Category: 24/7 News

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Hyun Bin’s Wax Figure Back at Madame Tussauds Singapore for a Time-Limited Exhibit, Highly Anticipated by Fans

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – By overwhelming popular demand, the wax figure of internationally acclaimed Korean actor Hyun Bin will make a highly anticipated return to Madame Tussauds Singapore from 16 March to 22 July 2026, which offers fans and Hallyu enthusiasts a rare opportunity to step into the spotlight alongside one of Korea’s most influential leading heartthrobs.

Hyun Bin

As an award-winning actor, Hyun Bin has further cemented his performing reputation in the historical film Harbin in 2025, which earned him the prestigious Best Actor at South Korea’s Blue Dragon Film Awards, one of the nation’s highest honours in cinema. In a historic milestone, Hyun Bin and his wife, fellow actress Son Ye-jin, became the first married couple to simultaneously win Best Actor and Best Actress at the ceremony – a moment widely celebrated across international media and social platforms.

Meticulously crafted over six months, Hyun Bin’s wax figure captures his refined charisma in striking details from his signature gentle smile to the precise contouring of his features. When visitors approaching, they can hear Hyun Bin’s heartbeat getting louder. It feels just like the lifelike moments in a romantic Korean drama, bringing the story to life right in front of them.

“Madame Tussauds has long been regarded as a global hall of fame, celebrating individuals who have made remarkable contributions to their industries,” said Steven Chung, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Singapore. “Hyun Bin’s continued achievements and international influence make him a natural part of this legacy. We are delighted to welcome his figure back to Singapore and offer fans another opportunity to meet him up close.”

In addition to Hyun Bin’s time-limited return, Madame Tussauds Singapore is also pleased to announce that the wax figure of Thai-Korean superstar Nichkhun, beloved member of K-pop group 2PM, has officially begun a permanent display at the attraction from February 2026.

Affectionately known as the “Thai Prince,” Nichkhun’s charming presence has captivated global audiences for over a decade. Fans can now strike their best pose beside this Hallyu heartthrob and experience his lifelike wax figure up close – a must-visit moment for K-pop lovers visiting Singapore.

As a brand synonymous with immortalising cultural icons, Madame Tussauds Singapore continues to document those talents who shape global entertainment. Hyun Bin’s highly anticipated return and Nichkhun’s permanent addition reinforce the attraction’s positioning as a premier destination celebrating Asia’s most influential entertainment icons.

K-drama fans can also get up close with other Korean superstars, including Ahn Hyo-seop and Lee Min-ho, making the experience a must-visit for fans of Korean entertainment.

For more information about booking tickets to visit Madame Tussauds Singapore, please visit www.madametussauds.com/singapore/

Hashtag: #MerlinEntertainments #MadameTussaudsSingapore

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/2026/03/09/hyun-bins-wax-figure-back-at-madame-tussauds-singapore-for-a-time-limited-exhibit-highly-anticipated-by-fans/

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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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Zero Waste – No support for disestablishing the Ministry for the Environment

Source:  Zero Waste Aotearoa (ZWA)

Zero Waste Aotearoa (ZWA) does not support disestablishing the Ministry for the Environment and bundling its environmental protection functions into the proposed MCERT Mega Ministry.

“This takes us back to an old 1970’s approach by embedding a fundamental conflict of interest into the new mega-Ministry. Environmental protection will be viewed as an internal obstacle to be managed, rather than a statutory goal to be upheld,” says Sue Coutts of Zero Waste Aotearoa.

“Clean and green is part of our national identity.  It underpins our trade and tourism industries. If we don’t have a strong champion to protect our environment we are putting our health, our economy and our future at risk.”

“Almost all of our major environmental indicators show we’re in serious trouble. Our lands, air and water are polluted, biodiversity is under extreme strain and climate goals have been abandoned.”

“Solving New Zealand’s waste, recycling, plastic and chemical pollution problems is already low on the government’s priority list, dismantling the Ministry for the Environment will cross these critical issues off the to-do list altogether.”

“Dismantling the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) is nothing less than vandalism of the public interest by a government that has shown it cares very little for the ecological systems that sustain us.”

“Climate, nature, environmental quality and health impacts need a dedicated, independent statutory voice. This helps to ensure any trade offs being made between development and production  and environmental quality and protection are rigorously analysed.”

“Decision making will be less open and transparent, because the new mega-Ministry Chief Executive will carry the responsibility for making trade offs between environmental and development objectives. This will happen at the management level, rather than these being debated and agreed in the public and political realm. There will be fewer opportunities for scrutiny of decision making with a public interest lens or by watchdogs like the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment.”

“MfE also plays an important role in managing the Crown’s relationship with iwi regarding natural resources. The current expertise and relationships could be buried or lost in the shift to the MCERT mega ministry.”

“As importantly, resource management law is undergoing a massive overhaul. There is a lot of work to be done setting up the national standards, environmental limits and policy direction that will shape decision making in the future.”

“It makes more sense to leave MfE as it is and properly resource it to do the background work outlined in the new Planning and Environment bills. Restructuring and merging MfE into MCERT will disrupt the team and waste time, energy and resources that could be put into this critical work.”

“As the submission period closes, ZWA encourages the public to understand the negative impacts on environmental protection this will have. ZWA recommends to the select committee that the Ministry for the Environment is not included in this amalgamation, and instead is empowered to actually do the work of caring for our environment.”

Notes

Submissions are open until 4:30 pm on March 11, 2026, for the Environment (Disestablishment of Ministry for the Environment) Amendment Bill.

The Government introduced legislation to establish a Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT)

MCERT would formally disestablish the Ministry for the Environment. The new ministry will be established on 1 April 2026 and become operational from 1 July 2026

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/zero-waste-no-support-for-disestablishing-the-ministry-for-the-environment/

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Universities – Building more sustainably in the wake of cyclones – UoA

Source: University of Auckland – UoA

A new University of Auckland project aims to turn about 1200 Auckland houses destroyed by cyclones into a resource for a more sustainable future.

Associate Professor of Architecture Mike Davis has launched a research project identifying reusable materials in houses that have been deemed unsafe, after being hit by Cyclone Gabrielle and floods in 2023.

The aim is to turn cyclone-damaged houses into an “urban mine” that reuses as much as possible, saving the planet from the pressures of endlessly providing brand new materials, says Davis.

“The tragedy of these houses being lost would be deepened if all the reusable materials in them were dumped in landfills.

“We need to look after the land, which is not about putting stuff in landfills, it’s about reusing materials and putting them into a circular economy,” says Davis, who works in the University’s Māori and Pacific Housing Research Centre, MĀPIHI, and Future Cities Research Centre.

Davis is mapping what materials have come out of the red-stickered houses and where these materials have gone.

“Then we can start to predict what might come out of houses that have been red-stickered or that are damaged in storms in the future,” he says.

Hand-held devices and drones are making 3D scans of various types of houses, such as Keith Hay and Universal homes, villas and bungalows, and state houses. This helps identify the quantities of various building materials typically found in each type of house.

“Building a knowledge bank of the reusable materials available from red-stickered houses will help the construction industry know what materials are likely to be available for reuse,” Davis says.

The project also aims to highlight environmentally harmful materials coming out of cyclone-devastated houses.

This information will be used to develop more sustainable building practices for the future, he says.

“One example is polystyrene, which doesn’t go away, so when a house comes down after 50 years, it’s a massive problem.

“We want to look for alternatives and ask what we can learn about building better in the future.”

Davis says older houses tend to be richer repositories of valuable materials, such as kauri, matai and rimu timber.

“More than 50 percent of timbers can often be reused from earlier buildings.

“Once you get into houses from the 2000s, lots of materials are glued together and it’s much harder to reuse something that’s been glued.”

The research could have real-world impacts in expanding the quantities of building materials available at recycling centres and demolition yards, Davis says.              

About 600 red-stickered houses have already been relocated or deconstructed, but another 600 have yet to be removed from properties.                                                                                  

“The aim is to normalise the idea of buying second-hand materials and seeing that as a positive thing.

“We’re moving away from the idea that everything has to be new, new, new, because that’s resource intensive and not sustainable.”

He aims to develop design principles that will help to future-proof housing, so it is more adaptable, more readily disassembled, and easier to repair.

