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Taupō school fire: Students to keep studying from home next week

Source: Radio New Zealand

The school block destroyed in a suspected arson is being demolished. Taupō-nui-a-Tia College

Students from a Taupō secondary school that lost a classroom block in a suspected arson will continue learning from home next week.

Roads around Taupō-nui-a-Tia College, on Spa Road, were closed for about four hours on Sunday while firefighters battled the blaze.

Since Monday the school’s 1200 students have been doing lessons online at home.

Principal Ben Claxton said demolition of the destroyed block began on Tuesday and was continuing – meaning students couldn’t yet return.

“The demolition was expected to take a while and for all sorts of health and safety reasons we’ve asked our students to remain home for the remainder of this week and next week, at this point.

“We’re going to review it on Wednesday.”

Principal Ben Claxton says students will continue to learn online into next week. RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham

The destroyed classroom block had 11 teaching spaces, as well as housing the school’s health and counselling services.

Police have charged two youths with arson and they were due to appear in the Taupō Youth Court this week.

Claxton said he expected online learning to ramp up next week, and the school would communicate its expectations about that.

“Learning from home is a good option to have, but nothing beats face to face, so we are literally today starting to look at what we can do for the rest of the year.”

Some students and staff members were affected by what had happened and on Wednesday staff came together to share stories and plan for the future.

Although, Claxton said this week had been negotiated step by step, especially when the school was still in crisis mode.

Firefighters could be seen on the roof at Taupō-nui-a-Tia College during the fire. LES WILLS / SUPPLIED

In the short term some classes could be held in a nearby tertiary institution, which had volunteered its space. Claxton said that was getting finalised.

“The medium to long term is we’re hopeful of getting some form of relocatable-classroom situation onsite, to the number that we need.

“That’s all happening in the background with the ministry at the moment.”

Claxton said rebuilding projects could take time to plan and then begin.

A Ministry of Education spokesperson said it was exploring a range of temporary classroom options.

“The school continues to deliver online learning while the site is cleared and the best approach is determined.

“We understand the significant impact the fire has had on staff, students, and the wider community, and we are working with urgency to make sure any disruption to teaching and learning is minimised.”

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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/taupo-school-fire-students-to-keep-studying-from-home-next-week/

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EMA backs broad direction of new Health and Safety Bill – but warns key gaps must be fixed

Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the government’s new Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill takes a constructive step towards a modern, risk-based system – but warns several significant issues must be addressed through the submission and select committee process.
EMA Manager of Employment Relations and Safety Paul Jarvie says a risk-focused framework is the right direction. However, there are flaws and inconsistencies that could undermine its intent.
“A modern, risk-based approach is different to what we currently have, but the current approach isn’t working. So it’s worth trying this – a framework successfully used in other jurisdictions around the world.
“We do have concerns about the proposed exemptions for smaller businesses (fewer than 20 employees), as size has no bearing on risk, and some of the proposed exemptions could create new problems rather than solving old ones.”
The proposed bill limits these businesses’ requirements to identify and manage critical risks. Businesses with more than 20 workers, however, would continue to be responsible for managing all risks, not just critical ones.
However, the greatest cause of workplace injuries across all sectors is strains, sprains, and back injuries. These would not meet the critical-risk criteria and therefore would not be required to be identified or managed.
Jarvie says this creates a problematic disconnect.
“It’s vital that businesses collect all this data – for example, incident and near-miss reports – to understand what is potentially going to happen next. Low-level injuries can often help identify a more significant issue. Workplace violence, fatigue, and stress are other examples of issues employers need to identify and manage but which would not meet the critical-risk criteria,” he says.
“Creating a distinction between a small business and a large business doesn’t make any sense when both could have the same risks and injury profiles.”
Another challenge is allowing other legislation to override health and safety requirements if those duties are already covered elsewhere.
Jarvie says this creates uncertainty and could lead to unintended consequences.
“We already see conflicting requirements between agencies – for example, between land transport rules and health and safety guidance. Without clearer definitions, the bill risks widening those gaps.”
The EMA strongly supports the bill’s proposed industry-led Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs) and its clearer distinction between governance and operational duties.
However, Jarvie says the absence of draft regulations could add confusion.
“We urgently need regulations to support the current Health and Safety at Work Act. It’s critical that we see them and that they align with and direct the bill’s intent.”
Jarvie says the success of the reforms will rely on a well-resourced, modern regulator that works collaboratively with business, similar to the Swedish system.
“Employers need confidence that they’ll receive consistent, practical advice. Without that, the risk-based model won’t deliver the improvements we all want.”
“Overall, we support the Bill’s intent,” Jarvie says. “But several significant issues need to be addressed to avoid unintended consequences. If we get this right, it will help New Zealand finally shift its stubborn health and safety performance.”
The EMA will continue reviewing the legislation in detail and will provide further guidance to its members in the coming weeks.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/ema-backs-broad-direction-of-new-health-and-safety-bill-but-warns-key-gaps-must-be-fixed/

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Privatisation – Te Whatu Ora’s embarrassing U-turn over proposed car park plan – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Te Whatu Ora needs to go back to the drawing board and prioritise worker safety after reversing plans to charge hospital workers market rates for car parks, NZNO says.
Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO delegate and Christchurch health care assistant Al Dietschin says NZNO members were angered they weren’t consulted on the draft policy.
“Last year there were several shocking attacks on hospital health workers forced to walk to their cars because they can’t park at or near their workplaces. This includes a Palmerston North nurse being carjacked and a Christchurch nurse being left with a concussion.
“Our members provided robust feedback that charging health workers market rates for car parks was not the answer and would leave those unable to pay up to $100 a week even less safe.
“This is an embarrassing U-turn for Te Whatu Ora, but it is heartening they have listened to our members. Te Whatu Ora now has a chance to get this right and consult on and draft a policy that makes car parking for health workers safe, reliable and affordable,” Al Dietschin says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/privatisation-te-whatu-oras-embarrassing-u-turn-over-proposed-car-park-plan-nzno/

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Banking Ombudsman puts property partnerships under the spotlight this Valentine’s Day

