Category: Health

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Health targets delivering for New Zealanders

Source: New Zealand Government

Clear improvements are being delivered across all five Government health targets, with the quarterly results for October to December 2025 showing year‑on‑year gains and more Kiwis accessing care sooner, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Across every target, more New Zealanders received care sooner during the quarter, despite sustained pressure on hospitals and services,” Mr Brown says.

“These results show tangible progress in our commitment to putting patients at the centre of the healthcare system, with improved access, timeliness, and outcomes across the health system.”

Key improvements for the October to December quarter compared to the same quarter in the previous year include:

Shorter stays in emergency departments – 74.2 percent of patients were admitted, discharged, or transferred within six hours, up from 72.1 percent.
Shorter waits for first specialist assessment – 62.2 percent of patients were seen within four months, up from 60.6 percent.
Shorter waits for elective treatment – 64.5 percent of patients received treatment within four months, up from 59.2 percent in the same quarter 12 months prior.
Faster cancer treatment – 87.0 percent of patients received cancer treatment within 31 days of the decision to treat, up from 85.9 percent.
Improved childhood immunisation – 82.9 percent of children were fully immunised at 24 months, up from 77.0 percent. 

“These improvements were delivered despite significant challenges facing the health system, including disruption to planned care and appointments, a measles outbreak, and high demand in emergency departments.”

More care was also delivered overall:

179,816 first specialist assessments were completed this quarter, up from 167,917 in the same quarter in the previous year.
51,513 people were treated from the elective waitlist, up from 46,841 in the same quarter in the previous year.
4,824 patients received their first cancer treatment, up from 4,546 in the same quarter in the previous year.
12,127 children were fully immunised at 24 months, up from 11,462 in the same quarter in the previous year.

Emergency departments also saw increased demand, with 340,967 attendances this quarter compared to 332,110 in the same period last year.

“Despite this higher demand, a greater proportion of patients were seen within six hours, which is a strong result for both patients and staff.”

Mr Brown says the Government remains focused on continuing to fix the basics and lift performance across the healthcare system.

“While there is more work to do, these results show meaningful progress for patients across the country.

“I want to thank the doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, support staff, and everyone working across our health system who continued delivering care under sustained pressure. Their dedication and professionalism continue to make a real difference for the patients they care for every day,” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/health-targets-delivering-for-new-zealanders/

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DFI Reinforces Commitment to People, Products and Planet in 2025 Sustainability Disclosure

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 March 2026 – DFI Retail Group (DFI or the Group) is pleased to announce its 2025 Sustainability Disclosure, highlighting the Group’s continued progress and commitment to advancing sustainability across Asia.

DFI Retail Group Sustainability Disclosure 2025

In 2025, DFI delivered strong progress on key sustainability commitments:

  • 22% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions compared to the 2021 baseline, with a target of 50% reduction by 2030.
  • Waste diversion rate improved to 66%, up from 61% in 2024, with a target of achieving 80% by 2030.
  • Invested US$3.9 million in community initiatives across markets.

The Group also advanced Scope 3 decarbonisation across supply chain of four key commodities – rice, coffee, dairy and beef. Initiatives included the launch of 380 tonnes of Low-Carbon Rice achieving a minimum 30% on-farm emissions reduction, sourcing 100% deforestation-free certified coffee beans for 7CAFÉ Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore, and IKEA, and partnering with The Mills Fabrica to launch the DFI Sustainability Innovation Challenge to identify global solutions for beef and dairy emissions.

Scott Price, Group Chief Executive, DFI Retail Group shared, “We remain committed to our purpose of sustainably serving Asia for generations with everyday moments. In 2025, we made clear progress on our pathway to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% by 2030, with investments in refrigerant management, energy efficiency and behaviour change initiatives across our operations. At the same time, we continued to deliver affordable, sustainable products that meet customer expectations, including the introduction of Low-Carbon Rice in Hong Kong and the expansion of our ‘Grounds to Green programme’ at 7Eleven. These efforts, together with disciplined waste and packaging management, keep us firmly on track to meet our 2030 sustainability targets.”

Erica Chan, Group Chief Legal, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer added, “Strong governance and transparency remain central to how we deliver on our sustainability ambitions. By streamlining our disclosure and enhancing our materiality assessment, climate scenario analysis, and transition plan, we are aligning with global standards such as IFRS S1 and S2. This ensures stakeholders gain a clear, holistic view of our progress and priorities, while reinforcing our commitment to creating long-term value across People, Products, and Planet.”

In 2025, DFI continued to be guided by its Sustainability Framework, centred on the three pillars of People, Products and Planet, with Governance as the cornerstone. This framework remains integral to the Group’s approach, ensuring robust leadership and oversight while driving initiatives that empower people, expand sustainable product choices, and reduce environmental impact across operations and supply chains.

Highlights of 2025 Initiatives:

  1. People: DFI Group and its business formats continued to support communities through Our Community Giveback initiatives, investing US$3.9 million and reaching 1.25 million beneficiaries across 12 markets. The Health and Beauty segment launched professional health services at Mannings and Guardian, extending access across more than 450 pharmacies in all markets. For team members, capability building was strengthened through major initiatives such as the launch of DFILEARN, enhanced leadership programmes, and structured career development frameworks, empowering growth across all levels of the business. At the same time, DFI upheld rigorous standards for suppliers, maintaining 100% ethical audits of Own Brand factories in high-risk countries and reinforcing responsible practices across supply chains through comprehensive assessments, audits, and engagement.
  2. Products: In 2025, 48% in-scope Own Brand products carried third-party sustainability certificates, up from 28% in 2024. At the same time, 83% Own Brand plastic packaging component that is recyclable, reusable or compostable, keeping us on-track to meet the target of at least 85% by 2030. The expansion of the 7Eleven’s ‘Grounds to Green” Coffee Grounds Upcycling Programme further reflected our efforts to embed circularity principles where relevant. The programme repurposed used coffee grounds into natural fertiliser to grow fresh produce, which was then incorporated into 7-SELECT juices and ready-to-eat items.
  3. Planet: DFI recorded a 22% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2025, compared to our 2021 baseline, on track towards our 50% reduction target by 2030. As refrigerant leaks remain one of the primary sources of these emissions, the Group continued upgrading refrigeration systems and, in April 2025, commissioned the first CO₂-based natural refrigerant system in Hong Kong’s food retail sector at the Cloudview Market Place store in North Point. This was followed by the installation of a sub-critical CO₂ refrigeration system in Oliver’s The Delicatessen in Central Hong Kong in September 2025, marking important milestones in advancing low-carbon operations across the portfolio. Waste diversion improved from 61% to 66% in 2025, as part of our efforts to achieve 80% waste diversion by 2030.

