Category: 24/7 News

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Mannings Introduces City-Wide Immersive Wellness Pop-Up “Mannings BoostUP – Your Wellness & Beauty Fiesta” Debuts This April in West Kowloon Cultural District

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – In a fast‑paced city where pressure and information overload are part of daily life, the definition of health has expanded beyond the absence of illness. For many Hongkongers, health now encompasses sleep quality, emotional balance, appearance confidence, and a sense of connection with others – for a more holistic, lifestyle‑driven state of wellbeing. It is highly individual, yet strengthened through community support.

This April, Mannings is teaming up with Charlz Ng, a Hong Kong–based wellness advocate, brand strategist, and community builder, to bring Wellness from concept to everyday practice through the Mannings BoostUP Fiesta. The wellness & beauty discovery playground pop up will take place on 25–26 April at the West Kowloon Cultural District. Designed as a “Wellness Buffet”, Mannings BoostUP blends interactive experiences, mind‑body sessions, community‑driven activities, and a range of complimentary health assessments from the Mannings Professional Health Team. The goal is simple but transformative: to inspire everyone to move beyond reactive health habits and discover their own version of a good state at their own pace, in their own way.

Mannings Redefines Wellness Elevating Everyday Wellbeing

As Hong Kong’s leading Health & Beauty retailer with deep roots in the city for over 50 years, Mannings has accompanied generations of customers with authentic products, trusted advice and caring service. In recent years, the Mannings brand has evolved into The Trusted Advisor for Wellness, reflecting a growing public desire for more complete and balanced approach to wellbeing – not just physically, but emotionally, socially, and in everyday confidence. For younger generations in particular, they are looking for wellness that feels fun, relatable and part of real life.

That’s why Mannings is stepping outside the store and into the community, creating fresh, lively and varied wellness experiences that are easy to join and enjoyable for all. Through Mannings BoostUP, we are bringing together local wellness experts, movement leaders, and diverse communities to reimagine what Wellness can look and feel like, turning it into a “Wellness Buffet” where everyone can explore and try something new, elevating their holistic wellbeing. From young people to families to anyone curious about feeling better, Mannings BoostUp aims to spark a more vibrant, connected wellness culture across the city.

Alex Liu, Managing Director of Mannings Hong Kong, Macau and China, said: “Today’s customers see health as much more than ‘pills when you’re ill’. They aspire to build a richer, more vibrant life for themselves, nurturing their physical, emotional, appearance and social wellbeing every day. As Hong Kong’s Trusted Advisor for Wellness, Mannings is committed to supporting our customers on this journey – through professional expertise, technology and community networks. Mannings BoostUP marks an important milestone in how we re-imagine wellness and embodies our commitment to grow together with the city.”

Doreen Cheng, Marketing Director for DFI Retail Group Health & Beauty, North Asia, and H&B Own Brand Power Brand added: “Our customers are increasingly embracing wellness as a holistic, lifestyle‑driven pursuit. Mannings BoostUP is an experiential platform where wellness becomes immersive, uplifting and part of everyday life. Through these experiences, we invite customers to reconnect meaningfully with their complete selves, so that everyone can explore their own version of ‘being in good state’, at their own pace.”

Charlz Ng, Hong Kong–based wellness advocate, brand strategist, community builder and Founder of 120 Collective shared: “At Mannings BoostUP, you don’t need to be an athlete or gym enthusiast. We aren’t chasing records or keeping score, we’re here to help people understand themselves a little better. That’s why partnering with Mannings felt natural to us. We share the belief that wellness should be part of daily life, and that everyone should be able to engage with it in their own way. It’s about the courage to try something new, the joy of discovery, and the magic that happens when we move together.”

Six-zone Playground with 40+ Immersive Experiences – One Ticket, Access to Everything

The two‑day festival brings together over 50 wellness experts, movement leaders and community builders, offering 40+ experiences across six curated zones. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or simply health‑curious, the Fiesta is designed for absolutely everyone – it’s fun, accessible, social and endlessly explorable.

  1. Mannings House: Mannings understands that everyone’s wellness journey is different, which is why the Mannings House sits as the starting point, an inviting space where guests can ease into their experience by getting to know their own mind-body condition. The Mannings Professional Health Team will offer a range of complimentary wellness assessments, including the Health Pod, Skin Assessment, AI Hair & Scalp Assessment, Modern Chinese Medicine Consultation, Cardiovascular & Stress Monitor, and Body Composition Analysis. With personalised insights based on ndividual results, participants can quickly understand their wellness needs and navigate the rest of the themed zones with clarity – helping them discover their own wellness track towards holistic health.
  2. BoostUP Stage: Get ready for countless unexpected collaborations on the BoostUP Stage! From Cantopop to classical music, high-energy workouts to mindfulness breathing, and coffee to matcha – there are untold paths toward wellness waiting to be encountered. The BoostUP Stage is primed to deliver an unprecedented sensory experience for every participant.
  3. Bloom Garden: Offers a variety of experiences to rejuvenate body and mind. From pilates to sound healing and aroma workshops, the garden leads visitors to rediscover passion and curiosity, through holistic experiences that relax mind, body and spirit, bringing a deeper understanding of individual preferences, opening new goals for inner and outer well-being, on the journey towards being your best self.
  4. Wellness Village: A curated marketplace offering an array of innovative wellness and beauty products, including brands: Mannings Guardian, 50 Megumi, Abbott, Colgate, Dermacept, DR. ALTHEA, FATION, FineNutri, G-NiiB, lilyeve, narka, REAL BARRIER, SHIMBI METHOD and TORRIDEN. Participants explore the latest health trends and experience comprehensive nourishment and rejuvenation, inside-out and outside-in.
  5. Play Zone: Where friendly competition meets pure fun. Team challenges, playful games, and moments of laughter, because wellness is a natural state and humans naturally like to play.
  6. Breathing Corner: A quiet corner to pause and reset. No instructions, no schedule. Just space to breathe, rest, and be.

Community × Citywide Celebration: A Wellness Festival Made for Hong Kong

The Mannings BoostUP is more than an event, it’s a citywide celebration inviting Hong Kong people to reconnect with themselves and with one another. Set against our magnificent harbour on the stylish West Kowloon Cultural District, Mannings BoostUP blends movement, music, recovery and restorative stillness, encouraging everyone to step back from the rush and touch the earth again. By bringing together diverse wellness communities, the event aims to spark conversation, connection, and insight – bringing Wellness back into neighbourhoods and city lifestyles, making it feel accessible, personal, and the natural way forward.

Mannings BoostUP Fiesta – Event Details
Date: 25–26 April 2026 (Saturday + Sunday), 9:00am – 7:00pm
Venue: Great Lawn, West Kowloon Cultural District, Tsim Sha Tsui

Programme Highlights: Six themed zones, two stages, 40+ experiences, star‑coach classes, Play Zone movement challenges, mind‑body recovery workshops, wellness expert talks, and more. (* Some sessions have limited capacity and will be available on a first‑come, first‑served basis.)