Source: Banking Ombudsman Scheme

12 February 2026 – Partnering with friends or family members can be a great way to get on the property ladder, but it can come with risks, warns the Banking Ombudsman.
Nicola Sladden said a recent dispute investigated by the scheme was a timely reminder for people buying property with others to have a firm understanding of their rights in a partnership.
“Shared financial arrangements can work well when everyone is in agreement about goals and timeframes. But problems can arise when circumstances unexpectedly change,” said Ms Sladden.
“When relationships end, joint accounts, loans and partnerships can become tricky. It’s crucial to understand how your accounts are set up, and what your rights and obligations are. This knowledge can prevent a difficult situation from becoming even more stressful.”
In 2008, Sonia helped her son Nicholas and his wife Laura buy a home. The three formed a partnership to buy the property and jointly borrowed $320,000 from the bank.
When Nicholas and Laura separated in 2023, Sonia and Laura wanted to sell the property, but Nicholas told the bank they were in disagreement about what to do. The bank then refused to act on any instructions from the borrowers until the dispute was resolved. It also refused Sonia’s offer to repay the loan in full so the mortgage could be discharged.
The Banking Ombudsman scheme considered the bank had acted wrongly in refusing to discharge the mortgage. The loan terms allowed any of the three borrowers to repay the loan. Under section 97 of the Property Law Act 2007, a mortgagor has the right to repay a mortgage in full and “redeem” the property. The disagreement between the borrowers did not affect the partnership’s ability to give instructions to the bank because Sonia was able to pass resolutions without the others’ agreement and therefore instruct the bank on the partnership’s behalf.
The bank offered Sonia $10,000 to resolve her complaint, an offer she accepted.
Ms Sladden said the scheme’s guide on relationship breakdowns and banking recommends banking customers:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/banking-ombudsman-puts-property-partnerships-under-the-spotlight-this-valentines-day/

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Privatisation – Govt plan to privatise hospital parking needs to be scrapped entirely – PSA

Source: PSA

The PSA welcomes Te Whatu Ora Health NZ abandoning its plan to privatise parking services across all hospitals for now, but must rule out ever returning to the flawed plan in the future.
“This was a mean-spirited plan, putting profits over patients and health workers and the blame sits squarely on the shoulders of Health Minister Simeon Brown,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The Government needs to properly fund our public health system, instead Health NZ is being forced to find scarce revenue everywhere. This is not how a public health system that puts the needs of patients and health workers first should operate.
“We are pleased Health NZ has seen sense and acknowledged the financial impact this poorly thought through proposal would have had on patients and health workers when household budgets are already under pressure.
“We call on Health NZ to firmly state that privatising parking services is off the agenda permanently.”
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/privatisation-govt-plan-to-privatise-hospital-parking-needs-to-be-scrapped-entirely-psa/

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Baby killed in Wairoa school bus crash

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson

A baby was the person killed in a devastating crash involving a car and school bus in the Hawke’s Bay township of Wairoa.

The collision happened at about 3pm on State Highway 2 on Tuesday, at the intersection of Black Street and Archilles Street.

A person in the car, which RNZ sources have confirmed was a baby, died and two others in it were left fighting for their lives.

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said he had heard that a baby had died in the “horrendous crash” and that the close-knit community was completely devastated.

“It has just causes absolute devastation, and Wairoa is a small town, everyone knows everybody.

“The whole town is in shock to be quite honest, we are just here in whatever way or form to look after these families who are really going through a hard time, and that’s even the bus driver as well.

“These families will probably never get over this.”

Little said he had spoken to family, locals and emergency services.

“Everybody is struggling with this one, they are all well known families, good families.”

Little said no one really knows how the crash happened and that it was a very odd accident.

Only minor injuries were reported from the driver and two passengers on the school bus.

The Ministry of Education said it had engaged a traumatic incident team to work with the school that had its students on the bus.

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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/baby-killed-in-wairoa-school-bus-crash/

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How accessible are nangs? An RNZ investigation found out

Source: Radio New Zealand

AFP/ GARO

A Checkpoint investigation has revealed how easy it is to get potentially dangerous nitrous oxide or nangs in large quantities from dairies, vape stores and convenience stores.

The gas has legitimate medical uses and is also used in catering to whip cream, however it is illegal to supply, possess or use the gas recreationally.

Checkpoint visited 16 stores across three areas in Auckland and found at least half were willing to sell canisters of the gas in a range of sizes with virtually no checks.

One vape store sold 1.1L and 3.3L canisters of the gas, for $50 and $150 respectively. It also offered a “combo” price of $170 for the pair.

At another dairy visited by Checkpoint, the shop keeper had a range of products available to buy – from packs of the small, silver tubes of nitrous oxide to the larger, thermos-sized 1.1L canister. The shop-keeper also said the 1.1L was the most popular size.

Several dairies offered packs of the silver tubes, with prices ranging from $10 for the 10-pack to about $60 for a 50-pack.

The gas was also available to purchase on its own, without cream dispensers. Only one dairy clarified verbally that the canisters were only to be “used for baking”.

Nitrous oxide products available to purchase one of the stores visited by Checkpoint in Auckland. RNZ / Teuila Fuatai

Doctors and community leaders have been particularly concerned about the availability of the thermos-sized 1.1L and 3.3L canisters.

Dr Nicholas Jones is the medical officer of health in Hawke’s Bay, where two cases of nerve damage have recently been linked to huffing of nitrous oxide.

At a recent community meeting on the issue, he said people were alarmed to hear that recycling services in the region were collecting around 300kg of empty canisters a fortnight.

That does suggest “there’s quite a significant amount of this being used”, he said.

Large canisters of nitrous oxide can be easily purchased. Supplied

While nitrous oxide has traditionally been viewed at the lower end of the harm-spectrum for psychoactive substances, Jones highlighted the potential risks around large amounts of the gas being accessible and available.

“What seems to have changed recently is the availability of these large canisters, you know, up to 3.3L of gas, whereas in the past people may have used the small silver canisters about, I think it’s about 8 grams or something, a relatively low amount.”

“You’re able to then actually access 3.3L, you could be using it for a prolonged period of time over a long period of time.”

That increased risks significantly, he said.