By embedding sustainability into our strategy, operations, and value chain, we are not only tackling today’s challenges but also building a resilient, responsible business that creates lasting value for our customers, communities, and the environment.

For detailed information on the various sustainability initiatives undertaken by DFI, please refer to the Sustainability Disclosure in the Integrated Annual Report 2025. To learn more about DFI’s efforts, please visit DFI’s website.

https://www.dfiretailgroup.com/en/

Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #SustainabilityDisclosure #PeopleProductsPlanet #Mannings #Guardian #7-Eleven #Wellcome #MarketPlace #IKEA #yuu

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/2026/03/23/dfi-reinforces-commitment-to-people-products-and-planet-in-2025-sustainability-disclosure/

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Updated information about Pharmac’s priority lists

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac’s Prioritisation Update provides the latest information about applications for medicines, vaccines, and related products that we’ve assessed for funding. Proactively releasing this information is part of our ongoing commitment to transparency.

Application priority lists

Every year we receive over 100 funding applications from health care professionals, consumer groups and suppliers. These applications include requests to fund new medicines and to widen access to medicines that we already fund.

We ask our clinical advisory committees to assess the available evidence and recommend whether we should fund, defer, or decline the applications. With their advice, we work to complete an assessment, including a health economic appraisal if required.

We apply the Factors for Consideration throughout our assessment of an application. The factors consider four areas: health need, health benefit, suitability, and costs and savings.

Read more about the Factors for Consideration on our website.

Once the assessment is complete, we take the application to a quarterly internal prioritisation meeting and add applications to one of the following priority lists:

  • options for investment (OFI)
  • only funded if cost neutral or cost saving
  • recommended for decline.

Read more about our priority lists for funding applications

Proposals funded since December 2025

The following treatments have been funded, and therefore removed from the OFI, since the last meeting on 3 December.

Options for investment list

We rank applications on our options for investment (OFI) list from highest to lowest priority but keep these rankings confidential so that we can negotiate the best prices with suppliers.

As of 15 March 2026, there are 139 applications on the OFI.

Prioritisation activity in the March quarter

During the March prioritisation quarter, we ranked seven new proposals on the OFI list.

New proposals ranked:

Only if cost neutral or cost saving list

If our assessment confirms an application does not provide any additional health benefit compared to treatments we already fund, it may be ranked on the only if cost-neutral or cost-saving list. We would look to fund these applications if we negotiated a deal that would be cost-neutral or cost-saving.

Prioritisation activity in the March quarter

During the March quarter, we ranked 4 applications on the only if cost neutral or cost saving list):

  • AEON Protect(external link) – for Dry Eye Disease, a condition where the eyes do not make enough tears, so the eyes are not properly lubricated.
  • AEON Protect Plus(external link) – for Dry Eye Disease, a condition where the eyes do not make enough tears, so the eyes are not properly lubricated.
  • AEON Repair(external link) – for Dry Eye Disease, a condition where the eyes do not make enough tears, so the eyes are not properly lubricated.
  • Pretomanid(external link) – Multi drug-resistant Tuberculosis and Extensively drug-resistant Tuberculosis.

Recommended for decline list

There are a range of reasons a funding application may be added to the recommend for decline list. Our expert clinical advisors may have recommended that the funding application be declined, or they may have recommended we fund the medicine, but during our analysis we’ve found: 

  • There is a more effective medicine for the same condition already funded
  • the medicine would provide no additional benefits over other treatments we already fund
  • the medicine may be harmful
  • the application has been overtaken by another funding application for the same medicine
  • no company is supplying the medicine in New Zealand. 

When applications are added to the recommended for decline list, they become inactive, and we stop working on the application. While applications may be listed on the decline list, they are only formally declined after public consultation to ensure we haven’t missed anything important. 

Read more about this process: Declining inactive funding applications 

Declining an application doesn’t prevent us from reconsidering funding for the medicine in the future if new information becomes available. 

Prioritisation activity in the March quarter 

During the March quarter we ranked 9 applications on the recommended for decline list (detailed descriptions of indications available on the Application Tracker):

* The assessment of these applications will now take place as one proposal, for nivolumab or pembrolizumab(external link), for first line treatment of oesophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer (including squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma) or gastric cancer.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/23/updated-information-about-pharmacs-priority-lists/

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Politics and Health – ACT should leave nursing to professionals and medical evidence – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

The ACT Party should leave nursing to the professionals and medical evidence, NZNO says.
Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku says ACT MP Todd Stephenson has dismissed the Nursing Council’s draft code of conduct – which proposes strengthening cultural safety, whānau-centred care and te Tiriti o Waitangi obligations – as political ideology.
“This is not political ideology. It is evidence-based health care which has been proven to be the key to lifting health outcomes for Māori.
“ACT should leave nursing to professionals and medical evidence,” Kerri Nuku says.
“Culturally safe care reduces health inequities, keeps more Māori out of hospital by helping identify the risk of preventable illnesses and enabling early intervention, and saves the health system money – something dear to the ACT Party,” she says.
“Todd Stephenson wants health care based on need not race. There can only be equal health care if there are equal health outcomes. Māori life expectancy is seven years lower than non-Māori and Māori are more likely to suffer heart disease, cancers, diabetes and mental health issues.
“Many Māori fear hospitals and the health system, which has been found to be systemically racist. Without culturally safe health care, Māori will continue to suffer poorer health outcomes and lead sicker and shorter lives than other New Zealanders.
“As well as the devastation to lives and whānau health and wellbeing, it costs Aotearoa more in the long run,” Kerri Nuku says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/23/politics-and-health-act-should-leave-nursing-to-professionals-and-medical-evidence-nzno/

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Health – New partnership targets long-term GP workforce sustainability through international recruitment

Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora and the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) have announced a partnership focused on increasing the number of international GPs coming to New Zealand, to join our local GP workforce.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening New Zealand’s GP workforce by making it easier for international doctors to understand the roles, pathways and support available to them.
General practice offers a career with real impact combining clinical autonomy, professional development and strong community connection. The campaign positions New Zealand as a destination where doctors can practise high-quality, specialist medicine while enjoying a world-class lifestyle and a health system built around teamwork and continuity of care.
RNZCGP plays a key role in this partnership, supporting high-quality general practice through training, standards and advocacy.
Together with Health New Zealand the campaign reinforces a coordinated, long-term approach to international recruitment that supports workforce sustainability across both urban and rural communities.
College President Dr Luke Bradford says the initiative comes at a critical time for the workforce.
“New Zealand needs more skilled GPs. These stories show the professionalism, purpose and privilege of delivering continuity of care in our communities from major centres to the most remote parts of the motu.”
Astuti Balram (Acting Director- Living Well) says “Health NZ is about the whole health system – not just specialist hospital services. We are delighted to be working with the college to attract more UK trained doctors to become NZ GPs.”
“GPs are central to high-quality primary care, and we need to continue to grow our workforce by recruiting local and international doctors. This work sits alongside our initiatives to strengthen primary and rural care, including funding up to 50 New Zealand-trained graduate doctors a year to train in primary care settings.”
The campaign, launched today, includes a new suite of resources and video testimonial stories aimed at attracting international doctors to work in Aotearoa.
The campaign highlights what overseas doctors can expect when working in community-based medicine offering practical insights into day-to-day clinical work, workforce pathways and lifestyle opportunities across both urban and rural settings.
Developed in alignment with Health New Zealand’s international recruitment programme, the resources are designed to support growing international interest in community-based specialist roles within a team-focused health system. 
More information:
The video campaign can be viewed below:
Health NZ is also progressing a range of initiatives as part of the Primary Care Tactical Action Plan (PCTAP) to strengthen the GP workforce including:
  • Funding 100 overseas-trained doctors already living in New Zealand to begin work in GP practices over the next two years.
  • Funding up to 50 New Zealand-trained graduate doctors a year to train in primary care settings.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/23/health-new-partnership-targets-long-term-gp-workforce-sustainability-through-international-recruitment/

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Social media uses negativity to steal our attention – how to reclaim it

Source: Radio New Zealand

Thanks to the widespread accessibility of the internet, many of us have front-row seats to suffering and death across the globe for the first time in history, even when we are not directly affected.

We’re living in what scholars describe as a “polycrisis” — a set of interconnected crises that compound and intensify one another.

Climate change intensifies displacement and conflict, economic precarity fuels political extremism and public health emergencies expose structural inequality.

Many of us go online to cope with stress or to escape. Yet the content that captures our attention most effectively often exacerbates the very feelings we are trying to soothe.

Robin Worrall

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/23/social-media-uses-negativity-to-steal-our-attention-how-to-reclaim-it/

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4.5 or two-star water? Health labels confuse

Source: Radio New Zealand

Three different water bottles, three different health labels. Supplied

Two bottles of sparkling water. One, a Pam’s product has two Health Stars. The other, a Schweppes brand, has 4.5.

It prompted one shopper to email RNZ and ask: What is going on?

Shouldn’t water with the same ingredients have the same rating? And why isn’t water five stars?

Foodstuffs said in this instance, it was a labelling problem.

“The rules changed in 2020 and plain water is now automatically given a five-star rating, while unsweetened sparkling water gets 4.5,” a spokesperson said.

“We can see why this looks confusing at first glance. Health Star Ratings follow a standard approach across New Zealand and Australia. Most products are calculated, but some, like plain water and unsweetened flavoured water, including sparkling, are automatically given high ratings.

“In this case, the rating on our Pam’s sparkling water is out of date following a 2020 update to the rating system. The product hasn’t changed, but the label hasn’t caught up.

“That’s on us, and we’re fixing it, so customers have clear and consistent information.”

But experts say the water situation highlights some of the confusion that still persists about the scheme.

Health Star ratings are set using a standard system that considers the balance of energy, saturated fat, sugar and sodium, offset against protein and fibre. Points are also awarded for fruit, vegetable, nut and legume content.

Consumer NZ senior research writer Belinda Castles said Foodstuffs was quite late in updating its water rating.

But she said, generally, products were displaying the star rating that the calculator suggested they should.

She said the main issue with the scheme was that it was voluntary. “Only 36 percent of the products that it’s intended for have the rating so that’s not particularly helpful.

“Consumers need to be able to look at the food supply as a whole because the consensus is the Health Star rating is useful. We don’t have time to be looking at all the nutrition information panels on the back.”

She said there was concern that some companies were cherry picking their healthier products to have the star.

“They’re going ‘ok we’ve got this five-star product we’ll put the rating on our fours and fives but we’ll leave it off the ones and twos’.”

She said people should also only use it to compare similar products. “The calculator has slightly different calculations depending on what the product is. Like if it it’s a cooking oil, for example versus a dairy product versus a cereal… use it to pick a healthier cereal, don’t use it to pick a cooking oil versus a cereal.”

She said the intended target was for 70 percent of products to have a rating at the end of last year and it was only halfway there.

But Rob Hamlin, from the University of Otago marketing department, said the regime was ineffective when it came to driving consumer choice.

“This disconnect between our legislative powerhouses with regards to nutritional labels and reality has led to some very unfortunate outcomes.

“The Heart Foundation tick is what’s known as a binary cue… It was an image that communicated by being there or not being there… we do know the Heart Foundation tick was effective because it was much more similar to the pictorial nominal cues that the food industry used to effectively communicate with consumers.”

The Heart Foundation tick was discontinued in 2016.

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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/2026/03/23/4-5-or-two-star-water-health-labels-confuse/

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One seriously injured after explosion in steam engine train at Glenbrook Vintage Railway

Source: Radio New Zealand

The incident happened at the Glenbrook Vintage Railway. File photo. Supplied / Glenbrook Vintage Railway

One person has been seriously injured, after an explosion in the engine compartment of a steam train at Glenbrook Vintage Railway.

Fire and Emergency sent four trucks to the vintage railway station between Glenbrook and Waiuku in southern Auckland just before 4pm.

A spokesperson said, when firefighters arrived, the blaze was contained inside the engine compartment of the locomotive.

St John Ambulance took one person to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition.

– more to come

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/one-seriously-injured-after-explosion-in-steam-engine-train-at-glenbrook-vintage-railway/

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Hundreds of Countries, Thousands of Cities, Ten Thousand Events’ Cloud Taiji Global Flash Mob Held at Wudang Mountain in Shiyan, China

Source: Media Outreach

SHIYAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 March 2026 – On March 21, the world’s first “International Taijiquan Day,” jointly organized by the Wushu Sports Administration Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, the Chinese Wushu Association, the Hubei Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the Hubei Provincial Sports Bureau, and the Shiyan Municipal People’s Government, officially opened. As one of China’s four main venues, Shiyan staged a themed performance at Wudang Mountain under the banner “Wudang of the World; Taiji for Humanity,” and simultaneously launched the “Hundreds of Countries, Thousands of Cities, Ten Thousand Events” Cloud Taiji global flash mob, inviting Taijiquan enthusiasts worldwide to perform Taiji together and witness this historic moment.