“We will look at what can we do with relocated houses to make them more affordable and fit for purpose.”

Davis, who has Samoan ancestry, says a fondness for recycling and a hatred of waste is in his DNA.

His great-grandfather built churches and other buildings in the Pacific Islands, where resources are limited and valued.

“New Zealand is also two islands and when you live on an island, what you’ve got is what you’ve got, so you make it last.

“But that’s not going on in the building industry in New Zealand at the moment – there’s a rip, strip and bury mentality,” he says.

Over the past 15 years, his own creative projects have focused on recycled materials.

“We need to see those awesome old timbers as having cultural heritage as well as economic value, because there’s not much kauri coming out of our forests these days,” he says.

Results from the research are expected later this year.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/universities-building-more-sustainably-in-the-wake-of-cyclones-uoa/

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Reset Programme reflects on progress to transform engagement

Source: PHARMAC

With February marking one year since publication of the Consumer Engagement Workshop Report, it’s a good time to reflect on the positive progress being made to transform Pharmac’s relationship with stakeholders through the Reset Programme.

The report captured the feedback of consumers who had earlier shared their experiences engaging with Pharmac. A clear theme was the need for the organisation to completely reset its approach to consumer and patient engagement to rebuild trust and credibility.

Recommendations from the report also led to establishment of the Consumer and Patient Working Group, chaired by Dr Malcolm Mulholland.

“We’re extremely grateful to have this group providing their insights to help us improve the way we engage with consumers and to make that sure we reflect their needs and perspectives when delivering our work,” says Pharmac Chief Executive, Natalie McMurtry. “This is also supported by the work being done by the existing statutory Consumer Advisory Committee.”

Some of the key milestones achieved by the Reset Programme and its partners to date include:

  • Establishment of the Consumer and Patient Working Group to support the design and delivery of the 12-month Reset Programme
  • Building a centralised consumer database to support improved engagement
  • Creation of a dedicated Consumer Relations Team to strengthen Pharmac’s relationships with consumer and patient groups
  • Feedback from the Consumer and Patient Working Group incorporated into budget information to better demonstrate patient impact
  • Ongoing improvements to the medicines funding application process to ensure a better experience for consumers.
  • Multiple workshops held with the Consumer and Patient Working Group to shape the future 4-year improvement workplan.

Looking ahead, a key focus for the Consumer and Patient Working Group and the Reset Programme is helping to create a Consumer Engagement Framework.

This framework will explain when and how we ask for consumer feedback, how we use people’s insights in our decision-making, and how we intend keep people updated on progress. It’s about making sure consumer voices are included in a consistent, reliable way – both in our future improvement work and in our everyday processes.

The framework will also help ensure a smooth transition once the Reset Programme and the Consumer and Patient Working Group finish on 30 June this year, ensuring that consumer perspectives continue to shape our work in a strong and practical way.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/reset-programme-reflects-on-progress-to-transform-engagement/

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Funding medicines for people with high health needs

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac is working to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders, including those with the highest health needs. This includes Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled people, women, and people living rurally. 


“Health equity ensures everyone has fair access to health care and the opportunity to live well, regardless of who they are or where they come from,” says Director Equity and Engagement, Dr Nicola Ngawati. 

Pharmac’s Equity Policy recognises that different people have different levels of advantage. Pharmac applies an equity lens when making funding decisions. 

Our role under the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 is to secure for eligible people in need of pharmaceuticals, the best health outcomes that are reasonably achievable from pharmaceutical treatment. 

Some of the medicines we’ve funded recently are making a real difference for these groups. Below are some specific medicines and their reach for high needs health groups (from 1 October 2024 to 31 January 2026). 

Palivizumab (RSV prevention)

Protects premature and high-risk infants from severe RSV illness. Māori and Pacific babies are more likely to need this treatment. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 34.3%
  • Pacific– 11.3%
  • Female – 44.6%
  • Rural – 15.7%

Triple inhaler (Budesonide + Glycopyrronium + Eformoterol)

Helps manage COPD, which impacts Māori up to 20 years earlier and causes death at five times the rate of non-Māori. Funded from 1 January 2025. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 28.4%
  • Pacific – 4.5%
  • Women – 57.3%
  • Rural – 24.1%

Insulin (Ryzodeg)

Diabetes prevalence among Māori and Pacific people is about three times higher than other population groups. Funded from May 2025. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 24.1%
  • Pacific – 19.3%
  • Women – 48.8%
  • Rural – 17.9%

Empagliflozen

This medicine helps reduce cardiovascular hospitalisation, slow kidney decline, and improve glycaemic control. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 21.8%
  • Pacific – 7.6%
  • Women – 33.8%
  • Rural – 25.7%

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

From 1 December 2025, Pharmac began funding silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for the treatment and prevention of tooth decay. Dental cavities disproportionately affect Māori, Pacific peoples and people in areas of higher depravation. 

Poor oral health can impact daily life and cause pain and embarrassment. Although SDF is in the early days of funding, its use is expected to reduce the need for hospital‑based dental treatment, remove cost barriers and improve wellbeing.

“We’re pleased that these statistics indicate our funded medicines are reaching those who need them most. We’ll continue to focus on increasing access to key medicines for these groups,” says Dr Ngawati.

“This work is extremely important. By reducing avoidable differences in health outcomes – we create a healthier New Zealand for everyone.”

Note: All figures are from the Pharmaceutical Collection dataset(external link) (as extracted and analysed by Pharmac).

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/funding-medicines-for-people-with-high-health-needs/

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Collaboration on medical device procurement

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac and Health New Zealand (Health NZ) are working towards a more streamlined and coordinated national approach to hospital medical device procurement.

The Government announced changes to the procurement of hospital medical devices(external link) in September last year. Pharmac and Health NZ are now jointly responsible for procuring medical devices, with Pharmac leading procurement for 27 categories of medical devices, and Health NZ leading 28.

Catherine Epps, Pharmac’s Director of Medical Devices, says a programme of work is underway that will deliver greater transparency, consistency and collaboration in medical device procurement across the health system.

 “Our work will ensure the medical devices used in our public hospitals deliver better value and more consistent, fair access for people across the country. Strengthening our partnership with Health NZ and working closely with suppliers means we can make better‑informed decisions and deliver better outcomes.”

Pharmac has agreed a framework with Health NZ for delivering a range of Health Technology Assessments (HTA). We’re now working together to plan a broader programme, including formalising how commissioning and HTA processes will work.

 “It’s encouraging to see the shared commitment to building a more aligned and coordinated approach. This will mean clearer roles, clearer decision points, and more consistent ways of working – giving the sector greater predictability and transparency,” says Epps.

 Over the coming months, the programme will continue to transition to a new joint leadership approach for hospital medical devices and strengthen engagement across the sector.

“It’s an exciting time to be working in medical devices in New Zealand. I’m confident that the work we’re doing now is setting us up to make medical devices procurement work better for everyone involved.”

 More information: 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/collaboration-on-medical-device-procurement/

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Obesity experts advise on new treatments

Source: PHARMAC

With high obesity rates in New Zealand and new medicines entering the market, public interest in weight‑loss treatments is understandably strong. 

In June 2025 Medsafe approved semaglutide (Wegovy) for use in New Zealand for weight loss. Medsafe approves medicines for use in New Zealand. They check that these products meet our standards for safety and quality, and that they work as well as we expect them to.  

Pharmac has received three applications to fund semaglutide(external link) for the following conditions: 

  • weight management for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or more with at least one weight-related health condition
  • insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes  
  • cardiovascular disease with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or more.

 To help us assess these medicines, a new Obesity Treatments Advisory Group (OTAG) was established and met for the first time in December last year. The group includes a range of clinical expertise and provides objective advice on new obesity treatments and future opportunities. 

 Pharmac’s Manager Expert Advisory, Caroline De Luca, says this is the first step in gathering advice to inform this complicated decision that could affect many New Zealanders lives.

 “When we make funding decisions, we need input from clinical experts in New Zealand so we can understand how the evidence relates in a local context.”

