Category: Law

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Court ruling ‘brought justice to Te Tai Tokerau voters’, Te Pāti Māori MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi says

Source: Radio New Zealand

Mariameno Kapa-Kingi. Anneke Smith / RNZ

MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi says Justice Radich “brought justice to Te Tai Tokerau voters” when he ruled her expulsion from Te Pāti Māori “unlawful”.

It comes as a political commentator says the party might be looking to distance itself from the drama of last year, and focus on the election ahead.

The formally reinstated MP took to social media on Tuesday night to celebrate the verdict, saying her intention in bringing the case was not to incite division, but “seek clarity and ensure the processes we hold ourselves to – particularly those grounded in tikanga, are honoured”.

“Finally, today, the truth has risen,” Kapa-Kingi said following the release of the verdict on Tuesday afternoon, which ruled her suspension and subsequent expulsion as “unlawful”.

Radich said the tikanga principles that were infused into the kawa document “were not mentioned or applied” in relation to her suspension.

“Perhaps most fundamentally, the relevant tikanga principles – which must inform the way in which a decision-maker considers the kawa’s rules – were not applied in any way,” Radich said.

“This decision on its own will not heal all the mamae, but it is an important first step,” Kapa-Kingi said online.

Kapa-Kingi also mentioned she looked forward to meeting with those from Te Tai Tokerau to discuss their future strategy for the election in coming weeks.

She finished by acknowledging this week belonged to “my darling nephew Peeni Henare”, whose many years of service “deserve recognition and respect”.

Mike Colson KC – Kapa-Kingi’s lawyer – told RNZ it was nice to see an “unjust situation rectified”.

Mike Colson KC. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

He was particularly interested in the judge’s assessment of the party breaching its own tikanga, acknowledging tikanga was a “fairly hot topic” amongst the legal profession at the moment.

“Many judges are slightly nervous dealing with it, or – one might expect very respectful of it.

“Here we had such a clear explanation of what the tikanga was of the party, and I thought it was quite brave and right of the judge to find that kawa and tikanga had been breached.”

He also acknowledged it might be considered “unusual” for a judge to “direct a party to take an action within Parliament”.

But Colson said the situation was so clear, and there was a lack of clarity last time as to whether that extra step was necessary.

“The judge thought it was proper to do so and to direct them to give a notice to the speaker.”

He said it was an unusual set of circumstances, and did not think it would set a major precedent.

The defendants had argued the case was a contractual matter, and should be dealt with privately, but Colson said the judge was quick to point out the “public character of the proceeding”, and that it was not just Kapa-Kingi’s case, but her electorate who voted her in.

“They, of course, also had a role to play and a voice to be heard, and that really pushed into very much the public arena.”

What will happen now?

On Tuesday Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi told reporters he had attempted to make contact with Kapa-Kingi, but it was not clear what the process was for her reinstatement or how the apparent rift would be addressed.

Associate professor in politics at Victoria University, Lara Greaves, told RNZ she had expected this ruling from the case.

She explained Te Pāti Māori’s constitution “wasn’t particularly clear”, and it was “very hard” to figure out if the party had followed the rules in terms of her expulsion.

Greaves thinks the decision to go to court was Kapa-Kingi’s attempt at staying with the party, “to change it from the inside,”, and this was “politics pushing up against the law”.

“Legally, there’s a judgment, here that Kapa-Kingi is still part of the party, but it’s not clear what will happen next.”

Political scientist & Victoria University of Wellington Associate Professor Dr Lara Greaves RNZ

She said the co-leaders had not spoken about the ruling much, and they had expressed a desire to limit any further drama, so “for a lot of us, it’s just going to be a case of waiting and seeing what happens”.

“Being within a political party where you’ve been expelled is probably not a comfortable place,” Greaves said.

She pointed to potential scenarios of further attempts at expulsion or further issues raised, “there’s still a lot of things that could happen here and happen here”.

Greaves said a lot of people, including herself, had made the assessment there was a “bit too much commentary” taking place last year from the party and others involved.

“So, just being a bit quieter might be a good solution there.

“Te Pāti Māori may have listened to a lot of their critics, listened to a lot of their whānau and communities, and thought – we need to keep this out of the media and keep a bit quiet on it going forward.”

Greaves also pointed to the Māori seats, and Labour and the Greens running strong candidates this election, “there are quite a few potential threats to their electoral success, so it’s kind of important that [Te Pāti Māori] sort it out now and figure out what they’re doing in order to get success in the election”.

“Te Pāti Māori may have made a decision in a way to hope that voters think that these issues are behind them and to move forward constructively.”

She said there would be a lot of scrutiny on the dynamics between Kapa-Kingi and the party leadership in the coming months, as well as a focus on MPs Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke and Oriini Kaipara and how they were fitting into the party.

It was possible, she said, that there would be enough time between the “drama” last year to the election this year that people did forgive and forget, “that would actually be a pretty good comeback”.

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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/2026/03/11/court-ruling-brought-justice-to-te-tai-tokerau-voters-te-pati-maori-mp-mariameno-kapa-kingi-says/

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Appeal for information following burglary, Mackenzie

Source: New Zealand Police

Police investigating a burglary in Middle Valley, Mackenzie are appealing for information from the public.

