Category: Fisheries

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Aussie Tom Slingsby capitalises on Black Foils crash for New Zealand SailGP honours

Source: Radio New Zealand

Australia celebrate their New Zealand SailGP victory off auckland’s Wynyard Point. Getty Images

Despite defending his New Zealand SailGP crown off Auckland’s Wynyard Point, Aussie supremo Tom Slingsby harbours mixed feelings about how his team achieved their feat.

The three-time series champion had a front-row view of the horrible high-speed crash that sent New Zealand and France out of the regatta on Saturday, and admitted the Kiwis’ absence played a big part in the Flying Roos’ repeat success.

“Us winning in Auckland again, I’m not sure why, but it’s become a very happy hunting ground for us and it was very unfortunate the Kiwis weren’t there today,” Slingsby reflected. “We always want to compete against the best teams and the Kiwis, in those conditions, would have been our biggest rivals, I feel.

“Sad for them not being there, but we just focused on ourselves and we’re really happy to convert it into a win.”

Slingsby and Black Foils counterpart Peter Burling have developed a strong rivalry over their years on the professional sailing circuit, and the incident took its toll on the Aussies, as it did on the rest of the fleet.

“I happened to be looking right at it when it happened,” he said. “It was very scary.

“The Kiwis, as a team, we love to hate them, but individually, I love all of those guys. They’re just amazing people and, when a crash like that happens, I instantly think, ‘They’re all my friends and friends I’ve had for a long, long time’.

“When they called off the race, I was happy, because my mind definitely wasn’t on the game. We want the Kiwis out there and we don’t want to see anything like that ever.”

NZ grinder Louis Sinclair suffered compound fractures to both legs in the mayhem and underwent surgery on his right leg overnight. Slingsby messaged Burling to offer his support and hoped to see the Kiwis back on the water soon, although Sydney in two weeks seemed a stretch.

“They’re a champion team,” he said. “No-one knows timelines or when they’ll be back, but we know the day they come back, even if it’s not for championship wins this season, they’ll be out to win as much prize money and events as they can.”

NZ boat ‘Amokura’ was virtually destroyed, when it swerved into the path of the French, who flew over the bow and sliced it in two.

Some drivers questioned the sense of having 13 boats jockeying for position on such a small course in tricky wind conditions and organisers responded by introducing a split-fleet format for the first time on Sunday.

The fleet had experimented with smaller fields in practice, with the anticipated addition of a 14th team next year likely to force the change fulltime.

Slingsby had mixed feelings about the reduced format.

“The racer in me wants the full fleet there,” he said. “I just feel like the full fleet is why we do this – it’s lots of boats and lots happening.

Black Foils boat ‘Amokura’ is salvaged, after crashing with France on the Waitematā Harbour. Felix Diemer for SailGP

“At the same time, you’ve got to make changes, when something like that happens, whether it’s a permanent change or not. At least for today, I totally agree with the split fleet.

“We need to show we’re making changes here and not taking this accident lightly. With windy conditions today and a bigger forecast, I think it was the right call.”

While common sense prevailed, the diluted version felt like the SailGP equivalent of golden oldies scrums in rugby. Let’s just get out of Auckland with no further damage.

Racing was already brought forward to avoid the worst of the weather forecast and conditions changed dramatically again for the three-boat final, where speeds reached 100kmh and crews battled just to keep their boats upright.

Slingsby and his team now head home to Sydney, and he doubts two weeks will allow enough time for New Zealand or France to repair their boats.

“From my technical and structural knowledge of these boats, I think there’s no chance either of those boats are there,” he said.

“For sure you’re facing mental battles. We had a bit incident in Christchurch a couple of years ago and I remember, heading back out onto the racetrack, there were a few little scars there.

“As soon as they fire the gun, I was able to black it out and we got straight back into it.

“I know Peter Burling better than most people, and he will just get back in there and be ripping around the whole way.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/aussie-tom-slingsby-capitalises-on-black-foils-crash-for-new-zealand-sailgp-honours/

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SailGP: Kiwi driver Phil Robertson wants changes after Black Foils, France crash

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand and French boats crash during SailGP racing on Waitematā Harbour. Phil Walter

New Zealand SailGP

11.30am Sunday, 15 February*

Wynyard Point, Auckland

Live updates on RNZ

*Start time has been changed due to the weather

Kiwi SailGP driver Phil Robertson hopes the high-speed crash between New Zealand and France on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour will force a rethink of racing format for the rest of the 2026 championship.

Competition was suspended during race three of New Zealand SailGP, after the two rivals collided during the sprint to the first mark. Replays showed the Black Foils apparently lose control of their rudder and spin into the path of the French, whose boat flew over the bow of Amokura.

All crew were quickly accounted for, but two sailors – one from each team – were injured and rushed ashore to hospital.

The rest of the fleet continued around the mark, but the contest was called off, as they headed back towards the scene of the crash, where the two boats were still entangled midcourse.

Soon after, organisers suspended racing for the day. The French boat was towed back to Wynyard Basin, but Amokura lay in pieces on the harbour and likely be out of action for quite a while.

The incident shook up the entire fleet, with Italian team driver Robertson recounting his own close call in the build-up.

“It’s obviously pretty hectic,” he said. “You never really want to see anything like that.

Italy driver Phil Robertson holds court at the SailGP media conference. Alan Lee/Photosport

“It’s a bit shocking, but it’s racing and it was a racing incident that went on out there.”

Auckland-born Robertson described how the New Zealand boat initially veered towards his boat, but seemed to regain control to avoid that contact.

“I saw them in my peripheral, as they started sliding towards us, then took a glance over my shoulder and saw them spin out. I didn’t really see the rest, until we stopped and looked back, and saw two boats on top of each other – it’s not very nice to see that.

“These boats are pretty hard to control at those high speeds and everyone’s pushing like mad on those reaches. They got a bit slidey, which is very natural to happen, and slid towards us, but you trust they’re going to get grip again and they did.”

New Zealand SailGP is the first time the fleet has raced with 13 boats, with Artemis Sweden joining the championship this year.

At last month’s season-opener in Perth, the Spanish boat suffered damage in practice and was unable to compete.

Organisers hope to add another team next year and have experimented with splitting the fleet into two heats of seven.

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“I think it’s the shortest racecourse in SailGP and 13 boats… yeah, I don’t know,” Robertson offered. “I think questions will be asked.

“I think when it’s conditions like this, I think that [two fleets] will be the expectation. We know it’s going to be tricky and there will be crashes, but it just minimises the risk, when there’s a bit more space on the course.

“Bigger courses sure, 13 boats no problem, but I think small courses and big breeze, when everyone’s on the limit of control already, it’s probably a smart idea to start having that conversation seriously.

“I assume a few sailors will be asking a few questions.”

Despite the Auckland incident, British driver Dylan Fletcher still favours the bigger fleet.

“I’d rather it stay as one fleet,” the defending SailGP champion said. “It doesn’t honestly feel that different, whether you’ve got 11 or 13.

“It’s relatively similar. Even at the start, you’ve got that separation.

“From my point of view, I love the racing with 13 boats. It’s unfortunate we won’t have that for a little bit of while now, but that’s the way it is.”

