Category: Farming

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/women-shaping-the-future-of-aotearoa-recognised-in-inaugural-women-of-impact-in-property-list/

Vietnam’s Unified Political System Drives to End IUU Fishing

Source: Media Outreach

Eight years after the EC (European Commission) issued its “yellow card” warning over Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, Vietnam’s entire political system is executing comprehensive measures with unprecedented resolve. The campaign to remove the IUU yellow card transcends mere commercial calculations; it has become inextricably linked to national prestige, the livelihoods of fishing communities, and the sustainable future of the fisheries sector.

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 March 2026 – Combating IUU fishing represents a critical and urgent national mission with enduring implications for sustainable fisheries development. This mission constitutes a collective mandate that rests with the entire political system and society, presenting a pivotal opportunity to restructure, modernise, and transform the fisheries sector’s sustainable development strategy while ensuring social equity.

Removing the EC’s yellow card warning embodies Vietnam’s honour, responsibility, and national interest, essential elements for enhancing the reputation and global competitiveness of Vietnamese seafood products. Simultaneously, combating IUU fishing and developing a responsible, internationally integrated fisheries sector stands as a cornerstone of the blue economy agenda, ranking among the Vietnamese Government’s highest priorities in recent years.

Institutional Reform in Fisheries Management

Vietnam’s commitment manifests through sweeping legislative reforms. Decree 26/2019 established comprehensive traceability requirements, mandating that every kilogram of seafood must carry verifiable proof of legal origin from the moment of harvest until reaching international buyers.

Subsequent decrees (No. 42/2019, 37/2024, 38/2024, 301/2025) have progressively clarified liability, extending sanctions to both vessel owners and captains, substantially increasing penalties for specific violations, and introducing supplementary sanctions and remedial measures to ensure rigorous enforcement. These enhanced penalties strengthen deterrence capabilities against IUU violations.

The amended Fisheries Law 2017, effective January 1, 2026, incorporates crucial provisions including: (i) transferring certain authorities from the National Assembly to the Government/Ministries to ensure responsive IUU enforcement; (ii) delegating authority to establish fishing permit conditions to the Government (Article 50, Clause 2); (iii) expanding regulatory authority over vessel deregistration cases (Article 50, Clause 5); (iv) transferring authority to establish fishing port criteria and the procedures for opening and closing fishing ports to the Minister of Agriculture and Environment (Article 78); and (v) incorporating requirements for export vessels to meet Government-prescribed conditions (Article 66).

Integrated Technology for Vessel Management and Monitoring

Central to implementing the EC inspection team’s fourth-round recommendations is the deployment of a comprehensive fishing vessel management and monitoring system. Bolstered by the Politburo’s Resolution 57 on scientific-technological breakthroughs, innovation, and national digital transformation, technology has become indispensable to the yellow card removal campaign.

The eCDT system now enables end-to-end data digitisation for monitoring vessel port entries and departures, while the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) tracks all vessels exceeding 15 meters operating offshore.

Fishing vessels may only register for local operations when allocated fishing permit quotas remain available. Registered vessels are comprehensively catalogued in the national fisheries database (VNFishbase), with ownership information verified against the national population database (VNeID), enabling effective management, operational control, and administrative violation processing while ensuring seamless coordination between central and local authorities.

Establishing Traceability Mechanisms for Domestic and Imported Fisheries Products

As of December 31, 2025, Vietnam has declared 86 operational fishing ports, with continued investment in planned ports to enhance vessel monitoring capacity. The nationally deployed eCDT system now manages complete fishing vessel operations while ensuring transparent traceability of harvested aquatic products. System participation among vessels, fishermen, and enterprises continues growing, with mandatory eCDT and electronic logbook implementation scheduled for all operational fishing vessels.

In 2025, the eCDT system recorded 158,885 port departures (an increase of 81,158 vessels, up 104.41% from 2024) and 154,657 port arrivals (up 88,032 vessels, a 132.13% increase from 2024). Certification and confirmation of harvested aquatic product origins now strictly adhere to legal requirements.

Regarding imported harvest traceability: 14 designated seaports have been announced for foreign vessel arrivals, fully implementing PSMA, compliant control measures for imported harvested aquatic materials and container-shipped products. Domestic and imported harvest traceability mechanisms now operate with rigorous oversight, ensuring full compliance with Vietnamese and international legal frameworks. Notably, no violations have been detected in shipments to European markets since the fourth inspection mission (October 2023).

Legal Enforcement and Violation Processing

A unified vessel monitoring system operates consistently from central to local levels, tracking all vessels exceeding 15 meters in offshore waters. By December 31, 2025, all remaining cases of VMS signal loss and unauthorised boundary crossings have been resolved, with continued strict enforcement against emerging violations.

Coastal provincial authorities conduct regular reviews of vessel registration, surveying, and fishing permit issuance to eliminate unregistered, unlicensed, and VMS-deficient vessels and deregistered vessels still operating. These measures have significantly reduced foreign waters violations.

Sanctions against vessels and fishermen violating foreign waters have intensified, producing measurable improvements. In 2025, 20 vessels detained by foreign authorities underwent investigation, with 17 cases (85%) now resolved. Overall detention figures since 2017 show marked reduction, with complete cessation of violations in Pacific island nations. Currently, only six localities report vessel detentions compared to ten previously.
Vietnam maintains an unequivocal zero-tolerance stance toward IUU violations, committing to continued rigorous processing of remaining cases upon receiving complete vessel and captain information from detaining nations.

Analysts suggest the finish line is approaching. “Vietnam has accomplished more in eight years than many nations achieve in decades,” observers note. “Yellow card removal would not merely boost GDP, it would demonstrate Vietnam’s capacity for ocean governance leadership.”
Vietnam presents a transformed reality: bustling ports equipped with digital inspection infrastructure, vessels monitored by satellite tracking systems, and a fishing community actively upholding government mandates.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/vietnams-unified-political-system-drives-to-end-iuu-fishing/

Fonterra – Mainland Group sale unconditional

Source: Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today confirmed that the agreement to sell its global consumer and associated businesses, Mainland Group to Lactalis for $4.22 billion is now unconditional.

All required regulatory approvals have been received and the separation of Mainland Group from Fonterra is complete.

With all conditions of the sale satisfied, Fonterra and Lactalis will now proceed to complete the transaction.

Timing of capital return

In February, Fonterra shareholders voted to approve a capital return of $2.00 per share to shareholders and unitholders following completion of the transaction.

Fonterra can today advise that it expects the record date to be eligible for the capital return to be 9 April 2026 and the payment date to be 14 April 2026, based off the transaction completing at the end of March 2026.

Fonterra will confirm the capital return record date and payment date when the transaction completes.

About Fonterra

Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/fonterra-mainland-group-sale-unconditional/

Two seriously injured near Levin after ambulance, gas truck collide

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

A St John’s paramedic and a LPG delivery driver have been seriously injured in a crash on State Highway 1, north of Levin.

St John’s area operations manager Gareth Collings said a rapid response unit was caught up in the crash which happened at 10.40 am near Poroutawhao, north of Levin.

“The paramedic in the rapid response unit and the driver of the other vehicle were both treated for serious injuries and transported to Palmerston North Hospital by ambulance. Our thoughts are with those impacted by this incident and we are offering support to our people who were involved,” Collings said.

St John would be “supporting police” investigating the cause of the crash.

A Genesis Energy LPG delivery vehicle was involved in the crash. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Genesis Energy’s Ed Hyde confirmed one of its LPG delivery drivers was involved in the crash.

“Genesis has another vehicle on the way to the scene to collect the LPG cylinders and we will work with emergency services to make the site safe,” Hyde said.

Workers on a nearby site told RNZ they saw a St John vehicle travelling north with flashing lights before the crash.

St John has been approached for comment.

A reporter at the scene said workers unloaded household gas canisters from the bed of a smashed-up truck outside Lewis Farms on SH1.

The truck has lost its front wheels and the damaged cab was resting on the ground.

More than 100 vehicles were backed up at a cordon before traffic was allowed through.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/two-seriously-injured-near-levin-after-ambulance-gas-truck-collide/

The Strategic Importance of Latin America

Source: New Zealand Government

[Speech to the New Zealand Innovation Showcase, Brasilia, Brazil, 5 March 2026]

Executive Secretary and Deputy Minister Elias, excellencies, distinguished guests, tēnā koutou katoa, boa noite, good evening.