On Sunday 8 March, Police received a report of a theft from a church on Middle Valley Road, which occurred sometime between 19 February and 4 March.

Stolen from the church was a large brass Eagle lectern.

If anyone has seen this lectern, or has information that could assist Police’s investigations, please get in contact with us.

Police can be contacted via 105, either over the phone, or online. Please reference the file number 260309/9096.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/appeal-for-information-following-burglary-mackenzie/

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Jevon McSkimming asked to pay back taxpayer-funded hotel nights with Ms Z

Source: Radio New Zealand

Jevon McSkimming was sentenced in December to nine months of home detention. RNZ/Samuel Rillstone

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers asked disgraced former Deputy Commissioner Jevon McSkimming for a “swift reimbursement” of funds used to pay for up to 10 stays at hotels in Wellington during an affair.

Chambers wrote to McSkimming last week after the Independent Police Conduct Authority released a summary of its investigation into McSkimming’s decision to invite a woman he was having an affair with – Ms Z – to stay with him in hotel accommodation paid for by police, on numerous occasions, primarily in 2016.

In the letter, obtained by RNZ under the Official Information Act, Chambers referred to the IPCA’s report in relation to his “overnight status in Wellington hotels with Ms Z”.

“You have confirmed that 8-10 times you stayed with Ms Z in Wellington hotels at the expense of police, but ultimately the taxpayer. The IPCA made an adverse finding in this respect.

“It is appropriate for you to reimburse police for these 8-10 hotel stays, and you are asked to reimburse police as soon as possible. You have knowledge of the hotels in which you stayed and the approximate cost at the time.”

Chambers said he welcomed McSkimming’s response and “swift reimbursement”.

The IPCA said its investigation was “impaired by a lack of records of travel expenditure and credit card statements from the time, due to the nine to 10 years that has elapsed since the spending occurred”.

The IPCA had not been able to review McSkimming’s credit card expenditure, and relied on the evidence of the complainant, McSkimming, his former executive assistant and one of his supervisors at the time.

“In 2016 and 2017, Mr McSkimming’s workplace was at Police National Headquarters in Wellington. He lived about 60-70kms away.”

McSkimming and his executive assistant at the time told the IPCA that he was regularly required to attend functions or late meetings in Wellington or catch early morning flights.

“On those occasions, his executive assistant would book accommodation at a Wellington hotel, paid for by police. The rationale for these bookings was explained to us as being to avoid a long drive home after a work event, or where he was required to attend a social function to ensure he was not having a drink and then driving.”

McSkimming told the IPCA he thought Ms Z stayed with him eight to 10 times.

“This is corroborated by Ms Z. Mr McSkimming breached policy by not informing his senior manager approving the travel that she would be staying with him. If he had done so, we consider it highly likely that approval would have been declined.

“In any case, whether or not he informed his manager, he breached the Police Code of Conduct by staying in hotels at Police expense and inviting the woman with whom he was having a sexual relationship to join him. If he had paid for the hotels himself, that would have been a different matter. However, the fact that the hotels were paid for by police gives rise to the perception that he was using taxpayer money to further a clandestine affair, thus bringing police into disrepute.”

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Chambers earlier said he was “very concerned” to learn of McSkimming’s use of hotels in Wellington and agreed with the findings of the IPCA.

“This showed a disregard for taxpayers’ money and Police expenditure policy.”

Chambers said the police policy for sensitive expenditure required spending to be reasonable and able to withstand parliamentary and public scrutiny.

Mitchell earlier said he welcomed the IPCA report and its findings, which showed the investigations conducted by police were appropriate and adequate.

“Any misuse of taxpayer money is, under all circumstances, unacceptable. I support the Commissioner in his efforts to recoup these expenses,” Mitchell said.

“It is my view that unless there are exceptional work-related circumstances, staff should not require hotel accommodation in the same centre as their normal place of work.”

McSkimming’s expenses

RNZ earlier requested a copy of all expenses made by McSkimming covering the time of his affair.

Police responded with a screenshot of an expenses claim from 2017 and credit card statements for McSkimming covering the 2018 calendar year.

“New Zealand banks retain credit card statements for seven years, after which records are no longer available. No additional expenses have been identified beyond those attached, and credit card records for 2016 and 2017 are no longer held as they fall outside the seven-year timeframe. Therefore, any additional credit card statements are unavailable, and police have no reason to believe these records are held by any other agency.”

McSkimming’s work credit card had a $2000 limit. The 2018 credit card statements reveal he spent some time in Canada and the United States early in the year.

On 6 April, McSkimming stayed at the Thorndon Hotel, about a five-minute walk from Police National Headquarters. The accommodation cost $121.

A significant number of expenses relate to purchases at Wellington International Airport.

In November 2018, there were some expenses at SkyCity Hotel in Auckland and a $229 payment for Audioblocks, as well as an $80 excess baggage payment in Wellington. There was also an $80 transaction at Queenstown Airport.

He also spent $112 at Millbrook Resort in Arrowtown.

In December, there was a $147 payment at Wellington International Airport, followed by a $98 payment later that month.

RNZ asked Richard Chambers for comment on the expenses detailed in the OIA.

“This happened a number of years ago and without detailed records of the reasons for this expenditure, I cannot say whether it was appropriate,” he said.

“However, these expenses would have been considered against the travel policy at the time and were approved by a supervisor.”

