Category: CTF

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An Artful Evolution: Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan Unveils Sustainability-led Refresh

Source: Media Outreach

BALI, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – The multi-award-winning architecture ofFour Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan – an awe-inspiring, suspended rice bowl structure – remains as pioneering today as when it was unveiled 28 years ago. Now, the Forbes Five-Star resort draws on those cutting-edge foundations to reveal a thoughtful reimagining of its luxury riverside suite accommodations and jungle-view dining spaces.

The resort has partnered with the world’s largest hospitality design firm, Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), for a revamp anchored in Balinese harmony and heritage. Guided by an ethos of refined, rejuvenated, and liveable, the resort refresh launches in July 2026 across seven suite accommodations: five Premier Duplex Suites and two Family Premier Suites.

Ayung Terrace – the resort’s elevated jungle-vista restaurant – and Jati Bar, its river valley hideaway, will also showcase new furniture, colour schemes and styling. Every element of the refresh is rooted in respect for the jungle, rice paddy and Ayung River valley surrounds.

Inspired by Craftmanship and Culture

Existing design elements combine with Balinese textiles and craftsmanship to weave a rich tapestry of local artistry in the upgraded guest sanctuaries. Light, earthy fabrics inspired by Ubud’s rice paddies partner with dark, stained wood for a fresh contemporary vibe.

Through the redesign, HBA pay homage to the resort’s original architectural concept while offering a renewed aesthetic and meeting contemporary demands. Integrated smart home elements like LUTRON lighting offer seamless control over the suite environment.

The Following Reimagined Suites Will be Open to Guests from July 2026:

  • Premier Duplex Suite – The ultimate retreat for couples who appreciate extra space, this two-level one-bedroom suite includes a dining area with floor-to-ceiling river-view windows, and a sun terrace. Rich teak wood and hand-loomed fabrics create a warm, welcoming ambience.
  • Family Premier Suite – Ideally located in the resort’s main building near the restaurants and spa, this luxury one-bedroom suite features a beautifully designed kids’ room. A large living space and views over the river valley provide a soothing retreat for the entire family.

Driven by Sustainability

From reused materials to energy-saving fixtures, the redesign is deeply grounded in sustainability principles. All new guest rooms have energy-efficient LED lighting alongside new air conditioning units that use environmentally friendly energy-saving refrigerants.

Optimising the existing framework and reusing and refurbishing through careful craftmanship has reduced the need for new building materials. Any new materials used have been carefully chosen for longevity and locally sourced where possible.

Dining with a Difference

Soaring over the lush jungle river valley, Ayung Terrace restaurant has long immersed diners in a sense of wonderment and natural beauty. Now, new elements such as plush grey river-view sofas, elegant wooden chairs and marbled-topped tables infuse a vibrant burst of energy. At Jati Bar, welcoming sofas and chairs in natural green and grey tones offer an elevated setting in which to enjoy creative cocktails, light bites and river vistas.

“Four Seasons Sayan is known for its cutting-edge design and architecture,” comments Tim Churchmack, Resort Manager, Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan. “This new design honours that heritage and pays further homage to our incredible natural home. We’re thrilled to unveil these elevated living and dining spaces with intuitive, modern facilities within refreshed surrounds. It’s an exciting new era for Four Seasons Sayan.”

The refresh follows a stand-out few years for the multi-award-winning riverside hideaway, including earning an inaugural Michelin key in 2025 for exceptional, unforgettable guest experiences. In the same year, the newly re-launched Sacred River Spa secured a Four-Star rating from Forbes Travel Guide, hot on the heels of Ayung Terrace’s 2024 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for its unique, locally focused wine list.

Hashtag: #FourSeasonsBali

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/an-artful-evolution-four-seasons-resort-bali-at-sayan-unveils-sustainability-led-refresh/

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Kaikōura farmer fined $35k for failing to register hundreds of cattle

Source: Radio New Zealand

Trevor Bolton, failed to track or register the movements of cattle on and off his farms. (File photo) RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A Kaikōura dairy farmer has been fined $35,000 for failing to register hundreds of cattle or track their movements on and off his farms.

Trevor Ronald Bolton, 59, was sentenced at the Kaikōura District Court on March 6, after pleading guilty to three charges under the National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) Act.

Under the act, the movement of all cattle or deer must be declared to Operational Solutions for Primary Industries within 48 hours.

Animals must also be fitted with a NAIT tag and registered in the system by the time the animal is 180 days old or before it is moved off a farm. 

A Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) investigation found Bolton had not registered 269 animals, failed to declare 571 animals that were moved off-farm and failed to declare the movement of 83 animals onto his two large dairy farms.

He was fined $11,666 for each of the failures.

MPI district manager of animal welfare and NAIT compliance upper south Paul Soper said the system was critical in tracing animals to manage disease or biosecurity incursions.

“This farmer’s failures under the NAIT Act related to almost 1000 animals. As we have learned from our experience with Mycoplasma bovis it only takes one animal to cause a problem,” he said.

Soper said MPI took non-compliance with the animal tracing rules seriously.

“Put simply, when people in charge of animals disregard or fail to live up to their NAIT obligations they put the whole agricultural sector at risk,” he said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/kaikoura-farmer-fined-35k-for-failing-to-register-hundreds-of-cattle/

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Taihoro reborn: Team NZ launches upgraded AC75 ahead of America’s Cup defence

Source: Radio New Zealand

Emirates Team New Zealand’s new AC75 sailing on Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf James Somerset

Team New Zealand’s boat Taihoro is officially out of the shed and ready to hit the water ahead of next year’s America’s Cup.