We want to acknowledge the senior New Zealand bipartisan political delegation joining this mission:

Hon Carmel Sepuloni, Deputy Leader of the Opposition
Hon Nicole McKee, Minister for Courts
Hon Damien O’Connor, Opposition Spokesperson for Trade
Mr Tim van de Molen, Chair of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Select Committee

We are also joined by a wide range of New Zealand companies active in Brazil. Some of their senior representatives have travelled with us from New Zealand, others are based here in Brazil, and a few have come from other parts of Latin America. They bring innovative solutions to essential sectors in Brazil – solutions for infrastructure, energy and resources, healthcare, defence, and agriculture.

All of these companies share a common thread: New Zealand’s reputation for innovation, practical solutions, and world-class quality.

It therefore is a great pleasure to formally open this New Zealand Innovation Showcase.

It’s wonderful to be back in Brazil. New Zealanders have long admired your country. For us, way down at the bottom of the Southwest pacific, just north of the penguins, Brazil has always grabbed our imagination. The mighty Amazon, the world’s lungs, its great river, and within its vast canopy, the greatest biodiversity anywhere on the planet. We admire the vibrant rhythm and flair of your people, and, of course, the magnificent history of your football team.

The first New Zealand football team to qualify for the World Cup was in 1982, after our team survived 15 gruelling matches just to qualify for the world’s premier sporting event. When the draw came out, with Brazil in our group, we all wondered how our team could hope to compete against a Brazilian side containing brilliant, world class players like Éder, Falcao, Júnior, Sócrates and Zico.

Well, you were very respectful of New Zealand that day, only scoring four goals against us, for which we remain grateful. Such was the euphoria New Zealanders felt to be even on the same pitch as your team, our capital’s then leading newspaper declared after the big loss that ‘Four years ago it would’ve been 20-0!’

In 1982 you were the best team at the tournament, but you didn’t win. New Zealanders understood your pain 13 years later, when a great All Blacks rugby team, the best performer at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, faltered at the final hurdle. That day we understood how Brazilians felt in 1982.

It was also an honour to meet Pelé in 2006, at FIFA’s invitation for that year’s World Cup Final in Berlin. Pelé came to define Brazilian football with his sublime skill, the freedom and excitement with which he played, his resilience and determination during his long career, and the way he carried himself on the pitch with a grace that only the most gifted can reach.

We would now like to turn attention to another important topic for all of us here: New Zealand’s relations with Latin America.

Though a vast ocean, and the imposing Andes, separate New Zealand from Brazil, we share important values – a commitment to democracy, the international rule of law, multilateralism, and a vision to create, however imperfectly, a future that sustains and nourishes our children and their children’s material needs, and whose environment and climate is tended to with a serious duty of care. Brazil’s demonstrated this duty of care during its recent impressive hosting of COP 30.

Twenty twenty-six marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the New Zealand Embassy here in Brasilia, and the 62nd anniversary of our diplomatic relations.

We have, since coming into office, led a highly active diplomacy, focusing most particularly on our own region, the Pacific, and in South and Southeast Asia. Now is the time, we believe, to build on our history in South America to elevate our diplomatic and economic relationships with your continent.

We do so because those of us who have history together, who share common beliefs, and possess the same essential values, must strengthen our bonds as we work to protect institutions that have, for all their imperfections, helped to sustain conditions of global peace for 80 years. We come as friends wanting to talk about the work ahead.

That is also why we are here as a cross-party delegation, alongside our business delegation, to signal as clearly as we can, that boosting our relationships with Brazil and with your Latin American neighbours is a goal on all sides of New Zealand politics.

This commitment is not made lightly, nor is it merely a response to the current regional and global disruptions we face. It is a recognition from New Zealand that we have not done enough in past decades to grow our relations, and we are resolved not just to improve them, but to transform them.

That will take time, and this is just the beginning, but we are keen to move fast as we find those areas where our people can mutually benefit from our governments and businesses’ greater collaborations and partnerships.

We see Latin America as an important partner in addressing major global challenges, including building climate resilience, and boosting food and energy security.

We also share serious concerns over the ever present and fast-growing threat of transnational organised crime. We also share in the urgent need to protect and promote effective rules-based multilateralism and trade architecture.

Put simply, New Zealand cannot expect to be able to progress initiatives in the international arena without Latin American cooperation – be that in the United Nations, Antarctic Treaty System, APEC, or on trade. Your region matters enormously for us.

As we say, continuing to build our relationships with the region is a strategic choice for New Zealand. It is why we have a sizeable network of diplomatic missions spread across the region, and why we have held a series of foreign policy consultations over the last year. Our Latin American partnerships matter.

And this is again why we considered it important to undertake this rare cross-parliamentary, business and cultural mission to the region. Within a geo-strategic environment that is changing rapidly and is hugely challenging, deepening our engagement with Latin America is critical for achieving our enduring objectives of ensuring:

A sustainable future, a prosperous and resilient future, and a stable, safe, and just future – for your people and ours.

A sustainable future

We recall first visiting Brasilia almost 20 years ago now as Foreign Minister, when President Lula was leading your country. Back then we spoke about how Brazil was emerging as a political superpower. Today, Brazil is viewed as a leader in the multilateral space at a time of profound geopolitical change and challenge.

Brazil’s hosting role convening COP30 and the G20 reveals your country’s ability to bridge divides and foster dialogue among diverse partners, large and small. Brazil can feel proud in showcasing how committed it is to inclusive, forward-looking solutions on climate resilience, economic governance, and global security.

In our meetings here, with Minister Vieria, Ambassador Amorim and Deputy Minister Elias, we agreed that this is something we all need to do if we are to be successful in defending and advancing the international rules-based order on which our shared security and prosperity rely.

In an era where consensus is increasingly elusive, the ability to convene, lead, and inspire collaboration is indispensable. We have been saying in multilateral and bilateral fora that never has diplomacy been more needed than now. We need to talk more, listen more, even to those with whom we might not agree. But from more diplomacy, more listening to other perspectives, we see a path towards greater understanding between nations.

Our time here in Brasilia was preceded by visits to Buenos Aires and Montevideo, where we similarly spoke with President Milei and President Orsi on the fundamental importance, indeed necessity, of boosting global cooperation and effective coalition-building with our Latin American and other partners.

Our shared interest in preserving the Antarctic as a zone of peace and science was a key topic, following on from New Zealand’s hosting late last year of an Antarctic Parliamentary Assembly. It was the first time the assembly was held in the Southern Hemisphere, and we were thrilled to be able to attract parliamentarians from across Latin America, including from Argentina and Uruguay.

While the Antarctic Treaty has been maintaining peace and promoting scientific collaboration for close to seven decades, the region is not immune to the impacts of the geopolitical landscape. Protecting the Antarctic is as important to us as protecting your vast rainforest is to you, as both have impacts on our global climate’s health.

We must work together to ensure the long-term protection of the Antarctic as a natural reserve devoted to peace and science, which supports our shared security and prosperity.  As such, we were especially pleased to sign a new Antarctic Cooperation Arrangement with Uruguay while we were in Montevideo, and to take the pulse of the one we have with Argentina while in Buenos Aires.

Chile, where we will visit next, is also a gateway nation to Antarctica and a close partner when it comes to protecting it, as well as our shared oceans – in fact, it was at the United Nation’s “Our Oceans Conference” that we last met with our Chilean Foreign Minister counterpart.

New Zealand’s relationship with Chile is a close and longstanding one. Last year, we marked our 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations. It is a relationship that was sealed back in 1945 when we were both proud founding members of the United Nations, an institution where we have worked so long and so closely with Latin American partners. And we will continue to do so.

We have highlighted in speeches at the United Nations that the United Nations’ system is facing unprecedented challenges that have built up over time. We urged the United Nations leadership and members to work seriously to achieve long overdue but necessary reforms that help to reduce the vulnerabilities the UN currently faces. Do more with less, and be effective, by focussing on its core purpose to improve its impact and delivery.

The next UN Secretary will have a significant role in carrying forward the all-important reform process.

New Zealand is already supporting that effort through its co-leadership of the United Nations mandate review, and we will work closely with Latin American countries to ensure this aspect of United Nations reform is fit for purpose for another 80 years.

Another key success of our Latin American partnerships has been positioning ourselves at the vanguard of developing innovative future-focused trade architecture. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is a great example of this. In the early 2000s, Chile and New Zealand led the creation of the high-quality and comprehensive P4 Agreement. It was then expanded into the Trans-Pacific Partnership (bringing onboard Mexico and Peru), and it has subsequently transformed into what now has global reach and influence with the accession of the United Kingdom, and others – including Costa Rica, Uruguay and Ecuador – seeking to do so.

Innovative leadership on trade rules gives small and medium-sized trading nations like New Zealand and many of our Latin American partners a larger, more influential voice in shaping the international trade environment that we all depend on.

