Category: 24-7

Posted on

MCKL rolls out Open Day, inviting students and parents to discover Future-Ready Education Pathways

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a student will make. For those exploring quality pre-university and diploma pathways, Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) invites students and parents to its upcoming MCKL Open Day happening on 13 and 14 March 2026, from 9am to 5pm at both its Kuala Lumpur and Penang campuses.

With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and holistic education, MCKL continues to empower students with programmes that open doors to universities worldwide while nurturing character and purpose.

During the two-day Open Day, visitors will have the opportunity to explore MCKL’s range of top-tier Pre-U and Diploma programmes, speak directly with experienced lecturers, and receive personalised academic guidance to help them choose the pathway that best suits their ambitions.

Students can also take advantage of exclusive Open Day rebates, including RM500 rebates on selected programmes and RM2,000 rebates for Diploma programmes, available only during the Open Day period.

What to Expect at MCKL Open Day

Visitors to the campus can look forward to a variety of engaging and informative activities, including:

  • Discovering MCKL’s Pre-University and Diploma programmes
  • Learning about MCKL as a Qualifications Scotland (QS) Approved Centre
  • Taking a Career Guidance Test
  • Meeting academic advisors for personalised consultations
  • Exploring available scholarships, financial aid and PTPTN loan options

Conveniently located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the campus is next to Tun Sambanthan Monorail Station and only 10 minutes from KL Sentral, making it easily accessible for visitors. Meanwhile, the Penang campus is situated in the heart of Georgetown, providing students in the northern region with access to the same quality education.

Meet MCKL Beyond Campus

For students who may not be able to attend the Open Day, MCKL will also be participating in several upcoming education fairs, providing another opportunity to meet the college’s academic advisors and learn more about its programmes.

Visitors can meet the MCKL team at the following fairs:

  • Coursemap Education Fair at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur – 14 & 15 March 2026
  • Sure Expo Education Fair at Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur – 28 & 29 March 2026
  • MEF Penang at Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang – 28 & 29 March 2026
  • Sure Expo Education Fair at Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur – 4 & 5 April 2026
  • Sure Expo Education Fair Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Johor Bahru – 11 & 12 April 2026

These fairs provide students with the chance to explore their study options, receive course counselling, and discover how MCKL can support their academic journey.

Start Your Journey with Confidence

For over four decades, MCKL has built a strong reputation for nurturing students who excel academically while developing the values, character, and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Whether through its Open Day or education fairs, MCKL welcomes students and parents to discover how the college can be the launchpad for their future success.

To learn more, visit mckl.edu.my or speak to the MCKL team at the upcoming events.

https://mckl.edu.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/school/methodist-college-kuala-lumpur/
https://www.facebook.com/share/19qkXtd7P7/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.instagram.com/methodistcollegekl?igsh=MTJzYzFkM203NGlzbg==

Hashtag: #MCKL #openday #educationfair #penang #kualalumpur

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/2026/03/12/mckl-rolls-out-open-day-inviting-students-and-parents-to-discover-future-ready-education-pathways/

Posted on

Government Cuts – Latest proposed health cuts will leave public health system worse off – PSA

Source: PSA

The PSA is deeply concerned about the long-term consequences of the proposed restructure of the Ministry of Health’s Corporate Services function, which will see 46 roles disestablished and workers forced to reapply for fewer jobs.
The proposed cuts would, if finalised, see a net loss of 25 roles.
“This is the direct result of the Government’s relentless spending cuts,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“Those who could lose their jobs are skilled and committed public servants who do important work – they have more to give our health system.”
The proposed restructure would see design services outsourced, financial advisory roles cut from five to two, and information management and digital workplace roles reduced with some IT training reduced to self-service online models. The Ministry itself acknowledges that ‘some service levels within information and knowledge services will need to reduce’.
“These are the people managing finances, information systems, business analysis, and digital infrastructure. When you gut this function, the impacts are real, the work just gets pushed onto other staff who are already stretched. And right now, the last thing the health system needs to lose are IT specialists.
“The Ministry has been told it must ‘live within a reduced baseline’ over the next three years, but what that really means is fewer people doing vital work that keeps the public health system running.
“This is just more hollowing out of our health system, part of the pattern we have seen right across the public sector for more than two years now. The Government keeps cutting, agencies keep shrinking, and the services New Zealanders rely on keep getting worse.”
The cuts follow several other restructures at the Ministry, alongside massive job cuts at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora where 2,800 roles have been axed over the past two years. The PSA will be strongly opposing the cuts in its submission to the Ministry on the proposal.
“The Government’s priorities are all wrong when you consider it’s giving away $20 billion in tax cuts to business, landlords and big tobacco and not funding the health system properly,” said Fitzsimons.
“New Zealanders deserve a public health system that can meet the challenges of an ageing population, growing demand, and increasing complexity. These cuts take us further from that goal, not closer to it.
“Make no mistake, come the election, we will be reminding New Zealanders of the damage the Government is doing to the public health system we all rely on.”
Recent statement
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/2026/03/12/government-cuts-latest-proposed-health-cuts-will-leave-public-health-system-worse-off-psa/

Posted on

Zuellig Pharma Acquires Cialis® (Tadalafil) from Lilly in three additional markets in Asia

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Zuellig Pharma, a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, today announced that it has acquired all rights, title, and interest in and to Cialis® (Tadalafil), a leading men’s health product from Eli Lilly and Company (“Lilly”) in Hong Kong, Macau and South Korea.