The team relaunched their AC75 at their Wynyard Point base in Auckland on Monday, a milestone in a campaign that is focussed on securing a historic fourth consecutive victory in Naples in 2027.

While Taihoro is the same vessel that dominated the waters of Barcelona, it has undergone a significant refit to meet the new 38th America’s Cup rules.

Team New Zealand chief executive officer Grant Dalton said “to outsiders, there may not be a huge amount that is apparently different”.

“From the outside it looks similar.”

Under strict cost-containment measures, teams are restricted to their legacy hulls used in the last Cup.

To remain compliant, Team New Zealand’s designers worked within razor-thin margins, limited to three specific modification categories:

  • Cockpit Reconfiguration: Extensive work to transition the deck layout for the new crew requirements.
  • Structural Rebuilds: The team was permitted to rebuild up to 4sqm of the hull using the same shape but different materials, allowing for localised strengthening or weight optimisation.
  • Functional Rebates: Modifications were made to add rebates to maximize aerodynamic efficiency.

Team New Zealand’s head of design Dan Bernasconi said despite the same hulls being used again, the rules still allow for some significant technological developments and improvements in the AC75’s.

“The hulls have always been one of the most noticeable features on an America’s Cup yacht, but because the hulls spend so much time out of the water, there is actually not that much difference in the performance of hulls, maybe five seconds around the race course across all of the boats in Barcelona.

“So the class rule and design parameters still allow for important gains and difference in performance from the foils, sails and control systems for example. As with every iteration of the same class of boat, there is no doubt the racing will be a lot closer this time around between all teams.

“So, as always, winning will be a massive challenge for the whole team.”

Team New Zealand first unveiled Taihoro ahead of the 2024 America’s Cup in Barcelona. LLUIS GENE / AFP

Chief operating officer Kevin Shoebridge also expected a step up in performance.

“Internally, our philosophy is to always drive innovation and technology, so we think Taihoro ‘2.0’ will be a great step on from what we saw in Barcelona.” .

The most radical visual transformation lies in the crew pod on either side of the AC75.

The cyclors, who used leg power to provide hydraulic pressure have been retired as per the Protocol. In their place sits a standardised battery system for use across all teams.

This high-capacity battery is now the primary source of power for the yacht’s complex foil and sail control systems.

This technological leap has direct consequences for the crew, moving the challenge from physical exertion to digital discipline, as sailors must manage finite battery limits throughout the race.

Crew sizes have shrunk from eight down to five.

With an odd number of crew, roles are becoming more fluid, or roles like flight control and sail trimming may be further consolidated.

Skipper Nathan Outteridge said there is a lot of anticipation around what the roles of the five sailors will be.

“When you look across all of the teams, the question is who will be in the different positions.

“For us, we have a fresh new team which is an exciting mix of young talent and experience so what that eventually looks like in July next year we don’t know right now. That’s part of what the next block sailing Taihoro is about.”

One certainty in the coming days is Olympic gold and silver medallist Jo Aleh is set to become the first woman to crew an AC75 as a new rule introduced to extend the pathways beyond the AC40’s and Women’s America’s Cup to the America’s Cup itself.

A notable addition to the new layout is a dedicated guest racer pod, designed to allow a non-crew member to experience the raw G-forces of an AC75 at full flight, a feature not seen since the days of the version 5 IACC boats in 2007.

Team New Zealand will be utilising the guest racer spot throughout their sailing block in Auckland over the coming weeks.

The relaunch ceremony was centred around the cultural traditions that have come to define the team’s identity with Iwi Manaaki Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei presiding over the event, blessing Taihoro once again.

The blessing reconnected the vessel with its name, meaning “to move swiftly as the sea between both sky and earth”.

Aucklanders and America’s Cup followers will not have to wait long to see the Taihoro in action.

With the AC75 ready to go sailing, the first seen in the 38th America’s Cup cycle, the team will begin an intensive testing block immediately. Over the coming weeks, Taihoro will be a regular fixture on the Hauraki Gulf, flying across the water as the crew acclimates to the new dynamics of the freshly evolved AC75 before the team refocuses on AC40 racing at the first Preliminary Regatta in Cagliari, Sardinia in May.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/taihoro-reborn-team-nz-launches-upgraded-ac75-ahead-of-americas-cup-defence/

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Advocacy – Government needs to close “back-door” method of restricting rights using proposed “move-on orders” – PSNA

Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa

 

PSNA has written to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith today requesting proposed ‘move-on’ laws will specifically continue to allow free speech and the right to protest under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.

 

The approach to government comes in the wake of last week’s attempt by Christchurch City Councillor, Aaron Keown, to close down Palestine solidarity protests at Christchurch’s Bridge of Remembrance. 

 

As reported on Radio New Zealand Keown is insisting the police are keen to use the proposed new laws to shift protests on:

 

Keown said police told him months ago that they needed powers like the proposed move-on orders, which he believed would help disperse protesters.

Councillor Keown welcomed the newly announced move-on powers, which he believed would “absolutely help” disperse protesters, something Woods (Amnesty International director of advocacy and movement building Lisa Woods) said was of grave concern to Amnesty International.