Alongside CPTPP, we have successfully collaborated on a range of modern trade agreements. The latest offering is the innovative Future of Investment Partnership, which we were pleased to launch last year alongside a range of partners, including Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Peru.

At a time when the international rules-based system is facing multiple challenges, open, rules-based trade is more important than ever, whether through CPTPP, Mercosur, or other platforms such as the Pacific Alliance – which New Zealand remains keen to join as an Associate Member when appropriate. Open, rules-based trade is critical for our shared future prosperity.

A prosperous and resilient future

There is so much more we should be doing to grow our shared prosperity. For New Zealand, Latin America remains a region of significant untapped trade potential where we can and want to do more, including in terms of diversifying our trading base.

Latin America represents the world’s fourth-largest economy – US$6.34 trillion – almost twice that of India. Latin America is home to 660 million people with high education levels; large middle classes; sizable youth populations; and an abundance of natural resources.

In fact, it holds half of the world’s biodiversity, a quarter of its forests, and a substantial share of minerals essential to the twin digital and low carbon transitions. The region’s sheer size and resources present significant opportunities for New Zealand businesses looking to diversify beyond the Indo-Pacific and traditional markets.

The New Zealand Government is aiming to double its export value by 2034. And this is why we are joined on this Latin America Mission by a delegation of New Zealand business leaders. Our time here also dovetails our Minister of Trade’s successful mission to São Paulo in October 2024, which saw us achieve a $100 million trade boost from the 13 arrangements signed. They covered a broad range of sectors, including technology, healthcare and advanced manufacturing, showcasing New Zealand’s diverse offerings and a growing regional interest in New Zealand expertise.

Here in Brazil, our volume of trade is not huge, but it is fresh and exciting. That’s because, in Brazil, New Zealand is not known as a source of high-volume primary goods, but instead as a high-quality technology exporter successfully engaging in areas where we can add real value, by raising productivity, efficiency and profitability for our Brazilian customers and partners.

And this brings me to the theme of the Innovation Showcase here today: Accelerate Brazil, with its focus on boosting commercial opportunities through greater engagement in the technology sector.

Among the success stories featured here today is Tait Communications. Tait entered the Brazilian market back in 2006, and it has since become a strong regional player, which is challenging the market share of larger, US-based companies such as Motorola, to provide communication and security solutions in the mining and defence sectors. Over the years, Tait’s business has seen remarkable growth, and it has turned its headquarters here in Brazil into a regional hub for its operations in South America.

As demonstrated by some of the businesses here with us today, including Livestock Improvement Corporation and Gallaghers, there is also, we think, a great opportunity for further engagement in agritech. Though New Zealand has previously been viewed as a competitor, there appears to be an increasing awareness of the value of collaborating with us in the agriculture sector – something which is backed by New Zealand’s record of helping to improve the productivity and sustainability of small, medium, and large dairy producers in the region.

By example, back in 2007, when we last visited, New Zealand also first invested in the Kiwi Group dairy farm in Goiás state. The operation has since gone from strength to strength, showing how New Zealand pasture-based sustainable production systems can be adapted to Brazil’s climate conditions – and with great success. The farm is now the largest milk producer in the state and will shortly inaugurate a new modern farm.

There are also other similar Kiwi-Brazilian collaborative farming stories, including in Bahia. We hope we can do much more with Brazil and other partners across the region in the agricultural and other sectors, as the benefits of New Zealand agritech products and systems become better-known.

As demonstrated at this showcase, New Zealand is well-placed to provide a broad range of focused, smart solutions that enable increased productivity and efficiency, and therefore economic development, in sectors of strategic importance throughout the region, such as technology-driven service solutions that support export agriculture, the mining industry, and other sectors including IT, retail, healthcare and film.

On the film sector, we signed with the Brazilian Foreign Minister yesterday a Brazil – New Zealand Audio-Visual Co-Production Agreement, which aligns with our Government’s

“Going for Growth” economic strategy. The agreement allows approved film and television projects to gain the status of official co-productions, entitling them to the benefits accorded to national productions in each of the co-producer’s countries. New Zealand’s co-production agreements with partners worldwide have delivered tangible benefits for our local film industry, and we have every expectation that this will be the case here too.

Indeed, tonight, we are pleased to have here with us an exemplar of what can be achieved in this area in the person of David Schurmann, a Brazilian New Zealander who produced and directed the film Little Secret – a film that Brazil submitted to the foreign-language category of the Oscars back in 2016.

New Zealand is eager to ensure that the implementation of the agreement is a success, and LANZBC – which is with us on this mission – will shortly host a film webinar, alongside the New Zealand Film Commission and Brazil’s ANCINE.

We were also pleased to sign yesterday a refreshed Education Cooperation Arrangement with Brazil. Education and research have long been an important strand of our relationship with Brazil and the broader region. All eight New Zealand universities are ranked in the top two percent globally and prior to COVID, we hosted some 25,000 students from the region each year to further their education and research.

While those numbers are still rebuilding, we are very keen to see that this vital exchange of our best and brightest youth continues to grow.

A safe, secure, and just future

Beyond our diplomatic and economic relations, we see value in shoring-up our relationships with Latin American partners to help protect and advance national, regional and international security. Collectively we are facing the most challenging strategic environment in 80 years. Geostrategic competition, armed conflict and the instability it causes, and transnational organised crime are all on the rise. No region is immune, although nor has there ever been better appreciation about how inter-connected our regions are.

Given this context, it is critical we actively contribute and work together towards global peacebuilding and security. And we have a track record of doing so in the past: from WW2, where the “Smoking Snakes” of Brazil fought courageously at Monte Castello in the north of Italy, whilst New Zealand troops did the same at Monte Cassino in the south; to today, where we have units working together in contemporary peacekeeping missions, such as with Uruguay and Colombia, and in the Multinational Force and Observers in the Sinai.

New Zealand calls for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law to be upheld in Venezuela, and that all political prisoners and others arbitrarily detained to be released. The people of Venezuela must determine their country’s political future.

We have also been a steadfast supporter of Colombia’s 2016 peace agreement. While New Zealand was President of the UNSC, we co-sponsored resolution 2261, which established a UN political mission to monitor and verify the bilateral ceasefire between the Colombian Government and FARC. This has been followed by New Zealand supporting post-conflict demining efforts, including a contribution made last year to the UN Multi-partner Trust Fund for sustaining peace in Colombia, also focussing on demining efforts.

More recently, the New Zealand Government agreed a comprehensive plan to disrupt and prevent drug exports to New Zealand and Pacific Islands, with the Islands vulnerable to the dreadful poison of drugs. We’ve established new offshore liaison positions to increase collaboration with our international partners, because it’s one battle we cannot afford to lose.

Latin America countries share our concerns about transnational organised crime and are key partners in the fight against it. We are pleased to announce that one of those new offshore liaison positions will be based in Bogotá with a regional remit, working alongside the Australian Federal Police, and embedded with the Colombia National Police.

A positive global future requires a Latin America that is safe, secure, active, and prosperous, and we look forward to strengthening our engagement with Brazil and other partners in the region on these important issues.

Closing Remarks

The key objective for our mission is to reinforce both bilaterally and across the region the value we are attaching to our Latin American partnerships. No country or region on its own can satisfactorily or sustainably address the multiple challenges we face today. We need to work hard to collaborate more politically, commercially, and through people-to-people links.

Indeed, promoting our growing people-to-people links remains one of the best ways we can deepen and broaden our collaboration. In that regard, New Zealand was pleased to support the launch of the new airlink between Auckland and Buenos Aires, and we hope more such direct linkages will be possible in the future.

The last 25 years has seen the welcome emergence of a steadily growing Latin American community in New Zealand. It now numbers more than 38,000 and they make an outsized contribution to the vibrancy and value of our country. Many thousands have been supported to experience New Zealand through our working holiday schemes with Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay, which are hugely popular. Perhaps a few more of your footballers might like to join them.

We encourage young New Zealanders, too, to take up the opportunity to travel between our countries and forge life-long experiences and connections, which in turn will strengthen our bonds.

Muito obrigado,

muchas gracias,

thank you and kia ora mai tātou.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/the-strategic-importance-of-latin-america/

Toitū launches national campaign: Climate Action = Smart Business

Source: Toitū Envirocare

Toitū Envirocare has launched a new national campaign built on a clear and commercial premise: Climate Action = Smart Business.

Aimed squarely at CEOs, directors and senior decision-makers, the campaign makes a direct case to New Zealand organisations that credible climate action is a driver of resilience, efficiency, market access and long-term value.