At 9:00 a.m., nearly a thousand guests, inheritors and Taiji culture enthusiasts from across China and abroad gathered at the foot of Wudang Mountain. Landmark sites around the world—Times Square in New York, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Sydney Opera House, the Egyptian Pyramids, and others—joined via video link to “dance the charm of Taiji” in unison. Taijiquan practitioners of all ages, genders and ethnicities synchronized to lift the creatively conceived global flash mob “Hundreds of Countries, Thousands of Cities, Ten Thousand Events.” Correspondingly, Yuzhen Palace—covering nearly 60,000 square meters—was transformed into a sea of Taiji: 1,000 practitioners dressed in white performed the nine postures of Wudang Taijiquan together, creating an unprecedented global relay of Taiji culture and a crossocean cultural resonance, vividly illustrating the profound meaning of ” civilizations have become richer and more colorful with exchanges and mutual learning.”

That day also saw the global release of the “Meet Wudang; Practice Taiji” Wudang Taiji Nine Postures tutorial video, with live demonstration by Yang Qunli—Chinese wushu 9thgrade, creator of the Wudang Taiji Nine Postures, and representative inheritor of the provincial intangible cultural heritage Wudang martial arts project. The Taiji cultural performances included a grand thousandperson Taiji exhibition, the combined songandmartial performance “Taiji of the World Meets Wudang,” the martialrooted “Quest for Wudang,” a Wudang Taiji costume show and global release of design results, and the strongly traditional “Ode to Wudang Taiji,” together offering the world a splendid Taiji cultural feast.
On November 5, 2025, the UNESCO General Conference designated March 21 as “International Taijiquan Day.” This is the first UNESCO international day named for a martial art, marking Taijiquan—an invaluable part of Chinese traditional culture—as formally recognized global shared cultural heritage.

Wudang Mountain is an important birthplace of Taiji culture. Today, Wudang has established 57 martial arts promotion centers domestically and internationally, attracting over 3 million Taijiquan practitioners from more than 150 countries and regions as “foreign disciples,” and helping promote Taijiquan practice to over 500 million people worldwide. Every year tens of thousands of international visitors come to Wudang to study, practice martial arts and pursue health. Shiyan has successively hosted large events including the International Wudang Taiji Culture Festival, the Wudang Taiji International Fellowship Competition, the World Taijiquan Health Conference, and the World Traditional Wushu Festival.

In recent years, Shiyan has leveraged Wudang Taiji cultural heritage to accelerate breakthroughs in Hubei tourism and Wudang development, extend industrial chains, and vigorously develop industries such as pilgrimage tourism and ecological wellness. The city is building globally influential tourism products and internationally aligned tourism environments, forging “Wudang of the World, Taiji for Humanity” into an important emblem of Chinese traditional culture in external exchanges. At the same time, Shiyan is actively promoting public Taijiquan classes into communities, schools, government agencies and enterprises so that this thousandyearold martial art “enters ordinary households.”

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/2026/03/22/hundreds-of-countries-thousands-of-cities-ten-thousand-events-cloud-taiji-global-flash-mob-held-at-wudang-mountain-in-shiyan-china/

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Toxic algae warnings issued for Hutt and Wairarapa rivers

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Madleine CarrWhite, Massey Journalism Student

File photo. Supplied / Greater Wellington Regional Council

Toxic algae warnings have been issued for Hutt and Wairarapa rivers.

Red alerts are in place for Hutt River at Silverstream, Waipoua River at Colombo Road, and Ruamahanga River at Double Bridges and Te Ore Ore.

Greater Wellington Regional Council advised people not to swim or let their dogs near the water.

The algae is a neurotoxin that acts like snake venom and is extremely harmful to humans and lethal for dogs if ingested.

“Toxic algae lives on the riverbed, where it’s usually out of reach,” Greater Wellington senior advisor integration and insights, Penny Fairbrother said.

“But during a flare-up like this, thanks to warm weather and a lack of rain, the algae lifts off the rocks and accumulates at the river’s edge, where it poses the biggest risk – especially to dogs who seem to love the smell and will try to eat it if given the chance.

“Even a small amount of toxic algae, the size of a 50-cent piece, can be enough to kill a dog.”

People should check the LAWA website for toxic algae warnings and alerts before visiting rivers in the Wellington region.

People who were feeling unwell after being in contact with algae were asked to see a doctor or contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.

Anyone who suspected their dog had swallowed toxic algae should visit the nearest vet immediately.

Greater Wellington was monitoring popular swimming spots weekly. It asked people to check the LAWA website for warnings and alerts before visiting rivers in the Wellington region.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/toxic-algae-warnings-issued-for-hutt-and-wairarapa-rivers/

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Cancer researcher celebrates double milestone at EIT Tairāwhiti graduation

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

50 seconds ago

Jordon Lima (Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, Ngāpuhi) took to the stage twice at EIT Tairāwhiti’s graduation ceremony on Friday – first to address the graduates as guest speaker, then to join her fellow graduates to receive her New Zealand Diploma in Te Reo Māori.

The 28-year-old completed the Level 5 Rumaki (full-immersion) Diploma at EIT while simultaneously finishing a PhD in Biomedical Sciences through Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka (the University of Otago).

Jordon said being asked to speak at the ceremony came as a surprise but was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on her journey.

EIT graduate and guest speaker Jordon Lima with her grandparents Tangi and Pete Kelleher.

In her address, she encouraged graduates to pursue further study no matter what stage of life, drawing on the statistic that the average age for Māori students completing a doctorate is 48.

“At the time I heard that, when I was starting my doctorate, I was not even half of that age! Studying for me was about curiosity and pursuing a passion – something anyone can do at any age.”

Jordon graduated with a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honours at the University of Otago in 2020. Last month, she defended her PhD in Biochemistry and Māori Studies at the Mātai Medical Research Institute in Gisborne.

Her doctoral research examined how circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) – cancer-specific DNA detectable in the blood – could improve cancer screening and outcomes for Tairāwhiti communities.

Using a Kaupapa Māori approach to Biomedical Sciences, the project required close partnership with the communities her research was designed to benefit.

Her research is deeply personal, having lost several whānau members to cancer over the years, including her Aunty Hariata Green, who passed away in 2022 and before then, her Nanny Pōrua and Papa Joseph Green, who were all reo Māori teachers in Gisborne.

Jordon Lima addressed the crowd at EIT Tairāwhiti’s graduation ceremony on Friday.

“Aunty had been complaining of pain for ages before she was even diagnosed, and when she was, it was stage four. That was my turning point to design technologies that are actually going to be used by our people. I wanted to focus on empowerment in healthcare and do something with te reo to whakamana the people that we lost.”