 The current members of the group are:

  • Dr Liza Lack – Clinical Director, National Hauora Coalition – Waikato (Chair – PTAC Member)
  • Dr Bruce King (Chair) – Specialist Internal Medicine and Nephrology (PTAC Member)
  • Dr Wing Cheuk Chan – Public Health Physician
  • Dr Jo McClintock – Clinical Psychologist
  • Dr Rawiri McKree Jansen – General Practitioner
  • Prof Rinki Murphy – Specialist Diabetes Physician
  • Dr James Shand – Endocrinologist
  • Dr Samuel Whittaker – General Practitioner 

 OTAG reviewed the application to fund semaglutide for weight loss in December 2025. The group’s provisional recommendation [PDF](external link) is that Pharmac fund it for chronic weight management in people with a high body mass index (BMI) and associated comorbidities, with a high priority. The full record of the meeting is expected to be available by March.

A recommendation from OTAG is not a guarantee that Pharmac will fund a medicine. It is a vital step in the process for considering this application, but it is not the only consideration.

The OTAG advice will contribute to Pharmac’s assessment of the role of these medicines in New Zealand and consider the impact on individuals, whānau, caregivers, and the wider health system. We will continue to seek input from the clinical and patient communities.

More about our advisory groups

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/obesity-experts-advise-on-new-treatments/

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New agreement improves access to treatment for New Zealanders

Source: PHARMAC

A multiproduct agreement, which took effect on 1 December last year, is delivering significant benefits for patients and the health system – freeing up thousands of infusion hours and helping services run more efficiently. 

Under the agreement Pharmac is funding five treatments for multiple sclerosis, breast cancer, lung cancer and serious eye conditions. 

Vice President of Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand, Graham Walker, says the new treatments are a ‘game changer’. 

“I got a text the other day from a friend in Christchurch who said his treatment had taken an hour, starting from his arrival at the hospital to catching the bus home. He thought it was marvellous.” 

“There’s also a lot of people that have trouble getting treatment simply because there’s no room at the infusion centre. Now six or seven people can be treated in the time it took to treat one. That’s huge!” 

The agreement with pharmaceutical supplier Roche includes two new treatments, more convenient versions of existing medicines, and continued access to an already funded treatment 

“We were able to fund new medicines through this agreement, but what I’m most pleased about is the impact the new and improved existing treatments will have on people’s lives,” says Pharmaceutical Director, Adrienne Martin. 

“The new injectable treatments can be completed in 15 minutes compared to 3-5 hours for intravenous infusions. 

The reduction in infusion times is expected to save the health system $11 million over five years. It will also ease pressure on hospital services and improve access for patients who previously faced long wait times. 

Read Decision to fund treatments for multiple sclerosis, eye conditions, breast cancer and lung cancer for more details.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/new-agreement-improves-access-to-treatment-for-new-zealanders/

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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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Palestine Forum of New Zealand Marks International Women’s Day

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

Honouring the Courage, Resilience, and Strength of Palestinian Women – Palestine Forum of New Zealand joins communities around the world in commemorating International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026. This year, we dedicate its observance to the extraordinary Palestinian women mothers, doctors, journalists, teachers, and activists who continue to demonstrate unparalleled courage and resilience in the face of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

As the global community reflects on the theme of gender equality and women’s rights, we call on New Zealanders and the international community to recognise that Palestinian women are not merely victims of circumstance; they are leaders, caregivers, and the backbone of their communities, holding families and societies together under conditions of extraordinary hardship.

The Untold Stories of Palestinian Women

Palestinian women have long stood at the forefront of their people’s struggle for dignity, self-determination, and survival. From the fields of Gaza to the refugee camps of the West Bank, Lebanese border towns, and the Palestinian diaspora worldwide, women have been the anchors of family life, cultural preservation, and community resistance.

Today, Palestinian women face compounding crises: displacement, loss of loved ones, restrictions on movement, and limited access to healthcare and education. Yet, in the face of these immense challenges, they continue to lead, educate, heal, and inspire. Their stories must be told, their voices must be amplified, and their humanity must be recognised.

Palestine Forum of New Zealand’s Call to Action

On this International Women’s Day, Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls upon:

•  The New Zealand Government to take a firm and principled stand in advocating for the protection of Palestinian women and children under international humanitarian law.

•  The United Nations and international human rights bodies should urgently investigate and address the specific and disproportionate impact of the ongoing conflict on Palestinian women.

•  New Zealanders from all walks of life are to stand in solidarity with Palestinian women to listen to their stories, support humanitarian aid organisations, and speak out against injustice.

•  Media organisations dedicate space and airtime to the voices of Palestinian women, ensuring their experiences shape the global narrative.

“Palestinian women do not ask for pity; they ask for justice. They ask for the world to see them as they truly are, strong, dignified, and deserving of every right that every woman on this Earth deserves. On this International Women’s Day, we say: “We see you, we stand with you, and we will not be silent.”

– Palestine Forum of New Zealand

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/palestine-forum-of-new-zealand-marks-international-womens-day/

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Women shaping the future of Aotearoa recognised in inaugural Women of Impact in Property list

Source: Property Council of New Zealand

Thirty wāhine whose leadership is shaping the future of New Zealand’s built environment have been recognised in the inaugural Women of Impact in Property list, unveiled by Property Council New Zealand this International Women’s Day.

Spanning developers, designers, engineers, strategists, policy leaders and project specialists, the list – selected from over 90 nominees – celebrates the breadth of talent driving progress across the property ecosystem.

Importantly, Women of Impact in Property is not a competition. Every honouree is recognised equally for the influence and impact they have delivered across the sector.

Property Council Chief Executive Leonie Freeman says the programme shines a light on the people whose leadership is helping shape stronger, more inclusive communities.

“Our cities are built by people, and behind every great place are women creating change: leading teams, mentoring others, challenging thinking and delivering outcomes that benefit us all.”

“Women of Impact is about visibility, recognition and inspiration. We want the sector – and the public – to see what leadership looks like in all its forms.”

The initiative reflects Property Council’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and will become an annual International Women’s Day tradition.

Women of Impact in Property is proudly supported by MinterEllisonRuddWatts.

A sector-wide celebration

Honourees were selected from nominations received across Aotearoa and represent a diverse range of disciplines, regions and career stages.

From large-scale urban development to community-led initiatives, governance leadership to technical excellence, each woman has demonstrated meaningful influence within the industry over the past 12 months.

Why it matters

Property is one of New Zealand’s largest industries, shaping the places where people live, work, play and connect. Recognising the contribution of women across the sector is essential to building a more inclusive, innovative and future-focused industry.

What’s next

The honourees will be celebrated at a dedicated event hosted by programme partner MinterEllisonRuddWatts in May.

NOTES

  • Women of Impact in Property is run by Property Council New Zealand.
  • The programme recognises influence, leadership, inspiration and commitment to advancing positive outcomes in the built environment.
  • The list is non-ranked, celebrating impact rather than competition.

About Women of Impact in Property

The Women of Impact in Property list celebrates the wāhine shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand’s built environment. Recognising leaders from across the property ecosystem – from architects and engineers to developers, investors and advisors – the initiative shines a light on the women creating meaningful impact in our industry and communities. The list is intentionally non-ranked, celebrating influence, leadership and contribution rather than competition, and highlighting the people helping build a more inclusive and dynamic property sector.

Honourees 2026

Note: This list is non-ranked and is ordered alphabetically.

Abi Richards

Project Manager, Antarctica New Zealand

Abi Richards leads complex, high-stakes infrastructure projects with calm authority, precision and deep care for the people involved. In the past year, she has progressed Antarctica New Zealand’s Wind Farm programme and Scott Base Redevelopment, providing on-ice leadership and cross-agency coordination to support globally significant climate and science research. Her briefings during the Governor-General’s official visit underscored the redevelopment’s strategic importance and international collaboration. Abi’s leadership is defined by empathy, inclusion and decisive action — whether aligning stakeholders, navigating remote logistics or mentoring peers. Operating at pace without compromising safety or integrity, she is shaping resilient infrastructure that enables communities, patients and scientists to thrive.