With more than 900 certified clients across Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, Toitū is using the campaign to showcase organisations that have embedded emissions measurement and reduction into core strategy and are seeing measurable business outcomes as a result.

Featured organisations in the campaign include:

WM New Zealand: “Our partnership with Toitū Envirocare has helped us translate sustainability commitments into measurable business outcomes. Being featured in this campaign celebrates that journey,” says Sustainability and Communications Manager, Andrea Svendsen

Toyota New Zealand: “Sustainability is central to how we operate and innovate. As a valued partner of ours, Toitū Envirocare helps us verify our emission reduction targets to ensure we stay on track to creating a more sustainable future for New Zealand,” says Susanne Hardy, Assistant Vice President Marketing, Sustainability and Technology.

Silver Fern Farms: “We intentionally chose to position climate innovation as a core pillar of our Sustainability Action Plan, and this investment is paying off – delivering what our customers need and unlocking real operational efficiencies. Our partnership with Toitū Envirocare since 2018 has been fundamental in building the transparency, trust and rigour to turn ambition into action, and we are proud to share that in this new campaign.” says Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer, Kate Beddoe.

Each represents a different sector of the economy, but the same underlying principle: disciplined climate action strengthens commercial performance.

“Climate leadership is no longer optional for businesses that want to compete in domestic and export markets,” said Aisha Daji Punga, CEO of Toitū Envirocare. “Our clients are demonstrating that when emissions management is embedded properly, it drives operational discipline, risk reduction and stronger stakeholder confidence. That’s smart business.”

The campaign positions Toitū not as a marketing badge, but as a strategic partner helping organisations:

Measure and verify emissions with credibility
Set science-aligned reduction targets
Strengthen procurement and supply chain positioning
Meet growing investor, regulator and customer expectations
Turn climate commitments into measurable business impact.

The multi-city rollout across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch is supported by digital and targeted media designed to reach senior leaders where strategic decisions are made. However, the primary objective is engagement rather than visibility.

“Our focus is high-quality B2B conversations,” said Marnie Pitcher, General Manager of Marketing and Impact at Toitū. “Boards and executive teams are asking sharper questions about risk, resilience and competitiveness. This campaign answers that directly: credible climate action strengthens your business.”

As regulatory scrutiny, investor expectations and supply chain requirements continue to tighten globally, Toitū’s message is straightforward: organisations that act early and systematically will be better positioned than those that treat climate as a compliance afterthought.

For organisations evaluating their climate strategy in 2026, the question is no longer whether to act but how to act in a way that delivers measurable commercial return.

About Toitū Envirocare

Toitū Envirocare works with more than 900 organisations across New Zealand and internationally to measure, manage and reduce climate and environmental impact through internationally recognised certification programmes. As a government-owned, independent, ISO- and JAS-ANZ-accredited, science-led authority, Toitū provide services that translate climate ambition into measurable impact.

Note:

The Silver Fern Farms element of the campaign will roll out later in March. First up will be Toyota and Waste Management.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/toitu-launches-national-campaign-climate-action-smart-business/

Cautionary approach to Bluff oyster season

Source: New Zealand Government

The Bluff oyster season is open, with a cautionary approach and after careful assessment of the fishery, Oceans and Fisheries Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft says.

A pre-season survey by Fisheries New Zealand found that although, like last year, 2026 was likely to be a challenging season, there were good numbers of new oysters beginning to grow to larger sizes, Ms Marcroft says.

“Careful management will be required this season with issues such as disease and environmental pressures impacting oyster abundance and condition but there’s encouraging signs as well.

“Early results from the annual survey show that these issues are still present in the fishery and careful science-based fisheries management remains vital to safeguarding the fishery’s future.”

Fisheries New Zealand conducts the Bluff oyster survey before the start of the season each year to assess the status of the fishery including oyster size, abundance and disease prevalence.

The survey’s preliminary results have found that there is little oyster mortality and large numbers of small oysters in the areas of the fishery. This is similar to last year’s findings.

“Fisheries New Zealand officials have been working with local oyster fishers on plans to protect areas with large numbers of small oysters, and set a conservative catch level,” Ms Marcroft says.

“Bluff oyster fishers have faced tough conditions in recent years and I’m thankful for their collaboration and research that forms the bedrock of this work.”

Bluff oysters have been fished for more than 150 years and are some of New Zealand’s most treasured kaimoana. As well as employing oyster fishers directly, Bluff oysters support the local tourism industry and are a delicacy enjoyed nationwide.

“Fisheries New Zealand will work with oyster fishers over the first few weeks of the season to continue to assess oyster beds for quality and health to ensure what they are seeing aligns with the survey results,” Ms Marcroft says.

“I’ve been steadfast in my support for New Zealand’s oyster industry and have been deeply concerned about the issues both Mahurangi oyster farmers in the north and Bluff oyster fishers in the south have been facing.”

The Bluff oyster season is open from 1 March to 31 August each year but may end earlier depending on conditions in the fishery.

The full survey will be presented to the Shellfish Working Group in May, and the report will be made publicly available in November.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/cautionary-approach-to-bluff-oyster-season/

New NZ-Chile cooperation arrangement to deliver for agriculture sectors

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand and Chile have signed an arrangement to boost agricultural cooperation and drive sector success, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.

“Agriculture is at the heart of the New Zealand and Chilean economies. We have similar farming systems, similar geographies, and both advocate for open, rules-based trade,” Mr McClay says.

“The new Strategic Agricultural Arrangement 2026 – 2030 signals our strong commitment to working together and strengthening our agricultural relationship.

“Key features of the arrangement include encouraging regional and global collaboration and developing our people. We will work together to exchange expertise, promote and advance sustainable agricultural development, undertake important research and innovation, and build climate resilience.”

Last year New Zealand and Chile marked 80 years of diplomatic relations, and two-way trade reached $342.94 million in the year ending September 2025.

“The new arrangement will enable New Zealand and Chile to seize agricultural opportunities, tackle shared challenges, and ultimately achieve more together,” Mr McClay says.

“This Government is laser-focused on building the future, boosting returns for farmers, growers, producers and exporters, growing the economy and driving prosperity for New Zealanders.”

The arrangement was signed by Mr McClay and Chile’s Minister of Agriculture Dr. Ignacia Fernández.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/new-nz-chile-cooperation-arrangement-to-deliver-for-agriculture-sectors/

Rural News – Profitability at all-time high, but farmers cautious – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

Strong returns and lower debt-servicing costs mean more farmers than ever are making a profit, according to the latest Federated Farmers Confidence Survey.

Of nearly 650 farmers who responded to the survey in late January and early February, 70% said their farm was currently profitable.

“That’s the highest level since we started our twice-yearly Farm Confidence Survey back in 2009,” Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says.

“It’s great to see farmers doing well after several tough years of rising costs and uncertainty. When farmers are profitable, that’s good news for the rest of New Zealand.

“That money flows into rural communities and the wider economy, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening regional New Zealand.”

The mid-season survey shows farmers are feeling the most confident about current economic conditions since 2017, with a net 37% positive score.

“That’s a big turnaround from 2023/24, when farmer confidence was stuck at rock bottom and looked like it was just going to keep falling,” Langford says.

“Improved commodity prices are the key driver, as well as lower lending interest rates.

“At the same time, Federated Farmers has been working incredibly hard to cut some of the red tape that was holding our sector back, and we’ve had a Government that’s listened to our concerns.

“That easing of regulation has really helped breathe new life back into rural New Zealand again.”

The recovery from 2023/24 is now firmly established across most sectors, with the number of profitable dairy farms stable at 81%, and meat and wool farms improving substantially.

“Arable farm profitability continues to lag at 41%, but that’s a small improvement from our July 2025 survey.

“It’s been an incredibly challenge year and harvest for our arable farmers across the country” Langford says.

Despite favourable current conditions for farmers, the survey shows many are feeling apprehensive about the future, with concerns about cost pressures and market volatility.

When asked about their expectations for after-tax profit over the next 12 months, farmers’ optimism has dropped sharply, with more now predicting a fall in profits than an increase.

This marks the first negative profitability outlook since early 2024.

“Dairy farmers were particularly pessimistic,” Langford says.

“With forecast payouts hovering around $8.50-$9.50 per kilogram of milk solids, but rising input costs pushing the break-even margin to $8.50, there’s quite a bit of nervousness there.

“Farmers might be receiving strong milk cheques, but it’s the margin that matters. If costs keep rising, that will quickly eat away at profitability.”

Forward sentiment on economic conditions slipped to a net positive 4%, down from 6% six months ago.