Dr Nicholas Jones. RNZ / Anusha Bradley

“Although it’s not known for being a drug that causes, you know, psychological dependence, obviously the longer you use it and the more you use it, the higher the risk of, you know, becoming dependent on it.

“With chronic use you can start developing nerve damage associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.”

He suspected this could become more common, especially as people may not understand the risks of nitrous oxide-use.

“One of the problems is that people may be ringing up with concerns, health concerns, but not necessarily identifying the fact that they’re associated with, you know, the use of nitrous oxide.”

Checkpoint also spoke to a woman whose adult child became a heavy user of nitrous oxide last year.

The woman asked to remain anonymous but wanted to share her family’s experience in the hope more could be done to prevent abuse of the substance.

She said her daughter became hooked the gas and was using the large, thermos-sized canisters.

It caused physical problems for her daughter like anaemia, numbness in the her fingers and toes, and issues with bumping into things, she said.

Her daughter also ended up in hospital because of nerve damage, and the addiction had severe mental health impacts and led to self-harm.

The woman said the family found the gas was being purchased from a vape store.

When they went in to see what checks were in place, they found customers were asked to write down their name and the intended use for their purchase on a piece of paper.

She said people had written down names like “John Smith” and that they wanted the gas for a “21st birthday cake”

The woman said police investigated the store, which was eventually closed down. However, she remained concerned about the availability of the gas, and pointed out the closed-vape shop was simply one outlet selling nitrous-oxide products.

She also said her daughter had recovered after quitting “cold turkey” and getting help. The family now want the government to be more proactive and shut down illegal sales.

For anyone affected by issues discussed in this story, free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor. Or call 0800 Lifeline or text HELP to 4357.

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/2026/02/12/how-accessible-are-nangs-an-rnz-investigation-found-out/

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The Decade That Matters: New Research Shows Which Decade Men Must Prioritise Heart Health (it’s their 30s!)

Source: Exercise NZ

“We now know the decade when men should and need to start prioritising heart health as preventative measures, and that decade is their 30s… The actions men take, or don’t take, during this period can determine their cardiovascular health for the rest of their lives.”

“The good news is that even if you missed your 30s, starting now still delivers powerful benefits, right up till your 80s”

“Exercise isn’t just about fitness or appearance, it’s one of the most powerful forms of preventative medicine available… The earlier men prioritise movement, the greater the protective effect. The message is simple: don’t wait for symptoms. Prevention starts now.”

New international research has identified a clear turning point in men’s heart health, and it’s earlier than most expect.

A long-term study from Northwestern University has found that men’s risk of heart disease begins accelerating significantly from around age 35, establishing the mid-30s as a critical decade for prevention.

“We now know the decade when men should and need to start prioritising heart health as preventative measures, and that decade is their 30s,” says Exercise New Zealand Chief Executive Richard Beddie.

“The actions men take, or don’t take, during this period can determine their cardiovascular health for the rest of their lives.”

The study tracked cardiovascular risk across adulthood and found men reach clinically significant risk levels earlier than women, even when traditional risk factors are accounted for. This reinforces the importance of early lifestyle-based prevention, particularly regular physical activity.

International evidence consistently shows exercise improves blood pressure, cholesterol levels, insulin sensitivity, and body composition, while increasing cardiorespiratory fitness, one of the strongest predictors of longevity and reduced heart disease risk.

However, many men reduce their activity levels during their 30s due to work demands, parenting, and time pressures, precisely when prevention is most effective. Importantly, Exercise New Zealand emphasises that while the 30s represent an optimal window for prevention, it is never too late to benefit from exercise.

This ground-breaking research is particularly concerning given current participation levels in Aotearoa. According to the latest Ministry of Health survey, less than half of all adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines. Additionally, only around half of all men achieve the minimum level of exercise needed to protect their heart health and reduce their risk of chronic disease.

“The good news is that even if you missed your 30s, starting now still delivers powerful benefits,” says Beddie. Research highlighted in ScienceDaily consistently shows that improving fitness at any age, even into your 70s and 80s, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and extend quality of life. While the 30s are an ideal time to begin prioritising heart health, the most important thing is simply starting, wherever you are now. The human body responds positively to movement at any age.

What Men Should Be Doing: Before, During, and After Their 30s

Exercise New Zealand is encouraging men to view their 30s as a pivotal opportunity to protect their future health, with clear guidance across life stages:

Before your 30s: Build the habit
Establish regular physical activity as part of your identity and lifestyle. Consistency is more important than intensity.

During your 30s: Protect your future
Prioritise structured exercise, grow muscle mass, and support cardiovascular fitness. This is the decade where prevention has the greatest long-term impact.

After your 30s: Maintain and strengthen
Continue regular exercise to slow age-related decline, protect heart function, prioritise growing/maintaining muscle mass to maintain independence and quality of life.

“Exercise isn’t just about fitness or appearance, it’s one of the most powerful forms of preventative medicine available,” says Beddie. “The earlier men prioritise movement, the greater the protective effect. The message is simple: don’t wait for symptoms. Prevention starts now.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/the-decade-that-matters-new-research-shows-which-decade-men-must-prioritise-heart-health-its-their-30s/

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Slavery victims tell of their years-long ordeal

Source: Radio New Zealand

Moeaia Tuai was sentenced to jail for more than 16 years on Thursday. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

This story discusses details of slavery and sexual abuse.

Two young people have told how they were held in slavery by an Auckland man for several years.

Former prison officer Moeaia Tuai, who is 63, was found guilty by a jury last year of two charges of slavery, two counts of rape and a string of other sexual assaults. He was on Thursday jailed for more than 16 years.

In a victim statement, one of the complainants said he took her youthful happiness, her voice and virginity, and she sometimes felt like her soul had left her body. “A lot of the time, I wish I wasn’t here,” she said, adding she wished she was living a normal girl’s dreams and living her life.

“But sadly, instead, I am one of those girls fighting demons and emotions I don’t deserve, every day,” she said.

“I find it very hard to communicate with others because I was always stopped from speaking with anyone and everyone… I often have flashbacks that just hold me back and I’d rather be home alone.

