The Green Party is condemning the Government’s decision to disestablish the Ministry for the Environment.
“This is failure by a Minister who has turned her back on the very portfolio she was entrusted to protect. Abolishing her own ministry is as monumental as it is shameful,” said Green Party environment spokesperson Lan Pham.
“The Ministry for the Environment exists because in 1986 New Zealanders decided that protecting our natural world needed a dedicated voice at the heart of government.
“Burying the Ministry for the Environment inside a super-ministry designed to drive growth and infrastructure sends a clear signal that the environment comes last for this Government.
“This is a Minister who claimed the balance had swung ‘too far’ towards the environment, even as her own ministry’s reporting showed air pollution, freshwater pollution, ocean pollution, and biodiversity loss all getting worse.
“At a time when climate change is flooding our communities week after week, costing billions of dollars, lives, and livelihoods, this Government’s response is to dismantle the ministry responsible for environmental protection.
“Abolishing the Ministry to streamline consent processes for roads and mining tells you exactly what this Government values more. It is economic growth at any cost.
“Adding an ‘E’ to a new super-ministry and expecting New Zealanders to believe the environment will be looked after is fooling no one. New Zealanders deserve so much better,” said Pham.
Headline: Public engagement on civil and political rights
The Government wants to hear from the public and civil society organisations before 19 March 2026 on its draft report under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (the Covenant).
General Manager, Civil and Constitutional at the Ministry of Justice, Kathy Brightwell, says all countries that have signed up to the Covenant have agreed to submit reports to the United Nations Human Rights Committee providing detail on how civil and political rights are being upheld.
The report, which is New Zealand’s seventh, responds to the recommendations and events following our last examination in 2016.
“New Zealand has a strong human rights record, and the draft report summarises New Zealand’s commitment to upholding civil and political rights. These rights include the right to life, liberty and security, to privacy, freedom of expression, association and assembly and criminal procedure rights, such as the right to a fair trial,” she says.
The content takes a constructive approach in explaining issues New Zealand is facing and what is being done to address these issues.
The New Zealand Government will submit the final report to the United Nations Human Rights Committee following the consultation process.
How you can get involved
Your feedback will help to inform the report and provide information about how the Government is upholding civil and political rights in New Zealand.
Submissions are open from 19 February 2026 to 19 March 2026. You can submit:
A new travel option that enables eligible Chinese and Pacific visitors to cross the ditch to New Zealand visa free is bringing in a considerable boost in tourism and revenue, Immigration Minister Erica Stanford and Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston say.
“In December, we announced that 13,000 Chinese and Pacific travellers had already visited, with 24,000 total requests approved. After two months, that number has now almost tripled to 36,800 visits, along with 54,000 requests approved,” Ms Stanford says.
“With average visitor spend at $5,800 for Chinese visitors, according to the International Visitor Survey, that amounts to an estimated economic injection of $210 million for Kiwi businesses from those who have visited, with Chinese visitors making up around 36,200 of visits through the new pathway.
“We are committed to supporting Kiwis businesses to thrive, and these results, which boost our wider tourism sector. Tourism is our second largest export and it is fantastic to see results which boost our wider tourism sector.”
“Everybody wants the chance to visit and experience New Zealand, and through our change to allow more people to visit through visa-free travel from Australia, it appears to be a no-brainer.”
Ms Stanford says the change that was introduced was a deciding factor in people visiting New Zealand – 85 percent of Chinese travellers and 82 percent of Pacific travellers surveyed said they travelled here specifically because of the new NZeTA option.
Ms Upston says this is already bringing in a sizeable boost in revenue across the country, and in particular our key tourism regions.
“Visitor spending is going directly into local businesses. That includes shops, eateries, accommodation, and tour operators – and this is spending which may not have come into New Zealand prior to the change. This is all part of our Government’s plan to fix the basics and build the future.
“The South Island remains extremely popular, with 67 percent of Chinese and Pacific visitors arriving at an international airport in the South Island to start their travels.
“The travel changes we’ve made are reflective of this Government’s stance – we back Kiwi businesses and we back our regions. We are relentlessly focused on making smart, commonsense, and sometimes simple changes, which bring big value for New Zealanders.”
