I buy myself a really expensive prosciutto that is cured only with salt. My kids, on the other hand, are fed ham and salami with ingredients that have a long list of weird chemical-sounding additives like pyrophosphates and polyphosphates hidden behind the numbers like E451 and E452. My prosciutto is merely considered processed, whereas what I feed my kids reaches the level of ultra-processed.
Look here, people, my prosciutto is more than $100 a kilo, and I buy the tiniest amount each week. Grocery store ham or salami costs a little over $30 a kilo.
A sandwich with layers of ham and mayonnaise.
victor_16605
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Defence Minister Judith Collins departs today for Germany to attend the international Munich Security Conference.
“In a turbulent and unpredictable world, the Munich Security Conference is an important opportunity to debate key security issues that impact New Zealand,” Ms Collins says.
“This year the conference brings together global decision-makers and military leaders from more than 100 countries, working to bolster cooperation, collective security and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.”
During the three-day conference Ms Collins will hold bilateral meetings with a number of New Zealand’s long-standing defence partners, including the United Kingdom’s Secretary of Defence, John Healey, and NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte.
She will also speak at a session focused on the interconnected nature of security challenges in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.
“I look forward to sharing New Zealand’s perspectives on a range of international issues, particularly the interconnected security challenges facing both of our regions such as Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and escalating strategic competition.
“As a small nation reliant on trade at the bottom of the southwest Pacific, we must take every opportunity to sit at the table and advocate for our interests and values.”
Ms Collins will return to New Zealand on 16 February.
Anton Shashero with Sir Graham Henry.Sarah Gloyer Waiheke Gulf News
While the country has been dragged into a devastating war, two Ukranians are ensuring that rugby stays alive in their home, and that young players have a potential path to safety.
Anton Shashero is coach of Ukraine’s national under-16 side, and thanks to a collaboration between some prominent rugby minds in Aotearoa, he and best friend Maksym Dulia have spent the past week in the country learning from some of the best in the business.
Shashero said the invasion has had an horrific impact on players and the sport in Ukraine.
“A lot of players from the senior national team and from the under-18 team have already died. A lot of them are in the war. In almost in every family now in Ukraine, someone have lost someone. It’s huge. It’s huge.”
He said rugby acts as a beacon for young men during dark times, and for Shashero and Dulia, it had a significant impact.
“When we were kids, rugby was everything for us. You can travel, you can have friends, you can share your moments with boys on the field and it’s the values rugby which rugby gave us.”
That path was able to be extended across the other side of the world,
“We knew that we wanted to come to New Zealand and try to learn from the best. So it was our dream.
“When our boys see that we’re here with the All Blacks, it has a huge impact for them, for their families and for everyone in Ukraine, when they see that we here, it’s big moment now for Ukraine.”
Upon arrival, the pair spent time with Sir Graham Henry, the Hurricanes and at the IRANZ institute.
Anton Shashero and Maksym Dulia at IRANZ in Upper Hutt.supplied
The initiative is part of a broader plan to bring Ukrainian youth boys and girls teams to play in Aotearoa a joint effort between IRANZ, Henry and Brent Impey of Kiwi KARE, a foundation which provides New Zealand aid to Ukraine.
IRANZ general manager Wayne Taylor said it felt like the right thing to do.
“The country has been through a lot of hardship and sport can be something really positive, obviously the timing wasn’t great though with the war but it’s still something we are really keen to do, we are hoping to still get some funding and that it will still happen in the future.”
Impey said that despite everything going on in Ukraine, their passion for sport persists as the five team senior mens rugby competition continues to run.
“Their goal is to reach the 2032 Olympics in sevens, so i thought how can New Zealand help make that happen? We can be a part of reconstruction through sports diplomacy. It represents an opportunity, for New Zealand to be a visionary. “
Infrastructure in Ukraine has been significantly compromised as a result of Russian strikes, forcing Shashero to host junior camps to be held outside of the country.
“We usually do camps outside of Ukraine, in Poland and Georgia and now we go to Portugal for international tournament,” Shashero said.
Shashero and Dulia will take what they have learned home as his young side prepare to take on the best in the Northern Hemisphere.
“We have been given some fundamental things which we implement, now we have to fight to try to become the best team in the Europe. We want to show we can win against the best teams like France, Ireland, England.”
The game has come a long way in Ukraine, as Shashero vividly recalls his first trip to the European champs as a youngster where his team was soundly beaten.
“All we did was trained one week and went there and we couldn’t play well against them.”
Shashero said he has been blown away by the passion for rugby in New Zealand.
“I was at a rugby club and saw a boy maybe one years old, he cannot speak now but he already passing the ball and it’s amazing.”
Having seen some secrets behind competing on the global stage, Shashero also hopes to one day bring a Ukrainian side to Aotearoa.
“I hope that one day one will come in the future. I hope and I believe that if we prepare them for such long period, they can be on the same level with them, especially with New Zealand specialists helping us with this. I hope that it’s going to rise.”