Following the acquisition, Zuellig Pharma will now own the trademarks, marketing authorizations and license manufacturing know-how for Cialis®, a treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), in 11 markets in Asia, with the expansion of its ownership into three additional markets beyond the original eight. Zuellig Pharma will also continue to promote and distribute the brand in these markets.

The expanded ownership of Cialis® will widen accessibility of the drug to a significant population of men in Asia who are affected by ED and BPH. The acquisition also aligns with Zuellig Pharma’s strategic priority of building a strong portfolio of owned prescription healthcare products as an integrated healthcare solutions company.

“Our acquisition of Cialis® in three additional markets builds on the strong foundation we established two years ago and highlights our proven success in scaling trusted brands effectively through our commercial capabilities and deep expertise. As we broaden our footprint, we remain focused on delivering sustainable growth and advancing our purpose of making in-demand healthcare solutions more accessible to communities in Asia,” said John Graham, CEO of Zuellig Pharma.

https://www.zuelligpharma.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/zuellig-pharma

Hashtag: #ZuelligPharma #EliLillyandCompany #Cialis #MensHealth #Healthcare #Pharmaceuticals

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/2026/03/12/zuellig-pharma-acquires-cialis-tadalafil-from-lilly-in-three-additional-markets-in-asia/

Posted on

Tech tool used to target pest plants at precious wetland

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  12 March 2026

Whangamarino is 7000 ha wetland an hour north of Hamilton, comprising open water, swamp, fen and peat bogs. It is listed as significant under the international Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and is home to numerous threatened plant and insect species.

A recent report on the wetland to the Convention identifies a concerning decline in water quality, indigenous wetland habitat, the wetland’s Australasian bittern/matuku population, and cultural values recognised by mana whenua.

One of the biggest threats to Whangamarino is invasive weeds, which outcompete native plants and alter the waterways and food sources essential to taonga species.

Royal fern is among those. It’s an introduced, tough and adaptable deciduous plant, which grows rapidly and can take over wetlands by crowding out slower-growing, rare native species found in Whangamarino.

Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Lizzie Sharp says two drones, operated by specialist pilots, were used to map the royal fern and implement targeted herbicide control during fine weather periods in late February.

“Slogging through the peat bog to carry out ground control would be very hard going for our teams and could also risk damaging the surface of the bog,” Lizzie says.

“The drones took to the air and used a targeted jet of herbicide on the royal fern in the centre of the bog, before moving out toward the edge of the bog in an effort to push the invasion back.”

It’s the first time royal fern has been controlled using an aerial device, and the success and efficiency of the method may lead to it being used to control other weeds in future. The contractors carried out half a day of mapping their work area before three days of control using the drone.

Lizzie says with weather increasingly unpredictable due to climate change, numerous approaches to pest plant control will be needed – and drones will be valuable for protecting important habitats like Whangamarino.

Left uncontrolled, royal fern will appear in most habitats, especially bare damp ground. It produces thousands of spores distributed by the wind and unintentional human carriers and forms dense forests shading out all other species. At Whangamarino, this includes native peat bog vegetation which has adapted to exposed sunlight. After the fire of October 2024, royal fern has used the disturbed ground to grow into dense canopies at a faster pace than native plant species.

Lizzie says contractors used a helicopter to control willow species across the wetland during summer. Willow is another introduced pest plant which can cover the breeding and feeding habitat for matuku-hurepo/Australasian bittern. The helicopter method was similar to the use of the drone, with half a boom used to apply herbicide to the willows. Precision spot-spraying on individual trees complements aerial control and means surrounding vegetation is not impacted.

Willows also absorb water from the surrounding area. Their root systems create mounds of earth where water should be running, altering fish populations. Whangamarino locations where willows were controlled a few years ago have native plants returning to support insects, fish and birds in the area.

The aerial application of herbicides is strictly controlled through DOC’s operating procedures and a set of rules and regulations that DOC and its contractors must follow.

Whangamarino is precious and fragile eco-system, and as it recovers from the fire of 2024, people are asked not to go naturing in the wetland to protect the fragile peat bog.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/tech-tool-used-to-target-pest-plants-at-precious-wetland/

Posted on

Consumer NZ – Tens of thousands of people face cancelled flights – they have rights

Source: Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ says passengers disrupted by Air New Zealand’s flight cuts are entitled to ask for a refund if they don’t want to accept a replacement flight.

“Air New Zealand has announced it will be cutting over a thousand flights in the coming weeks because of rising fuel costs. While most travellers will be rebooked onto same-day flights, we want people to know that if that new flight doesn’t suit them, they can choose not to take it and ask for their money back instead,” says Jon Duffy, chief executive of Consumer.