 

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa’s Co-chair, John Minto says Keown’s statements contradict assurances made by senior police when a PSNA delegation met with them two weeks ago in Wellington to discuss increasing attacks on Palestine solidarity supporters by IDF soldiers and other elements of the pro-Israel lobby. 

 

“At the meeting police specifically told our delegation these ‘move-on’ orders would NOT be used to restrict protest rights.”

 

“So, there is a mass of confusion around over the proposed new law.”

“We need the Justice Minister to use clear wording, when he introduces legislation into Parliament, that anyone exercising their rights under the Bill of Rights Act will not be included.”

 

“We already have many laws which were introduced for a particular purpose, but which have been used to restrict the right to protest – for example trespass orders and ‘unlawful assembly’ provisions under the Crimes Act,” Minto says.

 

“New Zealanders rights to free speech and right to protest in public are under attack. Last year police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority colluded to propose legislation which would have required police permission to organise a protest”

 

“Authoritarian regimes the world over are putting heavy restriction on the right to protest. Many of them claim to be democracies.  It’s important we resist jack-boot policing here.”

 

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/advocacy-government-needs-to-close-back-door-method-of-restricting-rights-using-proposed-move-on-orders-psna/

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Tech – NEW INDUSTRY CODE COMBATS ONLINE SCAMMERS – Tech New Zealand

Source: Tech New Zealand

MARCH 9, 2026 – In a significant milestone for consumer protection, Tech New Zealand has partnered with three of the world’s largest digital platforms to launch the New Zealand Online Scams Code (NZOSC): https://technewzealand.org.nz/the-code/online-scams-code/

Signed by founding signatories Google, Meta and TikTok, the Code entails 38 concrete commitments to combatting online scams, spanning blocking, reporting, takedowns, advertising, email/messaging, law enforcement, intelligence sharing, consumer communications, and future-proofing. The Code aligns New Zealand with international best practice, and is based on Australia’s Online Scams Code, developed by Australian industry association Digital Industry Group Inc. (DIGI).

Tech New Zealand CEO Graeme Muller said the Code, which is voluntary and open to any digital industry organisation to adopt for its own use, significantly raises the level of digital protection for consumers.

“Scammers are sophisticated, well-resourced and operating at scale and New Zealanders deserve an industry that meets that challenge head on. The New Zealand Online Scams Code is exactly that: a practical, public commitment from the digital industry to protect the people who use our platforms every day.”

The Code was launched at Parliament on 9 March 2026 to a gathering of senior government representatives, policy makers and industry leaders from across Aotearoa’s tech ecosystem, united in their belief that protecting New Zealanders online is a collective responsibility.

“This is what good tech looks like in practice: industry and government working together, proactively raising the bar for every New Zealander,” said Mr Muller.

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson, who is also the lead Minister against scams, said the new code is a key action from the New Zealand Anti-Scam Alliance, launched last year.  

“The Alliance is working to strengthen multiple industry codes of conduct. So far, banks have introduced the Code of Banking Practice, and the telecommunications sector is reviewing its Scam Prevention Code.

“Today’s announcement of the New Zealand Online Scams Code, aimed at digital platforms, provides another tool in the war against scams. We will be monitoring the code’s success, and make adjustments if needed, so that New Zealanders can feel safer online.

“My goal as the lead Minister against scams is to make New Zealand the least attractive target for scammers.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/tech-new-industry-code-combats-online-scammers-tech-new-zealand/

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Legislation – Employment Leave Bill a long-overdue step towards clarity – EMA

Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the Employment Leave Bill, which was introduced to Parliament today, marks a significant and long-overdue step towards fixing a Holidays Act that has frustrated employers and employees for more than a decade.
Alan McDonald, Head of Advocacy and Strategy at the EMA, says it is encouraging to see the reform progressing at pace after several previous attempts stalled.
“Successive governments have acknowledged the problems, but this is the first time in years we’ve seen meaningful progress,” he says. 
“It’s good to see the reforms maintaining momentum as this overhaul has been needed for a very long time.”
McDonald says the Bill’s shift to a standard-hours-based calculation is a major improvement, but one that will require employers and employees to work through the practical implications.
“It significantly simplifies the system for both employers and employees, which is what everyone has been asking for. But there’s still a bit for employers to get their heads around, particularly how standard hours apply to existing arrangements and how employment contracts may need to be updated.”
The two-year implementation window for the new legislation is sensible and gives employers and employees time to adjust to new systems, rewrite contracts, and work through transition issues.
“There are questions that need more clarity as implementation approaches,” McDonald says. 
“In particular, how existing leave balances will be treated, how built-up entitlements will roll over to the new system, and how the rules apply to people with variable or commission-based earnings. Those transition details matter, and employers and employees need certainty on how to manage those changes.”
McDonald says EMA members will welcome the pro-rata approach for sick leave entitlements for part-time workers.
“Ten days’ sick leave for all workers, regardless of whether they work one shift or five, was introduced as a Covid-era measure that we didn’t support at the time. Moving to a pro-rated system for part-time workers is fairer and better reflects the reality of modern work.”
McDonald says the Leave Compensation Payment (LCP) is an important offset to the change for part-time and casual workers, but it’s another new concept employers need to manage.
With the Bill now before Parliament and submissions opening shortly, the EMA is encouraging members to back the reforms.
“Now that we have a workable solution on the table, we want to see the base settings stay in place long enough for the new system to bed in,” McDonald says. 
“The old rules were universally seen as unworkable, but no one wants to finally fix it only to have it quickly changed again.”
He says the submission process is the right time for employers to raise technical issues or propose refinements.
“This is the moment to make improvements. The next few weeks will be important, and we’ll be urging our members to submit in support of the Bill.”
Once the Employment Leave Bill has passed its first reading, submissions can be made to Parliament’s Education and Workforce Select Committee.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/legislation-employment-leave-bill-a-long-overdue-step-towards-clarity-ema/