Born in Tairāwhiti and raised in Christchurch, Jordon returned to her birthplace during the latter stages of her PhD to deepen her understanding of the tikanga, reo and kawa of the region.

“It felt wrong to write about it from anywhere else but here.”

Having not grown up with te reo Māori, Jordon turned to Te Whatukura at EIT, where she said the kōkā Barbie and kōkā Ange’s knowledge of her whakapapa made it feel like a place she belonged.

“As soon as I moved home and started learning our histories and mātauranga, I actually felt safe. They knew a lot about my whakapapa that I wanted to know. It was a beautiful space to be in.”

Jordon said studying at EIT alongside her PhD was one of the most rewarding parts of her academic journey. She described the rumaki environment as transformative – learning through stories, waiata and games in a way that reminded her of what it would have been like if she had gone to kōhanga reo.

She submitted her thesis midway through last year, returning for the second half of the programme able to fully immerse herself in her reo studies.

“It was hectic. I would start early in the morning, do work on my PhD, go to class from nine until three, and then stay on campus writing my thesis until I was basically kicked out when the building closed.”

Jordon said the kōkā at Te Whatukura were instrumental in her journey, not only as teachers but as connectors to her whakapapa. Kōkā Barbie, who is connected to Jordon’s whakapapa, gifted her a whakapapa booklet that contributed to an entire rewrite of her doctoral thesis.

The rumaki environment also helped her build confidence in te reo Māori, which she had never had before.

“It was super fulfilling to learn about the tikanga, reo and kawa of Tairāwhiti. When I first moved home, I didn’t understand anything that was being said on the paepae, but towards the end of my reo classes, I realised that I’ve actually learned heaps of reo just from being spoken to all day.”

She said that confidence is now central to her work. “It’s still quite rare to see scientists who can also kōrero Māori. Being able to go into the community and talk about science in reo is something I’m really excited about.”

Since completing her PhD, Jordon has been awarded the 2025 Otago Health Sciences Māori Postdoctoral Fellowship, through which she is establishing a molecular biology laboratory in Tairāwhiti capable of conducting blood-based cancer detection tests.

Jordon will formally graduate with her PhD in May this year. And she hasn’t ruled out one day completing the Bachelor of Arts (Māori) at EIT.

“I don’t know where I would find the time right now. But I’d love to do that one day.”

Tairāwhiti Campus Executive Director Tracey Tangihaere said: “I suggested Jordon as guest speaker due to her academic achievement, but also her desire to succeed in Māori health outcomes while being culturally grounded”.

“Having the life experience and stronger cultural skills, such as te reo, helps in communities like ours. Jordon has significant drive and passion. She’s a wonderful role model for us all.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/cancer-researcher-celebrates-double-milestone-at-eit-tairawhiti-graduation/

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Global flavours on display at EIT Taste of Cultures Day

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

2 days ago

Taste of Cultures Day brought students and staff together at the EIT Hawke’s Bay Campus this week, as food and performances highlighted the diversity of the community.

Ten cuisines were on offer, from French and Nepalese to Māori, Pacifica and Sri Lankan.

Students, staff and whānau attended a Taste of Cultures Day at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale on Wednesday.

Flags from around the world lined the campus, while cultural performances added to the atmosphere.

International Student Support Officer Song Sim said the event was a valuable way to bring people together.

“It is a really good opportunity to learn about the diversity of many cultures on campus. The best way of doing this is through food and performances.”

EIT Student Support Services Manager Sonya Aifai said the event also fostered a strong sense of connection.

“The Taste of Cultures Day is an event that brings everyone together on the Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale in a fun way to experience the different cultures that make up EIT,” she said.

Joy Capila with Jeremy Nacar and Anne Margarette Zausa Nacar.

“It has an amazing atmosphere, sharing food, dance and collegiality.”

Among those taking part was Master of Nursing Science student Anne Margarette Zausa Nacar, who moved to New Zealand from the Philippines in July last year with her husband Jeremy.

Anne said it was her first time participating in the event and described the experience as rewarding.

“It’s a good opportunity and experience. I’m really happy that we get to share our delicacies with different cultures. It’s lovely seeing people enjoying the food.”

Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine student Khageswori Budapal also took part for the first time, serving momos inspired by her Nepalese background.

Te Ūranga Waka performed kapa haka at EIT’s Taste of Cultures Day.

Having started at EIT in 2023, Khageswori said she wanted to make the most of her final year.

“This is my last year, and I want to participate in every event so I can make memories.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/global-flavours-on-display-at-eit-taste-of-cultures-day/

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Keep yourself, family, and friends safe from life-threatening listeriosis

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is sharing some simple guidance to prevent people getting a rare but life-threatening foodborne illness.

“Although listeriosis is rare in New Zealand, vulnerable people die of this preventable disease every year, so we want to share some practical steps people can take at home to avoid getting sick,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle.

Listeriosis is caused by eating or drinking food that has high levels of Listeria, a bacterium that is widespread in the environment. Listeria is invisible, has no odour and, unlike most bacteria, can continue to grow when food is refrigerated.

“The most recent Annual report concerning Foodborne Diseases in New Zealand shows that there was a single death from listeria in 2024, down from 6 in 2022 and 7 in 2023.

Annual report concerning Foodborne Diseases in New Zealand [PDF, 2.6 MB]

“But even one death is one too many, so that’s why we are continuing our efforts to get those most at risk – pregnant women and older people – to better understand the dangers of listeriosis and what to do to decrease them.”

Infections in healthy adults are unlikely to be severe, but listeriosis during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, premature labour, stillbirth, or disease in the newborn baby.

As you age – and particularly over 65 – your immune system gets weaker. This means foods you safely ate in the past may no longer be safe for you to eat.

“Some people may not be aware of this. So, we’re highlighting higher-risk foods while sharing some food-safety advice on how to make them safe to eat,” says Mr Arbuckle.

Higher-risk foods include:

  • ready-to-eat meat products (like deli meats and pâtés) 
  • smoked seafood (especially cold smoked fish)
  • soft cheeses (like brie, camembert, and paneer)
  • unpasteurised dairy products (like raw milk and cheese)
  • leafy greens and bagged salad (like mesclun and spinach).

For a fuller list see our webpage:

Listeria infection: symptoms and advice

To lower the risk of getting listeriosis, you can:

  • choose safer foods
  • heat food to piping hot (over 75°C) before eating
  • when eating raw fruit and vegetables, wash and dry thoroughly first
  • only eat food that was recently prepared
  • refrigerate leftovers quickly and avoid eating leftovers that won’t be reheated
  • wash and dry your hands thoroughly and follow good food hygiene practices.