Shashero and Dulia mixing with Hurricanes players.supplied
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Silver medallist New Zealand’s Zoi Sadowski Synnott poses on the podium after the snowboard women’s big air final during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.AFP/KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV
New Zealand snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott has joined an elite club of Olympians – those who will be bringing home broken medals.
After a rough start, Sadowski-Synnott earned her second consecutive silver medal in the Big Air event at the Winter Olympics in Italy, matching her result from four years ago.
“You set goals and you dream about it, and when it actually happens, you still can’t really believe it,” the 24-year-old told Morning Report.
“But yeah, I’m really grateful that I was able to put it down when it mattered and just thankful for all the support from back home and grateful to have my family out here too.”
There have been reports of medals from this year’s Games breaking easily – including from American downhill skiing champion Breezy Johnson, Swedish cross-country skier Ebba Andersson and United States figure skater Alysa Liu.
Asked if she had kept hers safe, Sadowski-Synnott admitted “not exactly”.
“Mine actually broke. But it’s chill. It whacked my snowboard and fell off the thing, but it goes right back in. It’s all good.”
It was suspected the fault stemmed from the medal’s clasp and ribbon, which are designed to split if pulled with force to prevent strangulation.
Organisers on Thursday (local time) said they had found a fix.
Sadowski-Synnott, who has won five Olympic medals in her career, was going to cherish her latest prize regardless.
“It’s pretty sick. It’s pretty special, so beautiful and can’t really believe that I’m holding another Olympic medal.”
She next competes in slopestyle, where she will be defending the gold she won in Beijing in 2022.
BRP‑Rotax unveils its latest milestone in aviation with Aircraft Meets Racetrack. In an unprecedented accomplishment for the Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull athlete and Rotax Ambassador Luke Czepiela became the first pilot to fly this Grand Prix track’s complete racing line from the air, showcasing the capabilities of Rotax powered aviation in a dramatic low‑level performance.
Gunskirchen, Austria – Newsaktuell – 10 February 2026 – In a demonstration of precision aviation, Luke Czepiela traced the full ideal line of the Bahrain International Circuit at low level, including short takeoffs and landings (STOL) on the start/finish straight. The achievement is documented in the short film Aircraft Meets Racetrack, the first project to emerge from BRP-Rotax’s Brand Ambassador partnership with Luke Czepiela, launched in 2025. The short film premiered during the Bahrain International Circuit’s official F1 pre‑season press conference today.
When Racing Meets Aviation
The project transfers what racing drivers follow on the ground with high precision accuracy into the sky. The circuit’s racing line becomes an aerial flight path, demanding exceptionally tight tolerances, high and low speeds, and uncompromising line discipline. Conducting the maneuver required extreme precision. Low altitude, shifting wind conditions, more than 495 light poles, and the narrow, enclosed layout of the Grand Prix track created an environment with virtually no margin for error.
“Flying a racing line from the air demands absolute control at low altitude and instant reaction in every phase,” said Czepiela, Rotax Brand Ambassador. “It is precision flying in its purest form.”
The flight was performed in a CubCrafters Carbon Cub UL equipped with the 160‑hp Rotax 916 iS engine. The aircraft’s lightweight STOL design, immediate throttle response, and exceptional power‑to‑weight ratio made the aerial replication of the racing line possible.
Production took place during the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain – marking the first time all project partners collaborated on‑site. Working closely with the Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull Bahrain, and local authorities, the team implemented a comprehensive safety and operations plan. The track and airspace were fully closed to ensure uninterrupted filming, supported by constant air traffic coordination and emergency services on-site.
“With Luke Czepiela, we aimed to create something that authentically unites our two passions: racing and aviation,” said Peter Ölsinger, General Manager of BRP‑Rotax and Vice-President Sales, Marketing RPS‑Business & Communications. “This project represents technical precision, long‑standing partnerships, and the courage to pursue new creative paths.”
The film not only showcases a great achievement it underscores Rotax’s mission to connect disciplines, push boundaries, and deliver high‑performance experiences on the ground and in the air.
Temel Atacocugu, who was shot during the massacre at Al Noor Mosque.RNZ/Nathan Mckinnon
One of the survivors of the Christchurch terror attack says the terrorist is just seeking attention with his Court of Appeal bid.
White supremacist Brenton Tarrant is serving a life sentence without parole for the mass shootings in March 2019 and has gone to the Court of Appeal to overturn his convictions and sentence.
Temel Atacocugu, who was shot during the massacre at Al Noor Mosque, said he believed this was all for the terrorist’s entertainment and so he could get the public’s attention again.
“He doesn’t want to be forgotten, but he lost that chance. He is forgotten already. I don’t think it will make any difference to his conditions in jail after all this court case is finished,” Atacocugu said.
Atacocugu was shot nine times in the attack and said it was still challenging for him physically and mentally.