Early-Bird Tickets: HK$100 (1‑day pass), HK$180 (2‑day pass)
Standard Tickets: HK$200 (1‑day pass), HK$360 (2‑day pass)
On-Site Tickets: HK$300 (1-day pass)
Ticket Sales: On sale now. Early‑bird offer available until 15 April 2026
Ticket Link: https://manningsboostup.com/

Hashtag: #Mannings #TrustedAdvisorForWellness #HealthandBeauty #ManningsBoostUP #ReimagineWellnessTogether #WellnessAndBeautyFiesta #DFIRetailGroup

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/2026/03/24/mannings-introduces-city-wide-immersive-wellness-pop-up-mannings-boostup-your-wellness-beauty-fiesta-debuts-this-april-in-west-kowloon-cultural-district/

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School support staff reach pay settlement

Source: New Zealand Government

Education Minister Erica Stanford is welcoming the conclusion of negotiations to renew both the Support Staff in Schools and the Kaiārahi i te Reo and Therapists’ Collective Agreements.

A 23 March ballot with members of the NZEI Te Riu Roa and E Tū returned a majority vote to ratify the two collective agreements, benefiting around 37,000 support staff.

“The settlement announced today is a positive result for our valued support staff, who play a vital role in our education system,” Ms Stanford says. 

“Teacher aides, library staff, administrators, science techs, therapists, and kaiārahi i te reo support over 800,000 students across the country. This settlement is a positive step which will see them receive cumulative increase of at least 4.55 percent within 12 months,” says Ms Stanford.

“The majority of staff also receive yearly progression, which provides annual increases as they move up the pay scale.

“We are also continuing our investment in learning support with a special approved provider PLD fund for staff who work directly with students who experience behavioural or learning needs associated with neurodiversity. This fund will provide up to $8 million total over the life of the fund.”

“Every student deserves the chance to succeed and go on and live the life they want. We’re making sure that every student, regardless of background, has that chance. We will continue to support our education workforce with the tools they need to help our young people reach their potential.”

Notes for editors: 

Full details of the settlement can be found here: Collective Agreement negotiations | Education Workforce

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/school-support-staff-reach-pay-settlement/

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MyRepublic Announces ‘Card Con 2’ – Singapore’s Premier Trading Card Convention Returns Bigger in 2026

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – Following the success of its inaugural event, MyRepublic today announced the return of Card Con 2, Singapore’s premier trading card convention dedicated to celebrating the rapidly growing world of Trading Card Games (TCGs), collectibles, and geek culture.

Card Con 2 by MyRepublic returns in March 2026

Taking place from 28 – 29 March 2026, at Suntec City Convention Centre, Hall 405 from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, Card Con 2 will bring together collectors, players, retailers, and enthusiasts from across the region for two days of tournaments, on-stage events, TCG activities, and collectible discovery.

After welcoming more than 50 exhibitors and thousands of attendees during its inaugural event, Card Con 2 returns on a significantly larger scale this year with over 120 exhibitors. The exhibition hall will be organised into dedicated vendor zones based on TCG speciality, featuring popular titles such as Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, sports, and more.

“As we saw from the overwhelming response to the first Card Con, the trading card community in Singapore is vibrant, passionate, and rapidly growing.
Card Con 2 is bigger than ever, with many more exhibitors this year, and with several new, unique activities at the event, we believe we’re creating an even richer space for collectors, players, retailers, and creators to come together for discovery and celebration.”
— Lawrence Chan, Managing Director, MyRepublic

A Celebration of the TCG community

Attendees at Card Con 2, Singapore’s premier TCG convention, can expect a vibrant mix of activities that celebrate every aspect of the Trading Card Game (TCG) community, from competitive gameplay to collectible discovery and fan experiences.

With dedicated vendor zones organised by game title, including Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Sports, and more, it’s easier for fans to explore their favourite TCG titles.

Card Con 2 will host dedicated tournaments and play areas where both competitive and casual players can participate in matches across popular TCG titles, creating a constant buzz of activity throughout the convention. Players of all skill levels will have the opportunity to participate, test their decks, challenge opponents, and showcase their skills.

At the heart of Card Con 2 is Jank Mountain, a free feature where attendees can browse a 20k+ pool of Pokémon, MTG, One Piece, and other cards to uncover useful additions for their collections. It offers opportunities to find unexpected value as well as specific cards needed to complete decks, adding another discovery-driven element to the event experience.

Attendees can also take part in a treasure hunt, dubbed ‘Scruffy’s Asteroid Hunt’, an interactive online and offline experience where they scan QR codes placed around the venue for a chance to spin for great prizes. Each QR code can only be scanned once, encouraging exploration across different areas of Card Con 2.

Strengthening Singapore’s TCG community

Card Con is part of MyRepublic’s broader commitment to supporting geek culture and building meaningful connections within enthusiast communities. By creating a dedicated platform for trading card fans, MyRepublic contributes to the continued growth of Singapore’s collectibles and Trading Card Game (TCG) ecosystem, welcoming both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.

Event details & registration

Card Con 2 will take place from 28 – 29 March 2026 at Suntec City Convention Centre, Hall 405, from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm daily. Admission is free (ticketed event), with registration now open at https://cardcon.asia/.

Due to limited venue capacity, attendees are encouraged to register early to secure their spot. For more information, including event updates and announcements, please visit https://cardcon.asia/.

https://myrepublic.net/sg/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/2426006/admin/dashboard/
https://x.com/myrepublic
https://www.facebook.com/MyRepublicSG/
https://www.instagram.com/myrepublicsg/

Hashtag: #CardCon2026 #CardCon2 #MyRepublic #GeeksUseUs #TradingCardGames #CollectiblesCulture #TCGCommunity #GeekCulture #CardCollectors #TCGTournaments

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/2026/03/24/myrepublic-announces-card-con-2-singapores-premier-trading-card-convention-returns-bigger-in-2026/

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Connecting the World, Driving Apex Growth: Apexmind Summit 2026 Successfully Held in HongKong

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – The Apexmind Summit 2026 was grandly held in Hong Kong today. The summit brought together leading global strategists, scholars, and business and policy leaders to engage in high-level dialog on how strategic opportunities are reshaping the competitive landscape. During the event, the Apexmind Consulting Hong Kong Office Inauguration was officially announced, and Founder & Chairman, Apexmind Consulting, Mr. Yao Rongjun was honored as an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants Hong Kong (IMCHK). These dual milestones mark that the Chinese strategic consulting force, represented by Apexmind, is actively achieving a “cultural handshake” with global business through Hong Kong. Under the vision of “Strategic Co-evolution”, it advances the global expansion in a meaningful and tangible way.

Official Launch of Apexmind Consulting Hong Kong Office

Redefining the Logic of Competition and Interpreting the Essence of Strategy in the New Era

Mr. Yao, Founder & Chairman of Apexmind Consulting, delivered a keynote, offering a profound analysis of how competitive dynamics are evolving in the new era. He emphasized: “Competition is not about meeting demand, but about winning the mind. The purpose of business is not to create customers, but to occupy a position in the mind. Business is not about improving efficiency, but about winning people’s hearts. Decisions should not be made from the inside out, but from the outside in. Strategy is not the sum of parts, but an integrated system.” In his view, as Chinese enterprises transition from product globalization to brand and model globalization, the global market urgently requires a strategic language that is both universally applicable and capable of engaging in dialog with the world.