When an airline cancels flights due to events out of its control, like severe weather or airspace closure, passengers usually have to accept the disruption and wear any associated expenses or claim on their insurance. Consumer believes Air New Zealand’s cancellations are within its control.

“The decision to amend the flight schedules is driven by rising fuel costs. We think this is an operational decision, which means impacted passengers have rights if the rescheduled flight doesn’t suit them.”  

Your domestic flight rights
If your domestic flight is cancelled for a reason within an airline’s control and you do not want to accept a replacement flight, you can ask for a refund under the Civil Aviation Act (CAA).

Under the CAA, you can also claim back additional expenses such as meals, accommodation and any other costs incurred in getting to your destination.  

In total, you can claim back the lesser of up to 10 times the cost of the ticket, or the actual cost of delay.

Your international flight rights
Consumer says that because Air New Zealand’s flight cancellations are a financial decision, and the airline will struggle to show it took all reasonable measures to avoid the cancellations or delays, it is also likely to be liable for disrupted international flights under international laws, including the Montreal Convention.  

For international flights, your rights differ depending on where you’re flying and the airline you’re flying with. However, at a minimum, you’ll be entitled to a refund if you don’t want to accept the alternative flight that’s offered to you. You may also be able to claim back any additional costs you incur. In total, the maximum amount you can claim for a delay under the Montreal Convention is  $15,134 – this includes alternative flights to get you to your intended destination.  

Disrupted passengers who are set to depart from airports in the EU could be entitled to additional financial assistance. Consumer has further detailed information on its website: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-ztjuyit-ijjdkdttjk-y/

Consumer’s flight rights petition
Airlines in New Zealand don’t have to tell passengers their rights.

Despite amendments to the Civil Aviation Act last year, giving the minister the power to require airlines to inform passengers about their rights, no action has been taken.

“People impacted by flight disruptions deserve clarity – it shouldn’t be up to them to interpret complex laws to figure out who is at fault for a cancellation, and what that means for their own situation. Air New Zealand’s flight cuts highlight precisely why the current information gap needs to be filled,” says Duffy.

On Tuesday, Consumer presented a petition to parliament calling on the Government to require airlines to tell passengers their rights when flights are delayed or cancelled. The petition was signed by over 10,500 people.

 

About Consumer

Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/consumer-nz-tens-of-thousands-of-people-face-cancelled-flights-they-have-rights/

Posted on

Ingdan Powers Embodied AI with Humanoid-Style Brain-Cerebellum Chipset to Boost Robotics Ecosystem

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Ingdan, Inc. (“Ingdan” or the “Company”, stock code: 400.HK; with its subsidiaries (the ”Group”)), a core supplier in the AI computing power supply chain and a leading application technology solutions provider, announces continued progress in strengthening its humanoid robotics ecosystem through an integrated embodied intelligence IC product matrix, supporting the industry’s transition toward large‑scale commercialization.

2026 is widely regarded as a milestone year for humanoid robotics, in which humanoid robots transition from laboratory prototypes and demonstration performances to large‑scale mass production. At CES in January, NVIDIA announced the commercial launch of its physical‑AI core platform Jetson Thor. Tesla is scheduled to officially release the mass‑production engineering version of its Optimus (V3) humanoid robot by the end of March, with plans to initiate million‑unit‑level production lines by the end of 2026—an inflection point widely regarded as the “Model 3 moment” of the humanoid robotics industry. At the same time, Chinese robotics companies such as AGIBOT, Unitree, and Fourier Intelligence have already deployed products at scale in warehousing and logistics scenarios.

Against this backdrop, the upstream hardware focus of the humanoid robotics industry is increasingly converging on “Brain-Cerebellum” collaboration and low‑latency, multi‑joint real‑time control, which are essential to achieving coordinated, smooth, and human‑like robotic motion. During the CMG Spring Festival Gala, robots from multiple companies demonstrated complex coordinated movements and dexterous hand operations, further highlighting the value of this technical direction.

D‑Robotics, originating from the AIoT and robotics division of Horizon Robotics, focuses on edge‑side embodied intelligence solutions characterized by high computing power, integrated computation and control, and low latency. Leveraging its parent company’s long‑term experience in intelligent driving, D‑Robotics has established a precise position in humanoid robot “Brain-Cerebellum” coordination and real‑time joint control.

In November 2025, D‑Robotics unveiled its flagship robotics computing platform S600, with an official release planned for the end of the first quarter of 2026. The S600 platform features a highly integrated humanoid‑style “Brain-Cerebellum” chipset architecture. Its “Brain” configuration combines an 18‑core A78AE CPU with a proprietary Nash‑architecture BPU, delivering 560 TOPS (INT8) edge computing power and supporting efficient deployment of VLA, VLM, LLM, and locomotion models. Its “Cerebellum” configuration integrates a 6‑core R52+ MCU, providing high‑reliability, real‑time motion control.

