Category: CTF

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School of murdered children Yuna and Minu Jo shocked ministry didn’t report disappearance to police

Source: Radio New Zealand

Yuna and Minu Jo attended Papatoetoe South School before their deaths in 2018. Supplied

The school attended by murdered children Yuna and Minu Jo says it’s shocked and saddened the Ministry of Education did not report their disappearance to police.

The children, aged eight and six respectively, attended a local primary school in Auckland before they were murdered by their mother Hakyung Lee in 2018.

Their bodies were not discovered until 2022 in suitcases, when an Auckland family bought the contents of a storage locker in an online auction.

Lee was sentenced to at least 17 years’ jail last November.

Ministry documents released to RNZ under the Official Information Act in January showed Yuna and Minu Jo’s absences took years to be referred to the attendance service, rather than months.

The Ministry of Education commissioned an external review to discover how the failure happened and to tighten procedures to ensure the failures did not happen again.

In a statement, the Papatoetoe South School Board said they were shocked and saddened the ministry had not reported the children’s extended absence to police.

“While we were aware of the systemic complexities involved in inter-agency referrals, seeing and feeling the consequences of these gaps is devastating,” they said.

“This tragedy brings to light the vital importance of transparency of process and robust communication between key child support agencies.”

The board said the loss of the children had been felt profoundly by the school community.

“While our school feels this gap deeply, we recognise and respect that the greatest burden of grief lies with their whānau and those closest to them.”

Out of respect for the police investigation and family privacy, the board said it have been very careful about how it moved forward, but they believed in honouring students in a culturally appropriate and meaningful way.

“We always acknowledge those we have lost during Matariki, and this Matariki will provide our first opportunity for our school community to come together and remember Yuna and Minu privately and respectfully.”

They hoped the external review would lead to a system that was more fit for purpose.

Issues identified in failure to report disappearance

Ministry documents showed the system failed to require the school to submit a non-enrolment notification.

Deputy secretary Helen Hurst said the ministry worked internally to analyse how the school attendance systems had operated in Minu and Yuna’s case.

She said issues had been identified and “processes had occurred” that contributed to the gap between the children returning to New Zealand in May 2018, a month before their murder, and the case going to attendance services in 2020.

“Without those issues, it is likely that the referral would have taken a matter of months following their return rather than years,” Hurst said.

The ministry was not notified at any point that the students were re-enrolled elsewhere, and police were not contacted prior to their investigation, she said.

A timeline showed the ministry’s efforts to find the children.

The non-enrolment process for both Yuna and Minu was initiated in September 2020, two years after their murder.

Case notes from the ministry show home visits were made, immigration checks done, and emails were sent to the children’s school and mother.

Yuna and Minu Jo’s mother Hakyung Lee stares downward during her sentencing. RNZ/Marika Khabazi

By June 2021, there had been no response from Lee, who by then was living in South Korea.

By August 2022, a note said there had still been no contact and the ministry did not know where the children were.

Hurst said the ministry had done further analysis of its systems, and commissioned an external review of how attendance systems and processes operated in the case of Minu and Yuna.

“While the primary role of attendance systems and services is to support students to attend school, we are committed to strengthening the role that the ministry plays, alongside other social sector agencies, in providing a system of support for the safety and wellbeing of children,” she said.

“There is a considerable amount of work underway to improve the support that is provided for school attendance, and any findings from the external review will help us to inform this ongoing work.”

Hurst said work was underway to establish an information sharing agreement with police, to ensure children missing from school are found.

“Work is also underway with police and Oranga Tamariki to provide simplified processes and guidance for steps to be taken any time an attendance service provider has concerns about the welfare or safety of children,” she said.

The ministry had increased the frequency of six-monthly requests to MBIE and Immigration New Zealand, which checks for the return to New Zealand of students who were unenrolled with a reason of ‘gone overseas’.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/school-of-murdered-children-yuna-and-minu-jo-shocked-ministry-didnt-report-disappearance-to-police/

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Boosting manufacturing productivity with digital tools

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is expanding a successful University of Auckland programme that helps manufacturers adopt new technologies, boosting productivity and building skills across their workforce.

“In an increasingly digital world, overseas competitors are reaping the rewards of greater automation, artificial intelligence, robotics and cloud computing,” Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk says.

“New Zealand manufacturers need these tools and technologies to sharpen their competitive edge, but some are held back by cost or concerns about disrupting their operations, especially where in-house technical expertise is limited.

“That’s why the Government has committed to a three-year funding package to expand the Digital Manufacturing Light programme, supporting businesses to work smarter, run more smoothly and face future challenges with confidence.