Notes to editor:
Since November, eligible Chinese and Pacific Island Forum passport holders travelling to New Zealand from Australia no longer need to obtain a Visitor Visa . Instead, they can apply for a New Zealand electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) as part of a 12-month trial.
Instead of spending $441 and waiting an average of 4 days, individuals from China travelling via Australia can pay as little as $117 and have their application for an NZeTA processed in 24 hours. Individuals from the Pacific can pay as low as $17 instead of spending $216 and waiting an average 6 days for a visitor visa.
HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 February 2026 – Vietnam Airlines, the National Flag Carrier of Vietnam, signed an agreement to purchase 50 Boeing 737-8 narrow-body aircraft in Washington, D.C. (USA), in the presence of General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam and Vietnamese officials as part of his visit to the United States to attend the Board of Peace.
On the sidelines of the signing ceremony, the airline’s leadership also met with Boeing to discuss a subsequent plan to invest in 30 wide-body aircraft in the coming period, with an estimated total value of over USD 12 billion, in support of its international network development strategy.
This landmark agreement represents a cornerstone of Vietnam Airlines’ long-term fleet modernization strategy. The airline is scheduled to take delivery of the aircraft between 2030 and 2032, with the expansion expected to increase its total fleet to approximately 151 aircraft by 2030. The US$8.1 Billion (at 2025 catalog pricing) investment prioritizes the development of the narrow-body fleet to enhance network frequency, operational flexibility and cost efficiency, while strengthening competitiveness in the next phase of growth.
The Boeing 737-8 aircraft will primarily operate on domestic and regional Asian routes, supporting rising passenger demand and strengthening regional connectivity. Over the next five years, Vietnam Airlines targets sustained double-digit average annual growth across key operating indicators, in line with the robust expansion of Vietnam’s aviation market.
Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is taking a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to strengthening its capabilities, spanning fleet modernization, financial resilience and the development of high quality talent, to support our long term growth ambitions. The investment in 50 Boeing 737-8 aircraft marks a significant step in building a modern, fuel efficient fleet while enhancing operational performance and elevating service standards to meet international benchmarks. This agreement also deepens the long standing strategic partnership between Vietnam Airlines and Boeing, creating a strong foundation for our ambition to become a five star international airline by 2030.”
Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “We are proud to build on our partnership with Vietnam Airlines and support them as they pair the 737 MAX with the 787 Dreamliner to further scale regional networks and strengthen connectivity across Asia. The 737‑8’s capabilities, economics and passenger experience make it an ideal airplane to support Vietnam Airlines’ growth plans.”
Boeing 737-8 is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing’s history, recognized for its advanced design, operational reliability, and sustainability performance. With seating for up to 200 passengers and a range of up to 6,570 kilometers, the aircraft offers strong flexibility across short- and medium-haul networks.
Powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines and incorporating an optimized aerodynamic design and advanced technology winglets, the 737 reduces fuel use and emissions by 20 percent compared to the airplanes it replaces. On average, each aircraft is expected to save up to 8 million pounds of CO₂ emissions annually, supporting the airline’s network expansion while lowering operating costs.
The Boeing Sky Interior further enhances the passenger experience, featuring larger pivoting bins, advanced LED lighting, larger windows, and a spacious cabin architecture that delivers a modern and comfortable flying experience.
Beyond fleet expansion, this investment underscores Vietnam Airlines’ long-term commitment to sustainable development, emissions reduction, and service excellence. With the addition of the 737-8, the airline is strengthening its operational capabilities and adherence to international safety and service standards.
To secure diversified funding sources, Vietnam Airlines in 2025 engaged in discussions with domestic banks and dominant U.S. financial institutions, including EXIM Bank and Citi, to arrange financing for strategic projects such as fleet investment.
Building on strengthened financial foundations and improving operational performance, Vietnam Airlines continues to expand its global footprint, including the recent launch of a record 14 new international routes. The introduction of the Boeing 737-8 will further enhance the airline’s capacity to capture growth in the Asia Pacific aviation market, expand connectivity and elevate service quality, as it advances toward its goal of becoming a five-star airline by 2030.