Alexandra Isherwood

Partner, Tavendale and Partners

Over the past year, Alexandra (Alex) Isherwood has played a pivotal role in advancing Nelson’s post-disaster recovery through strategic property development leadership. As legal advisor on four of the region’s five most significant developments – including The Meadows, Berryfields, Maitahi Village and a 320-lot residential project in Māpua – she has helped unlock critical housing supply and economic investment. Notably, she led the Fast-track Approvals process for two landmark projects, securing rare national approvals and enabling an estimated $450 million injection into the regional economy. Combining legal excellence with community stewardship, she is shaping resilient, future-focused neighbourhoods across Te Tauihu.

Ana Moriarty

Senior Investment Manager, Kiwi Property Group

Operating at the heart of Kiwi Property’s investment strategy, Ana Moriarty has played a critical role in delivering complex transactions that are strengthening investor partnerships and positioning the business for its next phase of growth. Over the past year, she led several strategically significant initiatives, including the equity investment in Mackersy, the sale of Plaza Shopping Centre, and the formation of the Mackersy Large Format Retail Fund. Her ability to navigate technical complexity, align diverse stakeholders and execute with clarity has delivered strong commercial outcomes. Through disciplined leadership and a collaborative approach, she is helping shape the future of New Zealand’s property sector.

Anna Kennedy

Director Valuation Services, FordBaker Valuation

Anna Kennedy is rapidly establishing herself as one of Ōtautahi Christchurch’s most trusted property valuation professionals. As Director of Valuation Services at FordBaker Valuation, she advises on major property portfolios, earning a reputation for technical excellence, sound judgement and professionalism well beyond her years. Alongside her professional work, Anna is strengthening the sector’s future through leadership and connection. In 2023 she co-founded the Wāhine in Property Collective, which in 2025 hosted ten sold-out events supporting women across the industry. Through both her professional expertise and community leadership, Anna is helping build a more connected and inclusive property sector.

Bernie Pitt

Quantity Surveyor, Hampton Jones Property Consultancy

Bernie Pitt has strengthened her influence in the property and construction sector through exceptional project delivery and committed industry leadership. Over the past year, she successfully led the TSB Bank flagship branch and office fit-out, navigating accelerated design, procurement pressures and tight deadlines to deliver on time and under budget – earning outstanding client feedback. As Chair of the NZIQS Wellington Committee, she delivered 28 industry events, advanced succession planning and expanded opportunities for emerging professionals. Balancing consultancy leadership, mentoring and further tertiary study focused on women’s representation in construction, Bernie is actively shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for the profession.

Chagalle Ellis

Partner, Real Estate, PwC

Chagalle Ellis is redefining what modern leadership in commercial property looks like — blending technical excellence with deeply human leadership. In 2025, she has continued to asset manage a significant $300m commercial portfolio for a charitable trust, shaping long-term strategy and driving sustained value creation. As a Partner in PwC’s Real Estate team, she delivers across advisory, structured transactions and valuation, translating complexity into clear, confident decisions. Just as importantly, she champions equity and inclusion, helping build a senior team where female leadership is the norm. Her influence strengthens portfolios, teams and the wider property sector alike.

Claire McLellan

Director, Quality and Risk Management, CBRE

Few professionals influence a sector as quietly and profoundly as Claire McLellan. In 2025, following her promotion to Director of Quality & Risk Management for CBRE’s VAS New Zealand, she has led a nationwide uplift in valuation standards, guiding more than 170 valuers through complex, high-risk decisions with clarity and integrity. She shapes national practice guidelines, champions ethical and AI-informed innovation, and strengthens capability across the business. Beyond CBRE, as NZIV President and Chairperson, she is steering the profession through structural change and raising its public profile. Through steady, principled leadership, Claire is elevating valuation practice across Aotearoa.

Davina Henderson

National Director – Strategic Business Development, Bayleys Real Estate

Davina Henderson has led one of the largest and most complex property programmes undertaken in Aotearoa in recent years. As a key architect of Bayleys’ appointment as master agent to Kāinga Ora, she helped secure and operationalise a nationwide divestment mandate covering at least 1,000 properties annually across multiple asset classes. Over the past year, she has overseen the creation of a bespoke, end-to-end delivery model ensuring governance rigour, transparency and consistent execution at scale. Alongside this national impact, Davina mentors emerging leaders and champions women in commercial real estate, strengthening capability across the sector.

Elisapeta Heta

Principal & Kaihautū Whaihanga – Māori Design Leader, Jasmax

Elisapeta Heta is reshaping architectural practice in Aotearoa and beyond by embedding Indigenous knowledge at the heart of design. As Principal and Kaihautū Whaihanga at Jasmax, she leads Waka Māia, advancing authentic co-design with Māori and Pasifika communities. Her influence spans landmark projects including the City Rail Link and Wellington’s Fale Malae, ensuring Mana Whenua narratives are integral to civic spaces. In 2025, her global impact expanded as inaugural Co-Director of the International Union of Architects’ Indigenous Peoples Work Programme — a historic first. Through cultural leadership, advocacy and mentorship, Elisapeta is redefining how architecture honours people, place and future generations.

Jane Holland

Partner, Bell Gully

Industry legend Jane Holland continues to shape New Zealand’s commercial property landscape through her leadership on complex, high-value developments. Over the past year, she has advised on a major telecommunications headquarters at Wynyard Quarter – a flagship 6-star Green Star project – and supported Vital Healthcare on significant hospital redevelopments nationwide. Beyond her legal practice, Jane chairs the Property Council’s Property Conference Committee, helping steer industry dialogue and sector capability. A trusted advisor to leading developers, owners and retailers, she also contributes as a thought leader, recently peer reviewing key industry lease documents and sharing insight across the profession.

Jane Kelly

Director / Architect, TEAM Architects

Jane Kelly’s leadership in 2025 reflects the power of architecture grounded in care, stewardship and collaboration. As Project Architect for the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart restoration, she guided a nationally significant heritage project to award-winning success, balancing cultural integrity with future relevance. Her aged care work, including Woburn Masonic Care, champions dignity and wellbeing through thoughtful design. Beyond projects, Jane strengthens the profession through governance leadership, mentoring and advancing diversity within TEAM Architects nationally. Generous with her expertise and steadfast in her advocacy, she is shaping enduring places, and a more inclusive future for architecture in Aotearoa.

Jenna Adamson

CEO / Director, Private Family Office / Southern Infrastructure

Jenna Adamson is advancing a new model of infrastructure and property leadership; one grounded in partnership, stewardship and long-term community value. As CEO of Rod Drury’s Family Office, she oversees property strategy and asset management across a diversified portfolio focused on strengthening enduring community assets. As Director of Southern Infrastructure, she is helping progress critical projects, including the Queenstown Cable Car and Southern Lakes Hospital, mobilising capital and expertise to de-risk delivery in fast-growing regions. Combining governance rigour with innovative thinking, Jenna is enabling infrastructure that expands access, resilience and opportunity for communities across Aotearoa.

Jennifer Andrews

Asset Manager – Retail Portfolio, Oyster Property 

Jennifer Andrews is strengthening the future of retail property through consistent investment in people and capability. Over the past year, she has contributed significantly to sector education as a presenter for the Property Council’s Retail Property Fundamentals programme, equipping emerging professionals with practical insight into investment, valuation and leasing. She mentors across multiple platforms, including the University of Auckland’s He Ira Wāhine programme, supporting women entering the industry. Alongside this, she leads a high-performing national team at Oyster Property, delivering strong financial outcomes while fostering inclusive leadership. Jennifer’s impact is defined by expertise shared generously and a clear commitment to building tomorrow’s talent.

Jenny Zhang

Shop Drawing Manager, Summerset Group 

Jenny Zhang is delivering precision and performance at the highest level of large-scale residential development. As Structural Coordinator and Shop Drawing Manager for Summerset’s $500M St Johns and Half Moon Bay projects, she has reviewed more than 3,000 shop drawings and managed over 800 RFIs — identifying buildability and coordination risks before they reach site. Her meticulous oversight of complex high-rise structures has reduced rework, improved contractor performance and safeguarded delivery timelines. Beyond project execution, Jenny mentors emerging professionals and leads diversity initiatives through NZCBIA, championing greater female participation across property and construction. Her impact is technical, cultural and enduring.

