes products for water supplies and wastewater, foam for boats and roofing products, had a strong lift in sales to Australia and the US, as well as improved margins.

The agriculture division, which provides rubber components for dairying as well as the well known gumboots, also sold well overseas.

The company gets about 80 percent of revenue from overseas, and close to 40 percent from US sales, but revamped sources of supply and manufacture to reduce the impact of the US tariffs.

Leaming said despite continuing global uncertainty the company had a strong pipeline of work, and was expecting a full year profit between $57-$62m, compared to last year’s $54.5m.

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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/2026/02/12/skellerup-posts-record-profit-for-first-half/

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Kiwi snowboarder qualifies for halfpipe final

Source: Radio New Zealand

Cam Melville Ives of New Zealand during Snowboard Halfpipe Winter Olympic Games in Italy, 2026. www.photosport.nz

Wānaka snowboarder Cam Melville Ives has qualified for the final of the halfpipe competition at the Winter Olympics.

Melville Ives finished eighth in qualification, with Australian Scotty James leading the top 12 to progress from the 24 starters.

Melville Ives was happy with his first run, which included a frontside triple cork 1440 and scored 84.75, which put him into sixth place.

James, who finished second in this event at the last games and is the current world champion, scored the best run of the day with a 94.00.

The 19-year-old Kiwi then started his second run in eighth position but was unable to improve when he landed heavily from a jump and lost momentum.

He then had a nervous wait as the rest of the field completed their second runs, but held onto eighth place and a place in Saturday morning’s final.

“It’s definitely a high-level qualification everyone was getting after it for sure,” Melville Ives told Sky Sport afterwards.

“I just got to focus on riding clean and putting as run down.

“Hopefully I can land some sick runs in finals, I’m hyped, it’s going to be super fun.”

Melville Ives went into the Olympics on the back of a silver medal performance at the FIS World Cup in Switzerland.

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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/2026/02/12/kiwi-snowboarder-qualifies-for-halfpipe-final/

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Pest cull at Auckland’s Western Springs Lake using electrocurrents

Source: Radio New Zealand

Usually, there are only calm currents at Auckland’s Western Springs Lake.

But this week, electrocurrents are being used to stun pest fish and turtles so they can be scooped up, brought to land and killed.

Associate Professor in Biodiversity and Ecology at the University of Waikato’s School of Science, Nicolas Ling, is one of the specialists scooping up hundreds of koi carp, including goldfish and brown bullhead catfish, on New Zealand’s only electrofishing boat.

He said no native species would be harmed by the electrofishing process.

“It puts a pulsed electric current into the water, and it temporarily stuns the fish, which means we can recover them. The native species, we can recover those, and we can put them back in the lake unharmed, and the pest species, we can humanely euthanise them.”

Ling said catfish were most likely released into the lake more than a hundred years ago. Koi were believed to have been introduced into New Zealand in the 1960s.

But he said most of the goldfish and turtles in the lake were people’s unwanted pets.

“People think they’re doing the right thing, you know, when they don’t want their pet anymore, they go and release it into the local lake. And it’s actually the worst thing you can do. If you want to take on a pet, then take it on for the course of its natural life.”

He said they were also removing red-eared slider turtles from the lake.

“Again, these are pets that people have released when they no longer want them. The problem with the turtle is, if you take that on as a pet, it’s a 50-year commitment. It’s a multi-generational pet. They get huge and it becomes very expensive to provide the habitat for an adult turtle. And so people just go and release them, which is a sad thing.”

Associate Professor in Biodiversity and Ecology at the University of Waikato’s School of Science Nicolas Ling. Nick Monro

All of the pests collected were brought back to shore to be killed and then taken off-site to be turned into compost or rendered down to produce natural gas.

While killing the pests was not a pretty sight, Ling said it was necessary.

“These particular species are known to cause negative impacts on water quality. The lake should be nice and clean, but it’s not, and the fish are definitely contributing to that. They stir up the bottom sediments, and that resuspends nutrients back into the water column, which can cause increases in algal growth and bacterial growth.

“The koi and the goldfish eat the plants in the lake, which also take out nutrients.

“Those challenges with water quality mean that it makes it potentially unsafe for recreation around the lake. You don’t want to be touching the water.

“There’s fantastic bird life around here. When the water quality is really poor, they can suffer from a disease called avian botulism.

“And of course, they’re competing with the native species as well. There are lots of eels in the lake, and that’s good to see. There are also īnanga, which are key whitebait species. There’s common smelt in the lake as well.”

The lake was home to three native eel species: the short-finned eel, the long-finned eel, and the Australian long-finned eel, and there are plans to declare the lake an eel sanctuary.