Attributable to Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves:
Police are following strong lines of enquiry after four people were injured at a Hoani Street address last night.
Emergency services were called to the property about 9.30pm after a report of an altercation between two parties.
Four people were injured, two of whom remain in hospital.
Police staff continue to examine the scene to gather information about the incident and those involved.
Our initial enquiries have confirmed that a firearm was discharged at the scene.
We have also established that this was a gang-related incident and was targeted towards parties at this address.
We understand that incidents like this can be unsettling for the community, and would like to reassure people that we do not believe there is a risk to the wider public.
Residents can expect to see additional patrols in the area as we carry out our enquiries.
We would still like to hear from anyone who might have information about this incident or those believed to be involved.
If you can help, please call 105 and reference 260218/3391.
You can also share information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
The Government will amend the Resource Management Act to reduce the minimum housing capacity required for Auckland Council’s Plan Change 120 from just over 2 million homes to 1.6 million homes, says Housing and RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop.
“Housing growth in Auckland is critical to fixing our housing crisis, driving growth and raising living standards, the central mission of this Government,” Mr Bishop says.
“The changes I’m announcing today will make sure Auckland grows in the areas that make the most economic sense and where there is strong support for growth – the city centre, around stations benefiting from investment in the City Rail Link, around rapid transit stops, and in and around town, local and metropolitan centres.
“Aucklanders have been clear that they want housing growth – in the right places and where infrastructure can support it. Today’s changes show the Government has listened to Aucklanders.
“The Auckland Unitary Plan allows development capacity of around 1.2 million homes, while Plan Change 120 currently allows capacity of around 2 million homes. The Government’s changes, to be made via legislation in the near future, reduce the minimum capacity required to the mid-point between 1.2 and 2 million.
“The journey of how we got to this point is a long and complicated one.
“When the coalition Government came to office, Auckland Council asked the Government to let them withdraw Plan Change 78, which implemented the Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) across Auckland. The Council also wished to “downzone” various areas affected by flooding risk.
“The Government campaigned on allowing the Council to withdraw from using the MDRS, and so the law was changed in 2025 to allow the Council to develop a new plan (Plan Change 120). As part of allowing the Council to do that, the government required the new plan to allow large uplifts in development around stations benefitting from investment in the City Rail Link, and provide at least the equivalent amount of capacity as Plan Change 78 (around 2 million homes).
“The 2 million number was never a build target. It is technical capacity figure based on theoretical maximum development if every site is fully developed, which obviously never happens.
“It is clear from listening to Aucklanders that the legislative requirements on the Council meant they had very little room to respond to concerns raised through more than 10,000 submissions on Plan Change 120.
“Today’s announcement gives the Council much more flexibility about where density goes in Auckland. The Council will still be required to give effect to the National Policy Statement on Urban Development, including enabling greater development around rapid transit stations and the City Rail Link, but after meeting those requirements, they have real flexibility.
“In practical terms, this is likely to mean less blanket intensification in some suburbs and more growth focused around the city centre, town, local and metropolitan centres, as well as rapid transit and stations benefiting from investment in the City Rail Link.
What this means for Aucklanders
Legislation will be introduced and progressed quickly to minimise disruption to the existing process.
“Plan Change 120 has already received more than 10,000 submissions. Those submissions remain valid,” Mr Bishop says.
“Once the new capacity requirement is in place, Auckland Council will decide which parts of the plan change to withdraw or amend.
“If parts are withdrawn, the existing Auckland Unitary Plan zoning will remain in place.
“For parts that continue, updated provisions and maps will be provided to the hearings panel, and Aucklanders will have further opportunities to provide feedback.
“This process will be transparent and Aucklanders will be able to have their say.
I have also initiated an investigation into Auckland Unitary Plan provisions affecting the city centre.
“Auckland’s CBD is the economic heart of New Zealand. While previous reforms increased capacity there, we know there is still significant unrealised potential.