Jo Hatchman

Director – Quantity Surveyor, Hatch Consulting

Jo Hatchman is redefining the role of the quantity surveyor in Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction and property sectors. As founder of Hatch Consulting, she has grown a female-led, values-driven practice that brings contractor-side experience into strategic project advisory, helping clients make smarter delivery decisions. In 2025, her team expanded while continuing to deliver practical, commercially grounded guidance on complex developments. Jo is equally committed to strengthening the profession, delivering industry training and fostering emerging talent — reflected in multiple team award wins. Through entrepreneurial leadership and a people-first culture, she is elevating the influence and capability of quantity surveying nationwide.

Karin Speight

Sector Lead – Land Development, Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Tonkin + Taylor

Karin Speight is advancing smarter, more resilient land development across Aotearoa through engineering leadership and digital innovation. As Principal Geotechnical Engineer and Sector Lead for Land Development at Tonkin + Taylor, she guides complex projects across housing, health, education and infrastructure. Her leadership on the award-winning Whenuapai Senior Campus reflects her ability to balance technical precision with practical delivery. Beyond project work, Karin is driving innovation through digital tools that improve site selection, risk assessment and project planning, while contributing to national research on landslides and expansive soils. Through mentorship and forward-thinking engineering, she is helping shape safer and more sustainable communities.

Kerry O’Donnell

Partner, Property and Private Client, Anderson Lloyd

Kerry O’Donnell is helping guide Queenstown’s growth with foresight, integrity and deep community commitment. As a senior property lawyer at Anderson Lloyd, she has supported major residential developments in 2025, including the 750-section Kingston Village project, providing the legal framework for staged, sustainable expansion in a high-growth region. Her work across acquisitions, joint ventures and financing has strengthened development certainty while balancing environmental and community considerations. Beyond commercial practice, Kerry leads as Chair of the Queenstown Heritage Trust and serves as a trustee supporting local students, exemplifying leadership grounded in stewardship and long-term regional wellbeing.

Laura Johns

Director, RDT Pacific

Driving both project delivery and professional excellence, Laura Johns is making a significant contribution to New Zealand’s built environment. As Director and Auckland Lead at RDT Pacific, she has guided major programmes in 2025 including BNZ’s 80 Queen Street refurbishment and key public sector projects across justice, health and education. Her leadership has delivered strong outcomes for clients while supporting the continued growth of RDT Pacific’s Auckland practice. Beyond project work, Laura plays an active role in strengthening the profession through RICS chartership assessments and NZIQS interviews. Recognised as RICS New Zealand Woman of the Built Environment, she champions both industry capability and people-first leadership.

Lauren Joyce

Head of Auckland Office Portfolio, Precinct Properties

Lauren Joyce is helping shape the next generation of commercial property leadership in Aotearoa. Through her work at Precinct Properties, she contributes to complex mixed-use developments that prioritise design excellence, tenant experience and long-term community value. Known for her calm, collaborative approach, she brings investors, tenants and stakeholders together to deliver confident outcomes in high-pressure environments. Beyond project delivery, Lauren has been a driving force in advancing diversity and inclusion across the sector, chairing Property Council’s DEI Committee and helping establish the Inclusion Alliance. Blending commercial rigour with genuine care for people, she is strengthening both places and the profession.

Louise Martin

Head of Legal & Company Secretary, Auckland Airport

Louise Martin is shaping one of Aotearoa’s most significant infrastructure precincts with clarity, conviction and care. At Auckland Airport, she plays a central role in complex development, precinct planning and asset optimisation, balancing commercial performance with long-term community and cultural outcomes. Her ability to navigate competing priorities — from airlines and tenants to mana whenua and regulators — ensures projects are both visionary and deliverable. Known for her integrity and high standards, Louise champions inclusive design and authentic engagement while mentoring emerging leaders across the sector. Through strategic leadership grounded in humanity, she is influencing the future of New Zealand’s built environment.

Marilyn Storey

Head of Development, Argosy Property Limited

Marilyn Storey continues to set the benchmark for commercial property leadership in Aotearoa. As Head of Development at Argosy, she has led a pipeline of major industrial projects over the past year, targeting six Green Star Built-rated developments and embedding sustainability at scale. Operating in a complex market environment, she brings sharp commercial judgement, technical depth and decisive execution to every project, strengthening portfolio performance and long-term value. Widely recognised for her mentorship and high standards, Marilyn also shapes sector practice through her Urban Design Panel involvement. Her influence is evident in stronger assets, stronger teams and a more resilient built environment.

Mitika Chaturvedi

Sustainability Lead, Fosters Construction Group

Mitika Chaturvedi is driving measurable climate action across New Zealand’s construction sector. As Sustainability Lead at Fosters Construction Group, her leadership has contributed to a 38% absolute emissions reduction and a 90% drop in waste-to-landfill emissions since 2019–20. In 2025, she delivered a Green Star v1.1 Design Rating for the Air Liquide project within an accelerated programme, building new sustainability capability across consultants and contractors. Beyond project delivery, she champions industry-wide change — mentoring other firms on Toitū and Green Star pathways and leading New Zealand’s only construction sustainability work experience programme. Her influence is practical, scalable and transformative.

Nikki Mazur

Head of Property – New Zealand & Pacific, ANZ Bank New Zealand

Nikki Mazur is redefining how corporate property portfolios can reflect identity, culture and long-term responsibility. As lead of Tākiri Ā Nuku, ANZ’s New Zealand Property Strategy, she has embedded Te Ao Māori principles into spatial design, investment decisions and partnership models across one of the country’s largest portfolios. In the past year, she has advanced culturally grounded, accessible and future-focused property environments that prioritise people and place. Building on her previous leadership delivering inclusive national infrastructure at Waka Kotahi, Nikki brings cultural fluency and strategic foresight to every project — shaping workplaces that honour whenua and support intergenerational prosperity.

Rachel Morgan

Director, Barker & Associates

Rachel Morgan is shaping the planning frameworks that guide growth across Aotearoa. As a Director at Barker & Associates, she has led complex district plan reviews, structure plans and strategic planning projects that influence how communities accommodate development while building resilience for the future. In the past year, her leadership has helped align public policy and private sector delivery, creating clearer pathways for sustainable growth. Beyond project work, she advances wellbeing, cultural capability and technical excellence within her firm and the wider industry. Through principled leadership and sector advocacy, Rachel is strengthening both planning practice and property outcomes nationwide.

Rebecca Ryder

Partner | Landscape Architect, Boffa Miskell

Rebecca Ryder has spent more than two decades shaping property outcomes that balance growth with environmental and cultural integrity. As a Shareholder Director and Partner at Boffa Miskell, she provides landscape planning and visual assessment expertise on major developments across Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, guiding projects that integrate mana whenua values and long-term community benefit. In the past year, her leadership has continued to influence high-profile urban regeneration, industrial expansion and waterfront transformation initiatives. Through governance, mentorship and sector advocacy, Rebecca is embedding sustainability, cultural responsiveness and design excellence into New Zealand’s evolving property landscape.

Renée Young

Associate Director | New Zealand Mechanical Lead, Norman Disney & Young

Renée Young is shaping some of Aotearoa’s most high-profile developments while championing a more inclusive and culturally responsive industry. As Mechanical Lead at Norman Disney & Young, she has led building services delivery for landmark projects including New Zealand’s first IKEA store at Sylvia Park and multiple developments across the Britomart Precinct. Her leadership combines technical excellence with strong people development, guiding multidisciplinary teams through complex, high-performance projects. Beyond delivery, Renée actively mentors women in engineering, establishes supportive professional networks, and promotes cultural awareness across the sector. Through both project leadership and advocacy, she is helping redefine the future of engineering in the built environment.

Renee Smith-Apanui

Pou Tāhū | Managing Director, ŌRUA

Renee Smith-Apanui is driving structural change across Aotearoa New Zealand’s architecture and built environment sectors. As Co-founder and Pou Tāhū of ŌRUA, she champions kaupapa Māori leadership that uplifts whānau, hapū and iwi through design and governance. In 2025, she spearheaded the inaugural Puritia Te Aka Matua industry reports, establishing a new benchmark for accountability and improved outcomes for Māori architects and tauira. With an Accountability Framework set to follow, her work is shifting industry standards from aspiration to measurable change. Through governance roles, mentorship and advocacy, Renee is strengthening representation and embedding equity across the profession.