Chambers said it was appropriate for police policy to provide for reasonable expenses for executive travel.

“Those expenses can include the use of hotels, parking, petrol and transport such as taxis. Such expenses should only be for work-related purposes, reasonable, and able to withstand public scrutiny.”

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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/2026/03/10/jevon-mcskimming-asked-to-pay-back-taxpayer-funded-hotel-nights-with-ms-z/

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Have you seen Neriah?

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are asking for the public’s help finding 10-year-old Neriah, who has been reported missing from the Ōtāhuhu area.

Neriah was last see yesterday at about 7.30am on Church Street, Ōtāhuhu.

He is described as about 133cms tall with brown eyes and black hair and was wearing a blue singlet with a white Nike logo and blue shorts.

Police and Neriah’s family have concerns for his welfare and would like to find him as soon as possible.

If you have seen Neriah, or have any information that could help us find him, please call 111 and reference file number 260310/3413.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/have-you-seen-neriah/

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Move-on orders ‘not welcome here’, Wellington leaders say

Source: Radio New Zealand

The move-on powers announced in February will mean police can move on rough sleepers or people displaying disorderly behaviour as young as 14-years-old. RNZ / Richard Tindiller

The Wellington region’s mayors, as well as iwi, church and social support agency leaders, say the government’s proposed move-on orders are not welcome in the region.

An open letter decrying the introduction of powers to enable police to relocate people from certain areas – under threat of fines or imprisonment – has been sent to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

But Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said the letter was “overly simplistic” and its signatories were “ignoring the facts”.

The letter – signed by 21 Wellington leaders – described the initiative as a “superficial and unhelpful” approach.

“Whilst we accept and understand that anti-social behaviour on the part of some must be able to be responded to, we don’t consider that moving a person to some other unspecified place fixes the problem, nor does anything to address the issues that individual is dealing with, and in fact, potentially causes significant harm,” the signatories wrote.

Breaching a move-on order – which would require someone to leave an area for up to 24 hours – risked a fine of up to $2000 or a three month jail term.

Community leaders ‘united’ in opposition – Mayor Andrew Little

Wellington City Mayor, Andrew Little, said it was important to show the government that leadership in the region was united in opposition to the legislation.

“What we’re all trying to do is just emphasise to the government that – if they’re serious about dealing with the issue – we actually need to be focussed on what the underlying solutions are. Not cosmetic measures that shift the problem to somewhere else,” Little said.

Little said he understood community and business concerns over rough sleeping and antisocial behaviour – but the initiative failed to offer any real solution to the problem.

“[The signatories] are all organisations that [have] people in the front-line dealing with the homelessness and rough sleeper issue and they don’t take their roles and responsibilities lightly. We know it causes concern to a lot of people – including people whose lives and business are disrupted by it. But the move on order – as a response to it – simply is not a solution,” Little said.

Legislation sends the wrong message to vulnerable people

Porirua mayor Anita Baker said the “vast majority” of people who found themselves on the streets we’re struggling with complex issues including mental health challenges, drug dependancy and a lack of appropriate services and housing options.

Baker said the legislation risked sending the wrong message to already disadvantaged people.

“It’s sending an indication to these people that we don’t really care. A $2000 fine, how are they even going to pay that? They can’t afford to be in a house so I think it is unhelpful.

We need more mental health services, we need more houses, how about providing those?” Baker said.

She said the legislation offered nothing to organisations already working to improve the circumstances of people living rough.

“Across the Wellington region there is already a strong collaborative approach between councils, police, health providers, housing organisations, iwi and NGOs.

“The focus is on outreach, connecting people to services, and creating pathways into stable housing. That work recognises that homelessness and related behaviour are usually the visible end of much deeper issues. Our priority will continue to be solutions that address those causes rather than measures that simply push the problem somewhere else,” Baker said.

Letter ‘overly simplistic’ – Paul Goldsmith

Goldsmith responded to requests for comment sent to Luxon.

He said the letter was “overly simplistic” and it’s signatories were “actively choosing to ignore the facts”.

“Only people who refuse those orders, will face prosecution. A move-on order, is not a criminal charge.

“This is about reclaiming our streets and our city centres for the enjoyment of everybody who visits, works and lives there” Goldsmith said.

Goldsmith said police had “the expertise to connect people with the support services they may require”.

“New Zealanders are fair-minded people, and our culture is one where we seek to help those who are in need, but that doesn’t mean we should accept our city centres, particularly our showcase tourist spots, becoming places of intimidation, and dysfunction,” Goldsmith said.

A protest against the move-on orders by people living and working in Auckland’s central city. Supplied

Police ‘overworked as it is’

Police Association head Steve Watt said police on the beat were “overworked as it is” did not have the resources to deal with the issues that led to people sleeping on the streets.

“The vast majority of people that are out on the street suffer from mental health issues, financial issues, anxiety issues. They’re all issues that really need to have specialist capability wrapped around them as opposed to police picking them up off the street and moving them along,” Watt said.

Watt said some members did welcome the additional powers but he felt the tools to deal with criminal behaviour on the streets were already available to police.

“There is legislation in place in order to deal with people that are on our streets, acting disorderly, being threatening towards members of the public or being offensive.