He has been watching the court hearing via livestream in Christchurch and said it was difficult to see the terrorist’s face on screen.
March 2019 massacres happened at Christchurch’s Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre.RNZ / Nate McKinnon
“When I saw his face on the screen, flashbacks started bombarding my mind, and remembering that day. And my body reacted and was aching and my disabled arm on my left side. So it’s not easy for us to be still dealing with this court case,” he said.
The terrorist should stop with the self-pity and face what he had done like a man, Atacocugu said.
Federation of Islamic Associations chair Abdur Razzaq said the latest court appearance by the Australian terrorist followed a well-known pattern used by convicted right-wing terrorists globally to exploit legal systems in order to regain publicity, amplify their ideology and inspire online supporters.
The white supremacist was following an almost identical trajectory to the man responsible for the 2011 Norway attacks that killed 77 people, he said.
“After initially confessing guilt, the Oslo terrorist systematically exploited the Norwegian and European legal systems through repeated court actions following his 2012 conviction, including cases in 2016, 2017, and again in 2024, largely focused on alleged prison conditions. This is quite similar to the Australian 15 March terrorist who is now exploiting the NZ legal system claiming he pleaded guilty under duress by torture,” Abdur Razzaq said.
The terrorist was using the New Zealand legal system not to seek genuine redress but to re-enter the public arena, garner repeated media reporting and ensure continued visibility, he said.
The legal challenges brought societal costs to the March 15 families, who were already suffering from PTSD and large financial costs, Abdur Razzaq said.
“Unfortunately, as a society, we must confront an uncomfortable reality.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Advances multi-typology brand expansion into more than 10 new cities in Asia Pacific and Europe, including lyf in Wellington and Ascott in Taipei
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), signed a record 19,000 units across 102 properties in 2025, marking 27% year-on-year growth in new signings. Its asset-light expansion was led by higher-fee segments such as resorts, supported by accelerating franchise momentum and strong conversion activity. Ascott entered more than 10 new cities across Asia Pacific and Europe, growing its global footprint to over 230 cities in more than 40 countries. The company now operates and has under development more than 1,000 properties[1] with over 176,000 units globally.
Ascott marked its entry into Taipei with the signing of the 185-room Ascott Nangang Taipei, located in a prime mixed-use development within Nangang Software Park, one of the city’s premier business districts. The partnership agreement was signed by Ms Jocelyn Wang, Chairman, The GAIA Hotel and Mr Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, The Ascott Limited and Lodging, CapitaLand Investment.
Mr Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Ascott, said: “2025 marked a key milestone for Ascott as we accelerated asset-light signings and strengthened revenue visibility. With these new signings, we now have the embedded income to exceed our S$500 million fee target as pipeline projects turn operational. Our flex-hybrid model and multi-typology brand strategy enable us to optimise performance for property owners across market cycles, while disciplined investments in loyalty, technology and business development position us to capture growth in higher-fee segments including resorts, branded residences, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions) and wellness. I thank our global teams and partners for their continued support as we advance our ambition to be the preferred hospitality company.”
Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “As travel evolves into a lifestyle, consumers are seeking greater flexibility and choice in how they live, work and explore. Guided by insights from our owners and guests, we have pursued a deliberate growth strategy anchored in our flex-hybrid model and a differentiated suite of flexible living offerings. We are heartened by the robust growth in 2025, driven by strong owner commitment as reflected in portfolio deals across multiple brands. Approximately 30% of new signings came from existing partners expanding with us, underscoring trust in Ascott’s platform and our ability to meet diverse traveller and resident needs worldwide.”
Strategic City Expansion In 2025, Ascott entered more than 10 new cities in Asia Pacific and Europe, including notable first properties in Wellington and Taipei, resort destinations such as Phuket, Phu Quoc and Langkawi, as well as emerging Tier-2 cities like Lucknow and Thanjavur in India.
Key milestones included the company’s expansion into New Zealand beyond its Quest franchise, with lyf making its debut in Wellington. Construction is expected to commence by the end of 2026, with the 108-room property set to transform six floors of a commercial building in the CBD, incorporating lyf’s signature social spaces and interconnected rooms for group travellers. With its strategic location in the heart of the capital’s business hub, the property embodies lyf’s experience-led social living philosophy, providing an accessible base for travellers, professionals and long-stay guests to connect with Wellington’s vibrant urban energy.
Ascott also entered Taipei, launching its flagship brand with the 185-room Ascott Nangang Taipei in Nangang Software Park, one of the city’s premier business districts. Scheduled to open in 1Q 2027, the serviced residence is part of a prime mixed-use development that also houses Taiwan Fertilizer Co., Ltd.’s headquarters and multinational companies including HP, Yahoo, Philips and Intel. It is further supported by a vibrant MICE and tourism ecosystem, with direct footbridge access to the Nangang Exhibition Centre, Taipei Nangang Exhibition Centre metro station and LaLaport shopping mall. The Nangang High Speed Rail station is also within walking distance. Designed for both short and extended stays, the property builds on Ascott’s expertise in transit oriented, mixed-use developments and supports its continued growth in the market.