New Zealand and France come together midfleet, as they sprinted to the first mark of race three. Phil Walter

Robertson has been a SailGP fixture since the professional sailing began in 2019, steering teams from China, Spain and Canada, before joining the Italian outfit last year.

With a weather bomb forecast for the North Island this weekend, the local lad was quizzed about the prospect of racing in big winds on the Waitematā at Friday’s official media conference.

His reaction: “You wet your pants a little and move on.”

Italy narrowly avoided their own disaster, when they were caught in a gust of win that almost tipped them over during the build-up to race one. They barely managed to regain equilibrium and bring their boat back down on both hulls.

Sunday racing has already been moved forward a few hours to avoid the worst of the weather, but most drivers anticipate even more testing conditions on day two.

“Look, the accident was obviously extremely unfortunate, but I don’t think anyone’s really going to change,” Robertson said. “It’s a little bit out of the ordinary and you trust everyone’s being careful out there.

“That’s probably a situation I don’t think anyone envisioned, a boat spinning out and getting run over. It’s always in our mind that someone may crash in front of you, but coming from that position the Kiwis were in and into the French like that, no-one’s really thought about that situation before.”

“I think all the sailors are pretty shaken up, seeing that sight. It’s not something you want to see and I’m sure it affects everyone a bit.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/sailgp-kiwi-driver-phil-robertson-wants-changes-after-black-foils-france-crash/

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Black Foils boss Peter Burling first to earn SailGP demerit points for Perth scrape with Swiss

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand SailGP

4pm Saturday, 14 February & Sunday, 15 February

Wynyard Point, Auckland

Live updates on RNZ

Black Foils driver Peter Burling has found himself on the wrong side of history, after the incident that sidelined his SailGP boat at Perth last month.

Early in the opening race of the new season, New Zealand and Switzerland collided at high speed, with the Swiss shearing the transom off ‘Amokura’.

While the Europeans were able to repair their F50 cataraman overnight and return to the water for the second day of competition, the Kiwis were consigned to their sheds, copping the blame for the melee and earning penalty points for causing it.

They finished the weekend with no championship points and faced a nervous process to bring their boat to full integrity before this weekend’s home event at Auckland’s Wynyard Point.

The punishment took on an even more personal note for Burling, when he became the first recipient of demerit points under the league’s new ‘Super Licence’ for drivers, similar to Formula One motor-racing requirements.

Black Foils driver Peter Burling at the New Zealand SailGP media conference. Marika Khabazi/RNZ

“I seem to have become the first driver with the ‘honour’ of getting demerit points on my license,” he told the official media conference. “It’s a whole new thing and I’m not even sure how many I can get in a season – I should probably work that out at some stage.

“Got the email the other day – all part of the fun.”

Burling revealed to RNZ he received three demerit points, but bore no grudges.

“To me, the demerit points and the new licensing system that SailGP has put in is a real sign of maturity in the league. It’s a really cool step to see the league putting protocols in, so people have to go through a process to get on the F50 and be responsible for one of the roles onboard.

Black Foils boat ‘Amokura’ is launched for testing before New Zealand SailGP at Auckland’s Wynyard Point. Marika Khabazi/RNZ

“Everyone has to pass a minimum standard in terms of their knowledge of the boat, knowledge of how the league operates… to be responsible for that role. It’s a good step for the league and also holding people accountable with its demerit points.

“Everyone’s going to have the odd crash. If you’re not bringing the boats close together, you’re not really racing.”

Burling still didn’t agree with the decision to penalise his team, but organisers seemed happy to play up the actual or perceived rivalry between the Kiwis and the Swiss.

“On the water, we got deemed that we didn’t turn quick enough, which – for me – is in the grey zone, if you look back at a lot of other incidents,” he said. “That’s the umpire’s call.

“In sailing, there’s Rule 14 as well, which is, if you can avoid a collision, you should. For me, at some stage, you can’t just disappear and I feel like there were two parties to the incident.

“That’s all in the past now, we’ve got to live by the decision and move forward.”

At the media conference, Burling was seated at the far end of the couch to Swiss counterpart Seb Schneiter, a detail that didn’t escape the attention of NZ-born Italy driver Phil Robertson.

“Why have you sat them so far apart?” Robertson chirped.

“We obviously spoke in the protest and a little bit after sailing,” Schneiter explained. “We had a birthday party last weekend and Pete was on the invite list, but he didn’t make it unfortunately.

“I think it’s part of the nature of racing these boats at such high speeds. It’s going to happen and, as Pete said, we have to learn as a league.

“No-one wants the boats to come together. Either you’re right or wrong, and there’s certainly a lot to learn from this.”

Burling was quick to explain his absence: “Just to set the story straight, last weekend, the weather was a bit nice down at Coromandel, so we decided with the family to stay there and not make the trip back to Auckland.”

He explained to RNZ that the Black Foils had history with the Swiss, who also clipped Amokura during a start at Abu Dhabi last November.

“Why have you sat them so far apart?” Peter Burling (extreme right) address the media conference, with Swiss counterpart Seb Schneiter (extreme left). Marika Khabazi/RNZ

“That’s two from two events they’ve hit that corner of the boat,” Burling chuckled. “Hopefully, we can keep apart this weekend and, hopefully as a league, we can learn from the incidents.

“The incident we had you probably see 5-10 times a weekend, where people make a tiny mistake on the timing and other boats help alleviate the problem, in terms of two boats not coming together, and both get to carry and race.

“Hopefully, the Swiss learn from that.”

Ironically, New Zealand have gained one tiny benefit from their misfortune.

With a weather bomb hovering over the North Island on Friday, SailGP teams lost their only official practice day in Auckland.

The only boats allowed on the water were the home team, Spain and Germany, which had all undergone major modifications since Perth and needed to test out repairs, before racing began on Saturday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/black-foils-boss-peter-burling-first-to-earn-sailgp-demerit-points-for-perth-scrape-with-swiss/

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China’s “Space Town” Takes Shape: Rocket Launches Drive Industrial and Tourism Growth

Source: Media Outreach

WENCHANG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – China recently launched a Long March-12 carrier rocket from Wenchang, successfully sending the 19th group of low-orbit internet satellites into preset orbit. This mission marked the 12th launch since the country’s first commercial spacecraft launch site entered service, signaling that the facility has entered a phase of high-density, routine operations.

An aerial drone photo shows seaside homestays and coffee shops in Longlou Town, Wenchang, south China’s Hainan Province. (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

Wenchang benefits from distinct natural and geological advantages. As China’s southernmost launch site, its proximity to the equator improves payload efficiency. The expansive surrounding sea areas ensure safety for launch drop zones, while accessible maritime transport solves the logistical challenge of shipping large rocket.

The steady launch capacity, together with Hainan Free Trade Port policies such as zero tariffs, low tax rates, and a simplified tax system, is attracting aerospace companies from around the world. To date, more than 700 space-related enterprises have settled in the Wenchang International Aerospace City (WIAC), covering the entire industrial chain from rocket manufacturing and satellite design to data applications.

In 2025, the WIAC recorded annual revenue exceeding 20 billion yuan (approximately 2.9 billion U. S. dollars). With core infrastructure facilities gradually put to operations, a complete industrial chain—from manufacturing and assembling to launch operations—is rapidly taking shape.