Gaining Recognition from International Professional Forces, Co-building a New Global Consulting Ecosystem

Nicholas Warn, Chair of the International Council of Management Consulting Institute, delivered a keynote and expressed his vision for deep cooperation with Apexmind to collaboratively build a global business ecosystem and drive industry evolution. He stated, “What Chinese consultancies can bring to us, particularly consultancies like Apexmind, is an enrichment of what we have already.” This recognition from a global authoritative consulting organization, combined with Mr. Yao’s same-day honor as the IMCHK Honorary Fellow, signals a pivotal shift that Chinese strategy consulting is evolving from a recipient of global business wisdom into a co-creator of original strategic thought systems.

Identifying Seven Strategic Opportunities, Mapping the Growth Blueprint for Chinese Enterprises

Co-President, Apexmind Consulting, Mr. Chen Ji released “Seven Strategic Opportunities for Chinese Enterprises” on site, presenting a structured strategic methodology that provides companies with clear, actionable growth pathways and breakthrough directions. Each opportunity reflects insights refined through real-world strategic engagements with 62 enterprises. These frameworks enable companies to transform external uncertainty into sustainable growth certainty.

From Hong Kong to the World: Powering Shared Growth Across the Greater Bay Area

Distinguished speakers from academia, industry associations, and business communities contributed further insights. Professor Shi Weilei of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, from a global perspective, proposed that the transnational strategy of Chinese enterprises must anchor a balanced core between localization and global collaboration. Mr. Yang Yang, Professor of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and Director of HKUST Shanghai Center, illustrated the value driven by disruptive innovation scenarios in smart cities, noting that data and algorithms in the AI era are opening entirely new competitive tracks for global entrepreneurs.

Daniel Chan, President of the Institute of Management Consultants Hong Kong (IMCHK), stated that Hong Kong is upgrading from a “Super Connector” to a “Super Value-Chain Enhancer”. By building a strategic bridge for Chinese enterprises going global and international firms entering the market through two-way empowerment, Hong Kong demonstrates its unique value as a hub. Dr. Huang Weihong, Vice President of The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong, shared a Hong Kong perspective, interpreting the pathways for brands to achieve strategic breakthroughs in the new consumer wave by leveraging regional advantages and strategic wisdom.

The establishment of Apexmind Consulting Hong Kong Office and the successful conclusion of this summit are a small step in Apexmind’s global journey, but a significant leap for Chinese strategy consulting toward “Cultural Handshake, Strategic Co-evolution”. With a proven track record of enabling 62 enterprises to achieve billion-level growth at scale, Apexmind Consulting continues to drive the industry forward from setting local benchmarks to contributing to global standards. Moving ahead, Apexmind will remain committed to an open vision, bringing strategy frameworks rooted in China and validated through real-world practice to the international stage. In the evolving landscape of global business, Apexmind Consulting is poised to elevate the Chinese consulting industry to new global heights.

Hashtag: #ApexmindConsulting

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/2026/03/24/connecting-the-world-driving-apex-growth-apexmind-summit-2026-successfully-held-in-hongkong/

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Appeal for information following violent assault, Christchurch

Source: New Zealand Police

Christchurch Police investigating a violent assault in the CBD are appealing for information from the public to assist in identifying the person pictured as we believe they can assist in our enquiries.

On Thursday 19 March, Police were called to Worcester Street at around 10pm following reports of a person received injuries consistent with being stabbed.

Detective Sergeant Ben Rolton says the victim was transported to hospital in a serious condition and remains in hospital in a stable condition.

“We are now working to identify the person pictured as we believe they were in the area at the time of the incident and have information that can assist our investigation.”

Police are also appealing for any CCTV or dash-cam footage in the Latimer Square area and the Hereford, Worcester, Gloucester, Armagh, and Barbadoes Streets between 9.30pm and 10.30pm on Thursday.

“If you have any footage, no matter how small or irrelevant you may think, it may be the final piece of the puzzle we need for our enquiries.

“If you have not yet spoken with us, please get in touch,” says Detective Sergeant Rolton.

Any information, CCTV, or dashcam footage that may assist our enquiries can be provided to us online at 105.police.govt.nz, or call 105.

Please use the reference number 260320/0514.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/appeal-for-information-following-violent-assault-christchurch/

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JioStar Unlocks India’s Billion-Strong Consumer Base for Southeast Asia Brands via Live Sports

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – JioStar, a global media and entertainment powerhouse, is providing brands from South East Asia unparalleled access to over a billion viewers through India’s most-watched sporting events. With TATA IPL 2026 starting in less than two weeks, JioStar’s multi-screen presentation of one of the most valued sports leagues globally will provide brands a gateway to the massive consumer base.

TATA IPL 2026 has already attracted brands such as Google, Amazon, Uber, Skoda, OpenAI and P&G, signalling continued confidence in India’s high-growth consumer economy. The 2025 edition transformed the TATA IPL experience across both linear and digital – reimagining how fans, brands, and partners connect with live sport. The previous edition recorded a reach of 537 million on TV and 652 million on digital, with 425+ advertisers participating, including 270+ first-time advertisers, across 40 unique categories.

“Live sport brings millions together in moments of intense emotion and attention. This was demonstrated by JioHotstar’s world-record 72.5 million peak concurrency during India’s victory at the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 — making sport the ideal launchpad for companies in Southeast Asia to build relevance and connection,” said Harry Griffith, Head of International Acquisitions & Syndication, Sports – JioStar.

The recently concluded ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 saw leading global brands including Coca-Cola, Marriott, Rado, Emirates, Pernod Ricard, Domino’s, Diageo and Samsung, reinforcing the effectiveness of live sports as a platform for market entry and expansion.

For South East Asian businesses seeking to establish their footprint in the fastest growing major economy in the world, JioStar provides seamless nationwide reach across linear television, Connected TV (CTV), and mobile platforms. At a recent forum organised by the Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), JioStar demonstrated how live sports have evolved into the most effective vehicle for international brands to engage India’s demographic.

JioStar’s portfolio features the world’s most prestigious sporting properties, including the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL), ICC’s marquee events, the TATA Women’s Premier League (WPL), BCCI Cricket, Big Bash League, SA20, Major League Cricket (MLC), Olympics, Wimbledon, US Open, English Premier League, marquee BWF events, ONE Championship, Milano Cortina 2026, NFL among others.

As India’s premium consumer base expands, the convergence of scale, and measurable impact offers a unique advantage. For Singaporean companies, aligning with India’s defining sporting moments and the scalable engagement that JioStar provides is the key to unlock growth in the world’s most dynamic market.

Hashtag: #JioStar #TATAIPL #WorldCup2026 #Advertising #Marketing #Sports #Streaming

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/2026/03/24/jiostar-unlocks-indias-billion-strong-consumer-base-for-southeast-asia-brands-via-live-sports/

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Trend Micro’s Enterprise Business is now TrendAI™

Source: Media Outreach

New identity for solving enterprise challenges reflects company’s evolution and AI leadership

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704) today announced that its enterprise cybersecurity business will now operate under the name TrendAI , reflecting its evolution as AI becomes the next compute layer for the enterprise. This aligns with the company’s focus on solving real-world security challenges with cyber risk managed as a core business priority.

As organizations redesign operations around AI, autonomous systems, and data-driven decision-making, security must evolve as well. TrendAI reflects the expanding attack surface from protecting infrastructure and applications to governing how AI systems act, connect, and make decisions across the enterprise.