“If planning controls are unnecessarily constraining housing and business development in the city centre, I am prepared to act, using the same powers I used recently to change the Auckland Unitary Plan relating to Eden Park concert restrictions. Any additional housing enabled there will count toward the requirement to enable at least 1.6 million homes.
The legislation will also resolve a transitional issue affecting approximately 400 developers and property owners who were relying on the Medium Density Residential Standards when an earlier plan change was withdrawn in 2025.
“Auckland is New Zealand’s economic capital. We are not backing away from growth,” Mr Bishop says.
“We are ensuring growth happens in the right places, in a way that Aucklanders can support.
“We can increase housing supply, protect the liveability of our suburbs, and strengthen the city centre at the same time. This change allows us to do all three. It’s all part of our drive to fix the basics and build New Zealand’s future.”
Please attribute the following to Senior Sergeant Craig Bates, Acting Waikato West Response Manager:
Waikato West Police have arrested a brazen burglar who broke into a home, stealing the victim’s car and belongings in the night.
Shortly before 11pm last night, the victim was sleeping when they were woken to intruders searching the property for items.
The burglars then stole several belongings before fleeing in the victim’s vehicle.
Police responded immediately, assessing the scene and patrolling the area for the stolen vehicle. That vehicle was subsequently spotted by officers and was stopped near Te Awamutu.
The driver was arrested without incident.
A 40-year-old man has been charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and will appear in the Hamilton District Court today.
Police urge homeowners to consider options to safeguard their property and belongings from potential burglaries.
Having CCTV, alarms, motion-activated lights, and securely locked windows and doors can help your home be less of a target.
State-Owned Enterprises Minister Simeon Brown has today announced a series of reappointments to four companies in the State-Owned Enterprises portfolio.
At AsureQuality Ltd, Peter Landon-Lane has been reappointed as Chair and Dr Belinda Storey has been reappointed as a director, both for terms commencing 1 July 2026.
At Dunedin International Airport Ltd, Catherine Taylor has been reappointed as Deputy Chair for a term beginning 1 April 2026.
At the Meteorological Service of New Zealand Ltd, Dr Brendon Puketapu has been reappointed as Deputy Chair for a term starting 1 March 2026.
At New Zealand Post Ltd, Bruce Wattie has been reappointed as a director for a term commencing 1 April 2026.
“These reappointments reflect the Government’s commitment to ensuring our state-owned enterprises are supported by strong, experienced governance. The directors bring deep capability and proven leadership, and will continue to provide the stability and oversight needed as these organisations deliver for New Zealanders,” Mr Brown says.
Maritime NZ featured in the lead story on Seven Sharp on Wednesday, 4 February.
The story examined the rapid emergence of new recreational water craft and the safety risks that can arise as technology and usage patterns evolve.
The segment focused on how innovative designs – particularly faster, quieter and more powerful craft – are changing the way New Zealanders interact on shared waterways, and why safety messaging must evolve alongside them.
Supported by wing foil instructor Simon Croft and eFoil expert Greg Wright, the story opened with a review of the technology, followed by on-water demonstrations.
Matt Wood, Maritime NZ’s Principal Advisor Recreational Craft, was interviewed as part of the story, providing Maritime NZ’s perspective on the practical risks associated with these new craft.
Matt highlighted that while innovation can deliver environmental and performance benefits, it can also introduce unfamiliar handling characteristics, higher speeds, and reduced visibility or audibility to other water users. These factors can increase the likelihood of incidents, particularly when operators are inexperienced or unaware of how their craft behaves in different conditions.
The story reinforced core safety messages: understanding your craft, wearing lifejackets, maintaining situational awareness, and respecting other users on busy waterways. With swimmers, paddleboarders, paddle craft and powered vessels often sharing the same spaces, the consequences of misjudgement or lack of knowledge can be serious.
The segment also emphasised that most incidents are preventable through preparation, education and responsible decision‑making.
The Government has ring-fenced $80 million in the Regional Infrastructure Fund to develop and process domestic critical minerals resources, Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Regional Development and Resources Minister Shane Jones say.
“Critical minerals are used everywhere, from clean energy technologies and electronics to aviation, medical technology and more. They are essential to modern life,” Mr Peters says.