Sarah Toase

Chief Executive, Crane Association of New Zealand

Sarah Toase is strengthening the foundations of New Zealand’s construction and property sectors by tackling workforce and safety challenges head-on. In 2025, she led the establishment of a new industry-led Private Training Establishment for the crane and port sectors, securing TEC funding to address critical skills shortages impacting nationwide development. She also progressed a government-approved rewrite of the Approved Code of Practice for Cranes, modernising safety standards that underpin construction delivery. Beyond policy, Sarah champions equity initiatives and public engagement programmes that expand career pathways. Her leadership is practical, future-focused and vital to keeping Aotearoa building safely and sustainably.

Tamba Carleton

New Zealand Research Director, CBRE

Tamba Carleton is shaping how the property sector understands markets, risk and opportunity. As New Zealand Research Director at CBRE, her analysis informs major development decisions and national policy conversations. In 2025, she co-authored the nationwide Residential Valuer Insights Survey and produced influential research on effective housing demand, helping fill critical knowledge gaps in Auckland’s planning debate. Her insights regularly reach industry audiences through national media, conferences and CBRE’s annual Residential Symposium. Alongside her research leadership, Tamba mentors emerging professionals and contributes to wider community initiatives. Through rigorous analysis and sector engagement, she is elevating the quality of property market intelligence across Aotearoa.

Tessa Beetham

Wellington Buildings Structures Lead, Aurecon

In a city defined by seismic complexity, Tessa Beetham is helping redefine what resilient infrastructure looks like. As Wellington Buildings Structures Lead at Aurecon, she has guided technically demanding projects including the National Archives redevelopment and the Te Ngākau Civic Precinct upgrades, restoring vital public spaces with precision and long-term foresight. Her leadership extends beyond delivery — influencing seismic policy reform and advancing diversity as Vice President of SESOC. By bringing engineers, policymakers and communities together, Tessa is ensuring Wellington’s most important buildings are not only stronger, but smarter, more inclusive and built to endure.

About Property Council New Zealand

Property Council is the leading advocate for Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest industry – property.

Property Council New Zealand is the one organisation that collectively champions property. We bring together members from all corners of the property ecosystem to advocate for reduced red tape that enables development, encourages investment, and supports our communities to thrive.

Property is New Zealand’s largest industry, making up 15% of economic activity. As a sector, we employ 10% of New Zealand’s workforce and contribute over $50.2 billion to GDP.

A not-for-profit organisation, the Property Council connects over 10,000 property professionals, championing the interests of over 600 member companies.

Our membership is broad and includes some of the largest commercial and residential property owners and developers in New Zealand. The property industry comes together at our local, national and online events, which offer professional development, exceptional networking and access to industry-leading research. 

Our members shape the cities and spaces where New Zealanders live, work, play and shop.

www.propertynz.co.nz 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/women-shaping-the-future-of-aotearoa-recognised-in-inaugural-women-of-impact-in-property-list/

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ChildFund – Just Hours From NZ – Women Still Fight for Basic Rights

Source: ChildFund New Zealand

Too many women in our shared home of the Pacific still struggle to access clean water for their families.
“It’s the 21st century, and yet only hours away from New Zealand, women have to watch their children get sick, or worse, from contaminated water. They have to prioritise finding clean water instead of focusing on earning an income or building a future,” says CEO of ChildFund New Zealand Josie Pagani.
“Clean water has a domino effect. Get that right, and development across the whole Pacific will improve.”
Nearby Pacific nations continue to face barriers to health, including access to clean water. Women and their children often walk for hours to collect and boil unsafe water, a time-consuming and exhausting task.
“This is a practical problem that can be solved if we just come together as donors, businesses and aid charities to make it happen.
“At ChildFund we believe New Zealand could make sure every child in the Pacific has access to clean water by 2036, if we stick to this clear target and work together.”
ChildFund New Zealand has partnered with Pacific communities for many years, as well as supporting women and children in places like Ukraine and Gaza, Sri Lanka and Africa. As part of a global ChildFund alliance, it reaches over 36 million people in 70 countries.
Access to clean water is a global issue:
  • 1 in 4 people worldwide still lack access to safe drinking water. ( WHO)
  • Women and girls collect water in about 7 out of 10 households without water on the premises. ( WHO)
  • Globally, women and girls spend 250 million hours per day collecting water. ( UN Water)
  •  Over 1 billion women globally lack access to safely managed drinking water services. ( UN) 
“Thanks to our supporters, we provided access to clean drinking water for 4,309 people across the world last year. What makes a real difference is that when donations go to water projects, every dollar is matched by five dollars from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” says Josie Pagani.
Solar-powered water purification units, costing only $250 each, plus desalination tanks, and water tanks have been introduced in remote Pacific communities in the outer islands across the Pacific.
“Gender equality is not an abstract thing. It’s about everyday rights: clean water, good health, economic security for women and their children.
“When communities have the basics sorted, like clean water, women are free to realise their potential, earn a living. All of which helps to lift their communities out of poverty.”
“Clean water changes everything. So on this International Women’s Day, let’s roll out more water projects to women and children across our own region,” says Josie Pagani.
For more information about ChildFund New Zealand’s work in the Pacific and how women and communities are leading their own change, visit childfund.org.nz.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/childfund-just-hours-from-nz-women-still-fight-for-basic-rights/

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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/

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Universities – $5.1 million grant to eliminate cervical cancer in Pacific region – UoA

Source: University of Auckland – UoA

Pacific-led initiatives set to eliminate cervical cancer across the Pacific

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, and its Pacific partners, are supporting the rollout of safe initiatives across the Pacific that are proven to prevent cervical cancer and save lives.

Cervical cancer is a largely preventable disease but remains a leading cause of cancer death among Pacific women. In parts of the Pacific, incidence rates are up to nine times higher than in Australasia.

The Matariki Fund, administered by Rt Hon Dame Jacinda Ardern, is supporting the programme by expanding access to new and existing locally led cancer prevention initiatives for more people across the Pacific.

This new partnership enables a new Pacific-led and coordinated programme of work that:

  • Increases HPV vaccination coverage to reach at least 90% of girls. 
  • Expands access to cervical self-testing to achieve at least 70% of eligible women
  • Facilitates timely diagnostics to enable treatment for pre-cancerous lesions and invasive cancer
  • Establishes a coalition of Pacific women leaders to lead workforce and capability development, including digital and health system infrastructure.

The programme made possible through a NZ$5.1 million grant by the Matariki Fund, and active work of other partners in the region, will begin with a focus on the Cook Islands and Niue before being scaled up across the region.

Cervical cancer can be prevented through HPV vaccination, regular screening and timely diagnosis and treatment. Yet access to these services remains uneven across the Pacific. This new investment provides a critical opportunity to align national programmes, regional partners, and women leaders around a common goal towards elimination.

The initiative will work alongside successful existing regional programmes, including the EPICC programme (funded by the Australian Government and the Minderoo Foundation) and the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) (managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Health and funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade).

Together, these partnerships will help scale effective interventions, reduce duplication, and strengthen regional health systems.

Aligning with the WHO Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer the initiative aims to support countries to achieve the “90–70–90” targets by 2030 — a threshold at which elimination becomes possible.  In practice, this means aiming to achieving 90% of girls aged 15 years receiving the HPV vaccine, 70% of women screened by age 35 years, and again at 45 years; and 90% of women with pre-cancer and invasive cancers treated.

Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga, Co-Director of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, says the funding is a gamechanger for regional collaboration.

“Cervical cancer is preventable, yet too many Pacific women continue to die from it. This investment allows Pacific countries to work together — sharing expertise, strengthening systems, and supporting women leaders — to achieve elimination.”

Pacific women will be at the forefront of the initiative, working in partnership with Te Marae Ora (Cook Islands), the Niue Department of Health, and regional organisations.

Professor Judith McCool, Head of the School of Population Health and Co-Director of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, says the funding enables sustainable, system-level change.

“This grant allows us to move beyond isolated interventions to a truly collaborative, Pacific-led approach. By strengthening leadership, governance, and regional partnerships, we are building the foundations for long-term health equity.”

Rt. Hon. Dame Jacinda Ardern says:
“Pacific women are disproportionately affected by a disease that can be eliminated. There is such excellent leadership within the region – this funding is simply about supporting them to save lives with solutions that should be available to everyone.”
 