Resort Portfolio Expansion Capitalising on strong leisure travel demand, Ascott’s multi-typology brand strategy drove 15 resort signings in prime locations such as Phuket, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang and Bali, expanding its portfolio in resort destinations to over 50 properties. Notable additions include the 693-unit HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh, marking the brand’s first entry into Vietnam, alongside a 250-unit lyf and a 120-unit Somerset at Lagoon City Seville, Spain, a mixed-use development anchored by an 18,000-square-metre man-made lagoon.
In 2025, Ascott expanded its branded residences portfolio by partnering with quality developers on two new properties, adding over 1,000 units. These include the 227-unit Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket (pictured), adjacent to Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort and just 150 metres from the iconic Patong Beach.
The company also expanded its branded residences portfolio by partnering with quality developers on two new properties, adding over 1,000 units: Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket, next to Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort, and Oakwood Premier Branded Residences Luohu Shenzhen, co-located with Oakwood Premier Luohu Shenzhen. Leveraging its hospitality expertise and brand recognition, Ascott is well-placed to deliver lifestyle-oriented residences that meet growing demand in Asia Pacific while generating fee growth. Co-locating branded residences with its hotels enhances operational and marketing synergies, diversifies revenue streams and strengthens Ascott’s value proposition to owners and investors.
Ascott’s second branded residence project in 2025, Oakwood Premier Branded Residences Luohu Shenzhen, will feature 792 residential units in the vibrant Luohu district, sharing the same building as the 450-unit Oakwood Premier Luohu Shenzhen.
Franchise Growth Momentum More than a quarter of the units signed in 2025 were under franchise agreements, supporting Ascott’s asset-light expansion. Franchise momentum in East Asia accelerated as the company strengthened its regional pipeline. Five Quest properties were secured in China through Ascott’s joint venture with Jin Jiang, alongside four franchise agreements to expand Citadines’ presence in the country. The largest franchise signing of the year was the 510-key Oakwood in Gangneung, South Korea, a resort-led development in Gangneung’s Cultural Olympic Special Zone with strong connectivity to Seoul, demonstrating Oakwood’s scalability in leisure and extended-stay markets.
In other regions, Ascott’s Quest franchise contributed five new signings in Australia, while franchise agreements for the Oakwood, Somerset and The Unlimited Collection brands in Europe and Africa further strengthened the company’s global footprint.
Conversions-led Growth Over 38% of units signed in 2025 were conversions, reflecting owners’ preference for faster, lower-risk routes to market and Ascott’s ability to execute conversions efficiently across its diversified brand portfolio. Recent conversions, including Citadines Antasari Jakarta, Oakwood Bencoolen Singapore and lyf Zhangjiang Shanghai, were completed within months of signing, demonstrating Ascott’s capability to reposition assets swiftly and accelerate revenue generation for owners.
Brand Performance and Expansion Ascott’s brands achieved milestones in scale and geographic reach in 2025. Citadines surpassed 200 properties globally with 17 new signings, boosted by its conversion-friendly positioning, while Oakwood secured 16 signings, maintaining strong owner appeal across business, leisure and extended-stay segments. Ascott’s collection brands continued their geographic expansion, with The Unlimited Collection expanding in Africa and Europe, while The Crest Collection entered the Middle East. Following the signing of The Unlimited Collection in Casablanca, Morocco, Ascott’s portfolio in the country now comprises 10 operational and pipeline properties across Casablanca, Tangier and Marrakech. This underscores Ascott’s strong momentum in Morocco, one of Africa’s most dynamic hospitality markets.
The flagship Ascott brand recorded 10 new signings, expanding its global portfolio to 87 properties including operational and pipeline assets. Notable additions include Ascott Coronation Square Johor Bahru, which secures a flagship position at the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone with direct connection to the upcoming Rapid Transit System Link, and Ascott Shenton Way Singapore, the brand’s third property in the city-state. Opening as a dual-format hotel and serviced residence, Ascott Shenton Way Singapore will integrate wellness-driven experiences with sustainable operations, showcasing the brand’s evolution in a prime CBD location.
[1] Includes Managed, Franchised, Leased, Owned and Other properties (including those under funds and JVs).
BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom, Sept. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hinen, a global provider of smart residential energy storage solutions, will exhibit at Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, the UK’s leading renewable energy and storage exhibition. The event runs from 23–25 September 2025 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Visitors can find Hinen at Booth C24.
Backed by over 20 years of advanced manufacturing experience, Hinen is publicly listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 300787) and serves as a trusted OEM/ODM partner for more than 400 global brands. What sets Hinen apart is its vertically integrated supply chain, covering battery cell production, inverter R&D, and full system assembly — ensuring high quality, innovation, and cost efficiency.