By integrating CPU, BPU, and real‑time MCU capabilities into a single SoC, S600 enables a closed‑loop architecture encompassing perception, decision‑making, and real‑time action control. This design addresses a key industry challenge in which many edge AI processors lack embedded real‑time MCUs and rely on external controllers, resulting in excessive latency. The integrated MCU supports high‑frequency, high‑precision PWM signal generation based on FOC algorithms, enabling precise motor control and contributing to stable rhythm and natural gait.

The S600 platform has been adopted by multiple robotics companies such as Fourier Intelligence, Booster Robotics, X Square Robot, and ROBOTERA, supporting applications that require stable multi‑joint coordination and smooth motion performance.

Ingdan, Inc. (00400.HK) is a core supplier in the AI computing power supply chain and an application technology solutions provider covering both AI infrastructure and AI intelligent terminals. The Company represents a broad portfolio of international semiconductor manufacturers, including NVIDIA, Xilinx, Intel, AMD, and SanDisk, as well as numerous domestic chip vendors. It serves hundreds of robotics manufacturers and Tier‑1 customers and has formed a comprehensive embodied intelligence ecosystem.

D‑Robotics is a core product line Ingdan distributes . Building on D‑Robotics’ products and combined with its own technical services—such as multi‑sensor fusion development, real‑time closed‑loop tuning, Quantization‑Aware Training (QAT) support, simulation testing, and modular SOM customization—the Group has supported sophisticated customers including Galbot and ROBOTERA, continuously enriching the robotics industry ecosystem.

Looking ahead, Ingdan will continue to focus on the humanoid robotics sector. Leveraging an IC product matrix centered on NVIDIA Jetson and D‑Robotics platforms, the Company aims to further strengthen its AI intelligent terminal capabilities and continue supporting the iterative development of embodied intelligence products.

For investor and media enquiries
Please email to ir@ingdan.com

Hashtag: #Ingdan #Chips #humanoid #D‑Robotics #NVIDIA #Tech

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/2026/03/12/ingdan-powers-embodied-ai-with-humanoid-style-brain-cerebellum-chipset-to-boost-robotics-ecosystem/

Posted on

Statement on behalf of the Leman family

Source: New Zealand Police

Today’s verdict brings justice for Richard.

Nothing will ever undo what was done to him, and nothing will ever bring him back to the people who loved him. Richard was not just a name in a courtroom or a case in a trial. He was a son, a father, a brother, an uncle, and a man who was deeply loved by those closest to him.

For weeks we have had to sit through the most confronting and painful evidence imaginable. We have been forced to hear and see the devastating reality of how Richard’s life was taken. No family should ever have to endure that.

Today, the jury has recognised the truth of what happened. Someone has been held accountable for Richard’s death.

While this verdict cannot heal the grief we carry, it does acknowledge that Richard’s life mattered and that what happened to him cannot simply be ignored.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the Police who worked tirelessly to investigate Richard’s death and ensure the truth was brought before the court. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the Crown for presenting the evidence and to the Judge for overseeing this difficult process.

We would also like to acknowledge Victim Support, who were with us throughout the trial process and supported us during this incredibly difficult time.

Today we remember Richard not only as a victim in this case, but as the son, father, brother and uncle he was to those who loved him.

He mattered. His life mattered. And today, justice has recognised that.

At this time, we will not be making any further comments to the media as we continue navigating this incredibly difficult journey together as a family.

ENDS

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/statement-on-behalf-of-the-leman-family/

Posted on

Building the future of coastal shipping resilience

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is committed to building the resilience of New Zealand’s coastal shipping network, through six critical investments to deliver a more productive economy and ensure essential supplies can reach communities in times of crisis.

Associate Transport Minister James Meager has confirmed $400,000 towards a national digital platform to improve supply chain efficiency and coordination across ports, in partnership with PortConnect.

“Historically, the siloed nature of New Zealand’s port operations has resulted in limited ability to anticipate, respond and adapt to disruptive events. This funding will address the fragmented coordination of berthing windows and vessel visits,” Mr Meager says.

“Recent weather events have reinforced the value of clear, shared information when under pressure. Our ports are an economic lifeline to the outside world. If we are to grow productivity, we need greater resilience to external impacts on the way we trade.”

This is the final investment from the Government’s $30 million Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund, which also includes:

Container-handling equipment in Gisborne to support rapid freight movement
Modifications to the Rangitata coastal vessel to improve self-sufficiency in cargo handling
Reconstruction and return to service of the Greymouth wharf
Training berths on domestic vessels to give maritime students the sea time required to qualify as mariners
A cost-effective dredging capability, built in Northland, to support smaller regional ports

“Coastal shipping is a critical piece of our freight network, moving large and heavy cargo such as containers, cement and aggregate efficiently and safely. It is also a low-emissions mode of transport and has repeatedly proven its value following natural disasters,” Mr Meager says.