The Waikato University specialists would be at the lake for one week ending on Friday, 13 November, with the council saying there were plans for them to return in the near future to continue the pest removal operation.

Auckland Council Senior Freshwater Advisor Matthew Bloxham. Nick Monro

Auckland Council Senior Freshwater Advisor, Matthew Bloxham, said the council had previously tried other techniques to remove pests from the lake, but this was the first time they had brought in an electrofishing boat.

He said so far it had been a success.

The team at Western Springs had caught Koi weighing up to 14kg. The largest Koi ever caught in New Zealand weighed 15kg.

Invasive fish are being caught and eliminated in Western Springs. Nick Monro

“Not many people realise that they get so large,” Bloxham said.

We’ve found quite a few diseased goldfish in here recently. So, putting them in here doesn’t necessarily give them a better life. It’s actually passing on the problem to somebody else, in this case the environment.

“It’s far better to repurpose that goldfish or re-home it, reach out and see whether anybody’s prepared to take it on and there will be people out there, you know, people love goldfish, they are attractive things after all, but they’re a nuisance when they’re released into the wild.”

It was costing the council $20,000 to rent the electric fishing boat from Waikato University.

“The cost of this operation is not cheap. We’d prefer not to be spending the targeted rate on controlling pests. We’d rather spend it on direct biodiversity outcomes, such as planting trees, but it’s a necessary evil. We have to maintain these fish at really low numbers.”

“It only takes two fish, a male and a female, to breed up and to produce the sorts of volumes that we’re seeing here now. We’ve been fishing all week, and so far we’re just under 300 kilograms of fish. That’s hundreds of fish.”

Auckland Council Senior Freshwater Advisor Matthew Bloxham says eradication is the goal, but that won’t happen if people keep putting their goldfish in the lake. Nick Monro

Bloxham said eradication was the goal, but that wouldn’t happen if people kept putting their goldfish in the lake.

“If ever we do achieve eradication, and we’d really like to, that is our end goal, it’s so easily undone by somebody otherwise well-mannered person who thinks they’re doing their gold fish a favour and then just quietly, surreptitiously emptying them into the lake, and suddenly we’re back to square one.

“The big message that we’re trying to get out is that if you’re contemplating, you’ve reached the end of the year, and you’ve got a pet, you don’t know what to do with it, don’t release it into your waterway.”

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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/2026/02/12/pest-cull-at-aucklands-western-springs-lake-using-electrocurrents/

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New ‘cheeky and playful’ take on Swan Lake

Source: Radio New Zealand

Swan Lake was ripe for reinterpretation, says the leader of Australia’s premier circus company.

Circa’s latest production Duck Pond blends the classic ballet and Ugly Duckling stories into a high-energy, acrobatic visual feast.

“Somewhere in the back of my fetid imagination, it got melded into the story of The Ugly Duckling, both tales of birds and emerging into identity,” Yaron Lifschitz told RNZ’s Nine to Noon.

Circa is bringing its version of the classic ballet Swan Lake to the Auckland Arts Festival next month.

Pia Johnson

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/new-cheeky-and-playful-take-on-swan-lake/

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Health experts call on Pharmac to fund female-specific testosterone

Source: Radio New Zealand

A woman applies post-menopause hormone gel. COLLANGES / BSIP via AFP

An endocrinologist says more than half the women she sees on testosterone for low libido are taking too high a dose, and she and her colleagues are calling on Pharmac to finally fund a female-specific product.

Pharmac is set to consider funding AndroFeme 1 on Thursday, which unfunded costs anywhere between $150 and $250 for a three-month supply, depending on the pharmacy.

To avoid that cost, many women are prescribed a funded alternative, called Testogel, which is formulated for men.

Testosterone is usually thought of as a male hormone, but it is also found in women. It is prescribed to treat low libido, also know as Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), in women who are postmenopausal.

Women’s health advocate and director of Cala Clinic, Jenna Scullin, explained: “Similar to males, women’s testosterone levels decline gradually over their lifetime.

“By the time a woman is at a menopausal age, it has often halved.”

Men who needed a boost of the hormone had the choice of four funded products, whereas women had no funded options.

Pharmac has twice declined to fund AndroFeme 1, first in 2024, saying the eligibility criteria (“postmenopausal women with HSDD”) was not appropriate and posed significant barriers to equitable access for women – particularly for women who, for cultural reasons, did not wish to undergo aspects of an HSDD diagnosis.

It also considered there was an “uncertain health benefit” in using AndroFeme 1 over the unapproved, or off-label use of Testogel, saying that if equivalent doses were administered, there should not be a significant difference in their effect.