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Luxon: Bad poll result ‘not a major focus’ for National

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Prime Minister continues to insist he has the backing of his party and colleagues, and that he has only discussed last week’s disastrous poll “in passing”.

The Taypayers Union-Curia poll last week put National on 28.4 percent – its lowest result since he became leader.

Speaking at his post-Cabinet media conference this afternoon, Christopher Luxon said polling was not a major focus of discussion with his ministers and fellow National MPs.

He said the media had “gone a bit bananas” on the poll result, and his support amongst the caucus was solid.

He said he did not need to talk to members of his party over the weekend to know he had their support.

“I talk to my ministers and MPs all of the time. In passing I talked about the poll results, but I talked about lots of other things.”

He said the poll had not been a “major focus”.

“I can reassure you I’ll be the leader going into the election on November 7.”

Luxon said the poll result was just one of many, and that only one poll really mattered to him.

“Every day I’m talking to Kiwis and the key thing is their poll – and they tell me they’re frustrated with the cost of living and frustrated with the speed of the economic recovery, and that’s what they want us to do.”

He added that the kinds of numbers seen in last week’s poll were “not going to happen” on Election Day.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. RNZ / Angus Dreaver

Riding the economic shockwaves

Finance Minister Nicola Willis also spoke at this afternoon’s press conference, and sought to give reassurance the government could respond to any economic shocks caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

Willis said the potential impacts to GDP depended on how long the conflict lasted – saying it could be between -0.2 to -0.4 percent, but beyond that it depended on the global trajectory for growth.

She said there were so many different scenarios that she could not give precise figures.

“We are already seeing impacts in the price New Zealanders pay for petrol and we can anticipate a range of potential consequences for supply chains, trade, inflation and future economic activity.”

Willis did say it was unlikely the government will cut fuel excise taxes.

“I’d love to be able to say I can take away the pain right now, but I’m conscious that short term gain could lead to longer term pain, and I’m mindful that any immediate actions do come with a longer term cost.”

She said while there is a lot of volatile in global oil prices, the government does not expect fuel companies to take advantage of rising prices.

“We have asked the Commerce Commission to step up its monitoring of fuel prices and if necessary to call out any suspect pricing behaviour by retailers.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/luxon-bad-poll-result-not-a-major-focus-for-national/

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Te Papa, botanical gardens added to measles locations of interest

Source: Radio New Zealand

Te Papa was one of the locations visited by the tourist in February. CC4.0

A tourist who was in New Zealand while infected with measles visited Te Papa museum and the Wellington botanical gardens.

On Sunday, Health New Zealand confirmed 13 other measles locations of interest linked to the traveller between 23-27 February.

The case was confirmed after they left the country.

Trains, tourist spots, Parliament tours and both Wellington and Auckland airports are among the locations of interest.

The health agency has added Te Papa and the Wellington Botanical Gardens to the list on Monday afternoon.

The person visited Te Papa Museum on 26 February between 10am and 1pm and Wellington Botanical Gardens on he same day between 1pm and 2.30pm.

Health New Zealand said anyone who suspected they had measles should phone ahead before visiting their doctor so they could take precautions to stop it spreading.

Symptoms include a runny nose, fever, cough, sore watery eyes and a rash that develops a few days after the fever.

“We remind everyone that measles is one of the most highly contagious illnesses of all infectious diseases and spreads very easily. Anyone who was at a location of interest should monitor for symptoms of measles,” said Dr Emma Sherwood, a public health specialist at Health NZ.

“When given after 12 months of age, two doses of the MMR vaccine protects 99 percent of people and gives the best long-lasting protection. It is still possible for people who are vaccinated to get the illness, but it is much less likely.”

Locations of interest

23/02/2026 (7:30am to 8:30am) Train HVL Epuni to Upper Hutt

23/02/26 (9:30pm to 1:00pm) Nga Manu Reserve, Waikanae

23/02/26 (12:15pm to 4:15pm) Adrenaline Forest, Porirua

23/02/2026 (4pm to 5:30pm) Train HVL Upper Hutt to Epuni

24/02/2026 (9am to 10am) Train HVL Epuni to Wellington Station

24/02/2026 (3pm to 4pm) Train HVL Wellington Station to Epuni Station

25/02/26 (5:15pm to 8:30pm) Fraser Park Sportsville / Ricoh Sports Centre

26/02/2026 (8.30am to 9.30am) Train HVL Epuni to Wellington Station

26/02/2026 (10am to 1pm) Te Papa Museum

26/02/26 (12:00pm to 1:30pm) Cable Car, 280 Lambton Quay, Wellington

26/02/26 (1pm and 2.30pm) Wellington Botanical Gardens

26/02/26 (1:30pm to 4:00pm) Parliament Tour (bespoke tour for educational group)