“To hear my mother’s heartbreak after 10 plus years of being kept apart – my mother’s first time in New Zealand was for a court case.”

She described Tuai and his relatives as a “narcissistic and hypocritical family”.

Suppression orders prevent any information likely to identify the victims from being published.

The second victim, a young man, spoke through tears about the good Samaritans who helped him when he ran away, frightened and not able to sleep at night.

The High Court in Auckland was packed with family and friends of Tuai and his victims, with several crying while the details of the offending were read out.

‘False testimony’

“My parents are now trying to rebuild the good life that was broken because of these people… A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

He spoke through an interpreter to the defendant and his relatives – some of whom gave evidence to the jury, but also faced allegations during the trial that they too were involved in the offending.

“To anyone who has given false testimony here, I pray that you feel repentance in your heart. A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

Only Tuai has been charged in connection to the offending, which occurred from 2016 to 2024.

The court heard he might face poor treatment, and need to be segregated if prisoners found out he was a Corrections officer.

Justice Michele Wilkinson-Smith was asked to consider whether Tuai could have a shorter sentence because of that, and also due to the effect his sentence would have on his sick wife. She granted a small reduction to the jail term – and noted his wife had also benefited from the offending.

Funding Tuai’s lifestyle

Sentencing Tuai, Wilkinson-Smith said the older complainant had been assured before arriving in New Zealand that he could finish his secondary school education, but he was immediately put to work at a boarding lodge that his wife’s sister owned.

After moving to Australia, Tuai took control of the male complainant’s internet banking, his bank card and passport, allowing him only $100 of his weekly pay for full-time work.

“He was funding your lifestyle,” she told Tuai, saying that only ended when the man ran away and managed to get a new passport to return to New Zealand.

Tuai, his wife and the second victim also returned to New Zealand, where she was told she could not go to school – and instead must supplement his state benefits by working cash in hand jobs.

“At one point, the female victim worked 57 consecutive days without a single day off, including weekends,” Wilkinson-Smith said.

“The evidence for that came from your own diary which recorded her working hours…You were using her as a source of labour and income, as you had previously used the male complainant. She had no autonomy and no access to the money she was earning.”

When she had a formal job, her estimated (lost) wages were $80,000.

Saddled with debts

She was ‘treated as property in every way’ by Tuai, who made her work for free, have sex with him, controlled her movements and restricted her ability to get help or report him.

Before he raped her, he bought alcohol to ply her with, using money from her own bank account.

“It is clear that as far as you were concerned, she was in New Zealand only for your benefit,” Wilkinson-Smith added.

He felt entitled to the money the two earned, ‘drained their bank accounts’ and threatened them with deportation, she said, leaving them saddled with debts through loans they were forced to take out.

Both young people suffered threatened and actual violence, and were told they would lose the right to stay in New Zealand if they did not “obey his orders” or alerted authorities.

The judge said slavery was not a “cultural misunderstanding” and she was worried about how widespread it might be.

“I hope that this case highlights for others that this is slavery. It is not legal. You cannot bring people to New Zealand to exploit them for their labour and income.”

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

Sexual Violence

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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/slavery-victims-tell-of-their-years-long-ordeal/

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A Constellation of Excellence – Galaxy Macau Secures 12 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards in 2026

Source: Media Outreach

The luxury integrated resort extends its record-setting run, raising the bar for the fourth consecutive year with three new five-star awards; distinguishing its singular vision for world-class hospitality with the most Forbes Travel Guide five-star hotels under one roof

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – In the ever-evolving world of luxury hospitality, consistency is the true measure of distinction. For the fourth consecutive year, Galaxy Macau has not only met this standard, but has redefined it, securing an unprecedented 12 Five-Star awards in the highly anticipated 2026 Forbes Travel Guide. This achievement reaffirms its position as a global leader and marks the fourth consecutive year it has broken its own record for having the most Five-Star hotels under a single roof. It’s a move that underscores a steadfast dedicated to quality and service, further burnishing Macau’s credentials as a World Centre for Tourism and Leisure.

Galaxy Macau achieves a remarkable industry-leading milestone with 12 Five-Star accolades in Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards 2026.

This year’s distinction is bolstered by the inclusion of three notable new additions to its decorated roster: Capella at Galaxy Macau, the newly-opened, penthouse-leaning all-suite hotel offering a new tier of cloistered luxury; Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first international outpost for the celebrated Master Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, located at Raffles at Galaxy Macau; and Lai Heen, the renowned Cantonese fine-dining destination on the 51st floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Macau.

Officially opening its doors to the most discerning guests, Capella at Galaxy Macau has been recognised with a Forbes Five-Star Award upon the hotel’s official launch.

Two years into its operation, Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first and only overseas outpost of Sushi Miyakawa in Hokkaido, has received its first Forbes Five-Star Award in 2026.

A sanctum of Cantonese fine-dining and the highest of its kind in Macau, Lai Heen – winner of Forbes Five-Star Award 2026 – showcases the pinnacle of exquisite dining.

The 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards Roll Call:

Hotels

  • Capella at Galaxy Macau (Five-Star Award winner on official opening)
  • Raffles at Galaxy Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the second consecutive year)
  • Galaxy Hotel (Five-Star Award winner for the fourth consecutive year)
  • Banyan Tree Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 13th consecutive year)
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 10th consecutive year)
  • Hotel Okura Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the fifth consecutive year)

Spas

  • Banyan Tree Spa Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 13th consecutive year)
  • The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 10th consecutive year)

Restaurants

  • Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa (Inaugural Five-Star Award winner)
  • Lai Heen (Five-Star Award winner for six years)
  • Yamazato (Five-Star Award winner for the second consecutive year)
  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA (Five-Star Award winner for the fourth year in a row)

Winning Forbes a Five-Star Award for the fourth year at Galaxy Hotel.

Raffles at Galaxy Macau boasts exceptionally refined and personalised services – a reason for its second-consecutive-year victory in Forbes Five-Star Awards.

Years of providing luxury experiences at Galaxy Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau earns its 10th Forbes Five-Star Award this year.