“After Cyclone Gabrielle, coastal shipping delivered essential supplies to Tairāwhiti when land routes were severely constrained. These six investments build on that experience and help ensure we are better prepared for future events in practical, tangible ways.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/building-the-future-of-coastal-shipping-resilience/

Posted on

New appointment to the TEC Board

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Vocational Education, Penny Simmonds, has announced the appointment of Scott Haines JP to a vacancy on the Board of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC). 

“I am pleased to confirm the appointment of Mr Haines to this role. He brings significant school leadership experience, which is important for the Board of the TEC to have,” Ms Simmonds says.

“Mr Haines’ appointment follows the resignation of Yvonne Browning MNZM at the end of 2025 for personal reasons. I would like thank Mrs Browning for her valuable contribution.”

Mr Haines is Principal of Burnside High School in Christchurch, one of New Zealand’s largest secondary schools. He has also been principal of Motueka High School and Waimea College in the Tasman region.

Mr Haines has made significant contributions at a national level as Vice-President of the Secondary Principals’ Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) and as member of the Professional Advisory Group for NCEA, a Ministerial Forum on Raising Student Achievement and NZQA advisory panels.

“The TEC has a statutory role to facilitate and strengthen connections between schools, employers and tertiary education organisations. Mr Haines’ expertise in this area will be valuable to its Board,” Ms Simmonds says. 

“Scott’s experience and skills will ensure the TEC’s investment in and steering of the tertiary education and training system, and its provision of careers services, are directly informed by expertise from the schooling sector. 

“The Government’s new Tertiary Education Strategy, which the TEC is responsible for giving effect to, has a strong focus on access, participation and achievement to ensure all learners gain the skills needed to achieve strong careers. Mr Haines’ knowledge will help the TEC deliver the workforces New Zealand needs to succeed.”

Mr Haines’ appointment is for a three-year term, beginning 1 July 2026. This reflects his availability for Board meetings in the coming months, including SPANZ commitments. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/new-appointment-to-the-tec-board-2/

Posted on

Funding change will ensure more consistent emergency care for New Zealanders

Source: PHARMAC

A simple change in how ambulance medicines are funded is set to create more consistent emergency care.

Pharmac is proposing changes to the Pharmaceutical Schedule to support the Government’s decision to shift responsibility for funding ambulance medicines from Health New Zealand and ACC to Pharmac.

With Pharmac already funding community and hospital medicines, this proposal would see Pharmac funding most medicines used by publicly funded health services.

Pharmac’s Director Strategy, Policy and Performance Michael Johnson said it made sense for Pharmac to take over responsibility for funding ambulance medicines.

“The vast majority of medicines used across the public health system are already funded by Pharmac; therefore, it makes sense for us to take over the funding of ambulance medicines as well.

“Not only will this ensure more consistent treatment between ambulance services and hospitals, it will also ensure the best prices for medicines used by ambulance services.

Johnson said the funding change wouldn’t mean any changes to the care provided by ambulance services but could mean long-term benefits for providers and the health system.

“These changes support seamless care for people transferred by ambulance to public hospitals, with both hospitals and ambulances able to access the same medicines, through the same agency, at the best price.”

“We also plan to work with ambulance service providers to establish regular communication and clear guidance to support individual funding requests for new medicines and better understand the ambulance-unique working environment.”

Public consultation on the proposal is open from 12 March and closes at 5pm 2 April 2026. You can email your feedback to consult@pharmac.govt.nz or use the online form.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/funding-change-will-ensure-more-consistent-emergency-care-for-new-zealanders/

Posted on

Common sense proposal will benefit patients and save money

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government will shift responsibility for funding ambulance medicines from Health New Zealand (HNZ) and ACC to Pharmac because it will improve medicine procurement processes, and save the health system money, Associate Health Minister David Seymour and Health Minister Simeon Brown say.

Consultation is now open on proposed changes to support the shift in responsibility. 

“This proposal means no matter where a patient is located, their ambulance and hospital will have access to the same emergency medicines they need, and Pharmac can get those medicines cheaper,” Mr Seymour says.

“Currently HNZ and ACC fund ambulance services, individual ambulance providers then purchase the medicines they need to treat their patients. This leads to some ambulance providers funding certain medicines which their local hospital does not, and vice versa. Patients need access to high quality continuous care, no matter where they are located. 

“This will benefit patients. It will improve the continuity of care provided to patients by ensuring ambulance providers and hospital staff have access to the same medicines.

“Pharmac’s proposal will also create a single nationally consistent list of medicines funded for use by emergency ambulance service providers. This helps ambulance providers, regardless of their location, to understand what is funded. 

“When it comes to medicine procurement, Pharmac are the experts. Transferring responsibility to Pharmac means we can get the best deals for medicines. Pharmac can leverage supply chains, utilise buying power, and take a more coordinated approach to funding medicines used in emergency care. 

“This proposal will also realise savings. Pharmac can utilise existing national agreements, including access to the best prices, reduced duplication of procurement activity, and the supply protections built into Pharmac’s commercial arrangements. 

“When you spend better you can afford more. These savings mean Pharmac could fund some emergency medicines that ambulance services haven’t previously been able to afford.”