“What attracted us here is not only the launch capability, but the entire industrial ecosystem,” said a senior executive of a satellite-related company based in the WIAC. “Finding partners and testing solutions here is extremely efficient.”

Space launches are also reshaping the local tourism landscape. According to official statistics, Wenchang recorded more than one million tourist trips in 2025. Many of the tourists were “rocket-chasers.” Launch viewing areas and the local aerospace science and education center have become popular destinations, boosting business for nearby homestays, restaurants, and related services.

“We used to live by the weather, now we live by the rockets,” a local homestay operator remarked, which highlighted the area’s transition from a traditional fishing community to a modern aerospace hub.

It was revealed that multiple launch pads are under construction at the Hainan Commercial Space Launch Site. As infrastructure continues to improve, a “Space Town” featuring the aerospace industry and themed tourism is taking shape along China’s southern coast.

Hashtag: #Wenchang

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/chinas-space-town-takes-shape-rocket-launches-drive-industrial-and-tourism-growth/

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New Zealand First to campaign on Māori seats referendum

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters speaking at Waitangi Treaty Grounds last week. (File photo) RNZ / Mark Papalii

New Zealand First will campaign on a referendum on the Māori seats this year, with the party saying the time had come for a decision on their future.

Te Pāti Māori said it was “race baiting” and “rage baiting” and Labour said it was a “cheap and cynical” attempt to gain votes.

New Zealand First made the announcement on Thursday, saying it believed it had an “opportunity now” to ensure the policy was implemented after the election.

It’s a policy the party also took to the 2017 election.

On Thursday, NZ First leader Winston Peters referenced the Royal Commission into the electoral system in 1986, which stated the MMP system would create a more representative Parliament and the original justification for the Māori seats would no longer exist.

He also said there’d been a dramatic increase in the number of Māori in Parliament.

“We’re massively over represented. Now please take the advantage that you’ve got, be pleased about that and move on.”

He called Te Pāti Māori’s behaviour over the past two years the “last straw.”

“They hold the majority of the Māori seats and do not turn up to parliament, disregard the rules and processes, and show utter disdain for the system that gives them the very seats they hold – they represent no one.

“They have proven the seats they hold are no longer relevant nor serve their original purpose.”

He referenced outgoing Labour MP Peeni Henare’s losses in the Tāmaki Makaurau seat recently, saying he was “robbed blind” and there was “nothing to defend” in regards to the seats.

Peters said a referendum was necessary because that was how MMP was introduced in the first place.

“I’m saying to people in this country, if you want a dramatic, unified electoral system, vote for it,” he said.

Peters rejected it could be a breach of Te Tiriti o Waitangi “because it wasn’t in there in the first place.”

He said everything he had done for Māori was on the basis of need not race.

Asked how quickly a referendum would take place after this year’s election, Peters indicated he wouldn’t want the Māori seats during the 2029 election.

Politicians react

Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi accused NZ First of “race baiting”. (File photo) VNP / Phil Smith

Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi said it was “race baiting” and “rage baiting” to suit New Zealand First voters.

“The types that Winston Peters represents is a dying cohort of people in Aotearoa.

“I would hope that New Zealand is mature enough to see the value in the Māori seats sitting here in Parliament.”

He said the timing of the announcement showed Peters was “threatened” by the fact it would be the Māori electorates that decide the next Prime Minister.

“He likes to sit in that position as the king maker, but unfortunately, every poll is saying that he is no longer in that position.

“This country should be celebrating the maturity of te iwi Māori in this democracy.”

On representation in Parliament, Waititi said the Māori seats allowed for a “unique Māori voice in Parliament.”

“Quite often we’ve had Māori in those Māori seats without being tied to party lines.

“What this allows us is a unique opportunity for Māori to have an independent voice in Parliament.”

Waititi suggested there should be a referendum on list seats, because it wasn’t clear who they represented, “they don’t have a mandate from constituents.”

“The Māori seats are clear. They have a clear mandate.”

Labour’s Kieran McAnulty said Peters was quite happy with Māori seats when he stood for one in 1975, and when New Zealand First won them all in the 90s.

“But now he wants to pretend to New Zealanders that they don’t like them and want to get rid of them. I don’t think Kiwis will buy it.”

Labour’s position was that Māori should decide whether to keep the seats or not, and “that position will remain firm.”

“It’s a cheap and cynical attempt to try and get some cheap votes,” McAnulty said.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said a referendum on Māori seats wasn’t something the National party had discussed.

“What we’re really focused on is fixing the basics and building the future at the moment.”

He acknowledged the seats had been a feature of the political system for some time.

National deputy leader Nicola Willis said National planned to run candidates in the Māori seats this election, but no one had been selected yet.

In terms of a referendum, she said the policy would need to be taken to caucus for discussion.

ACT’s deputy leader Brooke van Velden said ACT wouldn’t take it to referendum, it would get rid of the seats through Parliament.

“It’s been an ACT party position – and a longstanding position – that we should abolish the Māori seats, because it goes against what the ACT party philosophy is, which is that there should be all people equal before the law and that it’s wrong to have separate seats based on people’s ethnicity.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/new-zealand-first-to-campaign-on-maori-seats-referendum/

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Federated Farmers – Government must urgently rule out controversial water tax

Source: Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers is calling on the Government to immediately and categorically rule out any form of ‘water tax’ in its proposed RMA replacement bill.
“There’s absolutely no way we’re going to support any laws that open the door to taxing water,” Federated Farmers RMA reform spokesperson Mark Hooper says.
“A water tax would be a nightmare for farmers and growers, undermining confidence in our productive sectors and pulling a handbrake on economic growth.
“The Government needs to move quickly and strike out any wording that would allow water rights to be auctioned, tendered, levied or taxed.”
In December, the Government released two major pieces of legislation, the Planning and the Natural Environment Bills, to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA).
Federated Farmers policy staff spent the summer break trawling through 744 pages of complex legislation and have serious concerns about what they’ve uncovered.
“It’s incredibly alarming to find clauses that give Ministers sweeping powers to tax water as a tool for managing demand,” Hooper says.
“Based on every conversation we’ve had with the coalition Government, we don’t believe it was ever their intent to impose a water tax on farmers.
“Unfortunately, it seems bureaucrats have snuck this one past Ministers, because that’s exactly what these provisions enable – it’s all there in black and white.”
Previous National Party Prime Ministers, including John Key and Bill English, explicitly ruled out water taxes in their day.
Federated Farmers is now calling on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to urgently do the same – because rural New Zealand needs to clearly understand his position.
“Federated Farmers strongly supports the objectives of the Government’s RMA reforms: growing productivity and making it easier to get things done,” Hooper says.
“We are in total alignment that there needs to be a stronger focus on property rights, a tighter scope, fewer resource consents, and far less expensive litigation.
“The Government’s messaging has been bang-on but, unfortunately, we don’t think the legislation as currently drafted matches the political rhetoric.”
Hooper says this may be a case of ‘officials gone rogue’, but serious questions remain about how such dangerous provisions have progressed this far.
“The Prime Minister needs to step in now, make a captain’s call, and categorically rule out any possibility of water taxes to give farmers and growers certainty.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/federated-farmers-government-must-urgently-rule-out-controversial-water-tax/

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Sustainable seafood matters to eight in ten consumers, leading to calls for retailers to support sustainable choices

Source: Media Outreach

MSC calls on retailers to increase their offer of sustainable seafood products ahead of the Chinese New Year, in response to insights from consumers

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – As families across Singapore and Malaysia prepare to toss yusheng and serve whole steamed fish for Chinese New Year, new research reveals a striking disconnect: more than eight in ten Malaysians (85%) and nearly three-quarters of Singaporeans (74%) say sustainable seafood matters to them.