With offices and service teams across Europe, the UK, Australia, and Africa, Hinen combines global technology with local support. The company is rapidly expanding in Europe after becoming a Top 5 residential storage brand in Australia. Its mission is simple: deliver reliable, intelligent, and affordable clean energy to households worldwide.
At Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, Hinen will debut three All-in-One residential energy storage systems designed to meet the UK’s fast-growing solar market. With over 1.5 million UK homes already fitted with rooftop PV and strong government targets for renewable adoption, demand for integrated solar-plus-storage is rising rapidly. Hinen’s new A Series products address these needs with flexible sizing, quick installation, and strong backup capabilities.
Hinen H5S (5kW Single-phase All-in-One System) – Compact and ideal for standard UK households. Features a stackable plug & play design, 200% oversized PV input (max. 10kW), ≤10ms transfer time, and intelligent load management. Perfect for homeowners seeking both efficiency and backup security.
Hinen H15S (15kW Single-Phase All-in-One System) — Designed for large households and high-energy consumption families. Equipped with 4 MPPTs and dual power inputs (grid + generator), it offers enhanced EPS overload capacity with 16.5kW peak power (10s) to safeguard appliances from unexpected power interruptions during load surges. It enables whole-home backup, meeting UK users’ needs for energy independence and reliability.
Hinen H25T (25kW Three-phase All-in-One System) – A small C&I solution for villas, farms, or light commercial sites. Features ultra-wide 120–600V battery range, 20kW charge/discharge, 100% three-phase unbalanced output, and flexible phase sequence installation. Provides robust backup and scalable clean energy supply for businesses.
Beyond the A Series, Hinen will also showcase:
H6000-EU Hybrid Inverter + B5000/BP5000 Low-voltage Batteries, a popular residential pairing in the UK.
S1-100 Smart Box, supporting up to 23kW whole-home backup, 100A rated current,
E Series H2.4S (Balcony Energy System), compact plug-and-play design, ideal for UK flats and small homes. Scalable up to 15.36kWh for flexible household needs. IP65 weatherproof with safe LiFePO₄ battery (10-year warranty).
Visitors to Booth C24 will see how Hinen’s solutions empower UK homeowners and businesses to maximize solar generation, ensure reliable backup, and lower energy bills — making the transition to clean energy both practical and future-ready.
The NZ Drug Foundation says a major new report on international drug policy reform over the past 10 years shows that the drug control system has failed and countries like New Zealand urgently need to change direction.
The UNGASS decade in review: Gaps, achievements and paths for reform report assesses progress made since the 2016 UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on drugs, widely viewed as a potential turning point in global drug policy.
NZ Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says it paints an incredibly grim picture, with many challenges hampering efforts to reduce the harm from drugs including the financial crisis facing the United Nations, threats to the international rule of law, AI-fuelled illicit trade and reduced funding for harm reduction.
“Old tropes, and the ‘war on drugs’ approach that is regaining momentum in the United States and elsewhere, need to end. Aotearoa New Zealand risks sliding into the same chaos seen in parts of North America if nothing changes,” Helm says.
“All the evidence tells us these approaches are continuing to push things in the wrong direction – the increase in harm and deaths globally over the last ten years is just staggering.”
The report shows that under the current international settings:
More drugs are being consumed.
More potent and new substances have emerged, many of which are volatile and toxic.
More people are using drugs. An estimated 316 million people aged 15-64 used drugs in 2023, which is a 28% increase since 2016 and far outpaces 9% global population growth.
More people are dying as a result of drug use. Between 2016 and 2021, more than 2,678,000 people died (not including deaths from armed conflict in countries that supply the global drug market).
There has been an alarming level of incarceration that has disproportionately affected marginalised communities. About 20% of the global prison population – or one in five people – is in prison for drug offences. Of those people, 22% or 2.5 million people are in prison for drug possession alone.
“Sadly, these international trends are all too familiar in New Zealand. Our Safer Drug Laws for Aotearoa New Zealand report shows that everything from addiction, to overdose deaths, to criminalisation have increased under our current approach – it’s painfully obvious that we need to change,” Helm says.
“We lose almost three New Zealanders per week to overdose, methamphetamine and cocaine use have doubled in the past year, new toxic substances like nitazenes are killing people and 3,000 New Zealanders have been criminalised for cannabis consumption in the past two years.”
More and more money has been spent on reducing supply, including drug busts, to little or no effect. In fact, mounting evidence shows that law enforcement strategies aimed at disrupting trafficking organisations have often been counterproductive. Instead of reducing supply, they have fragmented criminal groups, creating more dynamic and violent competition over illegal markets.
“Both internationally and here at home, we spend vastly more on combating the supply of drugs than on reducing demand and the harm caused. This approach has not worked so it’s time to take a different approach,” Helm argues.
There are a few bright spots to be found over the 10 years the report canvasses. 59 jurisdictions in 39 countries have now adopted some form of decriminalisation, compared to 33 jurisdictions in 23 countries in 2016. And 45 countries – including Aotearoa New Zealand – have adopted laws and policies to improve access to medicinal cannabis since 2016, bringing the global total to 63.