“We have powers under the Summary Offences Act in which we can deal with this. So what we’re talking about here is non-criminal activity and basically having an order to ship that problem down the street,” Watt said.

Legislation ‘another layer of mistreatment’

CEO of Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, Helmut Modlik said the legislation would add “another layer of mistreatment” into already difficult lives.

“Moving somebody from one spot to an undisclosed second spot without any substantive response to the reason why they were there in the first place is – by my definition – ‘superficial’.

“We don’t want want anything that just adds another layer of mistreatment, or ignoring or unhelpfulness into the lives of these people whose lives are full of all of that,” Modlik said.

He said the legislation was far removed from what he understood to be the values of New Zealanders.

“Nobody likes to see extreme examples of homeless people making a nuisance of themselves. But if people take just a few minutes just to actually understand what’s going on for those poor souls – why they’re there and what’s going on – then a very different response is what follows.

“That should guide us. That should guide our public policy, that should guide our investable activity in this domain. Not a nod to a narrow spectrum of interests and a superficial response. Which is what it is.

“There’s nothing about it that aligns with my understanding of what kind of people we are here in Aotearoa,” Modlik said.

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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/2026/03/10/move-on-orders-not-welcome-here-wellington-leaders-say/

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Police acknowledge sentencing of Keith Wicks-Cairns

Source: New Zealand Police

Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Keith Wicks-Cairns in the High Court at Dunedin today.

Wicks-Cairns was sentenced to 11 years imprisonment with a non-parole period of seven years and three months.

Detective Sergeant Reece Munro says this is a positive outcome for the victims and our community.

“We are glad to see action taken against this offender, who caused harm to not only his victims, but the wider community.

“We also want to congratulate the tireless commitment in the wider North Dunedin area by our partners, led by University of Otago proctor Dave Scott.

“It is satisfying to know that individuals such as the proctor are tirelessly advocating for their community.”

Police have and will continue to undertake prevention activity in the wider Dunedin area to prevent such offences.

“We look forward to continuing to work with our partners, including the Dunedin City Council, to build on our community’s crime prevention and deterrence CCTV networks.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/police-acknowledge-sentencing-of-keith-wicks-cairns/

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MEDIA ADVISORY: More police for the streets in latest wing graduation

Source: New Zealand Police

Media are invited to the 393 Keven Mealamu MNZM recruit wing graduation.

What:              Graduation of the New Zealand Police 393 Recruit Wing.

Who:               For families and friends to celebrate with the newly attested police officers.

Why:               Completion and graduation from their initial training course.

Where:            Royal New Zealand Police College – Parade Ground, Porirua.

When:             Thursday 12 March at 2pm – media will need to be in place by 1.45pm.

How:               RSVP the Police Media Centre if you’re attending: media@police.govt.nz

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers and the Associate Minister of Police Honourable Casey Costello will attend the ceremony with Wing Patron, Keven Mealamu – MNZM.

The 393 Wing Patron:

Keven Mealamu is a proud man of faith and family. A former All Black with over 100 test caps, he brings the values of teamwork, resilience, and discipline from rugby into business, governance, and community leadership. Keven has built and led ventures in health, wellbeing, and creative industries, while serving on boards and advisory groups that navigate complex strategic and cultural challenges.

As owner and director of FIT60HQ Gym and Protect For Life Insurance Brokers, he is passionate about helping whānau and businesses safeguard their futures, focusing on legacy, prosperity, and socially responsible decision-making.

Keven is committed to strengthening people, organisations, and communities across Aotearoa.

Keven was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in 2016 for services to rugby.

More details about statistics, prize winners and other recruits will be shared after graduation on Thursday and a follow up Ten One story will be published later this month. 

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/media-advisory-more-police-for-the-streets-in-latest-wing-graduation/

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Wrong place for offender, right time for Police

Source: New Zealand Police

An alleged offender attempting to break into cars right under the noses of Police was caught in the act in Henderson early this morning.

Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Nick Salter, says officers were called to an unrelated job at Waitākere Hospital just before 1am.

“As they were leaving units noticed a man riding an electric scooter though the car park,” he says.

“They observed this man appearing to look into vehicles with a flashlight.”

Officers stopped the man and asked for his details, which he provided.

“Our staff discovered this man had a recent fingerprint hit for a burglary in Kohimarama,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“Credit cards and some other items were taken from two vehicles parked at the address.”

When officers informed the man he was under arrest he attempted to flee on the scooter, but didn’t get far.

“One of our constables took off after him and caught up before he could make his escape,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“He was taken into custody and a search located multiple debit cards that were not in his name.”

Acting Inspector Salter says it was a great result by the officers who spotted the man.

“It is pleasing that we were able to potentially prevent a further offence from occurring that night,” he says.

“This individual now has to answer for his actions in court.”

A 34-year-old man will appear in the Waitākere District Court today charged with unlawfully gets into a motor vehicle, resisting police, possessing utensils for drugs and receiving.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/wrong-place-for-offender-right-time-for-police/

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Appeal for information, vehicle crimes, Queenstown

Source: New Zealand Police

Queenstown Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspects involved in stealing two vehicles and damaging two others.

The vehicles were seen in the Lake Hayes Estate and Lower Shotover areas overnight on Saturday 7 March and into the early hours of Sunday 8 March.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson, Area Response Manager says at about 1.40am on Sunday morning Police received a call from a resident in Lake Hayes Estate who had heard two cars speeding and what sounded like a crash.