Despite actively seeking out sustainable sources, a YouGov survey commissioned by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) found that more than half of Singapore consumers (58%) have never noticed an eco-label when shopping. Recognition of the MSC blue ecolabel label sits at 21%.

With seafood consumption expected to rise during Chinese New Year as celebrations take centre stage, it’s a critical moment for sustainable shopping choices.

Malaysia consumes more than double the global average per capita (49 kg versus 21 kg globally), while Singapore imports most of its seafood supply. Without clear labelling and retailer commitment, consumers who want to make sustainable choices often cannot.

In Malaysia, where fishing remains central to coastal livelihoods, 75% of Malaysians believe support and resources are essential for local fishermen to fish responsibly and sustainably.

In Singapore, where nearly all seafood is imported, consumers look to retailers and regulators for assurance, with 55% citing government standards and 54% citing origin information as key drivers of confidence.

“When asked what sustainable seafood means to them, consumers demonstrated a sophisticated understanding: 62% of Singaporeans and 56% of Malaysians associate it with well-managed fisheries operating under clear rules.

“It’s clear that consumers are ready and willing to seek out credible certification, so we’re urging retailers and businesses to make MSC eco-label products visible and accessible,” saidAnne Gabriel, Program Director for Oceania and Singapore at the Marine Stewardship Council.

The research also highlights expectations of retailers. More than half of Singaporeans (52%) believe supermarkets should commit to sourcing sustainable seafood. Even amid cost-of-living pressures, 38% say they are willing to pay more for sustainably sourced seafood, while many others say clear labelling would help them make better choices within their budget.

The findings suggest that as festive demand peaks, clearer eco-labelling could help consumers align their values with their shopping – without changing what’s on the dinner table.

Shoppers can find MSC certified sustainable seafood at Cold Storage Singapore, FairPrice Group and Prime Supermarket in Singapore, and at AEON Retail, Jaya Grocer and Village Grocer in Malaysia.

Key findings at a glance

  • 85% of Malaysians and 74% of Singaporeans say sustainable seafood is important
  • 63% (MY) and 58% (SG) have never noticed any eco-label on seafood
  • 75% of Malaysians believe fishermen need support to fish sustainably
  • 52% Singaporeans say retailer commitment to sustainable sourcing would encourage them to choose sustainable seafood
  • Malaysia consumes 49kg of seafood per capita annually vs 21kg global average, sources from Malaysia – Fishery and Aquaculture Country Profiles

About the research
The survey was conducted by YouGov on behalf of the Marine Stewardship Council between 15-19 January 2026. The sample comprised 1,007 adults aged 18+ in Singapore and 1,003 adults aged 18+ in Malaysia. Data was weighted to be representative of the adult population in each country.

Hashtag: #TheMarineStewardshipCouncil #MSC

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/sustainable-seafood-matters-to-eight-in-ten-consumers-leading-to-calls-for-retailers-to-support-sustainable-choices/

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One in court following vehicle theft and attempted vehicle theft in Christchurch

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Senior Sergeant Hamish Keer-Keer

A 28-year-old Christchurch man is before the courts after unlawfully taking a vehicle and attempting to take further vehicles.

About 9.35pm on Wednesday 11 February, Police were called to Queen Elizabeth II Drive after a man allegedly stole another person’s vehicle following a three-vehicle crash.

It is reported the alleged offender crashed into two stationary vehicles at the intersection with Main North Road, before approaching another car involved in the crash.

The man has forced the driver from the car before leaving the area in the vehicle.

The stolen car has then been abandoned on Harewood Road where the offender has attempted to take a second vehicle, pulling a person from the driver’s seat.

After being unsuccessful in taking the vehicle, the man has abandoned the car before allegedly attempting to unlawfully take three further vehicles.

Fortunately, these drivers were able to drive away to safety.

A short time later, Police located the offender on Papanui Road where he was taken into custody without incident.

Following an initial search of the man’s first vehicle located on Queen Elizabeth II Drive, cannabis and items indicating supply were located.

Police continue to make enquiries into the circumstances of the incident.

While there were no serious injuries, a number of people have been left shaken by this incident and Police are providing them with support.

The 28-year-old man is due to appear in Christchurch District Court today, charged with possession of cannabis for supply, careless driving, driving in a dangerous manner, two counts of failing to stop or ascertain injury, and two counts of robbery.

If you have any information in relation to this incident, please get in touch with us online at 105.police.govt.nz, or call 105.

Please use the reference number 260212/9665.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/one-in-court-following-vehicle-theft-and-attempted-vehicle-theft-in-christchurch/

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Pest cull at Auckland’s Western Springs Lake using electrocurrents

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auckland Council Senior Freshwater Advisor Matthew Bloxham. Nick Monro

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

He said so far it had been a success.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/pest-cull-at-aucklands-western-springs-lake-using-electrocurrents/

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Republic of Singapore Yacht Club Celebrates 200 Years of Heritage with Bicentennial Charity Gala, Raising Over S$320,000 for The President’s Challenge

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 February 2026 — The Republic of Singapore Yacht Club (RSYC) marked its 200th anniversary (#RSYC200) with a Bicentennial Charity Gala Dinner on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at the club’s Nautica Ballroom.

Ceremonial cake-cutting by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Minister for Education and MP for West Coast–Jurong West GRC Mr Desmond Lee, RSYC Commodore Balakrishnan B, RSYC Vice Commodore James Yeo, and RSYC committee members

The milestone event was graced by President of the Republic of Singapore, Tharman Shanmugaratnam and attended by over 130 guests, including club members, sponsors and distinguished guests, raising funds in support for the wider community.

Bicentennial Milestone Ceremony

Founded in 1826, RSYC commemorated 200 years of rich heritage through an evening reflecting tradition and a longstanding commitment to service, tracing its journey alongside Singapore’s seafaring story as it evolved into a distinctly Singaporean and multicultural institution.

The programme opened with a Bicentennial tribute video, followed by welcome remarks by the Commodore of RSYC Mr Balakrishnan B. In honour of the club’s enduring legacy of service, fellowship and contribution to the wider community, President Tharman officiated the unveiling of the RSYC Bicentennial Plaque and the ceremonial cake-cutting, joined by Mr Desmond Lee, Minister for Education and MP for West Coast–Jurong West GRC, RSYC Commodore Mr Balakrishnan B and other members of the RSYC Committee.

The gala also marked the opening event of RSYC’s year-long bicentennial programme, designed to drive member engagement through a series of sporting and social activities held throughout 2026 (refer to Appendix for full list of #RSYC200 events in 2026), and brought together significant figures who have shaped the club across generations.