Mr Brown says patients should be able to access the emergency treatment they need regardless of where they live.

“This change will help ensure patients transferred by ambulance to public hospitals have access to the same medicines, supporting better continuity of care between ambulance crews and hospital teams.

“Funding ambulance medicines through Pharmac, alongside the medicines it already manages for the health system, should also save time and resources for providers, making it easier for them to focus on frontline care.

“We are committed to ensuring New Zealanders can access the care they need when they need it. This change will support more consistent treatment across the country so people can access the same emergency medicines regardless of their location or emergency care provider.”

Consultation on the proposal opens on Thursday March 12 and closes at 5pm on Thursday April 2. If the proposal is finalised the changes will be implemented from Wednesday July 1, 2026. Have your say here: Consultation: Updating the pharmaceutical schedule for ambulance medicines

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/common-sense-proposal-will-benefit-patients-and-save-money/

Posted on

Growing the frontline workforce in Wairoa

Source: New Zealand Government

A Rural Training Hub to grow the frontline rural health workforce will be established in the Wairoa District, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey announced today.

“This second Rural Training Hub shows the Government’s commitment to fixing the basics and building the future for the one in five New Zealanders who live in rural communities. Kiwis should have access to timely, quality care, wherever they live,” Mr Doocey says.

“Rural Training Hubs are designed to deliver exactly that. They aim to attract and retain frontline health workers in rural communities by coordinating clinical placements, training pathways, and pastoral support. This will make it easier for doctors, nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals to live, work, and train locally.

“To bring healthcare closer to home, we also need to bring health worker education closer to home,” Mr Doocey says.

The Wairoa District Hub is the second of four hubs being rolled out nationally, following the first in South Taranaki. It will be co-designed with local communities, iwi, and health providers.

“One of the ways we can lift barriers to getting frontline workers settled in our rural communities is ensuring people feel connected to where they live. These coordinators will help people settle into life in Wairoa, whether that’s finding housing or helping find employment.”

Each hub will have a dedicated programme lead responsible for facilitating connections between local health services, universities, and training providers so students and staff can learn and work in the community.

The Hubs build on the work already underway to grow the rural health workforce. This includes the new medical school at the University of Waikato and the Rural Medical Immersion Programme, which places fifth-year medical students at local rural GP practices.

“These Hubs help ensure rural New Zealanders have access to timely, quality, and reliable care close to home.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/growing-the-frontline-workforce-in-wairoa/

Posted on

Greenpeace – Luxon’s climate policies leave Kiwis hurting as petrol hits $3 a litre

Source: Greenpeace

As petrol prices climb to around $3 a litre, Greenpeace is pointing to a series of Government decisions that have left Kiwis hit harder by the oil price spike.
“The Luxon Government has spent the last two years dismantling policies that were helping wean New Zealanders off expensive imported oil,” says Gen Toop, Senior Campaigner at Greenpeace Aotearoa.
“Instead of helping households escape volatile and expensive petrol prices, they have crashed the EV market, slashed public transport funding and are spending billions on new roads.
“These decisions are making the climate crisis, and the cost of living crisis worse.”
Greenpeace points to a number of decisions that it says have increased New Zealand’s dependence on imported fossil fuels including:
“This Government is effectively turning New Zealand into a dumping ground for the world’s dirtiest, most oil-hungry cars while other countries rapidly switch to EVs,” Toop says.
“At the same time they are slashing public and active transport options which forces more people into cars leaving them facing more pain at the pump when petrol prices spike.
“This latest plan to build a multi-billion dollar LNG import terminal is ludicrous. Importing and burning another volatile fossil fuel is the last thing our climate, and power bills need. Especially when we have all the wind, sun and renewable energy potential we need right here at home.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/greenpeace-luxons-climate-policies-leave-kiwis-hurting-as-petrol-hits-3-a-litre/

Posted on

Man arrested over Whangārei firearms incident

Source: New Zealand Police

A man will face court today following a firearms incident at a Morningside property last week.

Whangārei CIB have been investigating the isolated incident which allegedly occurred on 3 March.

Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer says the following day, it was reported to Police a firearm had been allegedly discharged at the property.

“Enquiries were carried out, which resulted in the search of a motor vehicle and the recovery of the firearm used,” he says.

“Police also established a woman presented at hospital with a serious injury to her foot, which required surgery.”

Over the past week, enquiries have been ongoing to locate the alleged offender.

Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says Police checked a Raumanga address on Wednesday afternoon.

“Our staff were supported by the Offender Prevention Team (OPT) and located a person of interest.”

The 30-year-old man was arrested and has been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, reckless discharge of a firearm and driving while disqualified.

He will appear in the Whangārei District Court today.

“It’s a great outcome for the community that the man is now in custody and the firearm is also out of circulation,” Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says.

A second man, aged 35, is also before the Whangārei District Court after allegedly being found in possession of a firearm and being an accessory after the fact.