Total investment: NZ$5,097,210
Duration: 2026–2031
Lead organisation: Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, Centre for Pacific and Global Health – University of Auckland

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/universities-5-1-million-grant-to-eliminate-cervical-cancer-in-pacific-region-uoa/

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Kiztopia celebrates grand opening of its newest family edutainment centre at Toppen Shopping Mall, Johor Bahru

Source: Media Outreach

Kiztopia brings its award-winning “Play to Learn, Learn through Play” concept to Southern Malaysia, marking its 3rd outlet in Malaysia and 22nd across APAC

JOHOR BAHRU, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 March 2026 – Kiztopia, Singapore’s leading family edutainment brand, officially celebrated the grand opening of its newest outlet at Toppen Shopping Centre, Johor Bahru on February 26, 2026. This milestone marks Kiztopia’s third outlet in Malaysia since 2024 and its 22nd family edutainment centre across the Asia-Pacific region.

From left: Ms. Li San, Operations Manager of Kiztopia Malaysia; Ms. Heidi Tian, CEO and Founder of Kiztopia; Mr. Sergey Aristarkhov, Centre Manager of Toppen Mall; Ms. Su Wei, General Manager of Kiztopia Malaysia; and Mr. Nicholas Yong, COO of Kiztopia, commemorated the official ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new outlet.

Founded in Singapore in 2019 with its flagship outlet at Marina Square, Kiztopia was awarded “Best Attraction Experience” at the Singapore Tourism Awards in 2021. Today, the brand operates across Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia, with sub-brands including Kiztopia Club, Bouncetopia, SkyPark, Kiztopia Prestige, and Xventure — a sports and adventure concept designed for teens, adults and thrill-seekers.

The Johor Bahru outlet represents Kiztopia’s continued commitment to expanding its footprint in Malaysia, bringing innovative and immersive family experiences to the southern region.

Speaking at the grand opening ceremony, Ms. Heidi Tian, Founder and CEO of Kiztopia, said:
“A very warm welcome to our grand opening ceremony at Toppen Shopping Centre today. This marks our third outlet opened in Malaysia since 2024 and our 22nd outlet in the APAC region. We are honoured to collaborate with Ikano Group and delighted to bring memorable experiences and timeless fun to all families in Johor and across Malaysia.

We are fully committed to Malaysia’s market development and hope to bring more innovative and creative concepts and experiences to Malaysian families.”

Ms. Su Wei, General Manager of Kiztopia Malaysia, added:
“This expansion reflects how much we value families in the South. Beyond the play zones, our team is here to create lasting memories — and we can’t wait to see the smiles begin at Toppen.”

Mr. Sergey Aristarkhov, Centre Manager of Toppen Mall, shared: “Toppen is not just a shopping mall; it is a place that creates meaningful experiences for families and children. This is what we believe in. We are proud to welcome Kiztopia as part of our experiential offerings, strengthening Toppen’s position as a destination for family bonding and interactive play.”

A world of imaginative play and active learning

Kiztopia is built around its core philosophy of “Play to Learn, Learn through Play.” The Johor Bahru outlet features vibrant thematic play zones inspired by Kiztopia’s eight unique IP-registered characters, each designed to stimulate creativity, physical activity, and social development.

Children can explore large-scale interactive playground structures, role-play zones that spark imagination, obstacle courses that encourage physical agility, and immersive activity areas that nurture teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Designed as a safe, engaging and enriching environment, the centre allows children to build confidence while strengthening family bonds through shared experiences.

Beyond daily play sessions, Kiztopia also offers curated birthday party packages and school visit programmes, providing customised, guided experiences that combine fun, education and memorable celebrations for children of all ages.

Strengthening Malaysia’s family entertainment landscape

The launch at Toppen Shopping Centre reinforces Kiztopia’s long-term commitment to Malaysia as a key growth market in Southeast Asia. By collaborating with Ikano Group and Toppen Mall, Kiztopia aims to deliver not just entertainment, but holistic family experiences that blend education, physical play and emotional connection.

With Malaysia’s growing demand for premium indoor family attractions, Kiztopia continues to innovate with new concepts, seasonal events and cross-brand experiences such as Jumptopia and Splashtopia — signature inflatable event experiences that have delighted families across the region.

Visit Kiztopia at Toppen Shopping Centre

Families in Johor Bahru and surrounding areas are invited to experience Kiztopia’s newest outlet at Toppen Shopping Centre and discover a dynamic space where imagination, learning and fun come together.

For more information, please visit:

Website: https://kiztopia.com.my/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kiztopiamy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiztopiamy
Media Assets: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cA9ojcjEx2vOqVwoccUblUwR1UDLX4Y6?usp=sharing
Marketing: Rachel – 014-7196961

https://kiztopia.com.my/
https://www.facebook.com/kiztopiamy
https://www.instagram.com/kiztopiamy

Hashtag: #KiztopiaToppen #Edutainment #ToppenShoppingMallJB #JohorBahru

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/2026/03/08/kiztopia-celebrates-grand-opening-of-its-newest-family-edutainment-centre-at-toppen-shopping-mall-johor-bahru/

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CGTN: How China builds consensus, boosts development through consultative democracy

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 March 2026 – CGTN published an article on the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee. Reviewing the work of the CPPCC National Committee in 2025 in areas like its consultative and deliberative work and assisting in the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan, the article highlights the CPPCC’s role as a dedicated consultative body through which people’s democracy is practiced.

Committed to addressing the difficulties regarding people’s livelihood through the rule of law, Pi Jianlong, a lawyer and a national political advisor, has spent years going deep into factories, workshops, law firms and juvenile probation and rehabilitation centers, making sure that his proposals, grounded in rigorous field research, are precise, practical and responsive to real needs.

Noting the predicament faced by food delivery riders, including the lack of contracts, social security and basic protection, he proposed targeted suggestions such as innovating social security models and strengthening platform responsibilities. In 2025, platforms such as JD.com and Meituan successively introduced social security plans, providing full social insurance coverage for full-time riders and accident and medical insurance for part-time riders.

Awarded for his outstanding performance in 2025 by the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee recently, Pi exemplifies the commitment of thousands of CPPCC members to serving the people through high-quality duty fulfillment, underscoring the CPPCC’s role as a major vehicle through which people’s democracy is practiced.

On Wednesday afternoon, China’s top political advisory body, the CPPCC National Committee, kicked off its annual session in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping, together with other leaders, attended the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee.

99.9% proposals handled

Acting as a dedicated consultative body, the CPPCC has pooled extensive consensus and strength to support the successful conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and a solid start to the 15th Five-Year Plan over the past year, injecting strong vitality into the practice of whole-process people’s democracy – a key concept put forward by Xi himself to advance China’s political landscape.

Over the years, China has made all-around progress in improving the institutions, standards and procedures of socialist democracy and advanced socialist consultative democracy by way of extensive participation.

According to a work report delivered at the opening meeting, in 2025, the CPPCC National Committee received 5,992 proposals from its members, of which 5,061 were accepted for processing. The response rate for the accepted proposals stood at 99.9%.

The CPPCC National Committee members carried out 6,778 activities to serve the people, along with 11,115 outreach activities engaging people from relevant sectors. These efforts benefited more than 4 million people.

By innovating consultative and deliberative methods, improving consultative democracy institutions, and fostering a culture of consultation, the CPPCC has further strengthened its role in promoting democracy and offering policy advice while building consensus.

Over the past year, the CPPCC National Committee held 98 consultative and deliberative events, ranging from promoting the country’s green and low-carbon transition for the 15th Five-Year Plan and developing the silver economy to improving and innovating social governance. These efforts demonstrate that consultative democracy is grounded in reality and responsive to public needs, pooling support, consensus, wisdom and strength to advance Chinese modernization.

Securing a strong start to the 15th Five-Year Plan

Supporting the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan serves as a key task of the CPPCC in 2025, representing a vivid practice of whole-process people’s democracy.

From May 20 to June 20 last year, China launched an online public consultation to gather opinions for its next five-year plan. The initiative drew over 3.11 million valid submissions, yielding more than 1,500 constructive suggestions across 27 topics.