This included Mr Edward Wong, Managing Director of AWP Pte Ltd and architect of the RSYC’s current clubhouse following the club’s relocation to its present premises in 1999, as well as Mr Francis Lee, RSYC’s first Singaporean Commodore (appointed in 1985) who played a pivotal role in redefining RSYC as a national club with an international membership, while championing initiatives that strengthened sea sports development, professional training and the preservation of the club’s history.

Charity Auction in Support of President’s Challenge

The highlight of the evening was a charity auction, featuring a curated selection of rare and exclusive items, including a one-of-a-kind RSYC Bicentennial Commemorative Pure Gold Coin, limited-edition Bicentennial Pure Silver Coins, and a rare 60-year-old Martell Cognac — one of only 12 in the world — presented in a Baccarat crystal decanter.

RSYC raised a grand total of S$326,692 through the gala dinner and auction, and all proceeds were directed towards The President’s Challenge 2026 – A national movement launched in 2000 by RSYC’s former Patron, the late President S R Nathan, to rally Singaporeans in building a more caring and cohesive society, and to support communities in need.

Later in the evening, a cheque presentation was held in the presence of President Tharman, Mr Desmond Lee, RSYC Commodore Balakrishnan B, and members of the RSYC Committee, followed by a post-dinner heritage exhibition showcasing key milestones from the club’s long and distinguished history.

As a token of appreciation, all attendees were presented with a specially produced RSYC Bicentennial commemorative gold-plated coin, to mark the historic occasion.

“As we mark 200 years of the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club, this bicentennial milestone reflects our enduring maritime heritage and the values that have shaped the club over many generations. We are honoured to commemorate this historic occasion through a meaningful initiative in support of The President’s Challenge, reaffirming RSYC’s long-standing commitment to contributing positively to Singapore’s community,” said Commodore Balakrishnan B, Republic of Singapore Yacht Club.

Looking ahead, the Republic of Singapore Yacht Club will continue to build on its heritage as a premier institution, honour its seafaring legacy, and chart its next chapter for centuries more to come, through milestone occasions and activities that contribute meaningfully to national causes and Singapore’s future.

The Bicentennial Charity Gala was made possible with the support of Platinum Sponsors: Royal Salute Scotch Whiskey, Martell; Gold Sponsors: Asiatic Fire System Pte Ltd, and Marina Technology and Construction, Nippon Paint and OCBC; as well as Silver Sponsors: AWP Architects, Cloudable Solutions Pte Ltd. and Sindcon. Neo Garden served as the Official Caterer, with Adidas as the Official Merchandiser.

Appendix

#RSYC200 2026 Events

  • 27 March 2026: Back to School Social Night

A nostalgic, adult-themed social evening featuring games, food, and opportunities for members to reconnect

  • 13 June 2026: RSYC Recycled Boat Race

A sustainability-focused team event where participants build and race boats using recycled materials at the RSYC marina

  • 18, 19 & 25 July 2026: RSYC Regatta 2026

RSYC’s annual sailing regatta featuring keelboats competing in passage and short-course races across Singapore’s southern waters

  • 22 & 23 August 2026: RSYC Commodore’s Day 2026

Annual Open House and celebration welcoming members and the public, featuring water sports, carnival activities, food offerings, and the introduction of new Committee Members

  • 19 & 20 September 2026 (Silver Fleet) and 26 & 27 September 2026 (Gold Fleet): Optimist Knockout Championship 2026

A youth sailing championship organised by RSYC under the auspices of the Singapore Sailing Federation

  • 9 October 2026: RSYC Beerfest 2026

An evening festival featuring international beers, food, music, and interactive games

  • 18 October 2026: RSYC Fishing Tournament 2026

RSYC’s annual fishing competition bringing together fishing enthusiasts from across Singapore

  • 14 November 2026: RSYC Charity Cruise 2026

A community-focused charity initiative bringing volunteers and sponsors together in support of a meaningful cause

  • 4 & 5 December 2026: Christmas & Boat Light-Up 2026

A festive weekend featuring carnival activities, a holiday market, and the Christmas Boat Light-Up Parade

  • 31 December 2026: New Year’s Eve Countdown Party

A year-end celebration to welcome the New Year with music, festivities, and fellow members and guests

https://rsyc.org.sg/
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/republic-of-singapore-yacht-club
https://www.facebook.com/rsyc.sg/
https://www.instagram.com/rsycsg/

Hashtag: #RSYC200 #RepublicofSingaporeYachtClub

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/republic-of-singapore-yacht-club-celebrates-200-years-of-heritage-with-bicentennial-charity-gala-raising-over-s320000-for-the-presidents-challenge/

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Out of control Dunedin university party weeks sparks police concern

Source: Radio New Zealand

123RF

There is concern that some behaviour at Dunedin’s annual ‘Flo’ and ‘O’ weeks is out of control and highly dangerous, with students clambering onto roofs.

A young man was critically injured on Wednesday after falling about 10 metres from an Otago University building, with a wine bottle found on a ledge.

While he was not a student, police were calling for others to avoid rising similar injuries – which were becoming more common.

“Unfortunately, it seems to be becoming more and more prevalent,” senior sergeant Craig Dinnissen told Checkpoint.

“Flo Week never used to be a thing. It has become more of a thing in the last couple of years and the climbing on roofs has been around since the Hyde Street unmanaged events, which just leads to absolute significant risk and injury when it does go wrong.”

Dinnissen said police had engaged with numerous people to get off roofs and passed their details onto their university for further discussion.

He suggested that students had too much time to get into trouble, with classes yet to start.

“There’s absolutely nothing to do with university … there’s no classes, nothing at all,” Dinnissen said.

It is seven nights of various street parties, excessive drinking and just some poor behaviour and poor decision making, he said.

He said it was the first time away from home for many students, and with nothing else to do, evenings could often get “feral”, with illicit substances also a factor.

Dinnissen said wastewater testing indicated that this time of year was “high use”, with police resources stretched to ensure the safety of everyone.

“It takes a huge amount of time from us, from normal court policing,” he said.

Out of towners joining the parties was another factor.

“We have people travelling all the way from Auckland to come down to partake in the festivities here, both Flo and O Week,” Dinnissen said.

“Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, university students, people from all around the area as well.”

Dinnissen said while police could generally handle local students, people that come from outside the region often had no respect for the environment and the situation they put themselves in.

Without putting an end to the parties, he called for a “significant culture change” and for students to embrace social responsibility.

“These are supposed to be new young adults that are going to lead us into the future,” he said.

“We can’t really hold their hand in that sense, to realise that things are getting out of hand.”

Dinnissen said the last thing police ever wanted to do was to knock on somebody’s door and say your daughter or your son was in hospital.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/out-of-control-dunedin-university-party-weeks-sparks-police-concern/

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Rugby league: Māori jersey ‘the pinnacle’ for Kennedy Cherrington

Source: Radio New Zealand

Kennedy Cherrington says the Maori jersey stands above them all. Instagram

For Kennedy Cherrington, nothing in rugby league carries more weight than the Māori jersey.

Despite playing at a World Cup, in State of Origins, and an NRLW grand final, Cherrington said the Māori jersey sits above them all.