“The expansion will see the programme rolled out to support at least 180 small and medium‑sized manufacturers in Auckland and parts of Waikato, Northland and the Bay of Plenty, where around 55 per cent of New Zealand’s manufacturers are located. 

“Digital Manufacturing Light uses low-cost, off-the-shelf technologies and open-source software to help manufacturers introduce new systems into their existing operations without the need for major capital investment or complex infrastructure.

“Businesses taking part in the programme receive a tailored assessment of their needs, help choosing the right solutions, hands-on installation assistance, and training to ensure the new technology delivers real value on the factory floor.

“A key strength of Digital Manufacturing Light is that it works closely with manufacturers and their own technical staff, building the digital skills into the business that will support sustainable, long-term improvements. 

“Digital Manufacturing Light will support manufacturers to move away from manual and often outdated processes, providing real-time insights into machine performance, bottlenecks, and quality issues. 

“The potential benefits are significant. Research from Xero and the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research shows that faster digital adoption across small and medium‑sized enterprises could lift national GDP by $8.6 billion. 

“The Government is fixing the basics and building the future for New Zealand. Backing programmes like Digital Manufacturing Light is a smart, targeted investment that helps smaller firms grow, innovate, and contribute to our economy and communities.”

Notes to editor:  

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/boosting-manufacturing-productivity-with-digital-tools/

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‘It does seem like a very different group’: Molly Penfold on new-look White Ferns

Source: Radio New Zealand

Molly Penfold of Auckland Hearts celebrates getting a wicket www.photosport.nz

White Ferns bowler Molly Penfold is excited about the new-look team that will take on Zimbabwe over the next couple of weeks.

The two sides will meet in three T20Is and three ODIs starting with the first T20 game in Hamilton on Wednesday night.

The White Ferns are without a number of key players, with Suzie Bates and Eden Carson injured, Sophie Devine not available and Lea Tahuhu under managed workload. Amelia Kerr is the new captain.

The White Ferns squad does contain two possible debutants in spinner Nensi Patel and pace bowler Kayley Knight from the Northern Brave.

Penfold, who has played just 24 games for New Zealand, admits there is a feeling of change.

“It does seem like a very different group, but it is a good opportunity for players who probably don’t get as much game time in the White Ferns to hopefully step up and be in that playing 11, so yes it’s exciting.”

Pace bowler Penfold has no doubt that new captain Kerr will take on the role seamlessly.

“She’s just a natural leader and she is a huge character in this group. We know that coming off the back of Soph’s captaincy as well she has left a big impact on us and so big shoes to fill but I know that Melie will be more than capable of doing so.”

Melie (Amelia) Kerr of New Zealand White Ferns women’s national cricket team. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

Zimbabwe has had a change in coaching staff and will now be under the guidance of former White Fern Kate Ebrahim.

Zimbabwe made the change following their sides disappointing T20 World Cup qualifier in Nepal last month with Ebrahim named as interim coach.

Ebrahim played 70 games for New Zealand between 2010 and 2021 and is married to former Zimbabwe batter and current men’s assistant coach Dion Ebrahim.

Penfold admits she was surprised when she learnt that Ebrahim had been appointed Zimbabwe coach.

“It’s cool to see her take up that opportunity, she brings a great competitiveness to the game.”

White Ferns squad v Zimbabwe

Flora Devonshire Central Hinds

Izzy Gaze Auckland Hearts

Maddy Green Auckland Hearts

Brooke Halliday Auckland Hearts

Bree Illing Auckland Hearts

Polly Inglis Sparks (T20I only)

Jess Kerr Wellington Blaze

Melie Kerr Wellington Blaze

Kayley Knight* Northern Brave (T20I only)

Emma McLeod Central Hinds (ODI only)

Rosemary Mair Central Hinds

Nensi Patel* Northern Brave

Molly Penfold Auckland Hearts (ODI only)

Georgia Plimmer Wellington Blaze

Izzy Sharp** Canterbury Magicians

White Ferns schedule against Zimbabwe

Wed 25 Feb, 7:15pm, 1st T20, Hamilton

Fri 27 Feb, 7:15pm, 2nd T20, Hamilton

Sun 1 March, 1:15pm, 3rd T20, Hamilton

Thurs 5 March, 11am, 1st ODI, Dunedin

Sun 8 March, 11am, 2nd ODI, Dunedin

Wed 11 March, 11am, 3rd ODI, Dunedin

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/2026/02/24/it-does-seem-like-a-very-different-group-molly-penfold-on-new-look-white-ferns/

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Crash closes SH2 near Mangatāwhiri

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A serious crash on State Highway 2 near Mangatāwhiri has closed the road in both directions.

Police were called to the crash involving two vehicles just after 11am.

They said initial indications were that there had been serious injuries.