At that stage, the discussion document showed there were 2300 people dispensed Testogel between February and November, and approximately 46 percent of those identified as female.

In 2025, the decision was reassessed, and the result was “no formal recommendation” which meant the previous decision stood – but this time Pharmac noted there was a need to fund a product with an appropriate dose for women, to minimise potential harm.

Endochrinologist Dr Anna Fenton from Oxford Women’s Health explained there was no research on how testosterone was metabolised by the female body.

Endochrinologist Dr Anna Fenton from Oxford Women’s Health. Supplied / Oxford Women’s Health

“Women are being prescribed this without the appropriate baseline testing without, often, follow-up blood testing to make sure the level is appropriate.”

And it could be difficult for women to work out the correct dose of Testogel when it came out of the pump bottle, she said.

“It’s very hard to titrate the dose of a blob of gel, which is what you get from the pump dispenser, into something that is a quarter or a fifth of that dose, which is possibly what’s appropriate for women.”

Fenton said more than half of the women she treated who had been prescribed Testogel were showing testosterone levels that were too high.

“I had a woman the other day who had 12 times the upper end of the female range, so it was well into the male range.”

Side effects included greasy skin, acne or extra body hair growth, but at the extreme end, it could lead to changes in voice or enlargement of the genitals – and those effects were permanent, Fenton said.

New Zealand had “the bare minimum” available when it came to hormone replacements, which included things like oestrogen patches, trailing behind the likes of Australia, the UK, US, and Canada.

She, along with fellow endocrinologists Dr Megan Ogilvie, Dr Sylvia Rosevear, Dr Susannah O’Sullivan and Dr Sasha Nair, have made a joint submission to Pharmac ahead of its meeting, endorsed by the Australasian Menopause Society, urging it to prioritise “evidence-based, female-specific therapies” and fund AndroFeme 1.

“We urge Pharmac to refrain from normalising the use of male-formulated testosterone products in women.”

The company behind Testogel, Pharmaco, has made no claims of its safety for women.

It supplied RNZ with a statement, saying: “Testogel is a prescription medicine specifically formulated and approved to be used by men with low testosterone levels. The relevant data sheets and Consumer Medicine Information clearly state that the medicine should not be used by women.”

Pharmac director for advice and assessment David Hughes confirmed AndroFeme’s application was on the agenda for the Pharmacology and Therapeutics Advisory Committee (PTAC) meeting on Thursday.

“PTAC gives Pharmac clinical advice to help us make decisions about how to use our funding,” he said in a statement. “The committee reviews the evidence behind funding applications and looks at how strong and reliable that evidence is.”

He said a recently-received a submission would be discussed at the meeting.

Pharmac would aim to publish the provisional recommendation online within 30 days of the meeting, although that could be subject to change.

Female testosterone deficiency ‘more than just a low libido’ – health advocate

Scullin said one in three women between the ages of 40 and 64 experienced the effects of reduced sexual desire.

“It’s more than just a low libido, we see that it affects women’s mental health, it affects their social functioning, their relationships, their confidence and their overall wellbeing.

“There’s this view sometimes that a woman’s sexual function is not essential,” she said. “But when a man comes forward with needing assistance, there’s one of four funded options accessible to him.”

She said while some GPs and specialists were comfortable prescribing Testogel to women despite the lack of safety data, a number were not, “so it’s not just that we’re asking for a female-formulated option, but in many cases we’re actually asking for an option for women”.

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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/2026/02/12/health-experts-call-on-pharmac-to-fund-female-specific-testosterone/

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Golf: Hope that Asia-Pacific tournament will inspire girls to take on the world

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand golfer Eunseo Choi at the 2025 Augusta National Women’s Amateur. DAVID CANNON / AFP

Golf New Zealand believes this week’s Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific championship has the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for the game here.

Eighty-four players from 25 countries will take part in the tournament at Royal Wellington with a career-changing opportunity for the winner.

Current world number one Jeeno Thitikul of Thailand won the inaugural tournament in 2018 with the champion receiving invitations to play a number of key tournaments around the world, including three majors.

New Zealand has 10 players taking part, while many others, not quite at that level, will be on course to see the best amateur players in the region.

The growth of boys golf in New Zealand is on a high and while the interest in the girls game is also on the increase, Golf New Zealand would like to see more.

There are more than 2000 under-19 female players registered in New Zealand, an increase of 450 in the past year.

Golf New Zealand’s talent development manager, Liz McKinnon, said hosting the Asia-Pacific women’s tournament here for the first time provided a great opportunity to showcase the women’s game and to help young players in New Zealand.