When Police arrived, they saw a silver Subaru Legacy station wagon on Hope Avenue. Police signalled it to stop but the vehicle sped off. Police did not pursue the vehicle due to its dangerous speed. A short time later the vehicle was found abandoned in Ada Place, Lake Hayes Estate. The vehicle had been stolen from Tonis Terrace, Lower Shotover.

A second vehicle involved, a Nissan Tiida, was located abandoned in a park. It had been stolen from Orbell Drive, Lake Hayes Estate.

On the same night Police also received reports of two vehicles that were broken into and damaged on Tonis Terrace, Lower Shotover and Castalia Drive, Lake Hayes Estate.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson says this is a timely reminder to keep vehicles locked and to remove any valuables from vehicles overnight.

Queenstown Police would like to hear from anyone who has information on these vehicles, and are wanting to hear from anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage showing suspicious behaviour in the Lake Hayes Estate and Lower Shotover areas between 10pm Saturday and 4am on Sunday.

Information can be passed through the 105 service using file number 260309/9008 as a reference.

People can also give information anonymously using the Crime Stoppers number 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/appeal-for-information-vehicle-crimes-queenstown/

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HKPC’s 2nd “New Productive Forces” Job Fair 2026 Successfully Concluded Over 2,000 Job Seekers Connecting with Over 10,000 I&T Positions

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – In response to the national 15th Five-Year Plan’s emphasis on developing new productive forces and positioning Hong Kong as an international hub for high-caliber talent, and in alignment with the talent development initiatives outlined in the 2026–27 Budget, the “New Productive Forces” Job Fair 2026 organised by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) was successfully held on 7 March.

As one of HKPC’s key annual initiatives promoting Artificial Intelligence (AI) and talent development, the job fair attracted over 2,000 tertiary students, fresh graduates and job seekers from across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The event brought together more than 50 leading enterprises, organizations and government departments, offering over 10,000 quality job opportunities in key areas of new productive forces such as AI and STEAM. The event successfully established an efficient two-way talent matching platform and demonstrated HKPC’s commitment to implementing a talent-driven development strategy through concrete action.

The Job Fair also served as a core event funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission’s “New Productive Forces Talent Programme”. The event received strong support from more than 30 organisations, including the Hong Kong Talent Engage, the Labour Department, the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, the Hong Kong Quality and Talent Migrants, as well as various tertiary institutions. The opening ceremony was held in the morning, with officiating guests including Dr Lawrence CHEUNG, Chief Technology Officer of HKPC; Miss Rosalind CHEUNG, Assistant Commissioner for Innovation and Technology (Funding Schemes) and Ms. Karen FUNG, Chief Marketing Officer of HKPC.

At the opening ceremony, Dr Lawrence CHEUNG emphasised: “This year marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan and represents a golden opportunity for Hong Kong to leverage its strengths and align with national strategies. We must seize this opportunity to attract talent from around the world and develop new productive forces with Hong Kong characteristics. This Job Fair not only serves as a bridge connecting job seekers and enterprises but also provides an important platform to showcase how new productive forces can lead Hong Kong’s future development. Over the past two years, the “New Productive Forces Talent Programme” has organised a series of courses and technology study tours, and trained more than 1,000 participants.”

In a subsequent sharing session, Mr. Brian WONG, Chief People and Culture Officer of HKPC, delivered a presentation titled “HR as the AI Change Agent: Driving Enterprise-wide AI Transformation.” He pointed out that the success of corporate transformation in the AI era hinges on whether human resources (HR) can effectively play the role of change drivers. He shared several practical strategies, including how to cultivate AI engineers and talent in related fields. He emphasised that a company’s talent strategy should not be limited to technical skills training but should also focus on nurturing high-level thinking and innovative capabilities in talent, driving the company to adapt to rapidly changing markets and achieve robust transformation.

HR Leaders Praise Platform Value; Strong On-site Talent Matching

This year’s Job Fair featured a strong lineup of exhibitors, including Huawei International Hong Kong, Alibaba Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific Services Limited, The Bank of East Asia, EY and PwC, as well as government departments such as the Labour Department. Job opportunities covered key roles such as AI Consultant, Digital Transformation Specialist, Solutions Engineer and Digital Marketing Officer. Dedicated graduate programmes and internship opportunities were also offered, meeting the employment needs of a wide range of talent while providing companies with an important platform to recruit high-quality professionals in emerging technology sectors.

The atmosphere at the venue was vibrant, with many companies arranging on-site interviews, enabling job seekers to enjoy a seamless “one-stop interview” experience. HR representatives from participating companies highly praised the effectiveness of the event. Mr. Ryan Tang, Head of Personal Banking & Wealth Management Technology, Bank of East Asia, said: “The Job Fair attracted many professionals with experience in AI and technological transformation. I was very pleased to interact with them on site. Some candidates possess skills that match the bank’s needs, effectively strengthening our core talent pool.” Ms. Erica Kwan, Head of Business Development and Marketing, HSM Industrial Solution Company, said: “This Job Fair has improved our efficiency in recruiting digital and technical talent, enabling job seekers to connect more precisely with professional pathways in new industrialisation and become an important driving force for Hong Kong’s new productive forces.”Ms. Natalie Yuan, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of First Resume, remarked: “Job seekers on site showed a strong desire to enhance their job-hunting skills in the era of new productive forces. We look forward to deepening our collaboration with HKPC in the future to help talent strengthen their competitiveness.” Job seekers also widely noted that the event not only brought together a large number of quality job opportunities but also allowed them to communicate directly with company representatives and receive free career support, helping them better understand the talent requirements of emerging technology sectors and plan their future career development paths.