The highway was closed in both directions between Rawiri Road and Kopuku Road.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/crash-closes-sh2-near-mangatawhiri/

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New maths, English, science resources rolled out at schools after teachers bemoan delay

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Education Minister is announcing new maths, English and science resources that were due to be in schools at the start of this year will now be rolled out.

The resources include a new teacher-facilitated writing tool for Year 6 to 10 students a year or more behind and maths resources for Year 9 and 10 students.

Earlier this month, the Post Primary Teachers’ Association criticised the Minister for not delivering the resources on time and causing an extremely frustrating and stressful start to the school year.

PPTA president Chris Abercrombie said at the time well developed resources and implemented smoothly are “so crucial”, especially with the amount of new content the Minister had introduced.

Education Minister Erica Stanford made the announcement alongside the Prime Minister in Auckland on Tuesday. There will also be new science kits for primary school classrooms, an investment made in Budget 2025.

The writing tool, called Scribo, is a teacher-facilitated 12-week tutoring programme providing targeted support for each student’s learning needs, she explained.

She said it will “help close literacy gaps” and strengthen students’ writing, spelling, and grammar. It was also curriculum aligned and designed to reflect New Zealand context and culture, she said. The programme was now being extended to students in Year 10.

The curriculum-aligned digital maths resources for Years 9 and 10 would include digital textbooks and workbooks guidance for teachers.

“Over the next three years, the resources are expected to benefit around 140,000 students each year, supporting 6000 teachers,” Stanford said.

Teachers can choose the extent to which they use the resources, and there will be professional learning development provided.

She said the science kits were delivering on Budget 2025 investments to strengthen science in primary and intermediate schools.

“These will be hands-on and curriculum-aligned, supporting teachers with bringing science to life in classrooms,” Stanford said.

“Science is such a fun and interesting part of school for so many young people, full of discovery and experimentation.”

She said $40 million was allocated in Budget 2025, and the provision of those kits throughout the country will be achieved by early 2027.

Part of the initiative has an entirely new suite of science kits in development for Māori medium education.

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/2026/02/24/new-maths-english-science-resources-rolled-out-at-schools-after-teachers-bemoan-delay/

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Aged care sector reiterates commitment to equitable pay for care workforce

Source: Aged Care Association

The Aged Care Association acknowledges the release today of the People’s Select Committee on Pay Equity report.
Chief Executive Tracey Martin said the report reinforces an issue the sector has consistently raised: the women who overwhelmingly staff New Zealand’s aged residential care facilities perform work that requires skill, judgement, responsibility and resilience, and that work should be valued accordingly.
“Care and support workers in aged residential care undertake skilled and demanding roles. They provide hands-on personal care, support residents living with complex health conditions and dementia, monitor wellbeing and escalate concerns to registered nurses, assist with medication under delegation, support mobility and safe transfers, and contribute to palliative and end-of-life care within a multidisciplinary team.
“This work requires judgement, training, physical resilience and emotional intelligence. It is skilled work and work that deserves to be valued accordingly.
“Our long-held view is simple: work that requires comparable skills, responsibility and effort should be remunerated on an equitable basis, regardless of whether it is traditionally performed by women or men.”
Martin said aged residential care providers participated in the pay equity process in good faith.
“We engaged because we believe in fair recognition of the workforce. Providers gathered extensive data and worked constructively toward a sector-wide solution.
“At the same time, we have always been clear that pay equity in a government-funded sector must be matched by sustainable funding settings. Providers cannot absorb structural wage corrections without corresponding funding adjustments.”
She said the broader issue remains workforce sustainability.
“New Zealand has around 40,000 aged residential care beds, significantly more than the public hospital bed base, and demand will continue to grow as our population ages.
“To deliver safe, high-quality care, we must attract and retain a skilled workforce. Fair and equitable pay is part of that equation, alongside immigration settings, training pathways and a funding model that reflects the true cost of care.”
The Association will continue to engage constructively with Government on achieving a durable solution that supports residents, workers and providers alike.
“Our focus remains on ensuring older New Zealanders receive the care they deserve – delivered by a workforce that is respected and properly valued.”