She said the it connects her to something far bigger than the game.

“This kaupapa is everything to me. The Māori jersey is the pinnacle in the game for me personally and I know that’s a shared common feeling by my team-mates. I’ve been fortunate enough to play at World Cups and Origins and Grand Finals, but the Māori jersey is the pinnacle.

“I get to represent not just myself and my whanau, but my ancestors and everything we’ve worked towards being Māori in the land of today. So I just want to take back that narrative and show people that we can showcase our culture and game in one.”

Cherrington will run out alongside younger sister Ruben for the Māori vs Indigenous All Stars clash in Hamilton on Sunday.

“It’s not just a selection of random players. You have to be Māori to play here. So I think that’s the special thing and being surrounded by your own is such a wholesome feeling.

“It’s like all the whanau coming together and you just get to be yourself. This is probably one of the most well connected teams that I’ve been a part of because you share the same heritage.”

Despite growing up more than 2000km from her ancestral home, Cherrington’s connection to her whakapapa remained strong, thanks to her parents.

“They’ve always instilled confidence in us being Māori and learning the Māori way, they always reminded us, showed us where we come from, so we pay homage to our parents and all they had to sacrifice being away from their home because they miss it just as much.

“But obviously everything happens for a reason. We had to come over there for a fresh start and we’ve just harnessed that opportunity that they’ve sacrificed for us. But obviously not having our kapa haka or kohunga growing up has been kind of deflating because that’s what we kind of mourn for being in Australia.”

Cherrington said Māori representation is crucial for young wahine.

“You can’t be what you can’t see. and there’s so many little eyes, both Māori, non-Māori, watching us, looking at us going, ‘I want to be there. I want to be like them.’ And in a world full of a lot of negative things, we just want to be the positivity and the positive role models that they look to, leading the forefront and changing the narrative of how Māori are to be seen.”

Kennedy and Ruben Cherrington will run out together for the Maori All Stars this Sunday. Instagram

Joining the NRLW in 2020, Cherrington has seen a clear shift in the women’s game, most notably in the support they get from young fans.

“That’s probably been a bit of a pinch me moment, it’s been really, really noticeable. I was once that young girl looking up to people who I wanted to aspire to be like.

“So if someone says hello, I’ll always say hello back. If someone asks for a photo, I’ll always say yes and have a big smile on my face. I’m here, I’m a role model, whether I like it or not, well, I like it. So little eyes are watching you and monkey see monkey do, right? So yeah, that’s what you want to do, inspire the next generation because you were that young person.”

The Parramatta centre is also ensuring the women’s game has a strong players voice, having recently been appointed to the Rugby League Players Association as a player director.

“I’ve just been a big believer in standing up for change and using your voice when others don’t have a voice. So it’s just something that’s been in me since high school, speaking up. So I guess it’s kind of just transcended into rugby league world as well. I love seeing avenues of the game and how things roll and advocating for change.”

That change has been significant in the past six years.

“Some of the girls that have been around since those early days have just seen like, wow, we’ve gone to be basically afterthought to actually being in the forefront of the game itself here in Australia and New Zealand.

“We didn’t even have lockers or proper changing rooms, we were wearing men’s playing gear, had no maternity leave, and none of us having that well-being support. They were expecting a professional product, but not treating us like professionals. So that conversation has changed and it’s just come such a long way.

However Cherrington said more still needs to be done to get on equal footing with the NRL.

“Obviously, a fully professional schedule, that’s a big one. I’d love to see us finally transition slowly into the full-time space. It’ll take some time because I know a lot of the girls have still got full-time jobs, but I think we’d see a massive reflection of quality. I love our game and I just want to see a positive change for our future for our women.”

Locked in at the Eels until 2027, Cherrington did not rule out a potential move to Aotearoa and switch to the Warriors.

“I grew up supporting the Warriors and I do have a special place for them in my heart, beyond 2027? Who knows?”

Kennedy Cherrington scoring a try during her rugby days in 2018. Photosport

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/rugby-league-maori-jersey-the-pinnacle-for-kennedy-cherrington/

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How to limit processed meats for lunch

Source: Radio New Zealand

I have a confession to make.​

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

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/how-to-limit-processed-meats-for-lunch/

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Energy Sector – Power prices predicted to surge – Consumer NZ

Source: Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ expects power prices to increase by about 5% in 2026 – a blow to households already hit with a 12% increase to power bills last year.

Households should brace for another big bump in power prices in the year ahead. The price predictions from Consumer NZ come at a time when nearly half of all New Zealanders are concerned about the cost of their household energy.¹

“Power bills are hiking up because of an increase in lines charges’ costs – that’s the cost of delivering power to your house, and it’s the amount on your bill that stays the same regardless of how much power you use,” said Paul Fuge, Powerswitch manager.

The lines charge makes up just over one-third of the power bill, and a small hike to that fixed cost makes a big difference to monthly bills.

Consumer recommends budgeting for an increase to power bills from the end of April. Customers can expect line charges alone to climb by an average of $5 per month through to 2029.  

“The lines charge will add an average of $5 per month to your bill, but this figure will vary depending on where you live and who your retailer is. As well as the fixed costs, we expect consumers will face increases to the cost of the electricity they use too,” said Fuge.

Why power prices keep going up

The cost of running and maintaining the electricity networks has increased, and this cost flows through to people’s power bills.

“It’s an unfortunate reality that households are being asked to shoulder higher charges to have electricity delivered to their homes. But at the same time, heavy rainfall over summer – so extensive that major hydro lakes are spilling water –has driven down wholesale electricity prices. Those lower generation costs should be easing the pressure on consumers by offsetting these rising lines charges. That doesn’t seem to be happening. And that’s deeply unfair.”

The impact of ever-increasing power bills

Consumer’s research found that, last winter, one in five New Zealanders went to bed early to stay warm, one-quarter of people went without heating when it was cold and nearly one in five people cut back on food or other essentials to pay a power bill.²

“These drastic measures to manage power bills are not limited to one age group – young adults, older New Zealanders and everyone in between are being forced into uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe choices.  

“Based on our price predictions for 2026, we think the situation will only get worse,” says Fuge.

Consumer’s tips for managing power price surges

Check you’re on the cheapest plan – Power retailers are constantly changing their offers. Just because you picked the cheapest plan last year, it doesn’t mean it’s the best plan available now. You can find if there’s a plan that’s better for you through the free and independent power comparison website Powerswitch.

Keep your eye out for April price rises – Power retailers typically increase their prices from April. Mark a date in your diary for after 1 April to check in with Powerswitch to see if there are further savings you could make by switching then.

Understand your power usage – If you can do most of your power-hungry activities, like running your washing machine and dryer, in off-peak periods, you could make big savings. Off-peak periods are usually late at night, the middle of the day and weekends. You need to be on a time-of-use plan to save the most from your off-peak power usage. Being careful with when you use your power could potentially help you offset the price rises that we are predicting.