“New Zealand Food Safety requires food businesses to manage Listeria in the processing environment and to have strict measures in place to eliminate its presence in products,” says Mr Arbuckle.

“If something goes wrong, we support food businesses with their consumer-level food recalls. In 2024, there were 4 consumer recalls due to the possible presence of Listeria.

“But there’s also something you can do to protect yourself and others. If you make or buy food for vulnerable people, or are vulnerable yourself, please sign up to our food recall alerts.

“Also look out for our current awareness campaign so you can share it with people who may not know the life-threatening risks. Let’s work together to not lose another person to listeriosis.”

Find out more

Food and pregnancy

Food safety advice for over-65s

Food safety advice for people with low immunity

Food safety in the home [PDF, 1.1 MB]

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/keep-yourself-family-and-friends-safe-from-life-threatening-listeriosis/

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Shellfish biotoxin warning for Canterbury

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is advising the public not to collect or consume shellfish gathered from the northern side of Banks Peninsula due to the risk of paralytic shellfish toxins causing illness, says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director general Vincent Arbuckle.  

The warning extends from New Brighton to the northern side of Hickory Bay. As the weather changes, this bloom could spread wider.  

“Do not gather and eat shellfish from this area because anyone doing so could get sick. Affected shellfish include bivalve shellfish such as mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles and scallops, as well as pūpū (cat’s eyes) and Cook’s turban.  

“It’s important to know that cooking the shellfish does not remove the toxin, so shellfish from this area should not be eaten.”  

 A visible bloom at the head of Port Levy has extremely high numbers of paralytic shellfish toxin producing algae.  

“We are monitoring this algal bloom in Port Levy and the wider area. This algae, called Alexandrium pacificum, produces a dangerous toxin and when shellfish filter-feed, these toxins can accumulate in their gut and flesh. Generally, the more algae there are in the water, the more toxic the shellfish get.”  

Symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning usually appear within 10 minutes to 3 hours of eating and may include:  

  • numbness and a tingling (prickly feeling) around the mouth, face, hands, and feet  
  • difficulty swallowing or breathing  
  • dizziness and headache  
  • nausea and vomiting  
  • diarrhoea  
  • paralysis and respiratory failure and, in severe cases, death.

Shellfish biotoxin alerts

“Pāua, crab and crayfish may still be eaten if the gut has been completely removed prior to cooking, as toxins accumulate in the gut. If the gut is not removed, its contents could contaminate the meat during the cooking process.   

“Finfish are not affected by this public health warning, but we advise gutting the fish and discarding the liver before cooking,” says Mr Arbuckle. 

New Zealand Food Safety has had no notifications of associated illness.  

Anyone who becomes ill after eating shellfish from an area where a public health warning has been issued should phone Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention immediately. Please also contact your nearest public health unit and keep any leftover shellfish in case it can be tested.  

“New Zealand Food Safety is monitoring shellfish in the region and will notify the public of any changes to the situation,” says Mr Arbuckle.   

Commercially harvested shellfish – sold in shops and supermarkets or exported – is subject to strict water and flesh monitoring programmes by New Zealand Food Safety to ensure they are safe to eat.

Find out more  

Shellfish biotoxin alert webpage

Subscribe to shellfish biotoxins to receive email alerts

See signage in the affected area  

Podcast about shellfish contamination

Collecting Shellfish and Keeping Them Safe [PDF, 3.2 MB]

Causes and symptoms of toxic shellfish poisoning

About toxic algal blooms

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/shellfish-biotoxin-warning-for-canterbury/

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Emborg Emmentaler cheese recalled due to possible presence of Listeria

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Goodfood Group Limited in its recall of a specific batch of Emborg Emmentaler cheese (200g) due to the possible presence of Listeria. 

“The concern with this product is that it may contain Listeria, a foodborne bacterium that could make you sick,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle. 

“These products should not be eaten. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund. If that’s not possible, throw it out.”

Emborg Emmentaler 200g with a best before 05.11.26 is affected by this recall. 

The affected product was imported from Germany and sold at supermarkets nationwide.  

Visit New Zealand Food Safety’s recall page for up-to-date information and photographs of the affected product. 

Emborg Emmentaler Cheese

“Listeriosis infection can be serious among vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women and their unborn babies, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems,” says Mr Arbuckle. 

“Listeria differs to other harmful bacteria in that it can grow at refrigerator temperatures, so you have to be very careful about the foods you eat, or provide to others, if you or they are in a vulnerable group.  

“It is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because it can cause miscarriage, premature labour or stillbirth, and infection in the new-born baby.”

Listeriosis infection in healthy adults is unlikely to be severe, at most causing mild diarrhoea and flu-like symptoms within a few days of eating contaminated food. For those in the vulnerable groups, it usually takes 2 to 3 weeks – or even longer – before symptoms appear. 

If you have consumed any of this product and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice. 

New Zealand Food Safety has not received any notifications of associated illness.   

The products have been removed from store shelves and have not been re-exported. 

The products under recall were identified through routine testing, and New Zealand Food Safety has not received any reports of associated illness.  

“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Goodfood Group Limited to understand how the contamination occurred and prevent its recurrence,” says Mr Arbuckle. 

The vast majority of food sold in New Zealand is safe, but sometimes problems can occur.  Help keep yourself and your family safe by subscribing to our recall alerts. Information on how to subscribe is on the New Zealand Food Safety food recall page.   

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/emborg-emmentaler-cheese-recalled-due-to-possible-presence-of-listeria/

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‘Huge explosion’: Firefighters respond to house fire in Christchurch’s Aranui

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ/Marika Khabazi

Two people have been seriously injured in a house fire in Christchurch.

Firefighters were called to a fire in the Christchurch suburb of Aranui on Friday evening.

Fire and Emergency said the house on Bournemouth Crescent was well ablaze when crews arrived.

It said the fire had since been extinguished and all people were accounted for.

Nearby residents posted on social media that they had heard a “huge explosion” and others reported their house shaking as a result.

Bournemouth Street resident, Scott, said he was listening to loud music at home when he felt that his house shook.

He went outside to have a look at what happened, only to discover that a nearby house was on fire.

“There was actually a guy screaming, because he was actually on fire, and he ran out of the house from what I saw, and someone aimed him with a fire extinguisher,

“And you could see the flames from one of the down stair windows as I was walking towards it, starting to leap around inside the house, and from there the fire pretty much took off and crept out a window.

“Thankfully by then there was about half the street out, going what the hell is going on, and they were calling fire brigade and the cops.”

Scott said the house on fire was one of two, two-storey units that are linked.

He said he heard there was a family living in the linked unit, who managed to get out safely.