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/aged-care-sector-reiterates-commitment-to-equitable-pay-for-care-workforce/

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Successful Māori startup accelerator returns for another year

Source: Tapuwae Roa

Tapuwae Roa has announced today the return of its flagship Tupu Accelerator, an eight-week programme designed to propel Māori businesses from startups to investment-ready global ventures.
Developed by Tapuwae Roa in partnership with Sprout Agritech, and co-funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), the programme will onboard ten aspiring Māori-founded startups, equipping them with the tools, mentorship and resources to scale quickly and sustainably on the world stage.
“We created Tupu for Māori entrepreneurs striving to make their big business dreams go global, scaling their innovations to reach international markets,” says Te Pūoho Kātene, Chief Executive of Tapuwae Roa. 
“We know Māori have the talent to compete globally; Tupu provides the mentorship, expertise and networks to help make that global vision a reality.”
Now entering its third year, Tupu continues to demonstrate measurable impact, with 87 percent of participating founders considering Tupu as a game-changer for their business.
“It [Tupu] has had a massive impact and will be forever grateful for the opportunity to participate in this kaupapa. It instilled in us belief and gave us the tools to take our business from a part-time mahi to a full-time business with export aspirations,” says Keela Atkinson, co-founder of Mauriora Kombucha.
Facilitated by experienced business coaches Saara Tawha and Brittany Teei (founder, KidsCoin), the accelerator focuses on key development areas for startup success, including customer validation, market analysis, intellectual property protection, and navigating the process of raising capital.
Featuring a hybrid blend of in-person wānanga, guest speakers, online sessions, and personalised coaching, Tupu equips founders with the skills to elevate their businesses from local operations to internationally competitive markets.
“We want to see our driven, innovative Māori founders shining on the world stage, and Tupu is here to help them to accomplish that global aspiration, says Kātene. 
Applications are now open and close on 23 March 2026. For more information or to apply, visit www.tupu.org.nz.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/successful-maori-startup-accelerator-returns-for-another-year/

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Northland News – Get your pod squad ready

Source: Northland Regional Council

The Northland Regional Council has launched a new competition initiative aimed at reducing the spread of moth plant, a highly invasive pest plant throughout Taitokerau.
The competition encourages individuals or teams to collect moth plant pods, vines and seedlings, with cash prizes up for grabs.
Northland Regional Councillor and Chair of the Biodiversity and Biosecurity Working Party, Jack Craw says the point-based competition will help put the spotlight on this problematic pest and reduce its spread, helping to protect native species which often fall victim to the smothering vine.
“Not only do participants get the chance to win cash, they are also being environmental heros by helping us fight the war on weeds one pod or vine at a time.
Every pod collected will prevent up to 1000 seeds from being released and spread through the wind. Participants will also get extra points for pulling out moth plant seedlings and vines with the roots intact, preventing them from producing pods in future.”
The competition awards one point per pod collected and three points for every vine/seedling with roots intact. Cash prizes include $500 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place, plus several Prezzy Card spot prizes are also available.
Once registered, participants will be advised of the safety precautions to follow to protect their eyes, skin and clothes from the harmful moth plant sap, and how to dispose of the pods responsibly.
Local competitions of this nature have been previously organised by schools and community groups and NRC is excited to be part of a region-wide competition for Northland.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/northland-news-get-your-pod-squad-ready/

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Hāpai Te Hauora marks 30 years of Māori-led public health leadership

Source: Hapai Te Hauora

Hāpai Te Hauora is marking 30 years of Māori-led public health leadership, acknowledging its journey and partnerships. Established in 1996 as Hāpai Te Hauora Tapui Ltd, the organisation was formed to address a critical gap in public health, recognising Māori public health is holistic in nature and requires distinct approaches, leadership, and solutions. At a time of significant change within the health sector, Hāpai was created to strengthen Māori public health across the greater Auckland region.
Guided by the leadership and vision of Te Whānau o Waipareira, Raukura Hauora o Tainui, and Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whātua, Hāpai was established to ensure Māori communities, voices, values, and aspirations are central to public health responses and decision-making.
From the outset, Hāpai was established to provide dedicated Māori public health leadership, grounded in kaupapa Māori and focused on improving outcomes for whānau.
Over time, Hāpai has grown from a regional organisation into a national Māori public health leader, working across Aotearoa to influence policy, strengthen the Māori public health workforce, and support kaupapa that address the wider determinants of health for whānau, hapū, and iwi.
This includes leadership in areas such as SUDI prevention, alcohol harm reduction, Smokefree advocacy, community-led activations, policy submission support, and accessible policy explainers that help whānau engage with systems that impact their lives.
Chief Executive Jacqui Harema says the milestone reflects both celebration and responsibility.
“It is a real privilege to acknowledge 30 years of kaupapa Māori public health leadership,” says Harema. “This milestone reflects the strength of our foundations and the responsibility we hold to continue this mahi for future generations.”
The milestone will be acknowledged through a formal anniversary celebration in Tāmaki Makaurau, bringing together former staff, whānau, partners, and leaders to reflect on Hāpai’s journey and look ahead to the future of Māori-led public health grounded in Oranga Whenua, Oranga Tangata. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/hapai-te-hauora-marks-30-years-of-maori-led-public-health-leadership/

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Employment Trends – Modest salary growth leaves 42% of New Zealand professionals feeling underpaid as cost‑of‑living pressures persist

Source: Robert Walters

Auckland, New Zealand – 24 February 2026 – Salary growth across New Zealand remains minimal despite stabilising business conditions, with 42% of professionals reporting they feel underpaid, according to new research released by global talent solutions partner Robert Walters.