“There is the obvious impact for our players that are participating, but also for our girls that aren’t at that level yet about the awareness of the event being here. The exposure and the opportunity to watch the event and see the best players from the Asia-Pacific region.”

Wellington golfer Elise Barber. Supplied / WAAP

Many eyes will be on 13-year-old Wellington player Elise Barber who got a late call-up to the event.

She joins a strong New Zealand contingent that includes top-ranked Kiwi Eunseo Choi, who finished 13th at the 2025 championship, and Vivian Lu, who will make her sixth WAAP appearance.

Elise is a Royal Wellington member and WAAP (Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific) Academy graduate and will be the youngest player in the field.

The Queen Margaret College year 9 student, who plays off a +2.3 handicap, had a strong 2025 season including winning her age division at the Australian Junior Championships. She also helped Wellington secure third at the New Zealand Women’s Interprovincial Tournament.

Glenda Swan, who managed Wellington’s interprovincial team and has watched Elise’s development, believes she could be the next big star.

“She has a really well rounded game for her age and what separates her from others her age is her consistency and composure … she is now thinking her way around the course.”

Swan has also been involved in organising the 353 volunteers needed to help the tournament run smoothly.

While the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A) has control of the running of the tournament and the financing of of the players, Royal Wellington club members and the volunteers are those on the ground helping the players and the hoped-for 10,000 spectators enjoy their experience.

Swan said volunteers (aged from 11 to 87) had come from all over the country to help from traffic management to kitchen helpers, scorers and caddies.

Royal Wellington hosted the men’s equivalent tournament in 2017.

New Zealand has 10 players taking part – Eunseo Choi, Vivian Lu, Emma Zheng, Darae Chung, Caitlin Maurice, Juwon Kim, Chloe So, Cherry Lee, Teresa Wang and Elise Barber.

Jeneath Wong of Malaysia will defend her title, while there is a strong contingent from Singapore, China and Australia.

Royal Wellington Golf club house. Marty Melville / PHOTOSPORT

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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/2026/02/12/golf-hope-that-asia-pacific-tournament-will-inspire-girls-to-take-on-the-world/

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NZ-AU: Brazilian Rare Earths Achieves Very High 97% Rare Earth Recovery at 150°C

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

SYDNEY, Feb. 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Brazilian Rare Earths Limited (ASX: BRE / OTCQX: BRELY) (‘BRE’) is pleased to report the results of a metallurgical optimisation program conducted at CDTN, a Brazilian federal research institute with specialist capabilities in metallurgical process development.

The program independently validated low-temperature sulfuric acid curing at 150°C using standard equipment. Importantly, a 15 kg blended composite scale-up test replicated the very high extractions achieved at laboratory-scale, providing increased confidence in scalability.

Key Highlights

  • Very High Extraction Rates: 97% for Total Rare Earth Oxides, 97% for Neodymium + Praseodymium, 83% for Dysprosium, 87% for Terbium and 97% for Uranium
  • Low-Temperature Flowsheet: Peak extraction achieved at 150°C using a low-temperature, acid-cure process – removing the need for high temperature (>250°C) rotary kilns
  • Low-Cost Processing: The low-temperature acid-cure process delivers high recoveries at materially lower energy intensity – supports potential for lower opex and capex flowsheet using conventional paddle mixers
  • Exceptional End-to-End System Yields: When combined with recently announced ore sorting recovery of +95%, estimated total ‘mineral-to-product’ recovery of ~91% TREO and ~89% for Uranium
  • Further Optimisation Upsides: Opportunities to shorten wash durations, optimise process acids and intensity, while maintaining or improving high extraction performance
Table 1: Blended composite extraction results (15 kg) & end-to-end system yields
Oxide Head Grade
(ppm)		   Extraction
(%)		   End-to-End Yield
(%)		   Recovered
Grade (ppm)		  
TREO (Total Rare Earth Oxides) 196,083   97   91   179,279  
NdPr (Neodymium + Praseodymium) 31,050   97   92   28,543  
Tb (Terbium) 246   87   82   203  
Dy (Dysprosium) 1,383   83   78   1,081  
Y (Yttrium) 6,361   84   79   5,019  
U (Uranium) 2,627   97   89   2,347  
Note: End-to-end yield is calculated as the product of extraction rates achieved in the 15 kg blended composite metallurgical test, an ore-sorting recovery of 95%, and recoveries from additional downstream metallurgical steps previously evaluated by ANSTO to produce a Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate. Recovered grade is calculated as the product of head grade and end-to-end yield.  