St John ambulance said two patients in a serious condition were transported to Christchurch Hospital.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/huge-explosion-firefighters-respond-to-house-fire-in-christchurchs-aranui/

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‘Huge explosion’: Firefighers respond to house fire in Christchurch’s Aranui

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ/Marika Khabazi

Two people have been seriously injured in a house fire in Christchurch.

Firefighters were called to a fire in the Christchurch suburb of Aranui on Friday evening.

Fire and Emergency said the house on Bournemouth Crescent was well ablaze when crews arrived.

It said the fire had since been extinguished and all people were accounted for.

Nearby residents posted on social media that they had heard a “huge explosion” and others reported their house shaking as a result.

St John ambulance said two patients in a serious condition were transported to Christchurch Hospital.

More to come…

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/huge-explosion-firefighers-respond-to-house-fire-in-christchurchs-aranui/

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Wealth for Good in Hong Kong Summit to be held next Tuesday to chart new milestone in global family office succession

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2026 – The Government announced that the Wealth for Good in Hong Kong (WGHK) Summit will return next Tuesday (March 24). Under the theme “Building Lasting Legacies”, this year’s summit in its fourth edition highlights the wave brought by continuous growth of family office assets and generational wealth transition in recent years. In addition to serving as an exchange platform for overseas, Mainland and local family office decision-makers and successors, the WGHK Summit is also an occasion for them to experience firsthand how Hong Kong leverages its solid financial foundation to facilitate wealth succession and value appreciation.

Co-organised by the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau and Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the WGHK Summit will once again convene influential family office decision-makers and successors from around the world in Hong Kong. Participants from Asia, Europe, the Americas, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa will join attendees from the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong in insightful sharing. This year’s summit is going to showcase Hong Kong’s profound strengths and development potential through three core themes: “Strategic Asset Management for Family Legacy”, “Cultural Value Foundation for a Thriving Market”, and “Smart Tech Innovation Driving Capital Appreciation”. A number of heavyweight speakers will inspire the participants with their visionary thinking on the future of the family office ecosystem.

Nowadays, quite a number of family offices are deepening their philanthropic endeavours. Taking advantage of Hong Kong’s diverse and vibrant philanthropic ecosystem, a special fireside chat on “Sports and Philanthropy” is set for the summit to explore how sports and philanthropy can work together to create positive value for society.

The Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Christopher Hui, said, “The global landscape is evolving fast these days with geopolitics getting more complex. There has never been a better time for hosting the WGHK Summit than now to give family offices looking for diversified allocation and risk dispersion an occasion to connect with each other and explore opportunities. Hong Kong offers a highly favourable development environment with numerous potential and predictability for family offices, underpinned by our diversified international financial markets coupled with resilience, robust and transparent legal and tax systems, world-class financial and professional services, and well-developed ecosystems for philanthropy, arts, and innovation. The WGHK Summit is a flagship event hosted by our Government to showcase to the global wealth owners the unique advantages of this city. We will continue to consolidate Hong Kong’s leading position as a family wealth hub in the Asia-Pacific region, and adopt a multipronged approach to keep fostering the development of the family office sector through measures in areas such as tax concessions, talent attraction, investment facilitation and building of an ecosystem. All these will make Hong Kong even more attractive in all aspects to global family capital, positioning this city as the most preferred platform for ultra-high-net-worth families worldwide to manage their cross-border wealth.”

The Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, Ms Alpha Lau, noted, “According to the latest market study, the number of single-family offices in Hong Kong surpassed 3 380 by the end of 2025, reflecting a growth of over 25 per cent in two years – a testament to Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a global family office hub. The WGHK Summit serves as a pivotal platform for Hong Kong to deepen connections with the global family office community and foster cross-border collaboration. Against the backdrop of increasing trend of reallocation of global capital toward Asia, alongside rising trade protectionism and geopolitical uncertainty, Hong Kong will continue to leverage its unique advantage of enjoying strong support from the motherland and being closely connected to the world. We will provide global families with a predictable, one-stop environment for establishing a presence and operating in Hong Kong, helping them capture growth opportunities on the Chinese Mainland and in Asia, and steadily advancing long-term investment and multi-generational succession through diversified asset allocation and professional risk management.”

The WGHK Summit will feature a distinguished line-up of guest speakers:

  • Dr Han Bicheng – Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), BrainCo
  • Mr Maximilian Kaufmann – Representative of Major Shareholder of Leica Camera AG
  • Mr William Heinecke – Founder and Chairman, Minor International PCL
  • Mr François Pictet – Managing Partner, Pictet Group
  • Mr Yao Ming – Founder of Yao Foundation; Former Chairman of Chinese Basketball Association; NBA All-Star
  • Mr Qiu Heng – Chief Marketing Officer, AgiBot
  • Ms Irene Lee – Chairman, Hysan Development Company Limited
  • Dr Ren Feng – Co-CEO and Chief Scientific Officer, Insilico Medicine
  • Mr Wesley Ng – CEO and Co-founder, CASETiFY
  • Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges – CEO, The Hong Kong Jockey Club; and
  • Mr Michael Wilding – Group Chief Operating Officer, ZURU Group

Beyond the WGHK Summit, the Milken Institute and Bloomberg LP (Bloomberg) will also host the Global Investors’ Symposium (March 23) and the Family Office Forum (March 25) respectively in the same week, focusing on wealth management and global investment trends. The synergy generated by these three major forums will showcase Hong Kong’s unique charm in the family office landscape to the fullest to international capital, allowing participants to interact, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities together in Hong Kong.

Hashtag: #WGHK

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/2026/03/21/wealth-for-good-in-hong-kong-summit-to-be-held-next-tuesday-to-chart-new-milestone-in-global-family-office-succession/

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CGTN: Tackling the TB epidemic: From local innovation to global cooperation

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2026 – China’s multifaceted strategy to end the tuberculosis epidemic—ranging from high-tech local innovations to global humanitarian missions—is providing a new blueprint for international public health. CGTN published an article analyzing how this integrated prevention model, highlighted by Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping and also the WHO goodwill ambassador for tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS, leverages AI-driven screening in provinces like Jiangsu and the expertise of Chinese medical teams abroad to transform the vision of a TB-free world into a tangible reality.

In a written statement to a virtual event commemorating the World Health Organization (WHO) World Tuberculosis Day 2026 on Wednesday, Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping and also the WHO goodwill ambassador for tuberculosis (TB) and HIV/AIDS, called for international support and participation in global TB prevention and treatment.

Peng said that the event’s theme, “Led by countries, powered by people,” is of great significance for facilitating joint international action against TB as a public health challenge.