The findings come from the firm’s latest Salary Guide, which surveyed over 5,500 white‑collar professionals in ANZ across 12 industries.

Pay rises failing to keep pace with living costs

While 57% of New Zealand professionals received a pay rise in 2025, most increases fell within a modest 2.5%-5% band. Against the backdrop of continued cost‑of‑living pressure, many workers say these increases have had limited real impact.

This is reinforced by a significant perception gap:

42% of employees feel underpaid yet 83% of employers believe salaries are keeping pace with rising costs

The result is a growing disconnect between nominal salary growth and financial wellbeing.

Cautious optimism ahead

Nearly 67% of employers intend to offer salary increases in 2026, while 56% of professionals expect to receive one.

Shay Peters, Robert Walters Australia and New Zealand CEO, said the stabilising market gives organisations an opportunity to revisit remuneration.

“As businesses come out of last year’s restructures, organisations have an opportunity to reassess remuneration. Where salary increases are not feasible, employers must focus on career progression, flexibility, and skills development.

It’s no secret the movement of New Zealand talent to Australia is well underway. Dissatisfaction around pay is a high retention risk, especially as overseas markets are actively targeting New Zealand talent.”

With 58% of New Zealand professionals open to relocating this year, retention needs to be a big focus for employers this year.  

Regional dissatisfaction highest in Canterbury

The research reveals significant regional variation in how employees perceive their pay:

Canterbury: 46% do not believe their salary matches the cost of living
Auckland: 42%
Wellington: 39%

These differences highlight how lifestyle costs and local economic conditions increasingly shape career decisions and relocation intent.

Certain industries still record strong salary momentum in 2026

Despite overall modest wage movement, several industries outpaced the broader market:

  • Accounting & Finance: 14% increase: Driven by strong uplift in senior commercial finance roles, including notable rises for General Manager Finance (+25%), Financial Controller (+13.9%).
  • Technology & Data: 12% increase: Fuelled by high demand for AI, data engineering and cyber capability, with standout growth for Senior Data Scientist (+14.7%), Senior Data Engineer (+13.8%), and Cyber Security Architect (+9.9%).
  • Legal: 7% increase: Experienced counsel continue to attract premium remuneration.
  • These pockets of growth highlight where competition for specialist talent remains most pronounced.

About the Salary Guide

The Robert Walters 2026 Salary Guide provides a comprehensive overview of hiring intentions, salary trends, skills shortages, and workforce mobility across New Zealand. With insights from over 2,300 respondents, the guide highlights how businesses and employees are navigating an evolving labour market shaped by cost-of-living pressures, technological adoption, and mobility opportunities.

About Robert Walters: 

With more than 3,100 people in 30 countries, Robert Walters delivers recruitment consultancy, staffing, recruitment process outsourcing and managed services across the globe. From traditional recruitment and staffing to end-to-end talent management, our consultants are experts at matching highly skilled people to permanent, contract and interim roles across all professional disciplines.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/employment-trends-modest-salary-growth-leaves-42-of-new-zealand-professionals-feeling-underpaid-as-cost-of-living-pressures-persist/

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Bafta night a ‘bit of a blur’, says award winning Kiwi costume designer

Source: Radio New Zealand

It wasn’t easy to get up to accept her Bafta win when she’s used to being behind the scenes, Kiwi costume designer Kate Hawley says.

The night was a bit of a blur, she says, but it was wonderful to share it with her daughter, she told RNZ’s Nine to Noon.

“What I’d like to say to anyone younger out there is it’s not an overnight thing.”

But the award meant a lot, she says.

“It’s taken quite a few years and not a few little knockbacks here and there, but it is extra special.

“And when it’s members of the Academy who work in the world of film and that, and when they nominate you, just like the Costume Designers Guild, it means a lot… it’s very special.”

Hawley’s work has been seen in a host of other movies, including Edge of Tomorrow, Mortal Engine, Suicide Squad, Pacific Rim, Crimson Peak and The Lovely Bones.

Hawley is also one of nine Oscar nominations for Frankenstein on 3 March in Los Angeles.