BRE Managing Director and CEO, Bernardo da Veiga, commented:

“Our metallurgy program validated a low-temperature, acid-cure process which delivers industry-leading recoveries for both rare earth and uranium products.

Importantly, the results support the potential for leading total system yields – from mineral to product – a key driver for efficiency and cost performance. When combined with Monte Alto’s ore sorting yield of +95%, the total system product recovery is 92% for NdPr, up to 82% for the heavy rare earths DyTb and Y, and 89% for uranium.

These results are key to unlocking value from the high-grade mineralisation across our Rocha da Rocha province. This acid-cure process eliminates the need for energy-intensive thermal cracking and supports the engineering simplicity required for scalable deployment at our centralised Camaçari rare earth processing hub.

We are now focused on applying this proven flowsheet to our broader resource base that will allow us to integrate multiple high-grade feedstocks into a flexible ‘hub-and-spoke’ production platform.”

A link to the full release can be found here.

Contacts

Bernardo Da Veiga, Managing Director and CEO

investors@brazilianrareearths.com
www.brazilianrareearths.com

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/nz-au-brazilian-rare-earths-achieves-very-high-97-rare-earth-recovery-at-150c/

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NZ-AU: Innovation Beverage Group Provides Update on Merger with BlockFuel Energy and Production Restart to Advance Dual Revenue Model Spanning Energy and Digital Asset Mining

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

SYDNEY, Feb. 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innovation Beverage Group Ltd (“IBG” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: IBG), an innovative developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, today provided an update regarding its proposed merger with BlockFuel Energy Inc., a Texas corporation (“BFE”), including operational, financial, and strategic milestones that position the combined transaction parties as a capital-efficient energy producer with a differentiated digital infrastructure growth strategy.

The companies remain on track to complete the merger in the first quarter of 2026, subject to customary approvals and closing conditions. Integration planning continues, with a clear focus on building a vertically integrated platform that monetizes hydrocarbons through both conventional sales channels and potential digital energy applications.

Ten wells are currently back in production, with an additional seven wells expected to be returned to production by month-end, materially increasing active production and available gas volumes across the portfolio.

BFE expects to complete its first oil and gas sales in February 2026, with initial revenues anticipated before the end of the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. These initial oil and gas revenues are expected to provide near-term cash-flow visibility following completion of the merger.

Digital Energy and Mining Strategy

In parallel with production restarts, planning is advancing for the potential deployment of digital mining infrastructure powered directly by natural gas produced onsite. Initial planning takes into consideration modular, wellhead-adjacent generation and mining deployments, allowing capacity to scale in-line with gas availability and capital deployment.

Based on preliminary engineering and comparable field deployments, BFE management believes onsite gas-to-power costs may be meaningfully below grid-based power pricing, while avoiding transportation, processing, and third-party power costs. Even modest allocations of produced gas to digital infrastructure may support incremental margins per unit of gas, while preserving flexibility to sell gas into traditional markets.

Daniel Lanskey, Chief Executive Officer of BlockFuel Energy, commented, “We view Bitcoin mining not as speculation, but as energy infrastructure. At its core, our strategy is about converting underutilized natural gas at the site into productive, revenue-generating capacity. By collocating modular power and mining directly at the wellhead, we believe the combined company can deploy capital efficiently, operate at a low effective energy cost, and scale output in-line with production. This approach has the potential to improve overall project economics while giving shareholders disciplined exposure to digital asset upside.”

The integrated energy-and-mining model is expected to enhance resilience across commodity cycles and provide a flexible demand sink for gas, while creating incremental cash flow per well without compromising conventional production strategy.

Portfolio Expansion and Scale

Further strengthening the asset base, BFE has executed a Letter of Intent with a previous vendor to acquire additional nearby producing oil fields, adding approximately 4,000 contiguous acres to its portfolio. The proposed acquisition is expected to both expand scale and improve operating efficiencies, increasing gas volumes available for both traditional sales and digital energy initiatives.

Management of the companies believe these milestones demonstrate disciplined execution across production, capital formation, and infrastructure planning, while reinforcing the strategic rationale for the IBG-BFE merger.

Upon completion, the combined group is expected to emerge as a small-cap, integrated energy company with near-term production, diversified revenue streams, and a scalable gas-to-digital infrastructure platform positioned to deliver long-term shareholder value.

Further updates will be provided as the merger, financing, production restart, digital mining deployment, and acquisition initiatives continue to progress toward completion.