The independent global authority on luxury, Forbes Travel Guide evaluates and rates top-tier hotels, restaurants, and spas around the world, employing a professional review team that assesses properties across hundreds of exacting criteria and stringent standards, making Galaxy Macau’s record-breaking 12 Five-Star Awards all the more impressive.

Banyan Tree Macau is home to refined Thai luxury at Galaxy Macau for more than a decade.

Detail-oriented service is key to the success of Hotel Okura Macau, winner of Forbes Five-Star Award for the fifth year in a row at Galaxy Macau.

“For our discerning guests, the experience is paramount,” remarked Mr Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer – Macau at Galaxy Entertainment Group. These new accolades are a reflection of our team’s commitment to our ‘World-Class Asian Heart’ service philosophy. It’s about delivering sincere, detailed service that defines a new standard for luxury, not just in Macau but globally.”

Signature in its authentic fine Italian cuisine, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA is proud to win a Five-Star Award for the fourth consecutive year.

The achievement not only highlights Galaxy Macau’s singular vision, but bolsters Macau’s standing as a premier global destination for tourism and gastronomy; a ‘World Centre for Tourism and Leisure’ and a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

Forbes Travel Guide, the independent authority in evaluating luxury, noted Galaxy Macau’s singular commitment. “The team at Galaxy Macau has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to elevating the guest experience,” notes Ms Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide. “Their staff are as passionate as they are exacting, a quality that distinguishes them, year after year.”

Japanese fine-dining at Hotel Okura Macau, sees Yamazato attain its second consecutive Forbes Five-Star Award this year.

Serene retreat best describes The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau – winner of Forbes Five-Star Award for the 10th consecutive year.

Galaxy Macau continues its constant evolution to expand its visionary footprint, offering a plethora of service touchpoints throughout the luxury district, driven by a vision to create a world-class resort experience catering to today’s global guests in their pursuit of quality, variety and personalised service. Galaxy Macau’s stand out recognition by Forbes Travel Guide is testament to this visionary achievement.

Banyan Tree Spa Macau is Galaxy Macau’s tranquil sanctuary earning a Forbes Five-Star Award for the 13th consecutive year.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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/a-constellation-of-excellence-galaxy-macau-secures-12-forbes-travel-guide-five-star-awards-in-2026/

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Maritime NZ statement on Vega seafarers

Source: Maritime New Zealand

Maritime NZ takes the welfare of seafarers extremely seriously. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take any action necessary to ensure compliance with all applicable international and domestic maritime regulations.

We understand from the vessel’s Master and agent that the crew are adequately provisioned and are doing well. We are making general enquiries with crew and relevant authorities regarding their wellbeing and will continue to monitor the situation.

As is the case for any foreign ship in New Zealand waters, if anyone has concerns about crew welfare, Maritime NZ asks them to notify us. Notifications can be made by seafarers or others via the homepage of our website: .

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/maritime-nz-statement-on-vega-seafarers/

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NZ-AU: LHM Investor Site Visit Presentation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Feb. 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN, TSX:PDN, OTCQX:PALAF) (“Paladin” or the “Company”) advises that it has released a presentation for the Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) investor site visit being held on 12 February 2026, in Namibia.

The presentation is available on the Company’s website (https://www.paladinenergy.com.au/investors/asx-announcements/).

This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Directors of Paladin Energy Ltd.

Contacts

About Paladin

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN TSX: PDN OTCQX:PALAF) is a globally significant independent uranium producer with a 75% ownership of the world-class long life Langer Heinrich Mine located in Namibia. In late 2024 the Company acquired Fission Uranium Corp. in Canada, resulting in a dual-listing on the both the ASX and TSX. With the integration of Fission’s operations, the Company now owns and operates an extensive portfolio of uranium development and exploration assets across Canada, which include the Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project in Saskatchewan and the Michelin project in Newfoundland and Labrador. Paladin also owns uranium exploration assets in Australia. Paladin is committed to a sustainability framework that ensures responsible, accountable and transparent management of the uranium resources the Company mines – both now and in the future. Through its Langer Heinrich Mine, Paladin is delivering a reliable uranium supply to major nuclear utilities around the world, positioning itself as a meaningful contributor to baseload energy provision in multiple countries and contributing to global decarbonisation.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/nz-au-lhm-investor-site-visit-presentation/

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Mt Maunganui business owner says revenue down by half after landslide

Source: Radio New Zealand

Roads around Mauao at Mount Maunganui reopened on Friday 6 February. RNZ/Angie Skerrett

The owner of a Mount Maunganui pizzeria which has only just reopened after the deadly Mauao landslide says revenue is half what it would usually be in summer.

Michele Delaini is the owner of Rustica Italian Food pizzeria on Adams Avenue opposite Mauao which has only just re-opened this week.

He said it was like winter trading conditions at the height of summer.

“We’re lacking like all the people from the campground, the hot pools and definitely like all the people that every day come to the Mount.”

The Mount track was still closed and the streets in the area were very quiet compared to what it was usually like in the summer, he said.

Usually during summer the Mount’s population at least doubles but now the area was lacking visitors and tourists, he said.

It was more like a winter season and the cruise ships were choosing to go elsewhere because people could not explore the Mount, he said.

Neighbouring businesses were seeing the same downward trend and being forced to reduce their opening hours, he said.

“It’s just not enough business to be opened all day long, or like what we usually do.”

Delaini said he was having ongoing conversations with Tauranga City Council which was trying to support businesses in the area.

But he said he was not sure if the council alone would be able to bear the cost of helping all the businesses in the affected area.

Central government needed to provide some financial support for businesses, he said.

“For us businesses it’s very hard because summer time is where we collect all the money also for the winter, to carry us through the winter.”

With businesses being hit so hard at the height of the summer, “the government will have to understand that council alone cannot do it,” he said.

Rustica Italian Food pizzeria on Adams Avenue in Mount Maunganui is located opposite Mauao. Google Maps

Businesses were not able to turn to their insurers to fix the situation, he said.

If the business was not directly affected by the disaster but was “closed because of a consequence” only 10 percent of their losses would be covered, he said.

It was very worrying that there was no clear indication of when or if Mount Maunganui or the hot pools would reopen, he said.

Locals were sensitive about the situation and wanted to mourn what had happened, he said.