The man was arrested on Thursday as part of enquiries into the original incident in Morningside.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/man-arrested-over-whangarei-firearms-incident/

Posted on

Retirement Com – New guides give schools clear pathway for implementing financial education

Source: Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission

 

Schools and financial education providers now have access to new Financial Education Implementation Guides, giving them practical support to plan and deliver high-quality financial education as it becomes compulsory in the curriculum. 

 

With 70% of New Zealanders agreeing school is a good place for young people to learn about money, the two guides, developed by Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission in partnership with the Ministry of Education and financial education providers, provide a clear roadmap for what to teach, when to teach it, and how learning builds from Years 0 to 13.

 

Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson says the guides remove complexity and provide practical support for schools as financial education is mandated. “The Government’s decision to make financial education compulsory is an excellent step forward to increase New Zealanders’ financial capability.” 

 

“For financial education providers and funders, both current and potential future ones, these guides offer something they’ve long asked for, a shared framework, clear curriculum expectations, and visibility for programmes that meet the standard. These guides bring everyone onto the same page.”  

 

The release of the guides follows last year’s announcement that financial education will become compulsory within the national curriculum, including through the social sciences learning area, which is currently out for consultation. Financial mathematics is also explicitly included in the updated Mathematics & Statistics learning area. The guides provide practical support for schools as financial education becomes an increasingly important part of the curriculum.

 

“Every young person in New Zealand deserves to leave school with the skills and confidence to manage their money. These guides are about clarity and confidence. They show schools what good financial education looks like, how learning builds over time, how to work effectively with external providers, and how to plan programmes that are age appropriate and curriculum aligned,” Deputy Secretary for Te Poutāhū at the Ministry of Education, Pauline Cleaver says. 

 

The Retirement Commission has also released new maths resources as part of its Sorted in Schools programme, that apply the guides’ best practice principles and align with the Mathematics & Statistics curriculum, showing how financial education can strengthen learning across subjects.

 

The Financial Education Implementation Guides are available at: Financial Education Implementation Guides

 

Notes

Current providers who are part of the financial education providers’ advisory group include ASB, Banqer (supported by Kiwibank), BNZ, Life Education Trust, Money Time, SaVy, Westpac, and Young Enterprise Trust. Assistance will also be offered by the financial advice community. There will be opportunities for new providers as gaps are identified. Schools can choose which provider or providers they want to work with. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/retirement-com-new-guides-give-schools-clear-pathway-for-implementing-financial-education/

Posted on

Local News – Porirua keeping tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of the city

Source: Porirua City Council

A report to Porirua City Council’s Te Puna Kōrero Committee has highlighted Council’s commitment to the city’s younger residents.

Council has had “tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of the city” as a strategic priority since 2018, and in 2024 adopted a refreshed Tamariki and Rangatahi Strategy. Last week’s report outlined the ways Council is meeting the five focus areas in that strategy, and a roadmap for future action.
It highlights a number of initiatives already making a positive impact in Porirua, including:

  • Careers Expo – an annual event connecting rangatahi with local employers, training providers, and career pathways to prepare them for a thriving future Mahi Rangatahi programme:
  • Council’s inhouse work experience programme for rangatahi, offering mentorship and skill-building opportunities
  • Young Peoples Fund – empowering youth to lead their own projects, with funding for community initiatives designed and delivered by young people
  • Mau Te Rongo – navigators employed to maintain a safe and engaging presence at Porirua railway station and other locations across the city
  • Mana Taiohi and Inside Out training for staff – equipping Council and partner organisations with tools and professional development to better meet the diverse needs of our
  • youth.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker welcomed the report.
“We’re committed to putting our tamariki and rangatahi at the heart of everything we do. This report is a testament to our city’s vision – where every child and young person feels valued, listened to, and empowered to shape their future.
“Our youth have told us what matters most to them, and we’ve listened. By working together as a community, we are creating pathways for success and wellbeing for all Porirua’s young people.”
The full meeting agenda, including the report, can be viewed online at www.poriruacity.govt.nz/meetings

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/local-news-porirua-keeping-tamariki-and-rangatahi-at-the-heart-of-the-city/

Posted on

Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation board chair reappointed

Source: New Zealand Government

John Williamson has been reappointed as Chair of the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation Board, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

The Board manages the investment of government contributions to the NZ Super Fund and administers the Elevate NZ Venture Capital Fund.

John Williamson’s reappointment – for a further two years from October 1 this year – reflects his strong board leadership, Nicola Willis says.

“It also maintains stability and continuity during the pre-election period and beyond, particularly as five of the seven board members are in their first term.

“Mr Williamson brings extensive experience in senior leadership, private equity, and governance, including eight years as managing director of former NZX-listed Hellaby Holdings Ltd. He has held diverse governance roles and legal expertise in competition and Māori resource law.

“This reappointment underscores the Government’s commitment to ensuring the Guardians continue to deliver robust investment performance and fulfil their mandate to grow New Zealand’s sovereign wealth funds for future generations.”