A particularly worrying result is the finding that more farmers are having difficulty recruiting skilled and motivated staff.

Langford says it’s incredibly frustrating for farmers because, even as nationwide unemployment rises, they struggle to find good staff.

“It’s a message we keep sending to successive governments,” he says.

“The primary industries are the engine room of the economy, but it’s hard to attract willing workers to more remote provincial areas.

“Farmers play a role in training and looking after their staff, but many challenges are beyond their control.

“When rural communications, roads, bridges, and school bus services are under-invested in, younger workers and families stay in the cities – sometimes even if that means relying on a benefit,” Langford says.

When asked in the survey about their greatest concerns, farmers said regulation and compliance costs are still the main worry, but input costs have risen back to second place.

“While inflation has eased across the broader economy, on-farm expenses for essentials such as electricity and feed remain high.

“That’s continuing to put pressure on farmers’ cashflow and profitability.

“Worries about farmgate and commodity prices jumped sharply to third place.”

Asked what the priorities should be for the Government in election year, fiscal policy was number one on farmers’ lists.

“Clearly, farmers are concerned about government spending, taxation and debt levels,” Langford says.

“They also want the Government to prioritise the economy and business environment.”

Local government reform was fourth on the priority list, up from eighth just a year ago.

“There’s continued dissatisfaction with rates hikes, spending priorities and service delivery in rural areas,” Langford says.

“Hopefully the Government’s proposals for a rates cap, and for reducing the number of councils to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency, will see these concerns diminish in future.

Langford says the best move the Government could make to turbocharge confidence and investment in agriculture would be to pick up Federated Farmers’ ideas for improvements to the new legislation that will replace the Resource Management Act.

“That bloated Act, and the costly and time-consuming resource consents and hearings it entails, has been a thorn in the side of our productive sector for far too many years.”

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/rural-news-profitability-at-all-time-high-but-farmers-cautious-federated-farmers/

March 4, 2026

Exports up more than $2b – powering economy

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand’s latest international trade statistics show robust performance across global markets, reflecting the skill, innovation, and resilience of Kiwi exporters who continue to rank among the best in the world, Trade and Investment Minister Hon Todd McClay says.

Exports rose to $29.2 billion for the December quarter, up $2.2 billion on the same period last year, reinforcing the vital role trade plays in supporting the New Zealand economy, with one in four Kiwi jobs linked to trade.

The figures, released today, also show two-way trade increased strongly reaching $61.2 billion for this quarter.

“New Zealand exporters are winning in highly competitive global markets,” Mr McClay says.

“Our farmers and growers are recognised internationally for their quality, reliability, and innovation. And these results are a testament to that.”

Of our top exports, the highest performers were dairy (up 10%), tourism (up 9.4%) and meat (up 21.4%) for the December quarter, compared to the same period last year.

Mr McClay says the latest data demonstrates the importance of open markets and strong trading relationships, particularly at a time of trade disruption and ongoing global economic uncertainty.

“Trade is a cornerstone of our economy. It supports jobs, drives higher incomes, and underpins growth in regions right across the country,” Mr McClay says.

“The Government is focused on backing exporters, reducing barriers at the border, strengthening our network of free trade agreements, and ensuring New Zealand businesses have the confidence and capability to succeed internationally.”

“As global conditions evolve, this Government remains committed to trade as a key driver of economic growth and prosperity for New Zealanders.”

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/exports-up-more-than-2b-powering-economy/

March 4, 2026

Auckland’s next steps: regeneration projects progress across the region

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council’s Annual Plan sets out the priority activities and investments for the year ahead – and while it covers a wide range of services and programmes, urban regeneration remains an important area where Aucklanders will see continued progress.

Urban regeneration projects are underway across the region, led by the Auckland Urban Development Office (AUDO). These initiatives support council’s broader goals of building stronger infrastructure, unlocking housing opportunities, and improving the everyday places Aucklanders live, work and gather.

“Urban regeneration is one part of how we help Auckland grow,” says Patrick Dougherty, General Manager of the Auckland Urban Development Office. “This work complements the wider priorities in the Annual Plan by improving town centres, enabling new homes, and creating better-connected communities.”

Working together for better outcomes

AUDO acts as the council’s “front door” for urban development, partnering with government agencies, mana whenua, iwi, the private sector and community organisations.

“Regeneration takes time and strong partnerships,” says Dougherty. “Our role is to coordinate planning, invest strategically in infrastructure and amenities, and enable high-quality residential and commercial development that benefits local communities.”

The office works across town centres and growth areas to support a vibrant, liveable Auckland. This includes selling underutilised council sites to development partners to enable new homes in places like Mt Eden, Old Papatoetoe, Flat Bush, Howick, Hobsonville, New Lynn, St Johns and Glen Eden.

All developments must meet strict sustainability standards, including Homestar 6 or better for new homes in regeneration areas.

What’s Happening in 2026/2027

Across Tāmaki Makaurau, Aucklanders will see continued progress on urban regeneration projects already underway:

Panmure – Lagoon Edge Reserve Upgrade

The completed upgrade offers new public spaces, better facilities, and celebrates the cultural and historical significance of the lagoon.

Onehunga – Waiapu Precinct

Work continues to transform this town centre precinct into a more welcoming, better-connected town centre with space for housing and a new supermarket.

Henderson – Catherine Plaza Renewal

The plaza has been opened up and improved to create a more inviting public space linking the main street with WestCity Waitākere.

Old Papatoetoe – New Homes and Community Spaces

Council land sales have enabled new homes, supported by a wide range of public space and community improvements.

Pukekohe – Market Precinct Enhancements

Enhancements will begin on the market precinct beside the town square, including a permanent home for the farmers market and better-designed community space.

Northcote – Te Ara Awataha Greenway

Work begins on the final section of the 1.5km greenway and on the upgrade of Puāwai Cadness Reserve.

Manukau – Public Space Regeneration

Progress continues on the Hayman Park Repo (wetlands) project and improvements to Te Aka Raataa / Puhinui Stream.

Avondale – New Town Square

A new town square is being created alongside Te Hono, Avondale’s new library and community hub.

Have Your Say

Public consultation for the Annual Plan opens in February through AK Have Your Say.

“Aucklanders have an important role in shaping these programmes,” says Dougherty. “We encourage people to get involved, share their views, and help us deliver great outcomes for local communities.”

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/aucklands-next-steps-regeneration-projects-progress-across-the-region/

March 3, 2026

More funding for weather hit communities

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is providing further contributions to Mayoral Relief Funds to help communities impacted by recent severe weather events, Minister for Emergency Management Mark Mitchell announced today.

“The impact of the weather events in January and February has been significant, and we want to make sure communities have the support they need,” Mr Mitchell says.

“The government has agreed to provide additional contributions to the Mayoral Relief Funds established by Whangārei District Council, Thames-Coromandel District Council, Gisborne District Council, Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council. These $100,000 top-ups follow the initial contributions made to those funds in January.

“We are also providing $100,000 to each of the Ōpōtiki District Council, Ōtorohanga District Council, and Waipa District Council Mayoral Relief Funds and $30,000 to the Christchurch City Council Mayoral Relief Fund.

“These contributions will help local authorities tackle the most immediate areas of need within their communities, while the broader recovery efforts get underway.

“Local communities and councils understand where the immediate needs are and how to help. Mayoral Relief Funds help local communities to support individuals, families, community organisations and marae after an emergency.

“Mayoral Relief Funds have previously been used for activities such as cleaning septic tanks, filling water tanks, and clearing debris from properties.”

Associate Emergency Management and Recovery Minister Chris Penk says the government is working to ensure the recovery is well supported at the national level.

“We have established a National Recovery Office within the National Emergency Management Agency to ensure there is a joined-up approach across government agencies and the impacted regions.

“A wide range of government agencies are involved with the recovery efforts, such as the Ministry for Primary Industries who are supporting growers and farmers through Rural Support Trusts, Te Puni Kōkiri who are supporting marae to strengthen resilience and emergency preparedness for community responses to future events, and the Ministry for the Environment who are helping local authorities clear emergency waste.

“There can be a long tail to these events in recovery, but I am committed to ensuring any barriers are addressed quickly and effectively so impacted people, businesses and communities can get back on their feet as quickly as possible.”

Note to editors

Government contributions to Mayoral Relief Funds are intended to help fill gaps quickly where an immediate need exists. It’s not a replacement for insurance and costs covered by other funding sources.