“I’ve got two weeks to get back to reality, put my gumboots on and have my community tell me off. Life’s very grounding in between all of this, so it’s just a moment to enjoy and then life carries on really, but it’s lovely.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/bafta-night-a-bit-of-a-blur-says-award-winning-kiwi-costume-designer/

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Baftas interrupted by racist slur from man with Tourette syndrome

Source: Radio New Zealand

It was the clip heard around the world after Monday’s BAFTA ceremony in London — a man yelling the n-word as two celebrated Black actors, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, presented an award on stage.

The man was John Davidson, the subject of the British indie film I Swear, about a man with Tourette syndrome. Davidson, who has long campaigned for awareness of the condition, told CNN before the ceremony that he was worried about the involuntary tics that mark it.

The actor Robert Aramayo, who plays Davidson in the film, went on to win the night’s award for best actor. Davidson said the young English actor studied him closely, asking questions like, “When you have a tic do you know where it comes from? What about tic triggers?” Speaking on the crowded red carpet, Davidson went on: “Certain things — like today, lots of people around, I’m feeling very, you know, more tics in case I lash out. Different situations can trigger different emotions and tics and stuff.”

John Davidson and Robert Aramayo attend the 2026 EE BAFTA Film Awards Nominees’ Party at the National Portrait Gallery on February 21, 2026 in London, England.

Karwai Tang

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/baftas-interrupted-by-racist-slur-from-man-with-tourette-syndrome/

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Greens welcome launch of People’s Select Committee report on Pay Equity

Source: Green Party

The Green Party has welcomed the release of the report from the People’s Select Committee on Pay Equity. 

“This report makes clear what we have said all along: the Government’s decision to make it easier to underpay people and limiting pay equity access is yet another attack on women,” says the Green Party’s spokesperson for women, Kahurangi Carter. 

“The Government underestimated how badly this would go down with the public. Today, the workers this Government tried to silence have found their voice, and it is powerful.” 

“Make no mistake: this is a cost-cutting measure taken straight from the people who need it. Rather than paying women what they’re worth, this Government is simply shifting these costs onto women to bear. 

“Pay inequity disproportionately impacts Māori, Pacific and disabled women. The very communities already facing the greatest barriers to fair pay. This Government is deepening those disparities, not closing them. 

“Our healthcare, education, and social service workers are the backbone of our country. They deserve better than a government that undermines their pay and conditions at every turn. 

“The fact that former MPs from across the political spectrum came together on a pro bono basis to do the work this Government refused to do tells you everything you need to know about how egregious these changes are. 

“This wasn’t a technical tweak. This was wage theft on a national scale, rushed through without any opportunity for the women affected to have their say. 

“The Green Party is committed to all of the demands from unions, to repeal this legislation and fully fund pay equity claims. Workers deserve that commitment from every party in Parliament,” says Carter. 

Green Party MP and former Minister for Women Julie Anne Genter says the report confirms the damage done to a framework she helped build. 

“As Minister for Women, I worked alongside unions and workers to pass the Equal Pay Amendment Act in 2020, legislation that passed unanimously and was one of the biggest gains for gender equity since the Equal Pay Act 1972. This Government has torn that up. 

“Over 100,000 workers had already received significant pay increases, many in the double digits, through the framework this Government gutted. The evidence of what was working was right in front of them, and they chose to destroy it to fund their tax cuts for landlords and tobacco companies,” says Genter. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/greens-welcome-launch-of-peoples-select-committee-report-on-pay-equity/

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Serious crash: SH2, Mangatāwhiri

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are responding to reports of a serious crash on State Highway 2 near Mangatāwhiri.

Police were called to the crash involving two vehicles just after 11am.

Initial indications are there are serious injuries.

State Highway 2 is closed in both directions between Rawiri Road and Kopuku Road.

Further information will be released as it is available.

ENDS.

Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/serious-crash-sh2-mangatawhiri/

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NZME back in profit as Herald, OneRoof and ZB deliver growth

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ/ Brad White

Media company NZME is back in the black with increased earnings, as it put the asset writedowns and tougher economy of a year ago behind it.

The owner of the OneRoof property platform, New Zealand Herald, and Newstalk ZB radio network said it was cautiously optimistic heading into 2026.

Key numbers for the year ended 31 December 2025 compared with a year ago:

  • Profit $13.1m vs $16.0m loss
  • Revenue $345.1m vs $350.2m
  • Operating earnings $62.3m vs $54.2m
  • Expenses $289.3m vs $300.5m
  • Full year dividend unchanged 9 cents per share

Chief executive Michael Boggs said the performance reflected “a huge amount of hard work” across the company, supported by easing inflation and improving business and consumer confidence.

“We’ve remained focused on our digital-first strategy, continuing to innovate and adapt to changing audience and client needs, we’ve reduced our costs, and we’ve simplified our structure to allow us to operate at pace, placing specialist support services under each of our three main business divisions.”