Helm says that for New Zealand to start turning things around, decriminalisation of drug use, coupled with significant investment in health and harm reduction services, has the clearest evidence of success internationally.
“For example, Portugal’s two decades of experience of decriminalisation is compelling,” she says. “Overdose deaths fell dramatically, HIV transmission rates plummeted, and the burden on the criminal justice system was eased, all without an increase in drug use. Portugal now has one of the lowest rates of drug-related deaths in the EU.”
“The evidence is clear that any law reform efforts must be coupled with significant investment in support, including ringfenced funding for services designed and delivered by Māori, who have experienced the greatest harm from our current laws,” she says.
MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2026 – Alibaba Group today opened “Alibaba Wonder on Ice” (AWI), an interactive public installation in Milan’s Piazza del Castello Sforzesco, using artificial intelligence and cloud computing to showcase how virtual retail experiences could evolve during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
Set against the historic backdrop of the Sforza Castle and the commercial artery of Via Dante, AWI turns one of Milan’s most recognizable public spaces into a live demonstration of how digital technologies can intersect with culture, commerce and consumer engagement. Powered by Alibaba’s advanced technology stack, the showcase illustrates how artificial intelligence can enable immersive, interactive digital retail experiences that respond dynamically to individual preferences.
“Alibaba and the IOC share a simple belief together: technology should enable the Olympic Games to be more exciting, accessible, sustainable and connected,” said Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group. “With the power of AI, we are moving from “Cloud Olympics” toward “Intelligent Olympics”, as AI helps us work better, make smarter decisions, and connect more meaningfully.”
“I’m delighted to be here at the Alibaba Group Showcase, celebrating nine years of our partnership which represents one of the most significant technological transformations in Olympic history. Building on innovations delivered at recent Games, Milano Cortina 2026 represents a major step forward in cloud-based, AI-enabled broadcasting and operations, setting a new benchmark for future editionsn. Together with Alibaba, we’re not only ensuring the Games remain efficient and sustainable, but also remain engaging through sports media technology to audiences, athletes and fans worldwide”, said Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)”
A Personalized Journey Guided by AI
At the core of the installation is an AI-guided journey that brings virtual retail into a physical environment. Upon entry, visitors are invited to share simple preferences—such as their favorite Milano Cortina 2026 sport—with an AI agent, which uses these inputs to curate a personalized journey throughout the space. Visitors may also choose to have their photo taken to generate a real-time digital avatar, further tailoring the journey to the individual.
The AI agent then acts as a virtual stylist, interacting with visitors and offering tailored recommendations for clothing, fragrance, and makeup. As participants make selections, the experience evolves continuously, demonstrating how AI-enabled retail can move beyond static product catalogues towards adaptive, interactive experiences. Each journey culminates in a personalized AI-generated video in which the visitor’s avatar becomes the central character in a digital gala setting.
The experience is supported by Alibaba’s latest AI and cloud technologies, including its Qwen3 series of large language and vision models, Wan 2.2 image-to-video generation model, and Taobao Vision’s immersive shopping solution, and Alibaba Cloud’s global cloud infrastructure.
Architecture Inspired by Ice and Light
Spanning 40 meters, the installation consists of two architectural elements:
The Snow Globe, a spherical pavilion that serves as an interactive space during the day and transforms into a projection surface for AI-generated visuals in the evening
The Crystalized Skirt Building, a sculptural structure inspired by the crystalline geometry of frost and snowflakes, which houses the immersive AI-powered virtual retail experience.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the installation uses recyclable materials and leaves no permanent footprint on the historic plaza.
AWI will be open to the public from February 7–22, 2026, during the Olympic Winter Games, and March 6–15, 2026, during the Paralympic Winter Games.
Showcasing the First AI-Generated Olympic Fan Art Collection
The opening of AWI also marked the unveiling of the results of the Alibaba Cloud AIGC Championship @ Milano Cortina 2026, the first Olympic fan engagement initiative of its kind developed in partnership with the International Olympic Committee, the Olympic Museum and the Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee.
Using Alibaba’s Wan video generation models, fans from around the world created original video artworks inspired by four winter sports: figure skating, short track speed skating, alpine skiing, and snowboarding.
A curated selection of the top 100 works is now being displayed on the surface of the Snow Globe. This collection represents the first AI-generated artworks to be displayed by the Olympic Museum located in Lausanne, Switzerland. Ten creators will be awarded tickets to attend the Olympic Winter Games in person.
By combining Olympic inspiration with accessible AI technology, Alibaba Wonder on Ice invites fans worldwide to go beyond spectating, allowing them to step into the Games, express their “vibe,” and join the Olympic Movement in an entirely new way.