The contribution is not intended to cover recovery costs which may already be the responsibility of central government agencies or local authorities. It is a fund that allows Mayors and councils the discretion to dispense relief where there is urgent need and other assistance is not available.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/more-funding-for-weather-hit-communities/

March 2, 2026

Co-presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust The 8th No Limits Opens with Performance by World’s 1st Professional Inclusive Orchestra of The Nature of Why

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 March 2026 – The eighth edition of “No Limits”, jointly presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, officially opened on 28 February evening at the Auditorium of Kwai Tsing Theatre. The opening programme, The Nature of Why, is performed by Paraorchestra—the world’s first professional inclusive orchestra—offering audiences an immersive arts experience inspired by Nobel Prize–winning physicist Richard Feynman. Fusing live orchestral music, contemporary dance and audience interaction, the work redefines the boundaries of inclusive art.

Under the theme “All of Us, All Ways”, the eighth edition of “No Limits” is committed to revealing the richness of diverse values and connecting people through the arts. For the first time, “No Limits” has collaborated with two of Hong Kong’s flagship performing arts companies—the Hong Kong Dance Company and the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra—to produce multidisciplinary inclusive programmes. These collaborations aim to inspire new perspectives, demonstrate how inclusive arts are being further integrated into Hong Kong’s cultural mainstream, and open up the limitless imagination that diversity brings.

“No Limits” 2026 presents 11 boundary-breaking programmes across music, theatre, dance and film, in a total of 29 performances. In addition to Paraorchestra’s immersive orchestral-dance production The Nature of Why, highlights include: Wayfaring Beyond, a brand-new large-scale outdoor dance work co-produced by “No Limits” and the Hong Kong Dance Company, and co-choreographed and performed with the award-winning China Hong Kong Para Dance Sport Association; Light and Shadow on Strings, co-produced by “No Limits” and the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, featuring visually impaired rising star erhu player Yang Enhua in a concert blending traditional and contemporary Chinese music; the Asia premiere of award-winning contemporary dance work Harmonia by Theatre Bremen and Hungarian choreographer Adrienn Hód, challenging established notions of bodily value in dance; the Asia premiere of Precarious Moves, a semi-autobiographical solo performance by Vienna-based artist Michael Turinsky that confronts social expectations and established frameworks surrounding disabled bodies; “No Limits” Asia newly commissioned theatre work Two Blind Women in the Snowy Tokugawa Nights – Sleeping Fires with renowned director Kuro Tanino; and the Asia premiere of Zer-Brech-Lich, an original playful and sensorial musical dance theatre work by Swiss-based choreographer Alessandro Schiattarella, created and performed with three disabled performers. This year, “No Limits” launches the “Local Creative Research and Development Scheme”, pairing local artists with individuals of diverse abilities to co-create new works exploring inclusive practices. The initiative injects fresh vitality into Hong Kong’s inclusive arts landscape, while research outcomes will be presented during “No Limits” 2026 to showcase the potential of inclusive arts.

Ms Sum Fong-kwang, Vivian, JP, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, said: “‘No Limits’ provides a stage for artists with different abilities to showcase their creativity and talents, fostering an inclusive community. It bridges people with different origins, backgrounds and abilities, which on the one hand enriches our arts and cultural offerings, and on the other, showcases the role of creativity as a continuous driver of societal development. I wish this year’s ‘No Limits’ resounding success, and every audience find inspiration and enlightenment through the programmes.”

At the opening ceremony, Mr Sebastian Man, Vice Chairman of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Society, said: “Since its inception in 2019, ‘No Limits’ has promoted inclusion through local and international inclusive arts performances, as well as the Jockey Club ‘No Limits’ Education and Community Outreach Programme, showcasing the remarkable talents of artists with diverse abilities. As we enter the eighth edition, we are delighted to collaborate for the first time with Hong Kong’s flagship arts companies to present two locally produced programmes that embody the spirit of diversity and inclusion. We sincerely thank The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, co-presenter of ‘No Limits’, for its long-standing support. We also thank our Strategic Supporting Partner, Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong, for providing comprehensive accessibility services to ensure that everyone can experience the power of the arts. Above all, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every participating artist for their tremendous dedication.”

Mr Nicholas D Hunsworth, Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “In keeping with No Limits’ theme this year “All of Us, All Ways” – a series of community programmes will be presented by artists with varying abilities to promote inclusion. It reminds us that differently abled people are not different at all, but an integral part of a diverse society. The Hong Kong Jockey Club has long supported arts and cultural projects to enrich lives and build a culturally vibrant city – as evidenced by over 50 years’ funding for the Hong Kong Arts Festival. The Hong Kong Jockey Charities Trust – in partnership with the Hong Kong Arts Festival – has co-presented No Limits since its inauguration in 2019.”

Photo Caption: (From left) Ms Ida Lam, Chairperson of the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong; Mr Sebastian Man Shiu-wai, Vice Chairman, Hong Kong Arts Festival Society; Ms Vivian Sum, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mr Nicholas D Hunsworth, Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; and Ms Flora Yu, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Arts Festival, jointly served as officiating guests for the No Limits 2026 opening ceremony.

Building on its established practices, “No Limits” 2026 continues to advance social inclusion and talent development through a wide range of initiatives under the Jockey Club “No Limits” Education and Community Outreach Programme. These initiatives promote inclusivity and creativity, strengthen networks across the education and community sectors, and lay the foundation for a more empathetic and inclusive society. Programmes include the inclusive dance project VISION, International Symposium The Way Forward: A Humanistic–Tech Framework for Inclusive Innovation, school touring concert The Ways We Move, as well as the “No Limits” Creative Training Programme and Community Showcases.

In addition to live performances, online screening programmes include the documentary A Space in Time by Riccardo Servini and Nick Taussig, which follows a couple and their two sons born with Duchenne muscular dystrophy as they journey forward together; Sarah Polley’s Away from Her, portraying a couple of over 40 years facing early-onset Alzheimer’s disease; Taku Aoyagi’s documentary Fujiyama Cottonton, set at Mirai Farm, which serves people with disabilities, and exploring the beauty of everyday life, creativity and community; and Caroline Cavalcanti’s Lapse, a heart-warming story of two teenagers—a deaf skateboarder and a rap enthusiast—who form a bond through sign language and shared struggles.

Tickets for live performances are now available via URBTIX. Half-price concessionary tickets are offered to full-time students, people with disabilities and one companion, and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) recipients. (www.urbtix.hk/series/124?bannerCode=NL2026)
Community programmes are free and open to the public without prior registration. Programmes screened online will be available free of charge on the official website www.nolimits.hk from 30 March to 25 May 2026.

Extending the spirit of inclusion beyond the stage, “No Limits” has also launched a brand-new accessibility-themed plush toys collection. Purchase “No Limits” programme tickets worth HK$500 or more in a single transaction via URBTIX to receive one No Limits Inclusive Plush Toy Redemption Coupon upon ticket collection. Available while stocks last.

Arts Accessibility Services
“No Limits” collaborates with the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong to enhance high-quality art projects with accessibility services and ensure that audiences with varying needs can enjoy performances without barriers. Accessibility services differ from programme to programme, and include audio description, accessible captions, sign language interpretation, theatrical interpretation, braille booklets, audio booklets, easy-to-read booklets and relaxed performances. Extra wheelchair seats may be available at the venues, and guide dogs are welcome.

For more event details, please visit the “No Limits” website: www.nolimits.hk
Click here for programme details: www.nolimits.hk/programme
Urbtix: https://www.urbtix.hk/series/124?bannerCode=NL2026

Appendix

Programme

Date	Programme	Performer/ Director	Venue
Highlights
27 Feb – 1 Mar 2026	The Nature of Why	Paraorchestra	Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre
28 Feb – 1 Mar 2026	Wayfaring Beyond	Hong Kong Dance Company & China Hong Kong Para Dance Sport Association	Parade Ground, Tai Kwun
13-15 Mar 2026	Zer-Brech-Lich	Alessandro Schiattarella and Ensemble	Black Box Theatre, Kwai Tsing Theatre
17-18 Mar 2026	Precarious Moves	Michael Turinsky	The Box, Freespace, WestK
21-22 Mar 2026	Harmonia	Unusual Symptoms / Theatre Bremen / Adrienn Hód	The Box, Freespace, WestK
27-29 Mar 2026	Two Blind Women in the Snowy Tokugawa Nights – Sleeping Fires	Kuro Tanino	Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
28 Mar 2026	Light and Shadow on Strings	Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (Chamber Ensemble) Yang Enhua (Solo and Ensemble)	Auditorium, Tsuen Wan Town Hall
“No Limits” International Symposium
8 Mar 2026	The Way Forward: A Humanistic–Tech Framework for Inclusive Innovation		JC Cube, Tai Kwun

Online Programmes

Free screening available on “No Limits” website	Programme	Director
30 Mar – 25 May 2026	A Space in Time	Riccardo Servini & Nick Taussig
30 Mar – 25 May 2026	Away From Her	Sarah Polley
30 Mar – 25 May 2026	Lapse	Caroline Cavalcanti
30 Mar – 25 May 2026	Fujiyama Cottonton	Taku Aoyagi

Hashtag: #NoLimits

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/co-presented-by-the-hong-kong-arts-festival-and-the-hong-kong-jockey-club-charities-trust-the-8th-no-limits-opens-with-performance-by-worlds-1st-professional-inclusive-orchestra-of-the-nature/

March 1, 2026

Advocacy – Peace Vigil – No NZ support for US/Israeli war on Iran

Source: Peace Action Wellington

Date: Sunday 1 March 2026 – Peace Action Wellington is calling a peace vigil on Monday, 2 March at 5:30pm meeting at the Cenotaph on the corner of Lambton Quay and Bowen Street. All people who oppose war are welcome.