Mr Williamson has been a board member since 2016, and Chair since March 2024.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/guardians-of-new-zealand-superannuation-board-chair-reappointed/

Posted on

Economy – RBNZ working with industry to improve access to basic transaction services

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

12 March 2026 – Last year the Council of Financial Regulators (CoFR) consulted the public on whether New Zealanders should have the right to access a basic transaction account if they want one.

50 submissions were received and 22 community groups, financial institutions, fintechs, and support services were directly engaged, with 98% of submitters stating that action is needed to improve access to transaction accounts.

Acting Assistant Governor Financial Stability, Angus McGregor, says that the consultation clearly highlighted the challenges some groups face in accessing the basic banking services necessary to meet their everyday financial needs.

“This consultation process has allowed us to gather a wide range of perspectives, take on board industry feedback, and find pragmatic solutions.” Mr McGregor says.

“We received constructive input from the banking sector, and a willingness to work with us to solve this issue through a collaborative approach.”

The RBNZ is developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support this approach to addressing financial exclusion.

Under the MoU, participating financial entities will commit to provide access to all New Zealand consumers unless they have a compelling reason for declining to provide a basic transaction product. Public sector agencies will commit to clarifying regulatory requirements, co-ordinating efforts, and highlighting best practices that can be adopted to support financial inclusion.

The MoU will provide flexibility for participating entities to develop their own solutions to promote inclusion, while ensuring progress can be monitored through regular reporting.
This work aims to bring financial inclusion in New Zealand in line with other developed countries such as Canada, the UK, France, Denmark and Sweden.

The RBNZ will be leading co-ordination of the MoU, with support from the Financial Markets Authority, the Banking Ombudsmen, the Retirement Commission, the Department of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and the Department of Corrections.

“This work directly supports our statutory purpose of enabling economic wellbeing and prosperity for all New Zealanders, and aligns with recommendations in the Commerce Commission’s Market Study into Personal Banking Services.” Mr McGregor says.

It is anticipated that the MoU will come into effect later this year.

More information:

Read the CoFR Consultation Summary on Access to Basic Transaction Accounts: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1545100f1e&e=f3c68946f8

Background information:

Issues Paper on Access to Basic Transaction Accounts – This Issues Paper builds on Recommendation 14 from the Commerce Commission Market Study into personal banking services, for the banking industry to collaborate to make basic transaction accounts widely available found here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=86d03f3ba9&e=f3c68946f8
Financial Inclusion Indicators Base Set Report: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1f879f66b8&e=f3c68946f8
First Steps to Financial Inclusion Report: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=d70d87a7b2&e=f3c68946f8
CoFR – CoFR represents five agencies: The Reserve Bank of New Zealand, the Financial Markets Authority, the Commerce Commission, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and the Treasury. Financial Inclusion is one of five priorities for CoFR. The CoFR Financial Inclusion Community also included Te Ara Ahunga Ora The Retirement Commission and the Ministry for Social Development as observer agencies. More information on CoFR’s financial inclusion work can be found here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=2fa26e3350&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/economy-rbnz-working-with-industry-to-improve-access-to-basic-transaction-services/

Posted on

PM to visit Samoa and Tonga

Source: New Zealand Government

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will depart for Samoa and Tonga on Sunday, reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to two of the closest members of our Pacific family.

“Both countries are integral to who we are as a nation. With more than 300,000 Samoan and Tongan New Zealanders, the family connection is woven into the fabric of our society,” Mr Luxon says.

The visit marks New Zealand’s first comprehensive engagement with the new governments in both countries, with the Prime Minister looking forward to his meetings with the new leaders and their Cabinets in each capital.

“Through our longstanding ties, we have built enormous trust between our nations. I’m looking forward to hearing my new colleagues’ points of view, and then agreeing how we can work together to build communities that are more prosperous and safer from threats like drugs.”

The visit also represents an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy of the connections between our countries, whether that’s sport, music or business. The Prime Minister will be joined by senior business leaders and community members, led by Savae Sir Michael Jones and Rachel Afeaki.

The Prime Minister will also be joined by Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti, Police Minister Mark Mitchell (in Samoa), Tim van de Molen MP, Jenny Salesa MP and Teanau Tuiono MP.  

The delegation departs Auckland on Sunday 15 March and returns on Wednesday 18 March.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/pm-to-visit-samoa-and-tonga/

Posted on

Police presence in Rotorua and Ōpōtiki for gang tangi

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Inspector Nicky Cooney, Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander:

Police will have a visible presence across Rotorua tomorrow and Saturday as a gang tangi travels from Rotorua to Ōpōtiki.

A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in town for the tangi from many parts of the country.

Police will have additional resources available to provide support to staff and to provide a respectful and safe space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully.

Police have conveyed our lawful expectations to local gang leaders, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which Police will act upon.

Our focus is on the safety of everyone. We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.

Police will have additional patrols in place Friday and Saturday, and will follow up on reports of illegal activity.

We urge anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately. Other reports can be made via 105.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/police-presence-in-rotorua-and-opotiki-for-gang-tangi/