AI-Powered Services Enhance the Job-Seeking Experience

To help job seekers stand out in the competitive job market, the Job Fair continued to provide a wide range of free and comprehensive career support services. Among them, complimentary professional headshot photography remained one of the most popular services, helping many participants obtain professional photos suitable for job applications. At the same time, AI-powered CV optimisation, AI mock interviews, and one-on-one CV consultation services were also highly welcomed by participants. Multiple industry seminars and practical workshops were fully booked, covering topics such as “Applications of AI in Recruitment”, “AI Career Opportunities in the Finance and Technology Sectors”, and “100 Days of AI Transformation: Entering the Finance and Technology Industries”. Industry experts shared valuable job-hunting skills and insights into industry trends. In addition, the Job Fair introduced a new “Start–up Zone“, allowing job seekers to engage directly with local startup entrepreneurs and broaden their innovative thinking. The founder of the startup CanTone said, “This event allowed more people to learn about our entrepreneurial vision, and it also helped us recruit student interns, enhancing our startup’s competitiveness.” The “Maker Workshop“ also attracted many participants, who operated equipment such as 3D printers and laser engraving and cutting machines under the guidance of professional instructors, experiencing the appeal of innovation and technology manufacturing and further stimulating their interest in exploring the field of new productive forces.

HKPC has long been committed to cultivating talent with strong competitiveness for the Greater Bay Area. Through the integrated model of “job matching + career support + industry exchange”, the Job Fair not only helps enterprises address their talent needs but also enables job seekers to seize the opportunities presented by the development of new productive forces and achieve high-quality employment.

In the future, HKPC will continue to build diversified talent exchange and matching platforms while further enhancing the talent development ecosystem in the field of new productive forces.

Photo Captions:

  1. Dr Lawrence CHEUNG, Chief Technology Officer of HKPC, delivered welcome remarks at the opening ceremony of the “New Productive Forces” Job Fair 2026, noting that the Job Fair not only connects job seekers and enterprises but also showcases how new productive forces can lead Hong Kong’s future development.
  2. Dr Lawrence CHEUNG, Chief Technology Officer of HKPC (Middle) and Miss Rosalind CHEUNG, Assistant Commissioner for Innovation and Technology (Funding Schemes) (Right) and Ms. Karen FUNG, Chief Marketing Officer of HKPC (Left), officiate the opening ceremony of the “New Productive Forces” Job Fair 2026.
  3. Guests of honour, supporting organisations, representatives from institutions and associations witnessed the grand opening of the “New Productive Forces” Job Fair 2026.
  4. The Job Fair attracted a large crowd and brought together more than 50 leading enterprises, organisations and government departments, offering over 10,000 quality positions in key areas of new productive forces such as AI and STEAM.

Hashtag: #HKPC

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/2026/03/10/hkpcs-2nd-new-productive-forces-job-fair-2026-successfully-concluded-over-2000-job-seekers-connecting-with-over-10000-it-positions/

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Advocacy – Government needs to close “back-door” method of restricting rights using proposed “move-on orders” – PSNA

Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa

 

PSNA has written to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith today requesting proposed ‘move-on’ laws will specifically continue to allow free speech and the right to protest under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.

 

The approach to government comes in the wake of last week’s attempt by Christchurch City Councillor, Aaron Keown, to close down Palestine solidarity protests at Christchurch’s Bridge of Remembrance. 

 

As reported on Radio New Zealand Keown is insisting the police are keen to use the proposed new laws to shift protests on:

 

Keown said police told him months ago that they needed powers like the proposed move-on orders, which he believed would help disperse protesters.

Councillor Keown welcomed the newly announced move-on powers, which he believed would “absolutely help” disperse protesters, something Woods (Amnesty International director of advocacy and movement building Lisa Woods) said was of grave concern to Amnesty International.

 

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa’s Co-chair, John Minto says Keown’s statements contradict assurances made by senior police when a PSNA delegation met with them two weeks ago in Wellington to discuss increasing attacks on Palestine solidarity supporters by IDF soldiers and other elements of the pro-Israel lobby. 

 

“At the meeting police specifically told our delegation these ‘move-on’ orders would NOT be used to restrict protest rights.”

 

“So, there is a mass of confusion around over the proposed new law.”

“We need the Justice Minister to use clear wording, when he introduces legislation into Parliament, that anyone exercising their rights under the Bill of Rights Act will not be included.”

 

“We already have many laws which were introduced for a particular purpose, but which have been used to restrict the right to protest – for example trespass orders and ‘unlawful assembly’ provisions under the Crimes Act,” Minto says.

 

“New Zealanders rights to free speech and right to protest in public are under attack. Last year police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority colluded to propose legislation which would have required police permission to organise a protest”

 

“Authoritarian regimes the world over are putting heavy restriction on the right to protest. Many of them claim to be democracies.  It’s important we resist jack-boot policing here.”