26/02/26 (4:10pm to 8:20pm) Wellington Airport Domestic Terminal

26/02/26 (8:30pm to10:30pm) Auckland Airport Domestic Terminal

26/02/26-27/02/26 (9:00pm to 1:00am) Auckland Airport’s International Terminal

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/te-papa-botanical-gardens-added-to-measles-locations-of-interest/

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‘What’s going on?’: Kiwi cricketer Brett Randell on the five-ball blitz that created history

Source: Radio New Zealand

Central Stags paceman Brett Randell captured global headlines after becoming the first player to claim a triple hat-trick in the 254-year history of first class cricket. www.photosport.nz

After taking his fifth wicket in five balls, a perplexed Brett Randell looked to his teammates for an explanation.

“What was going on? I don’t think anyone knew what was going on. We were coming into the huddle after each of the wickets and their reactions were the same as mine, just ‘what’s going on?’”

The Central Districts bowler rewrote the record books on Sunday after becoming the first player to claim a triple hat-trick in the 254-year history of first class cricket.

He achieved the feat during a Plunket Shield match against Northern Districts at McLean Park in Napier.

“It’s a once in a lifetime thing and I’m just going to try and stay grounded and go into next game, just trying to emulate the same plans, but recognising that the same thing’s probably not going to happen again,” Randell said.

The accomplishment had still not fully sunk in for Randell.

“It was pretty crazy. I still can’t really believe it, I don’t think I will for a while.”

He described a surreal feeling as the wickets kept tumbling. Randell’s dismissals read bowled, bowled, caught behind, caught at slip, bowled.

“I was just trying to stay level headed and just keep putting the ball in the same area because it was clearly working. That was about it really, couldn’t believe what was happening, but still trying to stay in the same area that I had been doing for the previous few balls.

“We talk about not really not searching for wickets. So I was just trying to put the ball in the same area because it had got wickets already. So I just thought, why not? I’m just going to keep trying to put it in the same area and see what happens.

“I managed to snaffle another couple. Then the couple in the over after that as well, I was just trying to do the same thing.”

As for his favourite, he said they were all “pretty good”.

“I think the first one I was quite happy with because of the balls proceeding it, I had a plan come to fruition. Then they just kept coming off. So I’d say all of them are pretty equal.”

Commenters online attempted to take the gloss off the feat, questioning whether or not the third wicket was legitimate.

“I thought it hit glove initially. I spoke to Joe (Carter) this morning and he said he would have gone up as well, but he was pretty adamant that he didn’t hit it.

“I mean, at the end of the day, the umpire put his finger up and that’s all there is to it.”

Having captured global headlines, Randell said he was simply trying to enjoy the moment.

“The messages from family and friends have been crazy. Everyone just can’t really believe it. From friends all around the world as well that I’ve played cricket with – it was a really special moment.”

A veteran of the first-class scene, Randell, who represented New Zealand at under-19 level, made his debut for Northern Districts in 2017. He said he still had ambitions of a Black Caps’ call-up.

“I’ve moved around quite a bit, those sorts of selections or recognition will come or they won’t. At the end of the day, I’m just trying to put out some good performances for the Stags and be the best cricketer and best person I can be.”

Though he said he had shared plenty of memorable moments with the Stags, from a personal standpoint, the triple hat-trick sits alone as his finest hour on a cricket pitch.

“I don’t think there is any topping it, unless I can join a fellow teammate of mine Ajaz Patel and get 10 in an innings.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/whats-going-on-kiwi-cricketer-brett-randell-on-the-five-ball-blitz-that-created-history/

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Former Auckland executive who paid teen $1000 for sex, sentenced to 10 months home detention

Source: Radio New Zealand

The executive has since left his job. (File photo) RNZ/Yiting Lin

A former Auckland executive has been denied permanent name suppression, but still cannot be named after being convicted of paying a teenager $1000 for sex.

The man was charged with receiving “commercial sexual services” from a person aged under 18.

He was sentenced on Monday, to 10-month home detention and ordered to pay $3000 in emotional harm reparation, however an appeal application means he still can’t be named.

MORE TO COME…

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/former-auckland-executive-who-paid-teen-1000-for-sex-sentenced-to-10-months-home-detention/

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Woman charged after dog kills 4-year-old

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Angus Dreaver

A woman has a been charged with owning a dog that caused death to a person, after the death of a child last year.

Four-year-old Timothy Tu’uaki Rolleston-Bryan died after a dog attack in Katikati in March 2025.

At the time of his death, spokesperson for Tuapiro Marae Shaan Kingi said he was known as a “boisterous young boy, very playful, adventurous”.

“He was a loving, young, happy-go-lucky boy.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown says a 35-year-old is due to appear in the New Plymouth District Court on 16 March.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/woman-charged-after-dog-kills-4-year-old/

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OPPO Announces Global Launch of Find N6 on March 17th, Redefining Foldables with Zero-Feel Crease Engineered for Lasting Flatness

Source: Media Outreach

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – OPPO, the world’s leading smart device brand, today announced the global launch of its latest foldable flagship, OPPO Find N6. Set to debut on March 17, 2026, in its new Binhai Bay Campus, China, Find N6 is designed to completely transform the foldable experience with its revolutionary Zero-Feel Crease1.