About Innovation Beverage Group Ltd

Innovation Beverage Group is a developer, manufacturer, marketer, exporter, and retailer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands for which it owns exclusive manufacturing rights. Focused on premium and super premium brands and market categories where it can disrupt age old brands, IBG’s brands include Australian Bitters, BITTERTALES, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker, and more. IBG’s most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which is a well-established and favored bitters brand in Australia. Established in 2018, IBG’s headquarters, manufacturing and flavor innovation center are located in Sydney, Australia with a U.S. sales office located in California. For more information visit: https://www.innovationbev.com/.

About BlockFuel Energy

BlockFuel Energy is involved in the acquisition, exploration and development of proven oil fields onshore in North America. By turning natural gas at the source, including stranded and flared gas, into a potent resource for the digital era, BlockFuel Energy intends to redefine the energy industry. BlockFuel Energy combines state-of-the-art power generation with oil and gas exploration to power bitcoin mining operations and high-performance data centers. Our vertically integrated concept allows us to use co-location and modular power generation techniques to optimize efficiency and investment returns. Our cutting-edge solutions for energy optimization and extraction will enable us to transform underdeveloped resources into high-margin, scalable, and sustainable revenue streams. For more information visit: https://blockfuelenergy.com/.

Forward Looking Statement

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the proposed merger between IBG and BlockFuel Energy, anticipated operational milestones, expected production levels, anticipated oil and gas sales, planned financing activities, potential deployment of digital infrastructure, expected economic benefits of such activities, and the proposed acquisition of additional oil field assets.

Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “projects,” “intends,” “believes,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” or similar expressions. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These risks include, among others, the ability of the parties to execute definitive transaction documents, satisfy closing conditions, obtain regulatory and stockholder approvals, commodity price volatility, operational risks, financing risks, regulatory developments relating to digital assets, and other risks described in IBG’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Neither IBG nor BFE undertakes any obligation to update such statements except as required by law.

Contact:

Innovation Beverage Group Limited
Sahil Beri
CEO
sahil@innovationbev.com
www.innovationbev.com

BlockFuel Energy Inc.
Daniel Lanskey
President and CEO
dan.lanskey@blockfuelenergy.com
www.blockfuelenergy.com

Investor Relations:
KCSA Strategic Communications
Phil Carlson, Managing Director
BlockFuel@KCSA.com

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/nz-au-innovation-beverage-group-provides-update-on-merger-with-blockfuel-energy-and-production-restart-to-advance-dual-revenue-model-spanning-energy-and-digital-asset-mining/

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NZ’s biggest triathlon festival toasts 20 years – Challenge Wānaka

Source: Challenge Wānaka

Next week’s anticipated Challenge Wānaka marks 20 years of New Zealand’s largest triathlon festival, which has attracted more than 25,000 athletes and injected more than $54 million into the local economy over the past two decades.

Part of the global Challenge Family – which runs middle and long-distance triathlon races in more than 30 countries – the Challenge Wānaka Half has been a cornerstone of NZ’s triathlon scene since 2007. It is regarded as a stepping stone for talented young age-group triathletes hoping to qualify for pinnacle world championship events and turn pro. It’s also a key event for the Wānaka community, providing an annual economic boost for the tourism town.

Challenge Wānaka event director Jane Sharman says that while road bikes, wetsuits and race tech have vastly improved over the past two decades, the pulling power of the event for triathletes and spectators remains the same.

“As we reflect on 20 years, it’s very exciting to see how far the festival has come and everything our athletes have achieved,” she says. “Challenge Wānaka has played a part in launching some incredible pro athletes and international racing careers. But it’s also a fantastic grassroots event where anyone can take part, in the most beautiful corner of the world.

“Of course, the youth events have long been a highlight and some of our pro athletes who started out racing in Challenge Wānaka are now watching their own children participate, so it’s very special for them.”

One of those athletes is two-time Challenge Wānaka winner and former Team NZ cyclor Dougal Allan, who will be cheering on his own children, Flynn and Matilda, at the Challenge Wānaka triathlon festival next week. Some 2100 kids will be taking part in the festival this year, from age two and up.

“Competing in and eventually winning Challenge Wānaka in 2016 and 2017 launched my profile into the world of international triathlon,” he says. “Challenge Wānaka was always known as one of the toughest and most honest long-distance triathlon events in the world and winning it was a huge badge of honour. It also led to being invited to race the famous Challenge Roth event in 2017 in Germany, which remains one of the biggest racing experiences of my life.

“Whether it is an athlete’s ambition to race pro or not, Challenge Wānaka offers the opportunity to be part of a very professionally organised event that offers so much across the weekend, from the event village to the crowd support. It is a truly internationally recognised event that’s made very accessible to domestic athletes. While these days I’m no longer competing, it’s great to be coaching some of those athletes lining up for next weekend’s race.”