“A year ago the Coalition Government released its Minerals Strategy and Critical Minerals List. Since then, there has been increasing interest by a number of countries in securing supplies of critical minerals and rare earths.
“With global demand clearly rising, New Zealand is in a position to be a credible and reliable source of critical minerals and an essential link in the international supply chain,” Mr Peters says.
“By backing the extraction and processing of our own critical minerals resources, the New Zealand Government is sending a message to the world that we are serious about contributing to the critical minerals market.”
“New Zealand engages with a broad range of partners to gather information about the scope of market interest in this sector, and how that relates to the New Zealand Government’s objectives and priorities.
“We will continue to engage with the New Zealand public appropriately, as and when policy and project proposals around critical minerals are developed,” Mr Peters says.
Mr Jones says the $80m Regional Infrastructure Fund package will help New Zealand turn its resources into more jobs, investment and long‑term value for its communities.
“Our regions hold substantial deposits of critical minerals that could support a strong, sustainable economic recovery and position the country at the forefront of high‑value industries,” Mr Jones says.
“By supporting the development of critical minerals opportunities in New Zealand, we create jobs, build self-sufficiency, improve national resilience, and benefit from the new infrastructure, technology and skills that come with development.
“It’s important that we think beyond just extraction when it comes to critical minerals. Developing advanced processing techniques and technology that could help other countries to unlock their resources is an equally exciting prospect. That could open the door to new and deeper partnerships with countries looking to strengthen their own supply chain resilience.
“Given the scale of opportunity, and the importance of the sector to regional development, it makes sense to create this $80m package to help realise those benefits while supporting our Minerals Strategy, which lays a strategic and enduring path for the mineral sector.”
Relevant projects which meet the criteria and have already applied to the Regional Infrastructure Fund will be considered. Applications for new projects will also be accepted for consideration.
Successful projects will be announced when they have been evaluated and ministers have made decisions.
Designed as the next milestone in Infinix’s flagship journey, the NOTE 60 SERIES elevates the brand’s signature NOTE line with a sharper focus on flagship-class performance, expressive design, and immersive everyday experiences that go beyond expectations.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 February 2026 – At its annual flagship showcase, Infinix today unveiled the NOTE 60 SERIES, featuring the NOTE 60 Pro and NOTE 60—demonstrating a new chapter in delivering premium technology experiences to global users.
Infinix NOTE 60 Pro
Advancing design and performance within its class, the NOTE 60 Pro marks a significant milestone as Infinix’s first smartphone built on the Snapdragon® 7s Gen 4 Mobile Platform, delivering exceptional responsiveness and seamless multitasking that befits flagship-level performance.
It further elevates everyday experiences with an avant-garde Active Matrix Display that stays invisible when inactive, yet transforms into a dynamic interface for personalized interactivity, intelligent notifications, and on-screen entertainment—expanding what a smartphone can do in everyday life. Paired with a fluid 144Hz 1.5K Ultra HDR Cinematic Display and immersive SOUND BY JBL, the NOTE 60 Pro sets a new benchmark for premium multimedia experiences within its segment, proving that exceptional technology can be both powerful and pleasurable.
“NOTE 60 SERIES is our annual flagship showcase—an ‘all‑out’ blockbuster created with industry leaders,” said Tony Zhao, CEO of Infinix. “Embracing a whole-series 5G strategy, we are bringing together the best of performance, design, and entertainment—from our first NOTE powered by Snapdragon from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., to premium design craftsmanship with Pininfarina, and immersive SOUND BY JBL. This ensures we deliver a pleasurable, fun experience that lets our global consumers actively enjoy the best modern technology.”
Performance Without Compromise with Snapdragon
The NOTE 60 Pro is powered by the Snapdragon® 7s Gen 4 Mobile Platform, delivering robust multitasking and exceptional gaming efficiency with up to 75%¹ faster CPU performance and 210%¹ improved GPU rendering compared to the NOTE 50 Pro. Infinix and Qualcomm Technologies have collaborated for the NOTE 60 Pro, integrating Infinix’s proprietary performance engine to fully harness the hardware’s capabilities. These optimizations deliver up to 25%¹ enhancement in multitasking performance, significantly faster app launch speeds, and a smoother, more stable experience when switching between apps during heavy use.