TrendAI ’s approach to AI security is grounded in four core principles: gaining visibility into AI usage, systems and agents interact across environments, understanding the context and intent behind those interactions, enforcing policy and control over usage and agent-driven actions, and introducing human oversight at critical decision points.

Eva Chen, CEO of Trend Micro: “TrendAI reflects our conviction that security must evolve as quickly as the technology it protects. Enterprises are redesigning how work gets done around AI, data, and agentic systems. Our role is to ensure they can do so with confidence, control, and resilience built in from the start.”

The new identity marks the company’s evolution from a portfolio of industry-leading products to a unified, enterprise AI cybersecurity platform. TrendAI Vision One is recognized as a leader across cloud, endpoint, network and threat detection by analyst firms like Gartner, IDC, and Forrester. The new brand aligns how TrendAI builds and delivers security solutions with how modern enterprises manage cyber risk – extending beyond infrastructure protection to governing AI-driven systems and decisions.

Rachel Jin, CPBO and Head of TrendAI : “This is a fundamentally new way of approaching cybersecurity. As AI systems take on more responsibility, security must evolve from reacting to events to understanding intent and governing machine-driven actions. TrendAI is built for how our customers are operating today- combining decades of threat intelligence with real-world experience to help organizations reduce risk, move faster, and operate securely at machine speed.”

As part of this next chapter, TrendAI is also introducing and expanding several strategic initiatives:

  • TrendAI AI Security Brief: A new podcast series delivering timely, real-world stories at the intersection of AI and security.
  • TrendAI Spark: A flagship global events ecosystem, bringing together customers, partners, and the broader technology community to examine how AI is reshaping security, risk, and leadership decision-making.
  • S-RM Partnership: Expands TrendAI partner ecosystem through a global incident response and cyber risk advisory partner embedded in post-breach workflows, helping organizations transition from containment to long-term risk reduction and security strategy.
  • HackerVerse collaboration: Independent adversarial testing powered by autonomous AI agents executing real MITRE ATT&CK techniques, continuously validating detection efficacy through measurable, proof-based results.

https://www.trendaisecurity.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/trendai-security
https://x.com/trendaisecurity
https://www.facebook.com/trendaisecurity/
https://www.instagram.com/trendaisecurity/

Hashtag: #trendmicro #trendai #trendaivisionone #visionone #cybersecurity

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/2026/03/24/trend-micros-enterprise-business-is-now-trendai/

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Fuel-crisis package is paper-thin

Source: NZCTU

The Government’s proposed support package for families in a fuel crisis is woefully inadequate, says NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey.

“Some families will get limited relief from this package. But the Government is doing nothing for families who don’t receive the in-work tax credit. They are doing nothing for pensioners. They are doing nothing to make this country more energy secure.

“92% of households won’t get anything from this package. New Zealanders already doing it tough – pensioners, welfare recipients, single people – won’t see any relief. It won’t help those working in rural communities who are facing huge price increases.

“Industries across the country are under pressure from rising fuel costs. We are already in a cost-of-living crisis, and now fuel prices risk flowing through to the price of food and other essentials. And yet the Government is choosing to provide minimum relief while Kiwi families are struggling.

“During the global financial crisis and the pandemic, the Government worked with working people and their unions on solutions to the nation’s problems. Now is the time for Government to talk with unions about what real, long-term solutions might look like,” said Grey.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/fuel-crisis-package-is-paper-thin/

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Brooke van Velden resignation is a chance for U-turn

Source: NZCTU

NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey is calling on the Government to pause harmful employment legislation in light of Brooke van Velden’s resignation.

“Brooke van Velden’s legacy as Workplace Relations and Safety Minister is one of the worst in this country’s history. Much of the legislation passed on her watch has wrecked the longstanding landscape of employment relations in New Zealand.

“Stealing pay equity overnight from more than 300,000 workers in low-paid, female-dominated sectors. Delivering real-term pay cuts for workers on the minimum wage for three years running. Letting multinational corporate lobbyists dictate our contractor law. These decisions demonstrate van Velden’s priorities as Minister.

“The Minister has two bills before the House that continue her track record of trampling on workers’ rights. In light of the Member’s resignation, we are calling on the Government to halt any further progress on the Employment Leave Act and the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill, and to work with unions on real, long-term solutions to the issues these Bills raise.

“The Government now has an opportunity to do right by working people. The next Minister for Workplace Relations should be one who truly understands the struggle of workers in a cost-of-living crisis, and who listens to working people and their unions,” said Grey.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/brooke-van-velden-resignation-is-a-chance-for-u-turn/

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European Union Pavilion Showcasing Excellence of EU Food and Beverages at FHA 2026

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – The European Union (EU) announces its participation as Region of Honour with dedicated Pavilions at FHA-Food & Hospitality Asia 2026, one of the region’s most important food and beverage exhibitions.

Taking place from 21st to 24th April, visitors will be able to experience the finest of European gastronomy:

At: Singapore Expo
EU Pavilion Locations:

  • FHA Food & Beverage: Hall 5 | Booth 5G4-01
  • ProWine Asia: Hall 10| Booth 10E5-01

Bringing together the best from all 27 EU Member States, the EU Pavilion will present an exceptional range of premium food and beverages, offering an inspiring journey through Europe’s rich culinary heritage.

H.E. Artis Bertulis, European Union Ambassador to Singapore, states “The EU is proud to be the Region of Honour at one of the most prestigious food fairs in Asia to celebrate the excellence and diversity of European food and beverages. Together with country pavilions, the EU is present in full Team Europe spirit highlighting our shared commitment to quality, safe, authentic and sustainable agri-food products.ʺ


Join us for the opening of the EU Pavilion

Institutional stakeholders, buyers, retailers and distributors are warmly invited to join us for the EU Pavilion’s opening ceremony on 21 April 2026 at 12:00 hrs. The Pavilion will be inaugurated by Ambassador H.E Artis Bertulis and Mr Diego Canga, acting Deputy Director-General at the Directorate-General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission. The opening ceremony will feature a special live cooking show by the Pavilion’s Star Chef.

You can register for the opening ceremony here.

Registrations close on Monday 20 April. Attendance requires online registration for FHA-Food & Hospitality Asia 2026, which you can do here.

https://commission.europa.eu/index_en

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/2026/03/24/european-union-pavilion-showcasing-excellence-of-eu-food-and-beverages-at-fha-2026/

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$50 a week for lower-income working families

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is moving quickly to provide extra support for low-to-middle-income working families as conflict in the Middle East drives up fuel prices and adds pressure to household budgets.

From 7 April, about 143,000 working families with children will get an extra $50 a week through a boost to the in-work tax credit. The boost will also expand eligibility to around 14,000 additional working families, who will receive the tax credit at an abated rate.  

The increase will be temporary, lasting for one year or until the price of 91 octane petrol drops below $3 a litre for four consecutive weeks. 

“This temporary boost will deliver support to working families who are under significant cost-of-living pressure, without making inflation worse or further driving up Government debt,” Nicola Willis says.

“The policy is carefully targeted to families in the squeezed middle – parents who are working hard for a living, are not eligible for main benefits, and yet have modest household incomes with which to support their children. We know these families will be hit particularly hard by the global fuel-price shock. We are delivering them timely relief. 