Peace Action Wellington condemns the illegal war launched by the US and Israel. There is no justification for so-called “pre-emptive” war. This is an aggressive war: there was no threat to the US or Israel. There is no material difference between this and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The crimes of the Iranian government against its own people are enormous, including the slaughter of thousands of its young people, but that provides no basis for war. Moreover, this is not even the justification the US and Israel have given for their war and will simply result in the killing of more ordinary Iranian people.

That the US and Israel started the war when discussions and negotiations were ongoing shows there is no good faith on their part – just a determination to install a regime that is friendly to their interests.

It is imperative that the New Zealand government is clear that it does not support this war. No NZDF or intelligence assistance should be given to the US or Israel. It is likely that the NZ Navy frigate Te Kaha is in the region, along with troops deployed to missions around the Middle East. All of these forces should be withdrawn, along with all GCSB intelligence analysts based with US forces.

Already hundreds of people have been murdered from US bombs inside Iran including a school full of children. Regime change by the US will cause untold suffering to the Iranian people and has every likelihood of escalating to a world war, pulling in the Russians and Chinese on the side of the Iranian government.

Peace Action Wellington strongly supports the right of the people inside Iran to free themselves from their own government. We do not support foreign interference in the politics of Iran or any state. The US and UK have a long history of intervention in Iran – and this war must be viewed within the context of that existing history.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/advocacy-peace-vigil-no-nz-support-for-us-israeli-war-on-iran/

March 1, 2026

KiwiSaver breakthrough for young farmers – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers is celebrating a major win for young farmers, with the Government finally allowing them to use their KiwiSaver funds to buy their first home or farm.

“Young Kiwi farmers have been incredibly frustrated that they haven’t been able to access their KiwiSaver to help get a foot on the property ladder,” Federated Farmers dairy chair Karl Dean says.

“This change announced by the Government today – removing those barriers – is a huge step forward for the next generation of farmers.

“We’re immensely proud to have led the charge on this issue, advocating for a change to the KiwiSaver rules for three long years.”

Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson announced today that they will be making a technical change to the KiwiSaver Act.

It means farm staff in service tenancies (living on farm) will soon be able to use KiwiSaver to purchase a house without immediately moving in.

“Until now, you could only use your KiwiSaver to purchase a house you’ll live in,” Dean says.

“That’s unfair because farm staff, along with the likes of rural teachers and rural police, haven’t been able to get on the property ladder, all because they live remotely and in employer-provided accommodation.

“They’ve been denied the same opportunity as their urban counterparts.

“This change means young rural workers can finally access their savings to secure financial security and begin building equity, even if they keep living in accommodation provided by their employer.

“It’s a massive result and I know there’ll be many young farmers out there celebrating right now.”

The Government’s changes will also allow first-time farm buyers to use their KiwiSaver balances when buying through a commercial entity they majority own, provided it will be their principal place of residence.

Dean says the impact of this can’t be overstated, highlighting the challenges young farmers face in buying a farm.

“So many young farmers have worked hard to save a decent deposit but just aren’t able to get the bank’s backing to invest in their first farm.

“Letting those farmers use their KiwiSaver will be an enormous help in pulling together a larger deposit.

“It will put them in a stronger financial position with their initial equity, but they’ll also have less debt – which means they’d be paying less interest too.

“All of that gives our next generation of farmers a better chance of building wealth and putting themselves in a good position come retirement.”

Getting the KiwiSaver rules amended has been a key priority for Federated Farmers, forming part of its 12-point policy agenda for the incoming Government back in 2023.

The National Party committed to making the change, announcing so on the eve of the 2023 election.

“It’s taken them a long time to deliver on that promise, and we’ve made sure to keep reminding them about it,” Dean says.

“We’re grateful the Government has finally come through for farmers.”

One young farmer celebrating the news is Waikato sharemilker Danielle Hovmand, who has challenged the Government several times to deliver on its 2023 campaign commitment.

“Talking with young farmers across the country, their most-asked question is: ‘When are we going to be able to use our KiwiSaver to better ourselves now, rather than having to wait until we retire – just because we’re farmers’.

“I’m very pleased to hear the Government are finally changing the rules to make that possible.

“Many young people’s goal is to buy their first home and get on the property ladder, so it’s refreshing to see farmers will be able achieve this too.”

Hovmand says this will open doors for young farmers to use their hard-earned savings towards something that can have a huge impact on their financial position.

“Hopefully, in years to come we’ll see the flow-on effects of more young people being able to purchase their own herds and then achieving farm ownership earlier.

“I think this will have a huge impact on farmers across the country and will continue to help strengthen the agriculture industry for many years to come.”

Legislation giving effect to the changes will be introduced to Parliament in the middle of the year.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/kiwisaver-breakthrough-for-young-farmers-federated-farmers/

March 1, 2026

KiwiSaver adjustment to help rural workers

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is removing the barriers that prevent many farm and other rural workers from using their KiwiSaver accounts to buy their first homes, Finance Minister Nicola Willis and Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson announced today.

Since 2010, Kiwis have been able to withdraw from their KiwiSaver accounts to assist with the purchase of a first home so long as they live in the homes they buy.

“However, workers in service tenancies, such as farm workers, rural teachers, country cops, and defence personnel, have effectively been locked out of first home withdrawal because their jobs require them to live in employer-provided housing,” Nicola Willis says.

“That’s not fair, so we’re making a technical change to the KiwiSaver Act to ensure workers in service tenancies aren’t denied the opportunity to put a foot on the property ladder.

“The change will allow service tenancy workers to use their KiwiSaver for a first home purchase without having to live in it.”

Scott Simpson says the Act will also be changed to allow first-time farm buyers to put their KiwiSaver balances towards the purchase of a farm through a commercial entity they majority own, where it will be their principal place of residence.

KiwiSaver rules currently allow the purchase of a farm under a KiwiSaver member’s name (so long as they intend to live on it) – however, in practice, most farms are purchased through a company or trust.

“This reflects the commercial reality of modern farm ownership,” Mr Simpson says.

“Most farms are purchased through companies or trusts. Until now, that has prevented aspiring farmers from accessing KiwiSaver in the same way as someone buying a house in town.”

“The reforms deliver on the Government’s commitment to back rural New Zealand and remove unnecessary barriers.

“These are targeted, practical changes that maintain KiwiSaver’s core purpose while making the scheme fairer for rural communities,” Mr Simpson says.

Legislation giving effect to the changes will be introduced to Parliament in the middle of the year. The changes were sparked by a Member’s Bill in the name of Rangitīkei MP Suze Redmayne.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/kiwisaver-adjustment-to-help-rural-workers/

February 26, 2026

Legislation – Four bottom lines for a workable farm plan system – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers has made it clear to the Government that it could support a national farm plan system, but only if it meets four firm bottom lines.

The Government is currently seeking feedback on its draft legislation to replace the Resource Management Act.

This includes a proposal to introduce nationally consistent farm plans under the new Natural Environment Bill.

“We’ve been looking closely at the wording and it’s fair to say we have some serious concerns,” Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst says.

“Farm plans should be a positive, practical and enabling tool that help farmers improve environmental outcomes in a way that makes sense on their own farms.

“We don’t want to see farm plans adding unnecessary complexity, duplication, or another layer of expensive regulation for farmers to grapple with.

“Unfortunately, we don’t think the regulations as they’re currently drafted will deliver what farmers are expecting or what’s been sold to them by politicians.

“That’s why Federated Farmers is stepping up, drawing a line in the sand, and making it clear we have four clear bottom lines when it comes to farm plans.”