 

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/advocacy-government-needs-to-close-back-door-method-of-restricting-rights-using-proposed-move-on-orders-psna/

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Woman summonsed following fatal dog attack, March 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown:

Police have today summonsed a 35-year-old woman in relation to the death of four-year-old Timothy Rolleston, following a dog attack in Katakati in March 2025.

The woman faces a charge of owning a dog that causes death to a person.

She is due to appear in the New Plymouth District Court on Monday 16 March.

Timothy’s family have been notified of this outcome.

Our thoughts remain with them, and we continue to offer them the necessary support.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/woman-summonsed-following-fatal-dog-attack-march-2025/

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If you drink, don’t drive. It’s a decision that can save a life

Source: New Zealand Police

Canterbury Police remind motorists that drink driving is never worth the risk.

If you’re heading out to enjoy an event, a gathering, or a night with friends, plan a sober ride home for your safety, and for everyone else on the road.

Over the weekend, several well‑attended events were held across rural Canterbury, including at the Lincoln Domain on Saturday evening and in Waipara on Sunday.

Senior Sergeant Rachel Walker says Police were pleased that the events were largely trouble‑free, but that it was disappointing to see that some drivers still chose to consume alcohol and then get behind the wheel.

“These decisions put themselves, their passengers and other road users at serious risk.”

Police commend the many motorists who made the right call by arranging safe transport and driving responsibly but have seen enough when it comes to impaired driving.

“The consequences of crashes caused by alcohol or drugs are devastating,” says Senior Sergeant Walker.

“For whānau, communities and for the emergency responders who attend them.

“Our staff will continue to maintain a strong presence on the roads to educate drivers and prevent harm.

“We see the damage so we’re unapologetic about prevention.”

With several major events coming up, including Supercars, Super Rugby fixtures and two busy long weekends with Easter and ANZAC Day, Police urge everyone to plan before heading out.

“If you’re drinking or using drugs, legal or illegal, don’t drive.

“Choose a sober driver. Call a taxi. Use public transport. Stay the night.

“One decision can save a life.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/if-you-drink-dont-drive-its-a-decision-that-can-save-a-life/

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Appeal for information following burglary, Dannevirke

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Tararua Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Carey Williamson: 

Manawatū Police are appealing for information following a burglary in Dannevirke last week.

On Friday 6 March, around 11.40pm, Police were called with a report that a burglary was in progress at a store on High Street.

Officers responded immediately, however the offenders had already fled the scene – taking with them a large amount of alcohol and cigarettes, as well as an amount of cash.

A scene guard was in place overnight and a scene examination was carried out early Saturday morning.

Enquiries are ongoing, however, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the High Street area, between 11pm and midnight last Friday, and may have witnessed the incident, or any suspicious behaviour.

Additionally, anyone travelling in that area, around the same time, with dashcam footage is urged to get in touch so that we may be able to review that footage.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260307/3053.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 – referencing the same file number.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/appeal-for-information-following-burglary-dannevirke/

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Burglary bust ends in cuffs

Source: New Zealand Police

A group of alleged burglars on the hunt for booze instead ended up in custody in Clarks Beach on Monday morning.

Senior Sergeant Jeremy Steedman, Counties Manukau South Response Manager, says at about 1.30am Police received a report of an attempted break in at a liquor store on Seaway Road.

“A group of four males tried to enter the store by kicking the front door and hitting the glass with a hammer,” he says.

“However they were unsuccessful in gaining entry and fled the area after drawing attention from neighbouring properties with all the noise.”

The group left in a vehicle and headed onto the motorway, passing a Police unit on the way.

“Due to the manner of driving Police did not follow the vehicle as it sped north towards Takanini,” Senior Sergeant Steedman says.

“Eagle was quickly in the air and was able to monitor from a distance.”

The vehicle exited at Takanini and one alleged offender got out, before the car sped off again back onto the motorway.

“The vehicle continued on to East Tāmaki where it was dumped at a bus stop in the Ōtara town centre,” Senior Sergeant Steedman says.

“Three occupants ran into the township where they were quickly located by the dog unit, Delta and taken into custody.”

Senior Sergeant Steedman says subsequent enquiries discovered the vehicle had been stolen from Flat Bush the night before.

“We are pleased we have apprehended these alleged offenders and that they will answer for their actions,” he says.

“Police have zero tolerance for this type of offending.”

Four males aged between 15 and 17 have been referred to Youth Aid.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/burglary-bust-ends-in-cuffs/

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Update: Search and Rescue operation, Greymouth

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood, West Coast Search and Rescue:

Police’s search in Greymouth continues after a report of a person who had been swept out to sea this weekend.

At around 6pm Saturday, Police were notified the person had been swept to sea.

The search resumed this morning where Police, with the assistance of Precision Helicopters, conducted aerial searches of the shoreline between Ross and Charleston.

At this stage, the person has not yet been located, with rough sea conditions and white caps making the search difficult.

Police continue to make enquiries to identify the person swept out to sea, and if the kayak is linked to the person.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/update-search-and-rescue-operation-greymouth/

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SH1 closes as truck and car crash near Milton

Source: Radio New Zealand

St John said an ambulance and a helicopter had been sent to the crash site RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson

A helicopter has been sent to a the scene of a collision between a truck and car blocking State Highway 1 near Milton.