“The Government will implement these changes at pace. Tomorrow we will introduce an Amendment Paper to the Taxation Bill currently before Parliament, so these changes can be enacted from 1 April.

“Most eligible households will not need to do anything to receive the increase. It will be paid directly into their bank accounts, starting on 7 April if they are paid weekly, and 14 April if they are paid fortnightly. 

“We are very aware that almost all Kiwi businesses and families are feeling price pressures as a result of the global shockwaves hitting New Zealand, but equally we know that responding with large, untargeted Government spending programmes could make things worse for Kiwis by adding more pressure to inflation and debt. We are making careful choices in order to protect New Zealand’s economic future. 

“The Government is conscious that a careless response to this crisis could have long-lasting and painful consequences. We saw this in the aftermath of Covid, where excessive spending more than doubled debt and sent inflation soaring and mortgage rates skyrocketing. Kiwis are still grappling with the effects of that today.

“That is why we are focused on temporary, timely support that is targeted to the workers who need it most, while continuing to manage the public finances carefully. 

“The policy is estimated to cost a one-off $373 million if it runs for the full year and less if it does not. There is no ongoing cost in future years because the change is time-limited. 

The cost will count against the Government’s operating allowance for the 2026 Budget so has already been factored into the Treasury’s fiscal forecast.

“Funding the policy this way will not add to forecast debt or inflationary pressures. It is consistent with the Government’s fiscal strategy which seeks to balance the books and bend the debt curve down.

“We cannot control global oil markets or international conflicts.

“But we can soften the impact on working families who cannot easily avoid higher fuel costs by delivering support in a responsible and well-targeted way.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/50-a-week-for-lower-income-working-families/

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Etiqa Insurance Singapore and AIA Singapore Join Forces to Expand Accessibility of Takaful for Customers

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – Etiqa Insurance Singaporeand AIA Singapore today announced a strategic distribution partnership to broaden access to Shariah-compliant, values-based Takaful solutions across Singapore. This collaboration marks an important milestone in advancing the Islamic insurance landscape locally and enabling more customers, both Muslim and non-Muslim alike, to benefit from ethical, transparent and socially responsible financial solutions.

Under the partnership, Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s suite of Shariah-compliant Family Takaful products will be distributed through AIA Singapore and AIA Financial Advisers, the nation’s largest tied distribution channel comprising more than 6,300 highly professional, qualified AIA insurance representatives. This expanded reach significantly increases accessibility and choice for customers seeking principled and values-aligned protection and savings options.

Growing Demand for Values-Based Financial Solutions

Global demand for Takaful continues to rise as consumers increasingly prioritise financial solutions aligned with their personal values. The global Takaful market is projected to grow from US$36.5 billion in 2025 to US$63.6 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.7%[1]. Since launching its Takaful offerings, Etiqa Insurance Singapore has seen strong and accelerating momentum, supported by rising consumer awareness and growing confidence in Shariah-compliant financial protection.

Creating a Unified Takaful Ecosystem in Singapore

The partnership brings together the complementary strengths of both insurers to build a more cohesive and accessible Takaful ecosystem:

  • Etiqa Insurance Singapore — The pioneer in reintroducing Takaful insurance to Singapore after more than a decade, with deep expertise and a dedicated Shariah advisory framework.
  • AIA Singapore — One of the nation’s leading life and health insurers with extensive distribution capabilities, broad community reach and a diverse customer base.

Together, the two organisations are positioned to significantly expand the availability, understanding and adoption of Takaful solutions in Singapore.

“This partnership marks an important step in advancing access to Shariah-compliant protection and savings solutions in Singapore,” said Claudia Soh, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Etiqa Insurance Singapore. “By leveraging AIA’s extensive distribution network and strong presence within the Muslim community, we can scale Takaful solutions more effectively and reach customer groups that have historically been underserved. As demand for values-aligned financial planning grows, this collaboration reinforces our commitment to inclusive and responsible insurance.”

“This partnership with Etiqa is a pivotal step in our commitment to inclusivity and we are excited to work together,” said Alvin Fu, Chief Distribution Officer, AIA Singapore. “By integrating Etiqa’s Shariah-compliant expertise with our highly professional AIA insurance representatives, we can serve a wider customer base, close protection gaps and help more families live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

Bringing Takaful to the Masses

While rooted in Islamic principles, Shariah-compliant, values-based Takaful solutions serve a broad spectrum of customers and appeal to increasingly values-driven consumers seeking ethical, transparent and socially responsible financial protection and savings solutions beyond the Muslim community.

Beyond distribution, Etiqa Insurance Singapore shares a long-term commitment to raising awareness, understanding and adoption of Takaful solutions across Singapore. Through educational programmes and community engagement initiatives, the partnership aims to enhance financial literacy, deepen understanding of Takaful principles and bring Takaful education directly to underserved communities, empowering consumers to make informed decisions on protection and savings.

[1] https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/takaful-global-market-report

Hashtag: #EtiqaSingapore #EtiqaSG

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/2026/03/24/etiqa-insurance-singapore-and-aia-singapore-join-forces-to-expand-accessibility-of-takaful-for-customers/

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Conflict – Israeli forces using Gaza playbook in Lebanon, decimating water infrastructure – Oxfam

Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

Oxfam fears that Israel’s military blueprint of attacking water infrastructure, used throughout its genocide in Gaza, is now being rolled out across parts of Lebanon.
Israeli forces are destroying water and sanitation infrastructure including strikes near sites that were being rehabilitated after having been destroyed or damaged in the last war, Oxfam analysis has found.
The Geneva conventions prohibit attacks on water installations and other objects that are critical for people to survive. Using deprivation of water as a method of warfare is outlawed. Any intentional deprivation of water or obstruction of aid may constitute a war crime.
In a span of four days in the first weeks of the latest escalation, Israel damaged at least seven critical water sources including reservoirs, pipe networks and pumping stations that supplied water to almost 7,000 people in the Bekaa area alone.
In Southern Lebanon, where hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee their homes after Israel’s blanket mass forced displacement orders, Oxfam and partners are responsible for carrying out rehabilitation work at 19 important water facilities that provide clean water for up to 60,000 people. Six were damaged by Israeli bombardment in last year’s escalation. There have been confirmed strikes in many of the areas where these facilities are located.
Due to the intensity of the attacks in these areas, Oxfam teams cannot now safely access these sites to assess whether they too are now destroyed or damaged or ensure they are functioning properly so that people remaining in the villages have water. Long term impacts will also be devastating for communities if they don’t have clean water when they are able to return home.
The destruction of civilian infrastructure has not been limited to critical water facilities. Israel has also destroyed electricity networks and bridges, cutting off vital supplies and services for entire towns and villages.
Bachir Ayoub, Oxfam Lebanon Country Director, said: “It’s clear that the Israeli Forces are repeating the same pattern in Lebanon as they did in Gaza. Attacking civilians, critical civilian infrastructure, emergency services personnel – including 12 medics killed in a single strike – and aid workers. Aiming to maximize disruption and fear among the population, while ignoring international law.”
Carlos Calderon, Oxfam Aotearoa’s Head of Humanitarian and Partnerships said: “Water is a lifeline, not a military target. Turning critical water infrastructure into a weapon of war disproportionately affects civilians fleeing for their lives. No family should be forced abandon their homes or have their basic lifelines cut off.”
Ayoub continues: “The impunity Israel enjoyed in Gaza as it committed water war crimes is again on full display. The world has shown Israel can do what it wants, whenever it wants, without repercussion and again it is civilians who are paying the ultimate price for this inaction.”
During the 2024 escalation, Israel damaged more than 45 water networks in Lebanon, impacting almost half a million people, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks and contributing to the loss of livelihoods and green areas. Given the ongoing lack of accountability that has allowed Israel to consistently violate international law across the region, Oxfam is concerned these renewed attacks will see a sharp rise in the destruction of civilian infrastructure that is already occurring.
Despite the scale of destruction and mounting evidence of Israel’s atrocities in Gaza, Oxfam says the international community remains complicit in its silence and, in many cases, support to Israel as it continues to occupy and invade parts of Lebanon.
“There must be an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and end to this war” said Ayoub. “The international community stood by in Gaza and watched Israel’s weaponization of water and its catastrophic consequences to men, women and children there. The same devastation must not be allowed to play out again in Lebanon. Israel must be held to account for its violations and must not be allowed to occupy more land, deny more civilians of their basic rights, and continue to abuse international law without consequence.”
Calderon concludes: “Our team is on the ground to provide water, this most essential human right, and we need your help to keep that lifeline open.”
Notes:
In the Policy Brief Water Under Fire: Supporting Lebanon’s Water Services Amid Escalating Conflict Oxfam reached out to water establishments across three highly impacted regions in Lebanon after Israeli attacks.
In July 2024 Oxfam released the report Water War Crimes: How Israel has weaponised water in its military campaign in Gazapresenting a detailed analysis of how the Government of Israel systematically weaponized water against the Palestinians in its latest assault on Gaza.
Before the latest escalation, Oxfam was rehabilitating eight water pumping systems in Mansouri, Nmairiyyeh, Srifa, Zaita, Ankoun, Allousiyyeh, Kfardounin, Jbal Al Botom; three water networks in Tyre, Kherbit Silm, Khiam; four reservoirs in Ater, Toura and Zebkin; and four water filtration systems in Mais Eljabal, Bintjbeil, Kfartebnit, and Deir Knaoun Nahr.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/conflict-israeli-forces-using-gaza-playbook-in-lebanon-decimating-water-infrastructure-oxfam/

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Green light for Te Awa Lakes

Source: New Zealand Government

Around 1,500 new homes are set to be built as part of the new Te Awa Lakes development thanks to the Government approving the use of an Infrastructure Funding and Financing (IFF) Act Levy for this development, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop.

“To make New Zealand’s housing more affordable, our cities need to grow both up and out – we need bigger cities, and we need more houses. Te Awa Lakes is one of many developments that is making our growth agenda a reality,” Mr Bishop says.

“One factor holding back new housing is infrastructure. We’ve heard loud and clear from developers and councils that there are significant bottlenecks when it comes to the provision of enabling infrastructure, including local government authorities’ financing constraints.

“Councils are responsible for delivering infrastructure such as water and roading but have maximum levels of debt that they’re allowed to take on. These borrowing constraints can delay investment in infrastructure for new, otherwise commercially viable housing developments.

“Developers with viable housing projects should not be held back by this.

“The IFF Act was originally enacted to make it easier for developments to get off the ground through innovative approaches to funding infrastructure that bypass these constraints.

“The model works by establishing a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for a project – separate from council’s balance sheets. The SPV then repays any finance raised by charging a levy to homeowners and landowners who benefit from the infrastructure.

“Essentially, the IFF Act model allows growth to pay for growth.

“The Government has approved an IFF Act levy for Te Awa Lakes, an approximately 2,500-property development northwest of Hamilton. The Levy will fund up to $50 million of water and roading infrastructure, supporting 1,500 of these new properties. The first homes are expected to be delivered as early as 2029.

“This is a fantastic outcome for Hamilton, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing cities.

“The Levy will be administered by Hamilton City Council and will be repaid over a 30-year period beginning 1 July 2027. The levy will be fully disclosed to potential buyers, allowing them to factor it in before making any decisions.

“To date, only two IFF Act Levies have been authorised, and neither were for new housing developments – falling well short of the intent and ambition of this legislation.

“While the Te Awa Lakes development is a good start, we know there are other viable, developer-led projects that are being held back by these constraints.

“That’s why in November 2025, the Coalition Government introduced the IFF Act Amendment Bill, which enhances the Act’s usability, removes unnecessary barriers to uptake, and broadens project eligibility.

“We are making the Act more viable and flexible so developers, councils, and other infrastructure providers can get on with building the infrastructure our growing communities need. We expect to pass this Bill into law before the election.

“In addition to the IFF Act Levy, Te Awa Lakes is also being supported by this Government’s Greenfield Model, which we established in Budget 2025. The Greenfield Model is administered by National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Limited and supports development by lowering financing costs during the project’s construction period – which will ultimately flow through to lower levies for future homeowners.

“This Government is committed to housing growth by freeing up land for development, improving infrastructure funding and financing, and incentivising growth. The IFF Act model is just one of several tools in our Going for Housing Growth toolkit to ensure that infrastructure is not an excuse to prevent growth.”

Notes to Editors

What this means for future buyers:

For people looking to buy in Te Awa Lakes, the levy means part of the cost of the enabling infrastructure is paid gradually over time rather than being built into the upfront purchase price. The levy is transparent and disclosed early and only applies to properties that benefit the most from the new infrastructure. This approach helps brings new housing options to the market at different price points sooner, while ensuring the development has the essential services it needs from day one.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/green-light-for-te-awa-lakes/

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Govt. response fails home support workers facing fuel crisis – must do better – PSA

Source: PSA

Time to raise mileage allowance for first time in four years
The Government’s decision to increase income support for low paid workers will not go far enough for 23,000 home support workers hit hardest by sharply rising petrol prices, and that a faster, simpler fix remains available right now.
Today’s announcement on increases to income support for working families fall well short of what home support workers need given many are filling up their own cars at least twice a week and many do not have dependent children.
“This is a really disappointing decision and completely ignores the financial pressure on these essential workers,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi. “These workers have already had their pay equity claim cancelled by this government.
“Nicola Willis promised to help workers ‘acutely impacted’, but she has ignored home support workers. They are low paid, predominantly female workers who provide critical care to elderly and disabled New Zealanders every day. They are the only publicly funded workers required to use their own vehicles in this way. Rising petrol prices hit them directly in the pocket with every shift.
“If the Government is serious about protecting working people from this fuel crisis, it needs to do better and it still can. The Government has a fast, ready fix available by raising the mileage allowance.”
The Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016 requires Health NZ Te Whatu Ora to pay home support workers a mileage rate. The allowance was last adjusted four years ago and is due for review (see explainer below).
“The Health Minister could direct that rate to be lifted immediately, no complicated fiddling with the tax and transfer system, no delay, just fast, real help for the people who need it most.”
Palmerston North home support worker Susan Miers is very disappointed. “It’s not very much really – it’s not going to make a difference to us,” In a typical day, Susan drives between clients across the city and the wider Manawatū region.
“I’m paying $40, $50 more a week than I was just a couple of weeks ago. It’s coming out of my food budget, because it’s the only thing I can change. I’ve already had to borrow money off of people to make things work.”
Fleur Fitzsimons: “The Government has ignored these workers in their time of need, rubbing more salt into their wounds. It’s disgraceful.
“The PSA will continue to fight for workers doing essential mahi in this crisis, workers who have no choice, but to drive to the people they care for every day. They deserve help now more than ever.”
Explainer – In-Between Travel Allowance
What is it? The In-Between Travel (IBT) allowance compensates home and community support workers for the time and vehicle costs of travelling between clients. It is governed by the Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016.
Who does it cover? Around 23,000 home and community support workers who visit the elderly, disabled and injured in their homes, funded by Health NZ, MSD or ACC.
How does it work?
– Workers are paid a flat travel time payment (at their ordinary wage rate) for all trips between clients up to 15km of $2.35.
– It is meant to be a contribution to both maintenance and petrol costs.
– For trips over 15km (“exceptional travel”), workers are paid actual time and distance for that leg based on Google Maps
– Travel to the first client of the day and from the last client is not covered unless it exceeds 15km.
The rate and the problem: The mileage rate is currently 63.5 cents per kilometre – unchanged since March 2022. There have been only two increases in the rate’s entire history (from 50c to 58.5c in August 2020, then to 63.5c in March 2022). The current IRD mileage rate is $1.17 per kilometre (petrol vehicles). Workers are being reimbursed at less than two-thirds of the IRD rate, and with the fuel price spike triggered by the Iran, they are now being reimbursed at well under half their actual costs.
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.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/govt-response-fails-home-support-workers-facing-fuel-crisis-must-do-better-psa/