The event welcomes athletes from all over NZ and the world every year, and some from closer to home, too. Wānaka GP Dr Andrew McLeod has participated in every Challenge Wānaka race since its inception.

“I don’t remember much of that first race in 2007 but I clearly remember crossing the line, already analysing what I’d done wrong, what I’d somehow done right, and how I’d do it better next time,” he recalls. “Twenty years on – and after races across NZ, Australia, North America and Europe – I’m still learning.

“Along the way my wife Karen and I have been to amazing places, met wonderful people, and so often heard the words: ‘You’re from Wānaka? I’ve always wanted to do that event.’ Being part of something that inspires that reaction is pretty special, and it’s probably why I keep coming back.”

This year’s Challenge Wānaka brings together more than 850 athletes competing in the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half, including 376 athletes in the individual half event. The anticipated professional field features Mike Phillips, Frederic Funk, Jack Moody, Tamara Jewett, Rebecca Clarke, Gabrielle Lumkes, and Lucy Byram. More than 155 teams are also entered, with 18 teams vying for the Gallagher Insurance Corporate Trophy, while friends and family team up for a fun day of swim, bike, and run. Media personality Brodie Kane will take on the 1.9km swim as part of a relay team.  

The 2026 Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half is also an opportunity for age-group athletes to claim a National Title and qualify to wear the silver fern at the 2026 World Championships, as part of the Tri NZ Suzuki Series.

“This year’s event is set to be extra special to celebrate 20 years of Challenge Wānaka,” Sharman says. “This festival has always been about more than racing; it’s about community, resilience and the shared excitement of pushing boundaries in one of the world’s most scenic locations. We’re incredibly proud of the athletes, volunteers and supporters who return year after year to help make Challenge Wānaka a standout on the world triathlon stage.”
 
About Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka
The Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka is one of the world’s most scenic triathlon festivals, held annually in New Zealand’s stunning Southern Lakes region. Featuring a range of events, including the flagship middle-distance triathlon, multisport races, and AquaBike, the festival welcomes athletes of all levels. Operated by the Challenge Wānaka Sports Trust, a charitable organisation committed to community wellbeing, the event supports youth, adaptive athletes, and local charities through inclusive sport and recreation initiatives. In 2026, the Challenge Wānaka Festival event will mark its 20th year, taking place from February 19 – February 21. Registrations at  www.challenge-wanaka.com

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/nzs-biggest-triathlon-festival-toasts-20-years-challenge-wanaka/

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New approach for Carillon at National War Memorial reflects Anzac connection

Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage

The iconic Carillon bells have not sounded out across Pukeahu National War Memorial Park since 2020, due to earthquake strengthening to the carillon tower. Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage has revealed a new approach to ensure visitors hear the instrument played again soon.
“Earthquake strengthening work at the National War Memorial is progressing well and we are planning to reopen before Anzac Day 2026,” says Secretary for Culture and Heritage Leauanae Laulu Mac Leauanae.
“We’ve been able to draw upon the expertise of carillonists from the Carillon Society of Australia as we plan for future recitals – a fitting connection as we approach Anzac Day.
“Last year, I decided the Ministry would look at new ways to secure more sustainable services for playing the Carillon. Australia provides a useful model. There are more than 20 carillonists in Australia who share the workload between three carillons in Canberra, Sydney, and Bathurst.
“Our plan is to develop local talent and capability over time, so there is a pipeline of future musicians that can play one of the world’s largest instruments, and a taonga of remembrance in the heart of our capital.
“The National War Memorial Carillon is a key part of commemorations at Pukeahu National War Memorial Park. We look forward to sharing the schedule for regular recitals once it’s finalised.”
Leauanae acknowledged the long-term service of recently retired National Carillonist Timothy Hurd QSM.
“Timothy has been an important part of Pukeahu National War Memorial Park for more than four decades. We thank him for his dedication and wish him the best for the future,” says Leauanae.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/new-approach-for-carillon-at-national-war-memorial-reflects-anzac-connection/

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Super Rugby Pacific: Are Moana Pasifika getting a raw deal?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fijian Drua v Moana Pasifika

Kick-off: 4:35pm Saturday 14 February

Churchill Park, Lautoka

Live blog updates on RNZ

Are Moana Pasifika getting a raw deal when it comes to home matches? Under their current licensing agreement, they can only host five games in Auckland per season, due to fears it would saturate the viewing market.

It means that despite the massive increase in support at their new home of North Harbour Stadium during last year’s breakout season, Moana have decided to play their first home game at Pukekohe’s Navigation Homes Stadium on 27 February against the Force. Their first game back at North Harbour won’t be until round four against the Crusaders, over a month after the season has started.