Powered by its strong Snapdragon chipset, the NOTE 60 Pro takes gaming performance even further, delivering smooth high‑frame‑rate gameplay across popular titles. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Honor of Kings run up to 120 FPS, ensuring ultra‑responsive, fluid action even during intense team battles. To maintain consistent performance, the NOTE 60 Pro also introduces an upgraded 3D IceCore Vapor Chamber cooling system featuring a 0.36 mm copper sheet that directs heat from the chipset to the vapor chamber, reducing temperature by up to 3 °C¹ during intense gaming for stable, sustained performance.
Active Matrix Display: Functionality Through Design
Featured on the back of the NOTE 60 Pro, the all-new Active Matrix Display represents a major design innovation for the NOTE SERIES.
This miniature, interactive LED interface stays invisible until activated, then instantly lights up to show smart notifications, animated pets, or mini-games. It enables at-a-glance information, versatile alerts, and moments of playful interaction. Users can personalize it with custom signatures, emojis, or dynamic patterns, giving users a creative outlet to express their personality and emotions, and turning the phone into a more emotionally connected personal companion.
Built around a robust one-piece frame of high-strength aluminum alloy with a refined micro-matte texture, the NOTE 60 Pro delivers a sophisticated, high-end feel while offering durable practicality and dependable IP64 protection² against dust, splashes, and everyday wear. Infinix NOTE 60 SERIES introduces multiple practical functions on the robust middle frame, including the new One‑Tap Button providing instant, customizable activation of Silent Mode or tools like the flashlight. It also features an industry-exclusive Advanced Health Monitor, providing proactive wellness tracking of key vitals like heart rate, blood oxygen, and long-term HRV to deliver actionable health insights.
Immersive Entertainment: A Stunning 1.5K Display Paired with SOUND BY JBL
The NOTE 60 Pro is engineered for an immersive, all-day comfortable audiovisual experience. It features a vivid 1.5K display with ultra-slim bezels, reaching 4500 nits peak brightness for visibility in any light and a 144Hz refresh rate for ultra-smooth visuals. The display is designed for extended viewing comfort, featuring motion sickness prevention technology, which helps users stay comfortable while reading, watching videos, or gaming when commuting or traveling. Last but not least, NOTE 60 Pro is protected by durable Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, and this visual excellence is complemented by a high-fidelity stereo sound system with SOUND BY JBL, to complete a truly compelling entertainment experience.
Capture Anything, Day or Night: The Pro-Grade Camera Setup
At the core of the Infinix NOTE 60 Pro’s imaging system is the exclusive 50MP OIS Night Master Camera, engineered to deliver crystal-clear photos and stable videos even in low light. Paired with a 112° ultrawide sensor, the system effortlessly captures everything from expansive landscapes to group portraits.
The device marks a major leap in imaging with Infinix’s first Ultra HDR pipeline, enabling full-chain HDR imaging, from capture and processing to display for brilliant, true-to-life photos. This high-end shooting mode preserves details in shadows and highlights that standard shots often miss, resulting in greater dynamic contrast range and rendering everything from daylight to neon with perfect clarity. Complementing this, the new Live Photo mode captures life as it happens and turns every photo into a vivid, pocket-sized memory.
Rounding out the professional imaging suite are intelligent features like 2x Lossless Portrait Zoom for studio-quality framing, 4K Ultra-Steady Video recording³ with creative filters, and the Infinix AI Studio for effortless, intelligent editing.
All-Day Power, Intelligent Care
The NOTE 60 Pro features a battery capacity up to 6500mAh⁴, a substantial 25%¹ increase over its predecessor. This provides ample power to support all-day browsing, messaging, and gameplay. To ensure power and performance are maintained in the long run, Infinix combines the increased energy density with an industry-first active healing system that automatically repairs internal battery materials in the long term, extending the battery longevity up to 200 cycles over time and ensuring at least 6 years of effective, hassle-free battery performance. The NOTE 60 Pro keeps you charged with 90W wired and 30W wireless⁵ charging. For the fastest wireless experience, an Infinix MagCharge phone case⁵ is included to guarantee perfect alignment. This gives you both the speed and the flexible convenience to power up seamlessly throughout your day.