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Social Issues – Where is the support for benefit-dependent households? – CPAG

Source: Child Poverty Action Group

Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) is calling for an increase to the Winter Energy Payment (WEP) to help offset the current surge in an already desperate cost of living crisis for families living on core benefits.
Minister Nicola Willis announced today that from April, 143,000 low-to-middle income families with working parents will receive $50 per week through the In-Work Tax Credit (IWTC).
CPAG spokesperson Isaac Gunson says while today’s announcement will alleviate some pressure in working families, there’s nothing for families relying on core benefits.
“Energy crises affect benefit-dependent families too. Where is their support?”
“Close to a quarter of a million children live in households receiving a core benefit. The idea that no additional support will be made available to that many tamariki is outrageous.”
“Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis stood before the New Zealand public today and pointed to the automatic 3.1% inflation adjustment to core benefits on April 1 as the support they’re offering to benefit-dependent households. In the last three weeks, the cost of 91 petrol alone has climbed nearly 40%, and diesel by more than 80%.”
“Our Income Floor research clearly shows many of those incomes are already woefully inadequate to cover even the bare essentials, in a year where the cost of those essentials, like electricity, meat and poultry, and dairy products, rose faster than inflation.”
Programmes like the Winter Energy Payment (WEP), first announced in December 2017 and introduced the subsequent winter, made statistically significant reductions to two financial hardship measures during winter months, in households with working age recipients of a core benefit.
It is here CPAG believes support should be targeted.
Since it’s introduction in 2018, there has been no increase in the WEP rate, held at $20.46/week ($450.12 total) for single parents with no children and $31.82/week ($700.04 total) for couples and people with children.
Between December 2018 (after the first year’s payment concluded) and December 2025, household energy costs have increased 30%.
During the same period at the gas pump, 95, 91, and diesel have increased 31.3%, 31.8%, and 46.2%, respectively. (Source: Household Energy from SNZ CPI & Petrol from FigureNZ’s visualisation of MBIE data)
“CPAG is calling on the Government to increase the WEP by 30% in time for the coming winter. It’s an approach that aligns with the Government’s move to use already-established systems to support low-income families, but which also recognises the pain being felt in households receiving core benefits.”
This would lift the total WEP payment to $585.16 or $26.60/week for singles, and $910.52 or $41.37/week for couples or people with children.
We’d also ask the Government to consider extending the period of this year’s WEP to 26 weeks, starting in April, bringing the total WEP to $691.60 total for singles, or $1,075.62 total for couples or people with children.
“To shield New Zealand’s most vulnerable from the ripple effects of rising fuel costs, the Government should make its response a two-pronged approach: temporarily increase work-related tax credits and provide unconditional cash support to people on benefits through the WEP.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/social-issues-where-is-the-support-for-benefit-dependent-households-cpag/

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Discover a season of arts and sports mega events in Hong Kong

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – Hong Kong’s annual arts season moved into its peak last weekend with ComplexCon (21-22 March) returning for its third edition at AsiaWorld-Expo, bringing an eclectic blend of pop culture to the heart of Asia.

It marks the start of a flurry of themed events at landmark venues across the city, including the acclaimed Art Basel Hong Kong (27-29 March) and Art Central (25-29 March).

Speaking at the opening ceremony of ComplexCon, Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said, “We are celebrating Hong Kong’s unique status as the premier East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. Since its Hong Kong debut in 2024, made possible by the support of our Mega Arts and Cultural Events (Mega ACE) Fund, ComplexCon has established itself as a vibrant and hugely popular cultural event as you can see already, an event of a true blend of pop culture, music, art, and technology, and so much more.”

Attracting thousands of fans from near and far, the two-day programme included Complex Live! Stage, featuring a powerhouse line up headlined by global icons, together with a curated mix of regional hip-hop and R&B (rhythm and blues) pioneers. For collectors, the “Hong Kong Element” offered exclusive merchandise.

Two more world-class arts events are coming up this week, namely, Art Basel Hong Kong (27-29 March) and Art Central (25-29 March).

Art Basel Hong Kong returns to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with new sectors and fresh curatorial perspectives. Featuring 240 galleries from some 40 countries and territories, the fair presents artworks by established artists and emerging talents from around the world.

Highlight sectors include “Encounters”, showcasing 12 artworks of expansive sculptures and installations drawing on the Five Elements — space/ether, water, fire, wind and earth, while “Insights” features 20 projects focused on artists from Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. Among the newly added themes this year are “Echoes” – a brand new sector spotlighting works created within the past 5 years –, and “Zero 10” dedicated to art of the digital era.

Other returning sectors cover “Discoveries”, which is dedicated to solo presentations by emerging artists from 25 galleries and “Kabinett”, staging thematic presentations with a total of 35 projects, as well as public programmes offering free public access to “Film”, “Conversations” and “Exchange Circle”.

Hong Kong’s strength in global cultural connectivity is reflected in its position as a leading arts trading hub. “Later this month, we will finalise the details of our collaboration with Art Basel for the next five years. This is the result of sustained investment in our role as a global financial centre, cross-sectoral collaboration, and a shared commitment to make Hong Kong a place where the arts can truly flourish,” Law said.

Since its Hong Kong debut in 2024, ComplexCon has established itself as a vibrant and hugely popular cultural event (Photo courtesy of ComplexCon Hong Kong)

There’s more for art enthusiasts to enjoy, with Art Central (25-29 March) lighting up the iconic Central Harbourfront, presenting works from over 100 galleries and 500 artists from Hong Kong, Asia, and beyond. The fair’s 11th edition sees the debut of Central Stage, spotlighting artists with recent, current, and upcoming participation in institutional exhibitions, biennials, and other landmark curatorial endeavours of international standing.