OPPO Find N6 Global Launch is set on March 17th

“The OPPO Find N series has always led the foldable market by being on the front end of innovative technologies,” said Pete Lau, Senior Vice President and Chief Product Officer at OPPO. “With Find N6, we have achieved a major breakthrough in hinge architecture and display materials. By introducing the industry’s first Zero-Feel Crease, we are opening up new possibilities for what a foldable smartphone experience can be.”

Since the first days of foldable technology, screen creases have always been a key user concern, taking something away from the natural appeal of foldable devices’ fuller displays. The OPPO Find N Series has relentlessly pursued solutions. In 2021, the original Find N reshaped the foldable experience with its pioneering waterdrop Flexion Hinge, turning deep, noticeable creases into something subtle and shallow. Since then, each successive generation has refined this technology, leading the industry in both visual and tactile smoothness.

Find N6 marks a leap forward with its Zero-Feel Crease, allowing users to be fully immersed in an expansive, large-screen experience with seamless visuals and smooth touch response. And even better, it’s built to stay that way, keeping flat and smooth even after years of use.

Building on its predecessor’s ultra-slim legacy, Find N6 is among the thinnest book-style foldables on the market. It rivals conventional bar-style flagship smartphones in ergonomics, offering a comfortable, fatigue-free grip even during extended use. The refined, symmetrical Cosmos Ring houses the all-new 200MP Hasselblad Ultra-Clear Camera, delivering professional-grade imaging without the typical bulk of a massive camera protrusion.

Find N6 will be available in two stunning colorways: the deep, classic Stellar Titanium and the vibrant Blossom Orange. To achieve a perfectly uniform rose gold finish on the titanium alloy hinge casing, Find N6 in Blossom Orange features Gold Hinge Trim that utilizes a precise gilding technique incorporating genuine gold, adding a touch of timeless luxury to its durable titanium frame.

To further boost productivity, Find N6 supports OPPO AI Pen so users can take full advantage of the bigger screen. More than just a stylus, it is an AI-powered tool that turns Find N6 into a true mobile workstation, helping users accomplish more with integrated intelligent features.

Stay tuned to discover more about OPPO Find N6 at the upcoming global launch.

1 “Zero-Feel Crease” refers to a visual effect where the crease is typically not visible from most viewing angles and under normal use conditions. It does not mean the crease is physically absent. Visibility may vary depending on individual perception, lighting, and specific content displayed.

Hashtag: #OPPO

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/oppo-announces-global-launch-of-find-n6-on-march-17th-redefining-foldables-with-zero-feel-crease-engineered-for-lasting-flatness/

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Politics live: Christopher Luxon responds to poll result

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance minster Nicola Willis is joining Christopher Luxon at the weekly post-Cabinet media conference, with an update on the economy. But attention is likely to fall on the Prime Minister with questions about his leadership, the polls and Iran.

Follow all the latest news with RNZ’s live blog.

The prime minister is facing disastrous poll numbers, while also dealing with global issues, as missiles continue to tear through Middle Eastern skies.

Pressure is mounting on the Christopher Luxon with a poll result last week putting National in the 20s.

Listen to the PM’s appearance on Morning Report here:

Luxon batted away questions last week about stepping down as party leader following the latest Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll that had National on 28.4 – down nearly 3 points from its poll last month.

Luxon said on Friday evening none of his Cabinet colleagues had told him to reconsider his future, saying “all of them” back him.

He said he was “absolutely not” considering standing down and said he had the skills to lead the National Party and the country.

Luxon also made a personal explanation in the House on Tuesday night, after he stated incorrectly the government was automatically extending visas for people in New Zealand affected by the war in Iran.

RNZ / Angus Dreaver

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/politics-live-christopher-luxon-responds-to-poll-result/

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Iran conflict sparks freight chaos: New Zealand faces soaring costs and months‑long delays

Source: Radio New Zealand

Freight was being disrupted due to the conflict in Iran. (File photo) Bryan Crump

A freight company is warning New Zealand faces sharply higher freight prices, rising living costs, and months‑long delivery delays as the impact of the Iran conflict spreads through global supply chains.

Rocket Freight said local road transport carriers had already increased fuel charges by more than 30 percent.

Director Lisa Coleman said the escalating costs would hit consumers across the board.

“It’s everywhere, it’s affecting everyone, and it will come down to the last dollar for every single person in New Zealand,” she said.

“Every product that arrives on shelves will be affected.”

Coleman said air freight was also squeezed.

Air and sea freight was being squeezed. (File photo) Luis Boza / NurPhoto via AFP

Dubai-based Emirates – the largest air freight operator in the country – had halted operations, and remaining carriers had immediately added war and fuel surcharges, she said.

With only two main air freight providers still serving New Zealand, and a number of airlines yet to return after the pandemic, Coleman said competition was limited and prices had jumped, particularly for outsized cargo.

While she said some increases were understandable, “a lot of it looks like a marketing ploy and a money grab”.

Seaborne freight also disrupted

Ocean freight faced similar pressures.

Coleman said international shipping lines had introduced a “war risk surcharge” of up to 50 percent on marine transit policies.

Many vessels were avoiding the Middle East entirely, re-routing around southern Africa – adding up to 40 days to transit times and significantly increasing fuel costs.