Infinix NOTE 60: Flagship Implementation with Greater Accessibility
A design similar in high-end refinement to the NOTE 60 Pro’s graces Infinix NOTE 60, another 5G phone featuring a premium metal frame, a 1.5K Ultra HDR display at up to 144Hz, and exceptional battery capacity with advanced charging and longevity management. It’s built around the ultra-efficient MediaTek Dimensity 7400 Ultimate 5G mobile platform and delivers true 5G performance. The NOTE 60 sports many of the quality features common to the latest NOTE lineup, including Active Halo notification lighting, highly optimized system-level software, and the 3D IceCore Vapor Chamber cooling system. It retains the 50MP OIS Night Master Cam and Live Photo mode of NOTE 60 Pro, promising fun memory capture, editing, organization, and sharing with family, friends, and more.
Beyond “Pro”: Expanding the NOTE 60 SERIES
As a key step in its flagship journey, Infinix also previewed the NOTE 60 Ultra, marking a bold move into the premium segment. Designed by Pininfarina, the NOTE 60 Ultra introduces breakthroughs in form and delivers comprehensive upgrades in imaging, performance, and connectivity—representing the pinnacle of performance and experience within the NOTE 60 SERIES. More details about the NOTE 60 Ultra will be announced at a later date.
Demonstrating Infinix’s commitment to long‑term user support, the entire NOTE 60 SERIES comes equipped with the upgraded XOS 16, offering three generations of XOS platform upgrades and five years of security patches⁶. In addition, the whole series also supports eSIM connectivity⁷, providing users with greater flexibility and convenience in managing their mobile network experience.
Product availability
NOTE 60 Pro is available in five colors:* Mist Titanium, Solar Orange, Deep Ocean Blue, Mocha Brown, Frost Silver, Torino Black (Design by Pininfarina)*
It will be available in three variants:* 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB, 12GB + 256GB
NOTE 60 is available in five colors:* Mist Titanium, Rose Gold, Fizz Blue, Midnight Black, Mocha Brown
It will be available in two variants:* 8GB + 128GB, 8GB + 256GB
*Availability may vary by country/region. The Turino Black (Design by Pininfarina) will be released at a later date. Please consult local retailers and third-party shopping websites for more purchasing options.
*Available storage and RAM are less than the total memory due to storage of the operating system and software pre-installed on the device.
Price and availability vary between markets and sales channels. Please refer to the Infinix Official website for product availability and detailed regional sales information.
Disclaimer
Snapdragon is a trademark or registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated. Snapdragon is a product of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries.
¹All data comes from Infinix laboratories. The testing data may vary slightly between different test versions and testing environments.
²The phone is dustproof and splash-proof under normal use. Under controlled laboratory conditions, its performance can reach IP64 level under IEC 60529 standard. Differences exist between real-life scenarios. Any damage caused to the phone by immersion in liquid is not covered under the warranty.
³Record at up to 4K 30 fps, with ultra-steady stabilization and a wide range of creative filters.
⁴Battery capacity and configurations may vary by market.
⁵MagCharge requires using the Infinix-branded magnetic attachment phone case.
⁶The specific XOS upgrade plan for each model will be announced separately. Please note that availability of this upgrade may be limited in certain countries.
⁷eSIM availability is carrier and region-dependent; it may not be supported in all countries.
Hashtag: #Infinix
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
New integration adds data-centric protection to Temenos Transact, streamlining compliance, secure modernization, and AI analytics.