Read: Moana Pasifika preview

Coach Tana Umaga said that the shift was “just the reality of the environment we live in.”

“Some of the guidelines that are put around us we have no control of. We’re governed by other people in terms of that aspect.”

Moana Pasifika fans, crowd and supporters, Hurricanes v Moana Pasifika, round 16 of the Super Rugby Pacific competition. Photosport / Elias Rodriguez

Moana’s original licensing agreement as an expansion team was awarded in as conditional in April 2021, but complications over finance, the competition format and getting buy-in from Rugby Australia led to extended delays in it being granted fully. In 2022 it was confirmed that Sport New Zealand provided the $4m underwrite to Moana Pasifika Limited and a $500,000 operating grant for the Moana Pasifika Charitable Trust.

It’s believed that the restriction on Auckland-based games was at the behest of cross-town rivals the Blues. That’s meant that Moana need to find new homes for two of their games, with the Force fixture going to Pukekohe and the round nine clash with the Chiefs being played at Teufaiva Sport Stadium in Tonga.

Umaga could see a positive of playing in Pukekohe, given that he played and coached at Counties-Manukau.

“Some of us have a good connection with Puke and it’s obviously out south, so there are our people out there.”

Still, the former All Black captain said the rules could be looked at so that his side could get a full compliment of home games.

Fans at the North Harbour stadium. Coco Lance

“I would love to have a discussion around that. Those (rules) were put in earlier, but I would love to have a discussion around how the how those could possibly change and be better, and we can get on equal footing as other teams. But at this stage we’re not having those. We just got to keep earning the right to make sure that we can keep our place here.”

Umaga made a stark comparison when asked about the equal footing between not just Moana and the Blues, but other local pro teams Auckland FC and the Warriors.

“Financially? Definitely not. But that’s what it is. The people before us, they got us to this point, that’s what they had to do to get us involved in this competition. And I think if we can keep working hard both on and off the field to (be) a big part of this competition, that hopefully you know, we can have those discussions.”

Moana Pasifika open their season on Saturday afternoon with perhaps the toughest assignment in Super Rugby Pacific, facing the Fijian Drua in the oppressive heat and humidity of Lautoka’s Churchill Park.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/super-rugby-pacific-are-moana-pasifika-getting-a-raw-deal/

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Christchurch terrorist tried to use top human rights lawyer as his ‘mouthpiece’, court hears

Source: Radio New Zealand

Al Noor Mosque where 51 people were killed in a terrorist attack in 2019. RNZ / Nate McKinnon

The white supremacist who massacred 51 people in the Christchurch terror attack attempted to engage a leading human rights lawyer to act as his “mouthpiece”.

Australian Brenton Tarrant wants the Court of Appeal to overturn his convictions and sentence for the March 2019 shootings at Christchurch’s Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre.

The 35-year-old now claims he pleaded guilty only because he was irrational due to the solitary nature of his prison conditions.

On Wednesday afternoon, the court heard from Dr Tony Ellis, who represented the terrorist for about six months in 2021, and Ron Mansfield KC, who represented him for just over a year from late 2021.

Ellis told the court he was primarily engaged by Tarrant to obtain a copy of the Royal Commission of Inquiry’s report into the terror attack.

He obtained a copy of the report and sent it to the prison, however, it did not reach the terrorist.

Ellis said the terrorist had also raised the possibility of launching an appeal. But the lawyer was not willing to act for him.

“If I was going to act for him on appeal he wanted me to do precisely as ordered and basically act as his mouthpiece,” he said.

“I told him I wasn’t prepared to act in those circumstances.”

Ellis had spoken to the terrorist a dozen times on the phone and the conversations were often lengthy.

“Many clients who have been detained in solitary confinement, they want to have a chat with somebody because its psychologically harmful to be left in solitary confinement and you need human interaction,” he told the court.

Mansfield had primarily been engaged to assist the terrorist in preparing for the coronial inquiry into the deaths of the 51 people murdered on 15 March 2019.

He then assisted the terrorist with taking steps towards seeking judicial review of his prison conditions.

Mansfield found the terrorist’s prison conditions to be unsatisfactory.

The terrorist had also raised the possibility of appealing his convictions and sentence, Mansfield said.

However, the terrorist had discussed the possibility of representing himself.

The terrorist dispensed with Mansfield’s services in April 2023 after becoming frustrated at the time it took for his legal matters to progress.

The Court of Appeal will hear legal arguments on Thursday and Friday.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/christchurch-terrorist-tried-to-use-top-human-rights-lawyer-as-his-mouthpiece-court-hears/