“There is the dichotomy, so you know like there is the grief and there is the wanting to go back to normal life and it can be challenging.”

But locals are trying to support local businesses and want to see the community return to how it was, he said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/mt-maunganui-business-owner-says-revenue-down-by-half-after-landslide/

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Super Rugby Pacific: Blues expecting big second half challenge against Chiefs

Source: Radio New Zealand

Blues v Chiefs

Kick-off: 7:05pm Saturday 14 February

Eden Park, Auckland

Live updates on RNZ

Blues coach Vern Cotter confirmed today that the side he’s named for Saturday night’s season opener is very much in line with what he’s expecting from their opponents. Cotter identified the Chiefs’ ability to change gears in the back end of games.

“We’re very conscious of the Chiefs’ ability to go 60 minutes and apply pressure to have a very good 20 minutes at the end,” he said at Blues training on Thursday.

“I think the bench represents what they intend to do. So locking in for 60 and having players with experience and energy is going to be important to finish this game.”

Chiefs coach Jonno Gibbes has named All Blacks Samipeni Finau and Cortez Ratima to come on in the second half, with Cotter explaining that the decision to select rookie flanker Torian Barnes to start was part of the plan to combat their effectiveness. Barnes will presumably make way for the experienced Anton Segner in the second half.

Assistant coach Jason O’Halloran during a Blues training session. Super Rugby Pacific, Alexandra Park, Auckland, New Zealand. Tuesday 18 June 2024. © Photo credit: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

“Having Anton there is great. He’s glued to the team, he’s experienced he’s good at defensive line outs. He’s good at calling his own lineouts. He can get over a ball when the team seems a little bit tired, he can get those turnovers needed.”

Cotter said that the new law variations, which they have played under for their two preseason hit outs, “haven’t made much of a difference at all”.

“But we don’t think it’ll have a too big effect. I’m sure that there’ll be a referee at some stage or another, will stamp as mark on the game. So we’re prepared.”

Cotter’s selections include Stephen Perofeta at first five, with Beauden Barrett not due back until round four due to All Black rest. Cotter said that Perofeta should play a big role in the Blues’ game.

We want to put in a good performance and Stevie will be key to that. Everybody sitting around and trying to contribute, and Stevie will be directing play, and it’s just nice to have him back in. And with Fin (Christie), a combination at halfback gives us a nice little bit of balance around how we want to control the match.”

The Chiefs are without their first choice first five as well, with Damian McKenzie on paternity leave. Josh Jacomb will wear the 10 jersey, with Xavier Roe starting at halfback.

Team lists

Blues: 1 Joshua Fusitu’a, 2 Bradley Slater, 3 Ofa Tu’ungafasi, 4 Sam Darry, 5 Josh Beehre, 6 Torian Barnes, 7 Dalton Papali’i (c), 8 Hoskins Sotutu, 9 Finlay Christie, 10 Stephen Perofeta, 11 Caleb Clarke, 12 Pita Ahki, 13 AJ Lam, 14 Cole Forbes, 15 Zarn Sullivan

Bench: 16 James Mullan, 17 Mason Tupaea, 18 Marcel Renata, 19 Laghlan McWhannell, 20 Anton Segner, 21 Sam Nock, 22 Xavi Taele, 23 Codemeru Vai

Chiefs: 1 Jared Proffit, 2 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3 George Dyer, 4 Josh Lord, 5 Tupou Vaa’i, 6 Kaylum Bosher, 7 Jahrome Brown, 8 Luke Jacobson, 9 Xavier Roe, 10 Josh Jacomb, 11 Liam Coombes-Fabling, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 13 Daniel Rona, 14 Kyren Taumoefolau, 15 Etene Nanai-Seturo

Bench: 16 Tyrone Thompson, 17 Benet Kumeroa, 18 Reuben O’Neill, 19 Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 20 Samipeni Finau, 21 Cortez Ratima, 22 Tepaea Cook-Savage, 23 Kyle Brown

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/super-rugby-pacific-blues-expecting-big-second-half-challenge-against-chiefs/

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‘Ongoing concerns’ immigration requirements for bus drivers too tough

Source: Radio New Zealand

Unsplash

Wellington councillors, national industry groups and drivers are sounding the alarm over immigration settings for bus drivers, warning of a looming shortage.

A residency pathway for bus drivers, brought in in 2022, requires English language to the level of a post-graduate international student, after two years on a working visa.

Drivers have been warning the test is too hard, more than 500 presented a petition to Parliament in January urging the rules to be relaxed.

According to the capital’s bus operator Metlink, the future of about 45 Wellington bus drivers is currently unclear as they try to stay in the country.

Bus drivers applying for residency must score 6.5 in IELTS, a standard international test, or exceed equivalent scores in four other English-language exams.

That’s the same level as many universities require for post-graduate international students.

In a council meeting today, Greater Wellington regional council public transport committee chair Ros Connelly said she’s worried the settings will force drivers to leave the country.

“It’s an extremely high level that involves not only english language understanding, but also comprehension of quite difficult concepts, so this is the problem that we are in, it was misjudged how difficult it would be to get drivers across that threshold.”

Paul Tawharu, senior manager operations at Metlink, told councillors operators were “extremely confident” there was no risk to service, that they had good domestic recruitment plans, and were training people through the system well.

Tauwharu said operators are setting up schools within bus depots to help teach English, and using New Zealand drivers on long-term sick leave to help with other drivers’ language skills.

Connelly said she feared a shortage in two years’ time, when visa extensions run out.

If drivers sit the residency test now, and fail it, they can apply for a visa to stay in New Zealand for two more years, she said.

But if they fail again they’ll be gone.

“I have ongoing concerns that this just kicking the can down the road for another two years and that at the end of that period, they won’t be able to stay in New Zealand and we’ll be back to the situation we were.”

New Zealand was in the grip of a significant driver shortage in 2022 and 2023 which caused regular bus cancellations and suspensions.

In Wellington, in 2022, 59 Metlink weekday bus services were suspended due to a lack of drivers.

The Bus and Coach Association chief executive, Delaney Myers, said no one wants to return to those days.