Hashtag: #Alibaba
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JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – 2026 marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of dialogue relations between China and ASEAN and the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It also coincides with the Year of the Horse in Chinese Spring Festival. On February 5, the “Steeds Herald Spring, Blessings Fill ASEAN”—Spring Festival @ ASEAN Headquarters 2026 was successfully held at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN and representatives of the Guangxi government pose for a handshake group photo with the permanent representatives of the 11 ASEAN member states (Photo by Huang Jundong)
The event, supported by the Mission of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat, was hosted by the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and jointly organized by Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, Guangxi Tourism Development Group, and Guangxi Cultural Industry Group. More than 250 guests attended the event, including envoys from the 11 ASEAN countries and external partners such as Russia, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil, senior officials from the ASEAN Secretariat, representatives from mainstream ASEAN media, local university faculty and students, and representatives from Chinese-funded enterprises.
I. A Gathering of Distinguished Guests, Sharing a Common Vision
This marks the first time that Chinese Spring Festival cultural activities have been held at the ASEAN Headquarters. With the deepening of globalization, the traditional festival of Spring Festival is not only a time for family reunions for the Chinese people, but also a new bond for dialogue between different civilizations. The Chinese Spring Festival embodies the philosophy of “harmony and coexistence”, which aligns perfectly with the ASEAN countries’ pursuit of “unity and cooperation”. Furthermore, the sustainable development concept of “rejuvenating the old and welcoming the new” resonates strongly with the ASEAN region’s vision of “common prosperity”.
Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, stated in his video address that over time, the Spring Festival has evolved into a global celebration. Its inscription on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024 underscores the rich significance of this precious human heritage. Within ASEAN, many member states celebrate the Spring Festival, reminding people of the deep emotional bonds that transcend national borders. ASEAN will continue its commitment to fostering a community proud of its identity, actively undertaking the responsibility of protecting, preserving, and creating culture, arts, and traditions, and promoting the development of the cultural and creative industries. As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we hope everyone will embrace the elegance, vitality, and forward momentum that the horse represents, and embark on the new year together with hope, resilience, and unity.
Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN, stated in his address that the Spring Festival symbolizes reunion, joy, and harmony. Celebrating the holiday together exemplifies the close bonds between the people of China and ASEAN, the integration of our civilizations, and our harmonious coexistence. The China-ASEAN community with a shared future is growing ever closer, demonstrating powerful vitality and setting an exemplary model for building a community with a shared future for mankind. He specifically noted that Guangxi serves as a vital “connection point” and “intersection point” for China-ASEAN friendship, exchanges, and cooperation, functioning as both a “gateway and engine” within the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In the new year, he extended heartfelt wishes for China-ASEAN friendship and cooperation to surge forward like galloping horses, unstoppable in its momentum.
Ambassador Sarah, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, noted in the address that as the Country Coordinator for China-ASEAN Relations, Malaysia has been privileged to witness and foster the flourishing development of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cultural celebrations like today’s Spring Festival event vividly demonstrate that our partnership extends far beyond trade agreements and diplomatic protocols. ASEAN and China share a deep, mature, and resilient relationship that will continue to grow and strengthen on the solid foundation of mutual respect, shared interests, and a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
Li Pan, Director of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, stated in his address that Guangxi is honored to host this event at the ASEAN Headquarters. As the permanent host city of the China-ASEAN Expo, Guangxi serves as an important platform for China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation and cultural exchanges. Guangxi is working with ASEAN countries to build an artificial intelligence development path of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou + Integration in Guangxi + Application in ASEAN”, and actively creating a new trade chain of “Production in ASEAN + Distribution in Guangxi + Sales in China”. In 2026, Guangxi will work hand in hand with all sectors of ASEAN to forge ahead and strengthen the neighborly bond between China and ASEAN over time. II. Celebrating the Spring Festival and Savoring the Festive Flavors
The event invited guests from around the world to gather together, celebrating the Spring Festival for the Year of the Horse, savoring the flavors of the Chinese Spring Festival, and appreciating the beauty of the arts. The opening performance, “The Beauty of China: Guangxi’s Zhuang Ethnic Charm”, featured a symbolic dance and connected it with a classic excerpt from the Caidiao Opera “Liu Sanjie”, including the “Antiphonal Song”, creating an artistic masterpiece that blends Eastern poetry with innovative ingenuity. The Chinese instrumental performance, “Chinese Chic Performance for Celebrating the Spring Festival of the Year of the Horse”, featured erhu and suona as the main instruments, playing classic melodies such as the theme song from “Journey to the West” and “Black Myth: Wukong”, converging into a “National Trend IP Music Festival”. When Guangxi ethnic instruments, the maguhu (horse-bone fiddle) and the bolie, met Indonesian gamelan, Chinese and Indonesian musicians jointly performed classics like “Jasmine Flower” and “Folk Songs Like Spring River Water”making the phrase “high mountains and flowing water meet a kindred spirit” more concrete and creating a lasting artistic resonance.