Peng noted that with a firm commitment to protecting people’s health and the goal of ending the TB epidemic, the WHO has done a great deal of effective work and reversed the recent upward trend in global cases. She highlighted that China’s progress is rooted in a multi-sectoral approach, leveraging technological innovation and a comprehensive healthcare network serving over 1.4 billion people.

This year also marks the 15th year of China’s large-scale volunteer campaign for TB prevention and control, involving over 1 million volunteers who have carried out over 80,000 programs.

“I have been joining many of them on visits to local neighborhoods, schools and healthcare facilities,” Peng said, adding that she is a “proud witness” to their compassion and the progress made in China’s fight against TB. She called on people from all walks of life to share warmth and care to “build a community of health for all.”

A proven model for incidence decline

China’s progress is exemplified by the practical efforts in Jiangsu Province, where the reported TB incidence rate fell to 21.17 per 100,000 in 2025. A key factor in this progress is a smart screening system that brings advanced technology to the grassroots level.

“In the past, we had to review every single record manually. Now, AI-assisted screening has drastically improved our diagnostic efficiency,” Wang Yangzhu, deputy chief physician of radiology at a community health center in Nanjing’s Jiangning District, told China Media Group (CMG).

Beyond AI-assisted diagnostics, which now cover over 100 medical institutions in the province, Jiangsu has pioneered a new short-course treatment that slashes the recovery period for drug-resistant TB from 18 months to just six. Complementing this technology is a robust policy safety net: the government provides free drug-resistance screening for all suspected cases and free second-line medications for those in need, ensuring patients can afford the care they require.

This localized practice is a reflection of a broader national achievement. Since 2012, both the incidence and mortality rates of TB in China have dropped by approximately 30%, a decline rate nearly double the global average, according to the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration. With a treatment rate consistently above 90%, China has transitioned into the ranks of countries with moderate-to-low TB prevalence while continuing to refine its integrated prevention and control system.

Global responsibility and humanitarian action

China’s expertise is also being shared through its commitment to international medical aid. Recently, the 23rd Chinese medical team in Zimbabwe successfully treated a 22-year-old patient suffering from TB with pleural effusion. By combining standard protocols with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to alleviate side effects and boost immunity, the team provided a practical model for TB control in resource-limited settings.

This assistance is part of a long-standing commitment to international humanitarian aid. In 2025, the Chinese government dispatched 1,061 medical personnel to 57 countries, serving over 2.06 million patients, according to China’s National Health Commission.

Since 1963, China has sent a total of 31,000 medical team members to 77 countries and regions, treating an estimated 300 million people. These teams have also helped strengthen local medical capacity, including performing first-of-their-kind laparoscopic procedures in countries such as Equatorial Guinea and Djibouti, enabling access to modern minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Extending their reach beyond hospital walls, Chinese medical teams frequently travel to remote, resource-scarce regions to provide essential care. In Simandou, the team provided health check-ups, hygiene training and medical lectures to thousands of Chinese and Guinean employees. They also visited a local orphanage, performing physical exams for over 70 children and donating essential school supplies.

“We go deep into remote areas, bringing much-needed health knowledge and infectious disease prevention methods to help establish a long-term barrier against illness,” Wang Bin, captain of the 31st Chinese medical team to Guinea, told CMG.

By integrating innovative technology with grassroots volunteerism and international aid, China continues to work alongside the global community to transform the goal of a TB-free world into a tangible reality.

For more information, please click here:
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-19/Tackling-the-TB-epidemic-From-local-innovation-to-global-cooperation-1LDNzGeLwdO/p.html

Hashtag: #CGTN

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/2026/03/20/cgtn-tackling-the-tb-epidemic-from-local-innovation-to-global-cooperation/

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Tourism Authority of Thailand invites global travellers to rediscover balance through “Healing Journey Thailand” campaign.

Source: Media Outreach

Campaign highlights wellness, culture and meaningful travel across the Kingdom featuring international creators including British singer-songwriter Henry Moodie.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) invites travellers worldwide to rediscover balance through the global Healing Journey Thailand campaign, guided by the communication concept Healing is the New Luxury. Launched in January 2026, the campaign reflects Thailand’s tourism strategy focused on high-value, wellness-led, purpose-driven travel, positioning the Kingdom as a destination where travellers reconnect with themselves through cultural encounters and restorative journeys.

Henry Moodie plays a central role, with his storytelling shaping the campaign narrative. His journey, featured in the campaign film premiered at The Cinema at Selfridges London, follows travels through Krabi and Trang, from Ko Muk and Ko Kradan to the Na Muen Sri community, highlighting Thailand’s living culture and spirit.

The campaign presents creator-led experiences in the Kingdom, reflecting a global shift in luxury from material to meaningful engagement.

In southern Thailand, Swedish creators Malin & Jules (@Malinandjules) explored “hidden luxury” in Chumphon and Ranong through slow living, coffee culture, island life on Ko Phayam, hot springs and a garden lunch.

In northern Thailand, Casey Pickup (@howtotravelfulltime) and Kseniia Kalenyk (@kseniia.journey) explored Chiang Mai‘s heritage through Lanna arts and craft workshops, including Nuat Fon, Lanna massage inspired by Fon Leb dance, Yam Khang massage, concluding with a Ping River dinner cruise and sound healing meditation.

In the historic Sukhothai, Aytan Abbasli (@aytanabbasil) and Mia Emilie Persson (@miaemiliepersson) explored UNESCO-listed sites, Sukhothai silver craftsmanship, Tin Chok textiles and community life at Baan Na Ton Chan, concluding with merit-making at Wat Traphang Thong.

Nature and adventure shaped the Khao Yai journey of Naziha Banu Fathima (@the_fatimablejournal) and Khaled Mohamed Abdulla Hamad Aljneibi (@alsinaani_khalid000), combining sustainability with outdoor activities including park trekking, forest glamping and dialogue at Khao Yai Art Forest.

In Phang-Nga, Patrick James Mitchell and Meghan Celina McPhee (@megsandpat) experienced harmony with nature at Samed Nangshe Viewpoint, Surin Islands diving, bamboo rafting, and in Khao Lak with a fire show and sound healing by the Andaman Sea.

Together, these journeys reflect Thailand’s identity, where travel is shaped by quality and sustainability. Guided by Healing is the New Luxury, the campaign advances TAT’s Value over Volume strategy, encouraging travellers to engage with landscapes, culture and communities, fostering support for sustainable tourism growth.

Hashtag: #Healingjouneythailand #Healingisthenewluxury #Amazingthailand

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/2026/03/20/tourism-authority-of-thailand-invites-global-travellers-to-rediscover-balance-through-healing-journey-thailand-campaign/