Federated Farmers’ first and most important non-negotiable is that farm plans must replace regulation, not add to it.

“Farm plans need to be the primary compliance tool for farmers. That’s what will make a real difference for farming families,” Hurst says.

“That means a farm plan should be able to replace all of the overlapping rules, duplicated requirements and expensive resource consents from the current system.”

Under the proposed legislation, all commercial dairy farms and all other farms over 50 hectares would be required to have a farm plan covering the whole farm.

However, those same farms could still be required to get a resource consent in addition to their farm plan.

“That framework doesn’t simplify anything. In fact, it’s actually adding more complexity and duplication for farmers,” Hurst says.

“It’ll create a system that’s even more onerous than what farmers face now, where they either operate within permitted standards or apply for a resource consent.”

Federated Farmers wants to see changes so that a farm plan is enough to demonstrate compliance.

“A certified farm plan should be the equivalent of holding a resource permit or consent,” Hurst says.

The second bottom line is that farm plans must be proportionate, practical and scaled to risk.

“Farms that are low-impact and low-risk should be able to complete a simple, quick and easy plan themselves,” Hurst says.

“We agree that higher-risk farms may need more detailed plans, but there’s absolutely no point putting low-impact farms through the wringer.”

The third bottom line is that, while farm plans should be auditable, not every plan should be audited.

“Many farming activities are currently low-risk and don’t require consents or ongoing oversight,” Hurst says.

“Requiring those activities to have a farm plan, and then auditing that plan, will put in place expensive red tape for absolutely no environmental gain.

“It will waste time and money that could be put to far better use improving the environment rather than just ticking boxes and shuffling paper.”

Hurst says certification may make sense for higher-risk activities if it replaces the need for a consent, but routine auditing of every farm sends the wrong message.

“Audit-everyone systems don’t create a high-trust environment. They simply create a box-ticking culture and get farmers offside, rather than driving better outcomes.”

Federated Farmers is instead advocating for a model similar to the tax system.

“That means everyone is expected to do the right thing, but only some are audited, either randomly or where non-compliance is suspected.

“That’s a fair, practical approach that farmers can understand.”

The fourth bottom line is that existing farm plans must be recognised.

“Many farmers already have plans in place through industry programmes or local catchment groups,” Hurst says.

“Farmers have put real time, thought and money into these plans because they care about water quality.

“They shouldn’t be punished for being proactive or early adopters.”

Federated Farmers wants existing plans that meet minimum standards to be recognised as equivalent.

“Forcing farmers to start again from scratch would be a completely unjustifiable waste of time and money,” Hurst says.

While the detailed regulations are still to come, Hurst says expectations are clear.

“Farm plans must be tailored to risk and, for higher-risk farms, should become a genuine one-stop shop that replaces permits and consents.

“That’s how farm plans can actually work.”

Federated Farmers has put these four non-negotiables to the Government in its submission on the RMA reform, which you can read in full here: https://fedfarm.org.nz/Web/Policy/Submission/2026/February/Submission-on-the-NEB-Bill-and-Planning-Bill.aspx

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/legislation-four-bottom-lines-for-a-workable-farm-plan-system-federated-farmers/

February 26, 2026

Seven rescued from Waikato River

Source: New Zealand Police

Seven people were successfully rescued from the Waikato River last night, after Police received reports of several people struggling in the water.

Around 7.20pm, Police were alerted to a group of four men who had decided to float from the control gates down to Hipapatua Reserve, otherwise known as Reids Farm.

The men only had basic inflatables and no life jackets.

Towards the end of the route, the group lost buoyancy, began to panic, and were heard calling for help.

Three people from a nearby tour group jumped into the river to assist the men, despite not having any flotation devices themselves.

Police arrived and were able to communicate with the now seven people in distress and contacted the Coastguard and Harbourmaster.

Using a jetboat and a jetski, Police, Coastguard and the Harbourmaster were able to rescue the seven people, who were hanging onto a tree.

Senior Constable of Taupō Police Barry Shepherd says the incident could have had a far more serious outcome.

“We want people to have fun and enjoy the outdoors but there’s a safe way to do it.

“While its admirable that people tried to help, we don’t want any dead heroes.”

The involved agencies responded quickly and were able to bring all seven people to safety by 8pm.

“I commend the Coastguard, Harbourmaster and my Police colleagues, whose quick thinking and coordinated response ensured these seven people were safely rescued.

This situation could have been drastically worse, and their actions prevented a potential tragedy.”

Police remind the public that for any water related emergency, always call 111 immediately.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/seven-rescued-from-waikato-river/

February 25, 2026

Legislation – RMA reform at a crossroads for farmers – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

A dark cloud is shading Matt and Tory Simpson’s optimism that a new dawn for land use regulation is around the corner.

Like thousands of other farmers, the owners of Ranui Station in Canterbury were delighted to hear pledges from the Government that resource management reform would reduce red tape, and balance environmental protection with property rights.

“It’s hugely disappointing to find the reality falls short of the rhetoric,” says Matt, who’s co-chair of Federated Farmers High Country.

“The two new bills are riddled with flaws and the select committee now has a mammoth task ahead to get things back on track.”

For the Simpsons, and many other landowners and businesses, it’s far more than just a desire for less paperwork, bureaucracy, hearings and expensive resource consents.

“Livelihoods are at stake,” Matt says.

“We look after nature and want to develop this place so it’s in good shape and a going concern for the next generation.

“We have high hopes the new resource management laws will help us combat the Outstanding Natural Landscape overlay restrictions on more than half the station, and other clamps on our ability to diversify income streams,” he says.

Last December the Government released two new bills – the Planning Bill and the Natural Environment Bill – to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA).

Federated Farmers has lodged a comprehensive submission on the bills, re-stating strong support for overhaul of the RMA.

“We absolutely back the goals and principles agreed by Cabinet,” Feds RMA Reform spokesperson Mark Hooper says.

“Those include enabling primary sector growth, narrowing the scope of effects of the RMA, and greater use of national standards while reducing the need for resource consents.

“If you want that in less jargony terms – that means faster, better, more efficient processes and knocking on the head the trend of endless hearings, appeals and uncertainty.

“Unfortunately, somewhere in between the ambitions of Government MPs and drafting of the legislation, something has fallen over.”

A major concern is that, as currently written, instead of a farm plan replacing the need for a resource consent, a farm may need both.

“We see a risk of farmers facing more red tape under the Natural Environment Act than they presently do under the RMA,” Hooper says.

There are too many ambiguous, principle-based clauses in the two bills, which is likely to see continued expensive, time-consuming and litigious decision making, he says.

The environment bill fails to clearly rule greenhouse gas issues out of scope – despite these already being dealt with in other Acts – and the lack of a clear scope section and definition of effect also leaves the door open to intangible, hard-to-measure concepts such as the ‘mauri’ of water.

“Too much power is left in the hands of the Minister, under any future government, to impact the economy under National Policy Direction.

“And there’s still too much uncertainty over how farmers will access compensation for overlays and other restrictions on their property.

“We pushed hard for a risk-based approach to auditing and certification of farm plans but that’s also missing,” Hooper says.

Federated Farmers’ other concerns include the carry-over of aspects of outdated Water Conservation Orders from the RMA, lack of protection for stock drinking water, and inability to insure against inadvertent breaches of regulation.

Hooper says time pressure may be a reason for “too much drag and drop” of content from the RMA into the draft new legislation.

“The Government and officials worked hard last year to make a series of amendments to the existing RMA.

“These were important fixes that enabled farmers to get on with production.

“That took focus away from the two new bills, and perhaps in the back of their minds was the fact there would be a five-month long select committee process and chances to weed out flaws.”

But Hooper believes the select committee has a challenging task.

“Federated Farmers has already voiced its unwavering opposition to clauses in the Natural Environment Bill which enable the Minister to auction, tender, or levy water.

“Getting rid of these potential water taxes is probably quite easily handled with changes of wording.

“But for other parts, the bill is drafted holistically and it’s more like a spider’s web, with layer upon layer of clauses that are interactive with other clauses.

“It’s going to take a lot of effort to untangle it.”

Hooper says it’s vital the select committee works diligently, and that its members who represent the coalition Government stick up for the original goals of RMA reform: simplicity, efficiency, less cost and litigation.

“Quite frankly, they’re principles and goals that an elected representative of any political persuasion should defend.”

Notes: You can find the Federated Farmers’ submission on the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill here – https://www.fedfarm.org.nz/Web/Policy/Submission/2026/February/Submission-on-the-NEB-Bill-and-Planning-Bill.aspx