Revenue dipped slightly after the company closed 14 community newspapers at the end of 2024.

OneRoof delivered a strong year, with listings revenue rising 18 percent, lifting its operating profits by a third.

Its audio division – which includes Newstalk ZB – saw operating profits rise by 23 percent, and NZME said it was seeing positive momentum heading into 2026.

The publishing division, led by the NZ Herald, reported total subscriptions rising from 236,000 to 243,000, with digital-only subscriptions up 10 percent.

The company did not offer any earnings guidance for 2026, but chairperson Steven Joyce struck an upbeat tone.

“We have entered 2026 with a strong balance sheet, diversified revenue streams and strong market positions across audio, publishing and OneRoof, providing a solid foundation for future growth,” he said.

“The renewed momentum and focus we have built through 2025 positions us strongly for 2026 and beyond.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/nzme-back-in-profit-as-herald-oneroof-and-zb-deliver-growth/

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Warriors co-captain Mitchell Barnett to leave at end of 2026 season

Source: Radio New Zealand

Mitch Barnett www.photosport.nz

New Zealand Warriors co-captain Mitchell Barnett will return to Australia at the end of the 2026 NRL season for personal reasons.

Club chief executive Cameron George confirmed today the 31-year-old Kangaroos and New South Wales front rower will be released from the final year of his contract.

It is understood the release is due to Barnett’s child’s medical needs.

Mitchell Barnett during pre-season training in January. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

“We’re very sad to see this happen but Mitch and his family need to be back home,” George said.

“He has become such a big part of our club. We love having him here and we know how much he loves it, too, but it’s important he, Clare and their boys are back around their family support network.”

After recovering from knee surgery in 2025, Barnett has two career milestones in sight as he eyes the 2026 season.

Barnett’s first game of the season will be his 50th for the club, while he’s 23 games away from his 200th career NRL appearance.

The Warriors kick off their 2026 season with a clash with the Sydney Roosters at Go Media Mt Smart Stadium, 8pm on March 6.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/warriors-co-captain-mitchell-barnett-to-leave-at-end-of-2026-season/

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Queensland fruit fly could have ‘massive impact’ on fruit and vegetable crops

Source: Radio New Zealand

The single male fly was found in Mount Roskill. Supplied / Biosecurity New Zealand

The discovery of a Queensland fruit fly in Auckland presents a huge threat to growers and exporters, a horticulture sector advocate says.

A biosecurity operation is underway after the pest, which damages fruit and vegetables, was identified in a surveillance trap in the suburb of Mount Roskill on Wednesday morning.

Horticulture chief executive Kate Scott said while the fly did not pose a health risk to humans, an outbreak would have a significant economic cost.

“The horticulture sector is naturally concerned about the impacts of a new pest being established here and the impact that could have on our ability to produce a wide range of fruit and vegetables.

“The Queensland fly likes to call more than 200 fruit and vegetables home. That could have a massive impact on the quality of our fruit and vegetable crops.”

She warned the country would not be able to export to key markets if the pest took hold here.

But she was confident in New Zealand’s track record of eradicating harmful fruit flies.

“We certainly support the ramping up of trapping and inspections and the movement control areas that are to be implemented.

“We’ve certainly seen last year and in other previous instances where a quick and immediate response is rolled out, that we have been able to successfully contain any threat.”

Biosecurity staff were expected to be on the ground in Mount Roskill over the coming days.

“As part of our response protocol over the next 72 hours, we will be ramping up trapping and inspection, with daily checks in a 200-metre zone from the original find and checks every three days in a second zone out to 1500m,” Biosecurity New Zealand’s Mike Inglis said.

“You may notice increased activity in the neighbourhood as we go about inspections and trapping. Our field officers may ask to look at fruit trees on your property. They will always show you a form of official identification and will only enter your property with your permission.”

Instructions about restrictions in the affected area were expected to be made clear on Thursday.

In the meantime, Biosecurity asked Mount Roskill residents not to take whole fresh fruit and vegetables out of their property.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/queensland-fruit-fly-could-have-massive-impact-on-fruit-and-vegetable-crops-2/

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Hawke’s Bay water storage project a step closer

Source: Radio New Zealand

The proposed Heretaunga Water Storage Facility, would be a 27 million cubic metre dam on private land near Whanawhana, in Hastings District. Supplied

A massive Hawke’s Bay water storage project is one step closer, with geotechnical work having started as part of a feasibility study.

Investigations into the proposed Heretaunga Water Storage Facility, a 27 million cubic metre dam on private land near Whanawhana, near Hastings, have started to address its economic, technical, cultural and environmental viability.