During the event, Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, together with ASEAN media such as TVRI, El John TV, and Harian Inhua, jointly launched the China-ASEAN Spring Festival Short Video Exhibition Week. Using short videos as a link, the event showcased the joyous scenes of China and ASEAN countries celebrating the Spring Festival together from multiple dimensions, inviting netizens around the world to jointly celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival as a global festival through the Internet.
III. Savoring the Cultural Gathering, Welcoming the Prosperous Spring Festival
On the same day, the “Spring Blessings for Success at the Year of the Horse” Chinese Spring Festival Cultural Exhibition and the “Instant Joy Market” Spring Festival Cultural Market were held simultaneously at the ASEAN Headquarters. Guests from various countries experienced the hospitality of “Tea Harmonies the World” through immersive experiences that included playing, appreciating, and tasting, creating “Ancient Charm and Blessings” calligraphy and painting rubbings, admiring the exquisite paper-cutting art, and enjoying a feast of Spring Festival delicacies from all directions.
The most surprising experience for the guests was exploring the smart future using Guangxi’s cutting-edge AI technology. Guests from various countries experienced intelligent translation devices and wore AR glasses, immersing themselves in barrier-free communication and exploring the thousand-year-old legend of the Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Hardy Chung, a reporter from Harian Inhua, remarked that China’s AI technology not only accurately depicted the beautiful scenery of the Spring Festival but also vividly expressed the touching story of ASEAN and China being connected by mountains and seas and sharing good neighborly friendship, presenting a beautiful picture of cooperation towards the future.
On February 4th, two “Instant Blessings” Pop-Up Events were held at the Halim Station of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway and the Mall Central Park in Jakarta, Indonesia, creating a festive atmosphere for the Chinese Spring Festival. Performers from Guangxi presented a variety of acts including song, dance, opera, and puppetry, attracting many locals to participate in interactive activities, join in the “Guangxi Kemusan Dance”, and share the joy of the Spring Festival. Yi Yan, a social media blogger traveling and living in Indonesia, exclaimed, “This year’s Spring Festival atmosphere in Jakarta is different!”
This event attracted more than 20 media outlets, including People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, China Media Group, China News Service, TVRI, METRO TV, bolong.id, and Vietnam News Agency to report on the event and widely spread the concepts of peace, amity, and harmony in the Spring Festival to people at home and abroad.
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Lulu Sun of New Zealand at the Australian Open.LUKAS COCH/Photosport
New Zealand’s Lulu Sun was beaten by Linda Fruhvirtova of the Czech Republic 6-3, 7-5 in the first round of the Australian Open in warm conditions on court 13.
It was the first match of the year for Sun who has been trying to recover from a wrist injury. Fruhvirtova had come through qualifying winning three matches.
Twenty-four-year-old Sun held significant leads in both sets, 3-1 in the first, after breaking her opponents serve in the first game of the match and again 3-1 in the second.
The left-handed New Zealander, ranked 86th, looked to fight back in the second set after being down 3-5 and held off several match points before winning her own serve and breaking her opponents to level the scores 5-5.
However, Fruhvirtova ranked 132 then broke Sun’s serve to go ahead 6-5 and then held her own serve to win the match.
Erin Routliffe and her new doubles partner Asia Muhammad are in action on Wednesday afternoon.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
An aurora seen from Hoon Hay, Christchurch.Rebecca Bull / RNZ
Rays from the biggest solar storm of the last couple of decades hit the Earth overnight, causing aurora visible in both the north and south extremes of the globe.
Do you have photos? Share them with us at: iwitness@rnz.co.nz
Early Tuesday morning, NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Centre (SWPC) posted on X: “An S4 severe solar radiation storm is now in progress – this is the largest solar radiation storm in over 20 years. The last time S4 levels were observed was in October, 2003.
But, it noted: “Potential effects are mainly limited to space launch, aviation, and satellite operations.”
The Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, glows on the horizon over the waters of Lake Ellesmere on the outskirts of Christchurch, New Zealand, on 21 January, 2026.SANKA VIDANAGAMA / AFP
Disturbance is measured on the K-index. According to the SWPC, it reached Kp8, out of a possible Kp9.
The solar storms of October 2003 caused power outages in Sweden and damages to power transformers in South Africa, CNN reported.
People look at the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, as it glows on the horizon over the waters of Lake Ellesmere on the outskirts of Christchurch, New Zealand, on 21 January , 2026.SANKA VIDANAGAMA / AFP
Some viewers posted pics and clips to social media. Sadly, cloud cover ruined the view for some New Zealand skywatchers.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) told RNZ the coronal mass ejection arrived in Aotearoa about 8.30am on Tuesday, and was “not expected to cause significant impacts for NZ”.
The agency had activated its Space Weather Science Advisory Panel, which had considered international space weather monitoring and forecasting agencies, as well as current information from the NZ-based monitoring network.
“On current conditions, the panel advises this event is not concerning for NZ and no significant impacts are expected. NEMA and Transpower will continue to monitor the situation.”