Notes

¹ Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker January 2026
² Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker October 2025

Consumer NZ’s Sentiment Tracker is an online survey based on a nationally representative sample of the New Zealand population. Results are weighted by age, gender and region based on Stats NZ 2018 Census data. Respondents are sourced from Dynata, an external panel provider. Surveys are conducted quarterly with at least 1000 respondents, with a margin of error of +/-3.1%.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/energy-sector-power-prices-predicted-to-surge-consumer-nz/

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Christchurch terrorist just seeking attention with his appeal bid, survivor says

Source: Radio New Zealand

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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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/10/christchurch-terrorist-just-seeking-attention-with-his-appeal-bid-survivor-says/

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Motorcylist nearly twice the limit after fleeing Police

Source: New Zealand Police

A motorcyclist’s decision to flee saw his wheels impounded and a variety of illicit drug items seized this morning.

The Papatoetoe man was also allegedly found to be nearly twice the legal breath alcohol limit.

A unit located the Harley Davidson on Great South Road, Papatoetoe at around 1.38am.

Counties Manukau West Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Steve Albrey says two people were on the bike at the time.

“Due to the driving behaviour, the unit activated lights and siren to stop the bike,” he says.

“The rider has failed to stop and sped away from the unit at high speed and was seen running a red light.”

The Harley Davidson wasn’t pursued, but the Police Eagle helicopter deployed overhead and tracked its movements.

“Eagle located the motorcycle heading into a Papatoetoe property, attempting to hide in a garage,” Senior Sergeant Albrey says.

“Ground units attended the address and located both the rider and his passenger.”

While at the rider’s property, Police made further illicit discoveries.

This included a bag of cannabis, a cannabis plant and methamphetamine utensils.

Senior Sergeant Albrey says the rider appeared intoxicated and allegedly returned a breath alcohol result of 441mcg.

The 48-year-old man will be summonsed to court for the drink driving offence, with enquiries ongoing into the drug offences.

“Operating any vehicle or motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol is extremely risky,” Senior Sergeant Albrey says.

“It’s fortunate that the rider, his passenger or anyone else in the community wasn’t injured as a result of his actions last night.”

The passenger on the motorcycle, a 34-year-old woman, was also arrested for an unrelated warrant to arrest.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/10/motorcylist-nearly-twice-the-limit-after-fleeing-police/

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Escalation of conflict in South Sudan threatens to push a million into extreme food crisis – Oxfam

Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

Families in South Sudan are once again having to flee for their lives due to escalating conflict at a time when hunger is already at catastrophic levels, Oxfam warned.
Renewed fighting, which has spread across Jonglei and into the neighbouring area of Walgak, 100 kilometres from the capital Juba, is deepening an already dire situation, cutting families off from food, clean water and urgent humanitarian support.
Multiple health facilities and aid agencies including Oxfam were looted and staff beaten and forced to flee leading to service suspension and humanitarian staff displacement. Prior to the suspension of life-saving assistance, Oxfam was supporting more than 400,000 people in Jonglei through food security and resilience programmes.
Since December, more than 280,000 people have been forced to flee their homes and are now sheltering in bushes, overcrowded schools and churches where services are minimal to nothing. 75% of those displaced are women and children.
Families who were already severely food insecure, malnourished and dependent upon aid are now reducing their meals even further in order to feed their displaced relatives. Many have had to leave all of their belongings, food and livestock behind.
Even before the latest fighting, more than 700,000 people in Jonglei counties were facing crisis or emergency hunger, including over 11,000 living in catastrophic conditions.
“Families are being forcibly displaced into areas where conditions are already dire,” said Shabnam Baloch, Oxfam’s South Sudan Country Director.
“Some are injured and barely able to move. Many are at risk of starvation and having to drink water from contaminated rivers and swamps. The situation is beyond desperate.”
Population displacement and contaminated water coupled with lack of hygiene supplies is adding another deadly layer to the crisis. Oxfam assessments found that, in some areas, 100% of the population are having to rely on unsafe water, with many forced into open defecation, creating a breeding ground for diseases. In January alone there were more than 400 cases of cholera and the situation is only set to get worse as more people are forced to move.
With the rainy approaching in March, humanitarian access would shrink even further as road access become impassable pushing an already affected communities to the edge.
Shabnam Baloch said: “A frightening number of people in South Sudan are already severely hungry as conflict intensifies; families have abandoned farms at harvest and their cattle are either looted or lost while the fishing grounds remain inaccessible preventing them from planting food crops and feeding their families.
“The people of South Sudan desperately need an immediate end to this conflict so that they can get food. We strongly appeal to all parties to the conflict to allow people to safely reach humanitarian assistance.”
In the 2026 humanitarian response plan for South Sudan, over 10 million people – two-thirds of the population – are projected to require some humanitarian assistance including 7.5 million people who are at risk of starvation. Oxfam is also warning that worsening insecurity is exposing women and girls to violence and driving some families to resort to early and forced marriage as an economic survival strategy.
Women escaping conflict are disproportionately vulnerable to profound traumas, many of which remain hidden beneath the surface of their survival. One group of women, who had to walk for 3 days with their children to Akobo, told Oxfam: “There is a silence that walks beside us on these long roads – a heavy, wordless grief for the things we saw, the things we endured, and the parts of ourselves we had to leave behind just to keep our children moving.
“We live in a state of constant fear, not for our own lives, but for the small ones who look to us for a safety we are still trying to find for ourselves.”
Notes
Before the suspension of its operations, Oxfam was responding in the worst-affected areas of Jonglei and Lakes states, where nearly 80% of displacement is concentrated, with Rapid Response Teams ready to scale up. The response focused on cholera prevention through clean water and sanitation, emergency cash assistance for food and essentials, safe learning spaces for children, and protection services addressing gender-based violence.
According to UNOCHA, more than 280,000 people have been displaced since 29 December 2025. Among the overall displaced individuals, it was estimated that 75% are women and children. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/escalation-of-conflict-in-south-sudan-threatens-to-push-a-million-into-extreme-food-crisis-oxfam/

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Health and safety sentencing gives important lessons for ‘overlapping duties’

Source: Maritime New Zealand

A sentencing in the Nelson District Court today [February 9] gives important health and safety lessons for when businesses are working together at the same workplace.

Maritime NZ Deputy Chief Executive Regulatory Operations, Deb Despard, says this is the ‘overlapping duties’ principle in the Health and Safety at Work Act. Importantly, while this case involved a fishing vessel, the lessons can apply to all industries covered by the Act, not only the maritime and ports sectors.

Maritime NZ prosecuted Sealord Group Limited after a crew member of the Sealord fishing vessel, Rehua, was trapped and crushed when a winch he was working on started unexpectedly. The crew member suffered serious chest injuries.

Sealord pled guilty to one charge under section 34 of the Act and was sentenced today.

The incident occurred on 4 June 2022, when Rehua was docked at Port of Nelson for planned maintenance. This included refitting its winch systems. Two other companies were also involved in the refit of the winches.

The Act makes each business responsible for carrying out their health and safety duties at the workplace, which in this case was the Rehua.

Business must also work together to manage safety (the Act says they consult, cooperate and coordinate activities). This is so they have shared understanding of the work and the risks, and agree who is best placed to manage safety. 

It was reasonably practicable for Sealord to consult, cooperate with, and coordinate activities with the other businesses by ensuring:

·         a toolbox talk involving all people working around or with the winch system, discussing the winch controls and a safe system of working that day took place

·         there was clear communication of a safe system of work

·         clear communication of training and supervision for the work involving the winch system.