“In Wellington that got as bad as sometimes almost half of all peak morning services being cancelled or running late, it was incredibly frustrating.

“And our concern is that if we don’t take a long term approach to how we’re going to secure drivers going forward, then we may be in that situation again.”

Myers said no one anticipated the level of difficulty the bus driver residency pathway required, when it was announced in 2022.

She said skilled bus drivers don’t need academic level English to do a good job, and she wanted the government to lower the requirements.

Auckland bus driver Ryan Jay Carumba, who’s from the Phillipines, said he tried sitting the residency test and failed, and is now on a 2-year visa extension.

Carumba said the test was difficult, requiring him to write a 300-word essay in one part of it.

He thinks the level is too high for what the job needs.

“For sure it’s too much for us, personally we do not communicate a lot with passengers, we say good morning, hi, hello, and then if the passengers have some concerns with us they just talk to us, maybe a bit.”

Carumba said seven of his Filipino colleagues have recently left Ritchies, the company he works for, because they couldn’t meet the visa-level English requirements.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said she was not considering relaxing the language settings.

She said the pathway had been established under the previous government, and bus drivers had always known it required a higher level of English.

“There is an expectation in New Zealand that people who are staying have a certain level of English, and they need to work to get that.

“I would also say there are hundreds of bus drivers who have met the English standard, who have worked hard, and who have met that standard.”

Stanford said she wasn’t worried about another bus driver shortage, because there were many bus drivers from many parts of the world who will be able to meet the English language requirements.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/ongoing-concerns-immigration-requirements-for-bus-drivers-too-tough/

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Health NZ drops plan to charge market rates for hospital car parking

Source: Radio New Zealand

Christchurch Hospital car park. Supplied / Ngāi Tahu Property

Health New Zealand has dropped plans to charge market rates for hospital car parking.

In a statement, the health agency said it had received “constructive and detailed input from staff during the consultation process”.

It thanked staff for their feedback, and assured them the focus remained on ensuring patients, visitors and staff could access safe, secure, and sufficient parking.

“Any changes to hospital parking must be considered carefully, particularly in the context of cost-of-living pressures,” it said.

“Health New Zealand’s Health New Zealand will not be progressing any changes at this time.”

The Press is reporting management of the car parks was to have been outsourced to private firms.

Association of Salaried Medical Specialists executive director Sarah Dalton said the national consultation document had landed within the past week, and there had been a “really strong response from staff”.

“People were really fired up about it,” she said.

Parking was already a difficult issue for patients and staff for many hospitals around New Zealand, she explained.

“If you work at night, or you’re a patient with a disability or who’s got limited mobility because of your condition, it’s not always an option to use public transport – if it’s available.”

Parks reserved for doctors on-call or who needed quick access to the hospital because of the nature of their work were not always respected, she said.

New Zealand Nurses Organisation delegate and Christchurch health care assistant Al Dietschin called it an “embarrassing U-turn for Te Whatu Ora”, but said it was heartening to see they had listened to members.

“Last year there were several shocking attacks on hospital health workers forced to walk to their cars because they can’t park at or near their workplaces. This includes a Palmerston North nurse being carjacked and a Christchurch nurse being left with a concussion.

Members had provided “robust feedback”, pointing out that charging market rates would leave those unable to pay even less safe.

The government has been forced to backdown after trying to hike hospital parking fees for patients, visitors and health workers already squeezed by rising costs.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/health-nz-drops-plan-to-charge-market-rates-for-hospital-car-parking/

Posted on

LHM Investor Site Visit Presentation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Feb. 11, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN, TSX:PDN, OTCQX:PALAF) (“Paladin” or the “Company”) advises that it has released a presentation for the Langer Heinrich Mine (LHM) investor site visit being held on 12 February 2026, in Namibia.

The presentation is available on the Company’s website (https://www.paladinenergy.com.au/investors/asx-announcements/).

This announcement has been authorised for release by the Board of Directors of Paladin Energy Ltd.

Contacts

About Paladin

Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX:PDN TSX: PDN OTCQX:PALAF) is a globally significant independent uranium producer with a 75% ownership of the world-class long life Langer Heinrich Mine located in Namibia. In late 2024 the Company acquired Fission Uranium Corp. in Canada, resulting in a dual-listing on the both the ASX and TSX. With the integration of Fission’s operations, the Company now owns and operates an extensive portfolio of uranium development and exploration assets across Canada, which include the Patterson Lake South (PLS) Project in Saskatchewan and the Michelin project in Newfoundland and Labrador. Paladin also owns uranium exploration assets in Australia. Paladin is committed to a sustainability framework that ensures responsible, accountable and transparent management of the uranium resources the Company mines – both now and in the future. Through its Langer Heinrich Mine, Paladin is delivering a reliable uranium supply to major nuclear utilities around the world, positioning itself as a meaningful contributor to baseload energy provision in multiple countries and contributing to global decarbonisation.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://feedcreatorngin2.fifthestate.nz/2026/02/12/lhm-investor-site-visit-presentation/

Posted on

Samoan Chief behind bars following slavery trial

Source: New Zealand Police

A Samoan Chief who falsely promised two people a better way of life, now faces up to 16 years behind bars.

Today, Moeaia Tuai was sentenced on numerous charges relating to slavery, rape and indecent assault.

The 63-year-old was sentenced in the Auckland High Court to 16 years and four months’, with a non-parole period of eight years.

A multi-agency investigation over 18 months culminated in a five week trial.

Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin, Counties Manukau CIB, says the bravery of the two victims coming forward and a strong partnership between Police and Immigration New Zealand led to the successful prosecution.

“The charges are the result of more than two years of work by Immigration New Zealand and New Zealand Police, dating back to 2024 when the first allegations of Tuai’s offending were brought to our attention.”

Detective Inspector Adkin says  the offending relates to two Samoan nationals who he arranged to bring to New Zealand in 2016.

“Initially the victims were promised a good education and a better way of life.

“But that’s not what happened, instead he put them to work, kept their wages and assaulted them.

“For the victims to stand up in court against a Matai is significant in their culture, but they did it and their compelling evidence led to a conviction.”

He says the conviction and subsequent sentence is the culmination of a lot of hard work from a number of teams across the board.