A summary of these findings was submitted to the Party leadership, ensuring that the people’s voices were heard at the highest level. By September, a total of 2,112 suggestions had been collected from various regions, departments and sectors, resulting in 218 revisions to the document.

To contribute to the 15th Five-Year Plan, the CPPCC, over the past year, held a special standing committee meeting and carried out 54 special studies, yielding a series of high-quality outcomes. Meanwhile, it launched a special research column, publishing 55 issues to provide evidence-based references for policy-making.

This broad-based participation highlights that national development strategies are rooted in public will, gathering strong momentum for Chinese modernization.

According to the work report, in 2026, the CPPCC will conduct in-depth research and thorough consultations on major tasks and strategic measures of the 15th Five-Year Plan and carry out cross-committee, cross-sector and cross-disciplinary studies, aiming to put forward forward-looking, targeted and operable policy suggestions, according to the report.

Focusing on key issues in areas such as economic development, technological innovation, reform and opening up, social development, and people’s livelihood, the CPPCC will truthfully reflect public opinions based on facts and implement the CPPCC National Committee’s democratic oversight work plan during the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

For more information, please click:
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-04/How-China-builds-consensus-boosts-growth-via-consultative-democracy-1LeSOfZLbk4/p.html

Hashtag: #CGTN

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/cgtn-how-china-builds-consensus-boosts-development-through-consultative-democracy/

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REVEALED: Scientists’ discovery of ancient deep sea corals brings new hope for protection against threat of industrial fishing – Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

New scientific research from Greenpeace has uncovered ancient and fragile corals at a Lord Howe Rise seamount in the South Pacific, an area of huge ecological significance in the high seas that has never been surveyed before.
This scientific discovery, from just one seamount on the Lord Howe Rise, has proven for the first time that the seamount is a vulnerable marine ecosystem. This new status should protect it from destructive bottom trawling, according to international rules intended to protect these fragile ecosystems. This discovery comes as bottom trawling was temporarily paused in the area in 2024, but threatens to make a return.
The scientists catalogued a total of 350 corals, sponges and other life forms in just a fraction of the Lord Howe Rise seamount – many of which are 100+ years old and some reaching almost 2 metres in height. Slow-growing and fragile, the corals include bamboo, golden, precious, stony, hydro and black, in addition to sponges, sea lilies and anemones.
Vulnerable marine ecosystems are fragile, rare, or complex marine habitats that are highly susceptible to irreparable damage from human activities. Campaigners say this means that the area must be closed to damaging bottom trawling for good – widely considered to be the greatest threat to seamount ecosystems.
Commenting, Greenpeace Aotearoa Ocean Campaigner Ellie Hooper who led the scientific expedition to Lord Howe Rise, says:
“It was moving and awe-inspiring to see these vibrant corals and fragile sponges streamed up from the deep, but right now they face an uncertain future. If this site is reopened, these ancient species could be destroyed by New Zealand bottom trawlers in the future. And this discovery is just a tiny snapshot of life in the area.
“The New Zealand government must stop protecting the interests of industrial fishing companies and not attempt to reopen the area for bottom trawling. Every other nation has stopped this destructive practice in the region, are they not embarrassed to be the only ones left?
“We are now armed with the proof we needed that bottom trawling must be banned here. It’s clear that this is a vulnerable marine ecosystem so it’s crucial we act now to protect this fragile life in the deep from destruction.”
Lord Howe Rise is of huge ecological significance, but despite this it remains under serious threat. Whilst the seamount surveyed was temporarily closed to bottom trawling in 2024 after a New Zealand trawler – the Tasman Viking – dragged up 37kg of coral, the New Zealand government could push to reopen that area to destructive bottom trawling, which could destroy the ancient corals and sponges scientists have documented there.
The New Zealand government in early 2026 submitted a proposal to increase the amount of coral and other vulnerable deep-sea species that can be trawled up as bycatch on the high seas without consequence. This proposal was submitted ahead of the annual meeting of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation this week, with Greenpeace also submitting the findings from Lord Howe.
International resolutions state that vulnerable marine ecosystems should be protected from bottom trawling due to their fragility, ecosystem importance and slow recovery rate, making them incredibly vulnerable to this fishing method.
The area is being considered for one of the world’s first ocean sanctuaries under the Global Ocean Treaty, which came into force earlier this year.
Notes and Images and video here:
  • Lord Howe Rise stills and video.
  • Seamount Expedition stills
  • – The scientific evidence has been submitted to the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) Commission 2026 which took place 2-6 March in Panama. This is where the New Zealand Government has also submitted their proposal to increase the amount of coral and other vulnerable species that can be caught as bycatch.
  • – 350 examples of coral, sponges and deep sea life were cataloged (for clarity – note this is not 350 different species but rather 350 instances of deep sea taxa)
  • – The scientific analysis was conducted on a subset of footage recorded during deep-sea video surveys from the Greenpeace Seamounts Expedition in March 2025. The seamount is on the Central Lord Howe Rise, in international waters managed by the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO). Of the 77 still images analysed to determine if they met the VME FAO Deep-sea Fisheries criteria 45% (33) were classified a VMEs. 59 individual deep-sea coral and sponge taxon have been aged by expert taxonomists at over 100+ years old, and some likely even 200+ years old, based on their heights and published growth rates.
  • – International rules (UNGA Resolutions (61/105 & 64/72) mandate that vulnerable marine ecosystems should be protected from bottom trawling due to their fragility, ecosystem importance and slow recovery rate, making them incredibly vulnerable to this fishing method.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/revealed-scientists-discovery-of-ancient-deep-sea-corals-brings-new-hope-for-protection-against-threat-of-industrial-fishing-greenpeace/

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From Wardrobe Staple to 10-Year Icon: XIXILI’s Seamless Panties Get a Colour Update

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 March 2026 – Ten years on, XIXILI’s bestselling seamless panties remain a wardrobe essential for women who value simple, reliable comfort. The intimates brand, celebrated for thoughtful design and everyday ease, now introduces fresh new colours to the beloved range. Designed for invisible wear and lasting comfort, this signature style continues to earn the loyalty of those who prefer reliability over passing trends.

The Secret to a Decade of Loyalty

A decade of consistent customer trust speaks for itself. XIXILI’s seamless panties have earned a loyal following of women who return to the same style, year after year.

Whether it’s a breathable cotton panty for everyday basics or a sleek seamless style for fitted outfits, comfort remains the priority. The appeal comes down to the essentials: no visible panty lines, no adjusting throughout the day, and lightweight comfort that holds up from morning to night. For women juggling busy schedules, that kind of reliability makes all the difference.

“Our customers tell us these are the panties they don’t have to think about,” says Tara Tan, spokesperson for XIXILI. “They just work. That’s why women keep coming back.”

Designed for Every Body, Built to Last

The Full Coverage Mid-Rise Knitted Boyleg Panty delivers moderate coverage with a relaxed fit, suited for those who want fuss-free comfort. The High-Waist Knitted Boyleg Panty sits higher on the waist with gentle tummy smoothing, a go-to for wearing beneath tailored pieces and fitted silhouettes.

The Lightweight Seamless Microfiber Panty remains the star of the range. Its soft microfiber construction sits flat against the skin, creating an invisible finish under any outfit. A bestseller for ten consecutive years, this fan-favourite now comes in new colours, giving loyal fans a reason to refresh their collection.

The Foundation of Every Outfit

What sits beneath an outfit often sets the tone for the entire day. It’s the layer no one sees but everyone feels, allowing women to move through their routines with confidence, whether at work, running errands, or out with friends.

XIXILI’s decade-long bestseller continues to deliver on that promise. With new colours now available, updating the essentials is as effortless as the panties themselves.

To discover the full panties collection, visit XIXILI’s website to shop online with delivery to Singapore, or find your nearest XIXILI boutique across Malaysia.

https://www.xixili-intimates.com/sg/
https://www.facebook.com/XIXILI.OfficialFanPage/
https://www.instagram.com/xixili_intima/
https://www.tiktok.com/@xixili_intima?
https://www.youtube.com/user/xixilipage

Hashtag: #XIXILI #SGLingerie

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/2026/03/07/from-wardrobe-staple-to-10-year-icon-xixilis-seamless-panties-get-a-colour-update/