The site would harvest peak water flows from within the catchment and the Ngaruroro River in winter and store the water for release into Heretaunga’s rivers and streams during periods of peak summer demand.

In 2023, an initial pre-feasibility study was completed by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council with support from Kānoa – the Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit, which has also funded the next step.

A local group of irrigators, commercial water users, mana whenua and municipal water suppliers took over the project late last year in November, forming a new company – Heretaunga Water Storage Limited – to oversee the feasibility study.

Interim chairperson and Hawke’s Bay grower Xan Harding said it would have two implications for the region.

“The dam itself, the project if it goes ahead, part of that water will be offsetting the existing environmental effects of existing activity and part of it will be available for new water.

“It’s improving existing environmental outcomes and it’s providing room for growth.”

Harding said investigations would also enable comparison with other water security options for the region.

“Hawke’s Bay is a water short region so we know through a combination of measures we need to deliver long term water security for the Heretaunga Plains.

“We need to pull all kinds of levers on both the supply and the demand side of the water equation to get there and water storage is part of that.”

Geotechnical work has started as part of a feasibility study. Supplied

Harding said while the focus of the group was on the feasibility of water storage for the region, that wasn’t to say other efforts like water use efficiency were not important.

He said there were no guarantee the Heretaunga Water Storage Facility project – previously estimated to be a $225 million build – would go ahead but it had the potential to deliver longterm certainty for growers, commercial water users and the Hawke’s Bay community.

“The feasibility assessment is a critical next step and in depth geotechnical and ecological work to support the feasibility assessment is well underway at site,” Harding said.

“We will continue through the feasibility assessment with a view to having this completed around the third quarter of this year, at which point we will make decisions around resource consenting.”

A key part of the Heretaunga Water Storage Facility proposal is that its development would be funded by those who benefit most from the water storage in a user-pays model.

It differs from that of the controversial Ruataniwha Dam proposal – rebranded as the Tukituki Water Security Project – which would see a dam built on the Makaroro River, a tributary of the Tukituki River.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/hawkes-bay-water-storage-project-a-step-closer/

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Recidivist shoplifter before courts, Thames

Source: New Zealand Police

Numerous hours of scouring video footage has led to the arrest of a woman in relation to retail crimes in Thames.

Yesterday, Police arrested and charged a 52-year-old woman following multiple shoplifting incidents dating back over the past month.

“This type of offending, especially at this large scale, has a big negative impact on our local businesses and I’m pleased with this outcome,” says Inspector Mike Henwood, Eastern Waikato Area Commander.

The woman was due to appear in Thames District Court today, charged with 20 counts of wilful trespass, and two counts of speaking threateningly.

“I commend the tenacious work of local Police staff to pull these, and other investigations, together to prosecute offenders.

“Recidivist retail thieves are not tolerated – by business owners, their honest customers, or Police – and this highlights Police’s commitment to target and hold these offenders to account,” Inspector Henwood says.

If you witness any retail crime, or any other crime, please call 111 if it is happening now or for historic offending, please make a report, with as much information as possible, either online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 or by calling 105.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/recidivist-shoplifter-before-courts-thames/

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New Zealand announces more support for Ukraine, sanctions on Russia

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand will provide $8 million in new assistance for Ukraine and implement additional sanctions targeting Russia’s war machine, Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced.

 “Russia’s illegal and unprovoked invasion, now entering its fifth year, has devastated Ukraine, destabilised Europe and impacted the security of our own region,” Mr Peters says. 

 “Russia’s relentless bombardment of civilian infrastructure this winter has hit Ukraine’s people hard, and this assistance demonstrates New Zealand’s continued solidarity. 

 “These contributions will help address urgent needs as a result of Russia’s brutal winter attacks on Ukrainian civilians and energy infrastructure.”

New Zealand will provide $5 million in humanitarian assistance to international aid partners supporting Ukrainian civilians badly affected by the war. 

 This brings New Zealand’s total humanitarian assistance to Ukraine to $45 million over the past four years. 

 A further $3 million will go to the World Bank-administered Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund, which supports energy resilience and reconstruction. 

New Zealand is also implementing its 34th round of sanctions against Russia.

New measures include lowering the price cap on Russian crude oil and sanctioning 100 shadow fleet vessels.

“These are calculated steps to curtail crucial oil revenues fuelling Putin’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine,” Mr Peters says.

New Zealand has also sanctioned actors from Belarus, Iran, and North Korea, alongside alternative payment providers, malicious cyber actors, and those supporting Russia’s military‑industrial complex. 

More information about sanctions, travel bans, and export controls against Russia, as well as diplomatic, military and economic support to Ukraine, can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website here.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/new-zealand-announces-more-support-for-ukraine-sanctions-on-russia/