“This is a great result and I’d like to acknowledge the hard work of our investigation team, who worked tirelessly to bring this case to court, and the specialist agencies who supported the victims throughout this process.”

“Immigration New Zealand is committed to supporting Police to ensure those who deliberately harm or take advantage of others are held accountable,” says Jason Perry, National Manager Immigration Investigations (Immigration New Zealand).

“Immigration Investigators worked closely with Police throughout the operation, helping to ensure those responsible for these often hidden crimes are brought to justice.

“Coordinated action like this is essential to protecting vulnerable people and raising awareness. If you see signs of exploitation, report it.”

For more information on how to identify and report concerns related to serious exploitation, visit Working to stop migrant exploitation :: Immigration New Zealand

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/samoan-chief-behind-bars-following-slavery-trial/

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Government increases New Zealand space launch limit to 1000

Source: Radio New Zealand

Supplied / Rocket Lab

A physics professor says he does not trust the New Zealand Space Agency to make good decisions about a likely host of new space launches.

The government is raising the total number of launches allowed to 1000, as the cap set at 100 in 2017 comes close to being breached.

The US-NZ company Rocket Lab dominates the launch market from its pad at Mahia.

Space Minister Judith Collins said the 100 cap was likely to be hit this year.

“This change ensures our space and advanced aviation industries can continue to expand while operating within clear environmental boundaries.”

The environmental impact from more debris from space vehicle launches had been newly determined to be low.

The rules would have required a special marine consent for every launch over the 100 cap.

Space Minister Judith Collins. Nick Monro

The government has been streamlining aerospace regulations under its strategy to double the industry to be worth $5 billion by 2030.

“This is yet another example of the government fixing the basics while building the future,” Collins said in a statement.

The review late last year covered impacts from debris in the Exclusive Economic Zone on the ocean and seabed but not beyond that, and not the effects on space or the atmosphere.

Māori, maritime and fishing rights, international obligations, economic benefits and environmental sustainability were looked at.  

Professor Richard Easther of Auckland University said the new 1000 cap was good for the tech industry – albeit it was over a long period of time.

“You could easily imagine it taking two decades to get through a thousand launches.”

However, he said New Zealand had yet to match its leading launch position globally with taking some sort of lead on the related environmental issues, such as launches and what satellites and other vehicles they take up impacting the nightsky and the chemistry of the upper atmosphere.

“It certainly gives us a seat at the table that otherwise we wouldn’t have … and I would like to think that we were leading on that.”

But the country was not.

“As a country that regulates orbital launch New Zealand should be at the front of these discussions. However, the announcement is silent on this context,” Easther said on Thursday.

There appeared to still be limited opportunity for oversight of launches.

“Firstly, we need to look at whether we trust the New Zealand Space Agency to do the right thing in private.”

Widespread concerns remained the agency had not been forthcoming about a methane-measuring satellite that taxpayers put $32m into but which got lost in space last year.

“They have shown that they can overly deferential to international partners.

“It seems that they didn’t insist on transparency and clarity when they had the ability to do that.

“The question of what gets launched is different from the MethaneSAT question but it is true that it is roughly the same people who are giving advice on both things and so if we don’t have confidence in one it’s very hard to have confidence in the other.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/government-increases-new-zealand-space-launch-limit-to-1000/

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SAS rules ‘tightened’ since death of soldier Nicholas Kahotea in training accident

Source: Radio New Zealand

Lance Corporal Nicholas Kahotea, of the 1st NZSAS Regiment, died in a training accident in South Auckland in 2019. Defence Force / Supplied

Army training rules have been tightened since the death of special forces soldier Nicholas Kahotea, the man in charge of training says.

Kahotea fell several storeys while training to step from a hovering helicopter onto a building in May, 2019.

He died in hospital from his injuries.

Almost seven years later, a Coronial inquest into his death would examine what went wrong.

Colonel Paul Hayward, the assistant chief of army for training, was questioned on the intensity of training required of SAS soldiers.

He set out the different levels of training capability expected of soldiers.

“The three descriptors of levels of training we normally use are BLOC, DLOC and OLOC,” he said.

“BLOC first is the basic level of capability, initial entry training and some lower-level training courses, DLOC is a directed level of capability, what you would do subsequent to [BLOC] training, and DLOC is where most of the army sits at any given time.”

He explained the third level of capability, OLOC, was meant for soldiers preparing to deploy on specific operations.

“Most of the army will not be at OLOC unless they’ve been specified for a particular mission,” he said.

“The difference is the special forces always sit within OLOC, so they sit at a much higher level because of the complexity of what they’re required to.

“[They must be] ready to go, they’re basically the 111 of the military.”

Central to the inquiry was the decision to allow the soldiers to attempt the so-called “bump landing” at nighttime and while wearing heavy equipment.

The Coroner was earlier told Kahotea was carrying between 20 and 35 kilograms of equipment and was wearing night vision goggles as he stepped off the helicopter.

It was the first time the SAS troopers had attempted the manoeuvre, in which a helicopter balanced one wheel on the edge of a building and attempted to hold steady as the soldiers stepped off.

The NZDF’s “crawl, walk, run” policy requires soldiers to start with the easiest iteration of an exercise during daylight hours with minimal equipment, before moving onto gradually more difficult scenarios.

In the years since the fatal accident, Colonel Hayward said additions had been made to the army’s training rules to ensure the policy was followed.

“They specify in mandatory language some of the requirements down to the number of rehearsals required wearing various kit before an activity can be conducted, they are specified in both the training and safety manual and the mobile air training manual,” he said.

In addition, he said the NZDF performed a full assessment of the facility where the training took place, minimising tripping hazards and other potential issues.

Colonel Hayward addressed the family and admitted the Defence Force had made a mistake by allowing the training exercise to occur.

“Your loss is profound, and the NZDF deeply regrets the devastating impact that Nik’s death has had, and the irreversible consequences of this tragedy,” he said.

“NZDF acknowledges failures on our part in relation to the planning and authorising of the activity.”

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/12/sas-rules-tightened-since-death-of-soldier-nicholas-kahotea-in-training-accident/