“The lessons from this incident are being used to help keep others safe,” Ms Despard says.

“Maritime NZ is working with senior leaders in the industry through the Fishers’ Health and Safety Leadership Group, including Sealord, to progress initiatives together to prevent harm in the fishing sector.”

Maritime NZ is also sharing information about this case with the maritime and port sectors to increase knowledge of the Act and help prevent harm in future.

 

Editors’ note:

The Health and Safety at Work Act uses the term ‘person conducting a business or undertaking’ (PCBU). For ease of reading by the general public, Maritime NZ has referred to PCBUs as businesses in this media release. In this case the three PCBUs involved were businesses.

The Court ordered Sealord to pay $40,000 reparations to the injured crew member and imposed a fine of $12,950.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/health-and-safety-sentencing-gives-important-lessons-for-overlapping-duties/

Posted on

Maritime NZ – Health and safety sentencing gives important lessons for ‘overlapping duties’

Source: Maritime NZ

A sentencing in the Nelson District Court today [February 9] gives important health and safety lessons for when businesses are working together at the same workplace.

Maritime NZ Deputy Chief Executive Regulatory Operations, Deb Despard, says this is the ‘overlapping duties’ principle in the Health and Safety at Work Act. Importantly, while this case involved a fishing vessel, the lessons can apply to all industries covered by the Act, not only the maritime and ports sectors.

Maritime NZ prosecuted Sealord Group Limited after a crew member of the Sealord fishing vessel, Rehua, was trapped and crushed when a winch he was working on started unexpectedly. The crew member suffered serious chest injuries.

Sealord pled guilty to one charge under section 34 of the Act and was sentenced today.

The incident occurred on 4 June 2022, when Rehua was docked at Port of Nelson for planned maintenance. This included refitting its winch systems. Two other companies were also involved in the refit of the winches.

The Act makes each business responsible for carrying out their health and safety duties at the workplace, which in this case was the Rehua.

Business must also work together to manage safety (the Act says they consult, cooperate and coordinate activities). This is so they have shared understanding of the work and the risks, and agree who is best placed to manage safety.

It was reasonably practicable for Sealord to consult, cooperate with, and coordinate activities with the other businesses by ensuring:

·         a toolbox talk involving all people working around or with the winch system, discussing the winch controls and a safe system of working that day took place

·         there was clear communication of a safe system of work

·         clear communication of training and supervision for the work involving the winch system.

“The lessons from this incident are being used to help keep others safe,” Ms Despard says.

“Maritime NZ is working with senior leaders in the industry through the Fishers’ Health and Safety Leadership Group, including Sealord, to progress initiatives together to prevent harm in the fishing sector.”

Maritime NZ is also sharing information about this case with the maritime and port sectors to increase knowledge of the Act and help prevent harm in future.

Notes:

The Health and Safety at Work Act uses the term ‘person conducting a business or undertaking’ (PCBU). For ease of reading by the general public, Maritime NZ has referred to PCBUs as businesses in this media release. In this case the three PCBUs involved were businesses.

The Court ordered Sealord to pay $40,000 reparations to the injured crew member and imposed a fine of $12,950.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/maritime-nz-health-and-safety-sentencing-gives-important-lessons-for-overlapping-duties/

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Swiss-Belhotel International Strengthening Its Luxury Brands in Batam, Indonesia

Source: Media Outreach

BATAM, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – Swiss-Belhotel International continues to accelerate its expansion in Indonesia’s island tourism sector with the recent signing of two new resort management agreements: Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel. The move underscores the group’s long-term commitment to developing high-end, sustainable hospitality products across the archipelago.

From left: Director of PT Dewi Citra Kencana and PT. Tritunas Sinar Benua – Mr Tommy Ho, Commissioner PT. Tritunas Sinar Benua – Mr Jimmi Ho, Owner of Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel, and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel – Mr Hartono, Swiss-Belhotel International Executive Director and Senior Vice President of Information Technology, Ecommerce and Distribution – Mr Matthew Faull, Regional Director of Operations and Development for Indonesia – Mr Fabrice Mini.

The first property, Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel, will offer an intimate eco-luxury experience in Batam, featuring villas with private pools and suites, several of which boast balconies and direct access to the pool. A key highlight is its Wellness Centre, equipped with thalasso therapy, which offers a rare and premium wellness experience in the region.

The second project, located in Nirup Island, Batam, will present a refined villa-style escape designed for families, groups, and long-stay guests. The property will comprise villas, available in two, three, and four-bedroom types, all equipped with private pools, thereby reinforcing the resort’s positioning as a luxury enclave within the Riau Islands.

Mr Hartono, Owner of Māua Kapal Kecil by Swiss-Belhotel and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel, expressed strong confidence in this partnership, “We are pleased to collaborate with Swiss-Belhotel International in bringing these developments to life. Their operational expertise and commitment to delivering high-quality guest experiences give us full confidence that both Māua Kapal Kecil and Villa Riahi will set new benchmarks for luxury hospitality in Batam. We believe these properties will contribute significantly to the region’s tourism growth and provide exceptional value for guests seeking exclusivity, comfort, and nature-inspired experiences in the wider Riau Islands as they continue to evolve into leading regional tourism hubs.”

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President, emphasized the significance of the company’s continued growth in Indonesia. “These new signings reflect our ongoing commitment to expanding Swiss-Belhotel International’s presence in key island destinations. Batam’s rising potential as a luxury getaway aligns perfectly with our vision to deliver world-class hospitality experiences that unite sustainability, comfort, and authentic local charm. We are proud to further strengthen our portfolio in Indonesia, one of our most important and fastest-growing markets.”

Matthew Faull, Executive Director and Senior Vice President of Information Technology, E-commerce and Distribution, highlighted the momentum of the group’s development pipeline across the country: “Indonesia remains a central pillar of our development strategy, and the addition of these two exceptional properties demonstrates the strong confidence of owners in our brands. The progress we are making—from eco-luxury concepts like Māua to premium villa destinations such as Villa Riahi—marks an exciting phase of our growth in this region.”

The addition of Māua Kapal Kecil and Villa Riahi by Swiss-Belhotel highlights the group’s strategy to enhance Batam’s appeal as a premier luxury island destination, supporting Indonesia’s tourism growth.

Māua by Swiss-Belhotel is a 5-star eco-luxury hospitality brand inspired by the ancestral wisdom of Māori culture, rooted in the values of whenua (respect for the land), mauri (life force), and kotahitanga (togetherness). Meaning “togetherness” in Te Reo Māori, Māua represents a philosophy of harmony between people and nature, guiding the brand’s approach to sustainable design, wellness-led experiences, and conscious luxury living. This ethos is symbolised by the andesite stone carving at the Faull family’s heritage farm in New Zealand, reflecting a deep, personal connection to the land and a commitment to preserving balance, authenticity, and meaningful human connection across every Māua destination.

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Hashtag: #SwissBelhotelInternational #luxuryresort #islandresort #islandluxuryresort #islandtourism #batamtourism

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/swiss-belhotel-international-strengthening-its-luxury-brands-in-batam-indonesia/