The closure of Dubai – a critical global hub – had thrown container schedules into disarray, leaving vessels out of position and disrupting logistics chains.

Explosions from the interception of an Iranian projectile are seen in the sky over Dubai. (File photo) AFP / Giuseppe Cacace

“All the trade routing we would normally use is changing. It’s all fluctuating – nobody knows when cargo is going to get here,” Coleman said.

Some shipping lines also invoked force majeure, the contractual mechanism that freed them from delivery obligations during events such as war, natural disasters, or government action.

In several cases, Coleman said cargo had been offloaded at the nearest safe port.

“Then you have to negotiate to get that container picked up from wherever it ended up, put on a different ship, and get it over here.”

Force majeure events were not covered by insurance, because they were treated as acts of war.

The only stable spot, for now, was freight to Australia and China – though Coleman expected prices on those routes to rise as fuel costs continued to climb.

Delays, fuel concerns, and the risk of rationing

Coleman said US-bound freight was already chaotic under the existing tariff environment, but she was increasingly worried about New Zealand’s ability to draw down fuel reserves at an affordable cost if the crisis intensified.

“The supply is obviously going to be our biggest worry. This country will absolutely stop if we have to start fuel‑rationing,” she said.

Coleman said rising transport costs would ripple through every part of the supply chain.

“It comes down to that loaf of bread – it’s going to increase dramatically just because of transport costs.”

Consumers and businesses should expect higher prices and significant delays, she said, warning major household goods not currently in stock could now take months to arrive.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/iran-conflict-sparks-freight-chaos-new-zealand-faces-soaring-costs-and-months-long-delays/

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Fine handed down after acquisition of wood shavings company lessened competition

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

The High Court has penalised two companies $420,000 over an acquisition that substantially lessened competition in the wood shavings market.

The Commerce Commission filed proceedings against Alderson Logistics and associated company Supa Shavings, over the acquisition of ABS Carriers in 2022.

Pre-acquisition, ABS and Supa Shavings were the largest suppliers of bulk wood shavings in Waikato.

“The companies were each other’s closest competitors and, when those assets were acquired, that competition was eliminated,” commission chair John Small said.

“The Commission was not notified about the acquisition, so this case is an important reminder that while our clearance regime is voluntary, we can take action against mergers or acquisitions where clearance was not sought.”

The case also marked the first time the commission asked a business to divest the acquired assets.

However, the commission said a deal to sell ABS fell through, meaning the divestment did not happen.

In her judgement, Justice Gardiner noted Alderson and Supa Shavings accepted they gained commercially from the deal for about 13 months, until a shavings supply shock in June 2023 affected their profitability.

Small said it was vital for firms to understand their obligations under the Commerce Act.

“While divestment was unsuccessful in this case, this shows the array of enforcement actions available to us,” he said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/fine-handed-down-after-acquisition-of-wood-shavings-company-lessened-competition/

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Asia Coach Group Partners with Award-Winning Trainer Ling Sia to Launch “Micro-Capital Growth PLUS” Programme, Advancing Practical Financial Education

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – Asia Coach Group Limited announced the launch of “Micro-Capital Growth PLUS,” a new financial literacy programme developed in collaboration with Ling Sia, one of the company’s lead trainers recently named among Hong Kong’s Top 10 Business Trainers. The programme is built on three core principles — low starting capital, repeatable processes, and disciplined wealth-building — and is designed to deliver an accessible financial education framework that balances risk management with practical application.

Financial Vulnerability Among Hong Kong’s Workforce Has Become a Structural Issue

Hong Kong’s median monthly employment earnings stand at approximately HKD 20,500, with over 200,000 workers classified as working poor. Concurrently, more than 43,000 fraud cases were recorded in 2025, with online investment scams averaging approximately HKD 700,000 in losses per case. The combination of a narrow income base and high-impact fraud exposure means a single financial misstep can have irreversible consequences for the city’s lower- and middle-income earners. In this environment, financial education must prioritise capital preservation and risk awareness over the pursuit of returns.

An Award-Winning Trainer Bringing Real-World Experience to Financial Education

Ling Sia was selected as one of Hong Kong’s Top 10 Business Trainers in the “World’s Most Popular Business Trainer” awards organised by the Hong Kong Economic Times, a recognition of her professional credentials and proven teaching outcomes. With over eight years of training experience and a decade-long background in wealth management, she has conducted more than 90 financial literacy events and guided over a thousand participants in building passive income streams. Having personally experienced investment losses, Ling Sia brings a grounded understanding of the risks and pressures facing individuals with limited capital. Her teaching philosophy centres on translating asset allocation principles into actionable, step-by-step strategies that enable participants to start small and build passive income through a structured process.

A Systematic Framework for Building Passive Income

“Micro-Capital Growth PLUS” is a comprehensive upgrade of the original programme, offering participants a repeatable, systematic financial planning process. The curriculum is structured around four core modules: real-world investment case studies supported by verified return data; financial mindset training to help participants develop rational money management habits and risk awareness; a cash flow strategy that deconstructs the steps to building passive income, targeting an initial four-figure monthly return within three months; and a holistic planning component addressing personal development and lifestyle balance.

The programme adopts a one-on-one personalised coaching model, with Ling Sia guiding each participant through the process of establishing their own passive income cash flow. Unlike conventional finance courses with high tuition fees, advisory services with ongoing management charges, or overseas investment schemes requiring substantial capital commitments, “Micro-Capital Growth PLUS” offers a lower barrier to entry with a clearly defined, actionable path to asset growth.