The crash happened shortly before 9am near the intersection of Adams Flat Road and Milton Highway.

Police said it appeared people had been injured.

St John said an ambulance and a helicopter had been sent.

NZTA said SH1 near Milton was closed near the intersection with Adams Flat Road.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area where possible and expect delays.

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/2026/03/09/sh1-closes-as-truck-and-car-crash-near-milton/

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Police, helicopter rescue boaties, diver of Wellington’s southern coast

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police launch Lady Elizabeth IV found the boat about 6km off the coast.

Police and Westpac Rescue Helicopter have rescued a diver and boaties in windy and choppy conditions off Wellington’s south coast this week.

The police maritime unit responded to an emergency call from two people on a 5.4m runabout about 4pm Thursday, after they struck difficulties with 88km/h winds and two-metre waves, and were being blown out to seas.

The boat owner, who was the only occupant who knew how to drive the boat, had been scuba-diving and was still in the water closer to shore.

Police called in the rescue helicopter and volunteer coastguard to assist, and about 4.30pm, the police launch Lady Elizabeth IV found the boat about 6km off the coast.

Constable Stephanie Cox was able to board the boat in tricky conditions and drive it back to Owhiro Bay.

An hour later, the diver was located on a remote shore, after surfacing and realising his boat had gone. He was airlifted to Wellington Airport.

No-one was harmed, but all three were shaken by the experience.

“These two men can consider themselves lucky,” senior launch master Constable Nicko McGregor said. “These difficult weather conditions were no place for a small runabout to be.

“This is a reminder of how quickly situations at sea can change. Good preparation and formal training make a real difference, when things don’t go to plan on the water.”

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/2026/03/08/police-helicopter-rescue-boaties-diver-of-wellingtons-southern-coast/

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Diver and boaties rescued after being blown out to sea

Source: New Zealand Police

Teamwork between the Police Maritime Unit and Westpac Rescue Helicopter successfully rescued a diver and boaties in windy and choppy waters off the Wellington South Coast earlier this week.

Around 4pm on Thursday 5 March, the Wellington Police Maritime Unit responded to a 111-emergency call to Police from two people on board a 5.4m runabout on Wellington’s South Coast.

The boaties were experiencing gale force winds up to 88km/h, it was getting rougher with up to 2m waves as they were being blown out to sea.

The boaties also reported that the boat owner and skipper who had been on the trip with them had been scuba diving closer to shore and was still in the water.

With the escalating situation and risk to the boaties and diver’s lives, Police called on emergency support from Life Flight’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter and Wellington’s Volunteer Coastguard to assist in rescue efforts.

Around 4.30pm, the Police Launch vessel, Lady Elizabeth IV, located the small runabout about 6km off Wellington’s South Coast.

The missing skipper/scuba diver was the only one of the three of them who knew how to drive the boat properly. The two boaties left onboard were unable to drive the boat to safety.

Crew on the Police Launch were able to use their tender (inflatable boat) to safely put a crew member onto the runabout. This was challenging in the rough conditions but necessary in the circumstances.

Launch Crew member Constable Stephanie Cox was able to take control and drove the runabout back to Owhiro Bay boat ramp on Wellington’s South Coast.

Around 5.30pm after the initial 111 call to Police, the Westpac Rescue helicopter located the missing diver on a remote shore waving out to them. The diver had surfaced after his dive, realised his boat had gone and he then managed to swim to shore on the south coast. The diver was flown back to the Life Flight base at Wellington Airport.

Both boaties and the diver were unharmed but shaken after the experience.

Senior Launch Master Constable Nicko McGregor says the incident highlights the importance of preparation before going out on the water.

“These two men can consider themselves lucky. These difficult weather conditions were no place for a small runabout to be.”

Constable McGregor says when heading out on the water, make sure you:

  • Check the weather, sometimes the wind and waves can couple to make an unsafe day on the water – especially if you’re not a confident and experienced boatie
  • Carry proper safety equipment
  • Have at least two forms of communication, and ensure they are put in a waterproof case or pouch
  • Everyone on board understands basic emergency procedures.

“This is a reminder of how quickly situations at sea can change. Good preparation and formal training make a real difference when things don’t go to plan on the water,” says Constable McGregor.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/diver-and-boaties-rescued-after-being-blown-out-to-sea/

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Search and Rescue operation, Greymouth

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Senior Sergeant Mark Kirkwood, West Coast Search and Rescue:

A Search and Rescue operation is continuing in Greymouth today.

At around 6pm Saturday, emergency services received a report of a person who had been swept out to sea in the Greymouth/Blaketown area.  

Extensive searches have been conducted in the area, involving Police, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Kotuku Surf Lifesaving and Garden City Helicopters.

The Emily B Drifter was also deployed, the drifter replicates where a person in the ocean may be. 

A kayak was located washed up near Blaketown at around 7:30pm yesterday. Police are making enquiries to determine whether this is linked to the person that was seen.

We’re asking anybody who recognises this kayak, or has not heard from somebody who was kayaking in Greymouth yesterday (7 March) to contact Police via 105.

Please quote the reference number P065678948.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/search-and-rescue-operation-greymouth/