This trio of arts and cultural events is part of the wider Hong Kong Mega 8 – a legendary line-up of eight world-class events throughout March and April. Completing the line-up are the Hong Kong Derby and Champions Day (horse racing), UCI Track World Cup (cycling), Hong Kong Sevens (rugby) and LIV Golf Hong Kong.

“I am sure this exhilarating blend of sports, arts and culture will bring you many enjoyable moments and fond memories, infused with the city’s unique spirit and unstoppable momentum,” Law said.

https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-hong-kong/
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https://www.facebook.com/brandhk.isd
https://www.instagram.com/brandhongkong

Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #Arts #Sports #MegaEvents

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/2026/03/24/discover-a-season-of-arts-and-sports-mega-events-in-hong-kong/

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NZNO apologises for abuses in state care

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO apologises sincerely and unreservedly for the involvement of nurses in historic abuses in state care.
The apology was made in a video by NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku and published today on the organisation’s website. It has already been shared with survivors and their whānau.
NZNO has also apologised unreservedly for any role nurses may have had in ignoring and not standing up to abuse in state care.
Kerri Nuku says for decades from the 1950s, children in psychiatric hospitals and other state and faith-based care suffered horrific abuse. 
“And among those responsible were nurses-our own profession. Nurses who were entrusted to care, to protect, to heal. Instead, some inflicted harm. Others turned away. This is a double betrayal, because care and compassion are the very essence of nursing. 
“The experiences of survivors, told to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, were horrific, she says.
“These children were subjected to electric shocks, painful injections and degrading treatment. Nurses stood by while sexual abuse occurred. Some actively participated.”
Kerri Nuku says most of the children involved were Māori, placed in institutions because they were Māori. 
“Colonisation’s destructive intent was at work, and nurses became instruments of that harm. The scars left behind are not just physical. They are pervasive, lifelong, and intergenerational. Survivors and their whānau still carry the weight of trauma. Many do not trust nurses today – and that mistrust is justified.
“That this abuse occurred and for so long is a national disgrace. It is not only an issue of historical significance, but with abuse recognised up to 2019, it is also a contemporary issue. For this reason, NZNO joins calls for the swift implementation of all Royal Commissions’ recommendations.”
An apology without action is hollow, Kerri Nuku says. “Words alone cannot heal. We commit to ensuring this never happens again.” NZNO’s response is guided by the findings of the Abuse in Care inquiries and the Lake Alice Hospital investigation and is a pledge to:
  • Embed trauma-informed and culturally safe practice in nursing education and professional development.
  • Advocate for a robust redress scheme that meets survivors’ needs and honours international standards.
  • Protect whistleblowers and enforce transparency, ensuring no member can hide from accountability.
  • Collaborate with the Nursing Council of New Zealand to strengthen Codes of Conduct and Ethics, making care synonymous with safety and dignity.
These actions reflect NZNO’s commitment to tika and pono – or justice and truth – and to restoring the trust that was broken, Kerri Nuku says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/nzno-apologises-for-abuses-in-state-care/

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NZ Drug Foundation – Alarming increase in low-level drug prosecutions undermining health efforts

Source: New Zealand Drug Foundation

An alarming increase in drug possession charges is causing harm and undermining progress on health-based approaches, the Drug Foundation says.

New Ministry of Justice data shows 2025 had the highest number of low-level charges for drug possession or use in a decade.

Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says the current approach is clearly not reducing drug use, but it is undermining efforts to reduce harm.

“Criminalising people clearly doesn’t deter use – in fact wastewater data out this week shows drug use is at record levels,” she says.

“What it does do is compound some of the worst drug harms by preventing people from seeking help and putting people through the justice system.”

“Our fifty-year-old drug laws have us stuck in this terrible loop where everyone loses. We are wasting huge amounts of money and Police resource on low-level prosecutions that discourage people from seeking support, and in the meantime drug use and harm are surging. We urgently need safer drug laws to break the circuit.”

The Drug Foundation released a blueprint for drug law reform last year in itsSafer drug laws for Aotearoa New Zealand report. (ref. https://drugfoundation.org.nz/news-and-reports/report-proposes-evidence-based-reform-to-new-zealands-drug-laws )

“The evidence from New Zealand and around the world is clear – we need a step-change in investment into harm reduction and health services, and safer drug laws that encourage people to seek support rather than punish them with criminal penalties,” says Helm.

Polling conducted by the Drug Foundation in 2022 showed 68% of New Zealanders supported ‘rewriting the Misuse of Drugs Act and putting in place a health-based approach’.

The increase in charges comes despite a 2019 amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act instructing Police that a prosecution should not be brought unless it is in the public interest, and to consider health-centred approaches first.

Helm says the data shows relying on Police discretion isn’t adequate, with low-level drug charges following a similar trend to total criminal prosecutions since 2019.

“Police discretion is not how we should be dealing with such an important issue. The law should very clearly set out when people should face criminal penalties and when a health response is needed.”

Key stats from the Ministry of Justice

  • The number of drug possession/use charges in 2025 is the highest in the last decade: at 8,474 charges. The number of people convicted for drug/use possession in 2025 (3,158) is the second highest in ten years.
  • Nearly two-thirds (65%, or 3,158) of all drug convictions were for drug possession or use as the most serious drug offence. The proportion of possession/use convictions relative to all drug offences is the second highest in a decade. 
  • Each year since 2016, more people have been convicted of low-level drug offences than for supply, trafficking, or distribution combined. In 2025, 3,158 people were convicted of unlawful possession or use of drugs—the highest number since 2016, compared to 1,657 for supply, trafficking, or distribution.

Ministry of Justice data can be found at https://www.justice.govt.nz/justice-sector-policy/research-data/justice-statistics/data-tables/#General

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/nz-drug-foundation-alarming-increase-in-low-level-drug-prosecutions-undermining-health-efforts/

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Advocacy – Call for Ethical Review of University of Otago Corporate Partnership

Source: Statement by the Palestine Forum of New Zealand

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand expresses deep concern regarding the reported partnership between the University of Otagoand Palo Alto Networks, a company with well-documented ties to Israel’s military and intelligence infrastructure.

At a time when the world is witnessing unprecedented devastation in Gaza Strip and escalating violence across the occupied Palestinian territories, such partnerships raise serious ethical questions. Institutions of higher learning are not merely centres of education; they are moral actors with a responsibility to uphold human rights, justice, and international law.

Engaging with companies linked to systems of surveillance, control, and military operations connected to the ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people risks normalising and legitimising these practices. This stands in direct contradiction to the values that universities in Aotearoa New Zealand claim to uphold.

We remind our academic institutions that they carry a duty as the “critic and conscience of society.” This duty requires not only intellectual independence, but moral clarity, especially in times of profound global injustice.

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the University of Otago to:

Reconsider and suspend this partnership pending transparent ethical review
Engage openly with students, staff, and the wider community
Align its institutional decisions with international human rights principles

We further call on universities and institutions across Aotearoa New Zealand to carefully assess their relationships and ensure they are not complicit in systems that perpetuate injustice.

Our position is grounded in the principles of dignity, accountability, and solidarity. We support all peaceful and lawful efforts, including global civil society initiatives, that seek to uphold the rights of the Palestinian people.

In moments like these, neutrality is not an option. Institutions must choose whether they stand on the side of justice or risk being remembered for their silence.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/advocacy-call-for-ethical-review-of-university-of-otago-corporate-partnership/