Aligned with a Shifting Market — Practical Expertise Becomes the New Standard in Training

Hong Kong’s professional training market is undergoing a notable shift. Results from the Hong Kong Economic Times’ “World’s Most Popular Business Trainer” awards indicate that industry demand has moved from traditional theory-based instruction toward digital, practice-oriented application, with trainers who combine entrepreneurial experience and financial teaching expertise attracting the strongest market interest. Ling Sia’s “executable, process-driven, guided” teaching methodology is well-positioned within this evolving landscape. Backed by the professional recognition as one of Hong Kong’s Top 10 Business Trainers, the programme offers a risk-conscious, accessible pathway to financial literacy for everyday investors.

Hashtag: #Finance #Investment #Coaching #LingSia #Micro-CapitalGrowthPLUS

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/asia-coach-group-partners-with-award-winning-trainer-ling-sia-to-launch-micro-capital-growth-plus-programme-advancing-practical-financial-education/

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Senior first responder facing child exploitation charges continues to keep name a secret

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man appeared via audio-visual-link at the Christchurch District Court on Monday. RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A senior first responder facing child exploitation charges has elected to have a judge-alone trial.

The man, whose name and occupation are suppressed, has pleaded not guilty to five charges relating to the possession and exportation of child exploitation material brought by Customs last year.

The man appeared via audio-visual-link at the Christchurch District Court on Monday.

He had previously elected a trial by jury but has now opted for a judge-alone trial.

At a court appearance in September, it was revealed the man had been fired from his job.

His lawyer Craig Ruane said the man’s employment had been terminated because the charges “brought his employer into disrepute”.

Ruane said his client had highly developed skills in his industry and publication would hinder him from obtaining employment.

Judge Elkin agreed to extend the man’s interim name suppression until his trial because publication would cause extreme hardship.

The man is on bail ahead of his next court appearance in April.

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/2026/03/09/senior-first-responder-facing-child-exploitation-charges-continues-to-keep-name-a-secret/

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Politics live: Christopher Luxon faces grilling after disastrous week

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance minster Nicola Willis is joining Christopher Luxon at the weekly post-Cabinet media conference, with an update on the economy. But attention is likely to fall on the Prime Minister with questions about his leadership, the polls and Iran.

Follow all the latest news with RNZ’s live blog.

The prime minister is facing disastrous poll numbers, while also dealing with global issues, as missiles continue to tear through Middle Eastern skies.

Pressure is mounting on the Christopher Luxon with a poll result last week putting National in the 20s.

Listen to the PM’s appearance on Morning Report here:

Luxon batted away questions last week about stepping down as party leader following the latest Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll that had National on 28.4 – down nearly 3 points from its poll last month.

Luxon said on Friday evening none of his Cabinet colleagues had told him to reconsider his future, saying “all of them” back him.

He said he was “absolutely not” considering standing down and said he had the skills to lead the National Party and the country.

Luxon also made a personal explanation in the House on Tuesday night, after he stated incorrectly the government was automatically extending visas for people in New Zealand affected by the war in Iran.

RNZ / Angus Dreaver

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/politics-live-christopher-luxon-faces-grilling-after-disastrous-week/

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Woman summonsed following fatal dog attack, March 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown:

Police have today summonsed a 35-year-old woman in relation to the death of four-year-old Timothy Rolleston, following a dog attack in Katakati in March 2025.

The woman faces a charge of owning a dog that causes death to a person.

She is due to appear in the New Plymouth District Court on Monday 16 March.

Timothy’s family have been notified of this outcome.

Our thoughts remain with them, and we continue to offer them the necessary support.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/woman-summonsed-following-fatal-dog-attack-march-2025/

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If you drink, don’t drive. It’s a decision that can save a life

Source: New Zealand Police

Canterbury Police remind motorists that drink driving is never worth the risk.

If you’re heading out to enjoy an event, a gathering, or a night with friends, plan a sober ride home for your safety, and for everyone else on the road.

Over the weekend, several well‑attended events were held across rural Canterbury, including at the Lincoln Domain on Saturday evening and in Waipara on Sunday.

Senior Sergeant Rachel Walker says Police were pleased that the events were largely trouble‑free, but that it was disappointing to see that some drivers still chose to consume alcohol and then get behind the wheel.

“These decisions put themselves, their passengers and other road users at serious risk.”

Police commend the many motorists who made the right call by arranging safe transport and driving responsibly but have seen enough when it comes to impaired driving.

“The consequences of crashes caused by alcohol or drugs are devastating,” says Senior Sergeant Walker.

“For whānau, communities and for the emergency responders who attend them.

“Our staff will continue to maintain a strong presence on the roads to educate drivers and prevent harm.

“We see the damage so we’re unapologetic about prevention.”

With several major events coming up, including Supercars, Super Rugby fixtures and two busy long weekends with Easter and ANZAC Day, Police urge everyone to plan before heading out.

“If you’re drinking or using drugs, legal or illegal, don’t drive.

“Choose a sober driver. Call a taxi. Use public transport. Stay the night.

“One decision can save a life.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/if-you-drink-dont-drive-its-a-decision-that-can-save-a-life/