WIESBADEN, GERMANY – EQS Newswire – 18 February 2026 – comforte AG, a global leader in data-centric security, and ITSS Global, a premier Temenos delivery partner, have announced a collaboration to help retail, commercial and private banks using Temenos Transact eliminate the risks associated with clear-text personally identifiable information (PII) and payment data across core banking systems and their connected environments. As banks accelerate digital transformation and data-driven programs such as fraud prevention and AI, exposure of sensitive data across systems has become a growing concern. Regulators and industry standards worldwide are also raising the bar for how banks protect sensitive data and prove control across connected environments, including PCI DSS, privacy requirements, and resilience expectations. The comforte and ITSS collaboration addresses these challenges with a co-developed solution that extends data protection into Temenos Transact environments without complex customization. Delivered by ITSS as part of its Temenos services, the integration leverages comforte’s TAMUNIO technology for centralized policy management, tokenization, and controlled de-tokenization, keeping sensitive data protected across environments while still supporting reporting, analytics, and downstream processing, including fraud detection workflows and AI-driven insights built on Transact data.
Turning Security into an Enabler “The modern threat landscape demands a shift from securing systems to securing the data itself,” said Henning Horst, CTO at comforte. “Today’s regulators and auditors expect readable data to stay out of places it doesn’t belong. Together with ITSS, we help banks prove that control and move faster on analytics, fraud initiatives, and AI programs using protected data.”
Safe Implementation into Temenos Transact “As banks modernize their Temenos environments, the real security challenge is no longer the perimeter. It is protecting sensitive data as it moves across core systems, analytics platforms, and the cloud,” said Somasundaram M, Regional Sales Director, MEA at ITSS. “Through our partnership with comforte, we enable Temenos clients to embed data-centric tokenization directly into their transformation journeys. This significantly reduces breach exposure, supports compliance with evolving regulatory mandates such as PCI DSS 4.0 and GDPR, and allows banks to adopt cloud, analytics, and AI-driven use cases without compromising data sovereignty or performance.”
To learn more or request a briefing, visit comforte.com. You can alsocontact us via email: sales@comforte.com / marketing@ITSSglobal.com.
Hashtag: #comforteAG
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts has announced the appointment of Stuart Calman as New Zealand’s Climate Change Ambassador.
“I am pleased to welcome Stuart to this role, given his expertise in foreign policy, trade and development, along with strong climate policy experience,” Mr Watts says.
“Stuart brings an excellent understanding of opportunities for enhanced cooperation with the Pacific and Southeast Asia. A particular focus in 2026 will be supporting Australia in its role as chair of the UN Climate COP31 negotiations, in partnership with the Pacific. Stuart’s expertise will be beneficial in supporting New Zealand’s economic, trade, and climate goals.”
Mr Calman is a senior diplomat who served as New Zealand’s Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) based in Jakarta from 2022-24. He has held leadership roles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade with a focus on energy, climate resilience and sustainable economic development in the Pacific and Southeast Asia. Prior to joining the Ministry in 2013, Mr Calman held management roles in the Ministry for the Environment and the Ministry of Economic Development, responsible for climate change, energy and environmental policy.
Mr Calman studied Business, Economics and Development at Massey University and his whakapapa includes Ngāti Toa, Raukawa ki te Tonga and Kāi Tahu. He will take up his new, Wellington-based role effective immediately, replacing Stuart Horne who has taken up the role of New Zealand Consul-General in Honolulu.
Mr Calman’s appointment as Climate Change Ambassador starts on Monday 16 February 2026.
Police have recovered a cache of weaponry as part of an ongoing investigation into a family harm event.
Counties Manukau West Police responded to Māngere address on Sunday afternoon.
“A disagreement between family members occurred, when a firearm was allegedly presented by one member,” Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Steve Albrey says.
“The man left the address in a vehicle along with an associate, and Police were contacted.”
Police responded to the area, locating this vehicle leaving a Kirkbride Road address.
“An armed traffic stop was carried out and the driver was taken into custody,” Senior Sergeant Albrey says.
“Police have returned to the Kirkbride Road property and made an armed approach to the address and invoked a search at the property.”
Inside, Police seized a range of firearms and ammunition.
“This included a pistol, revolver, pump-action shotgun and two rifles.”
Senior Sergeant Albrey says a cross bow and an imitation pistol were also recovered.
Meanwhile, units also stopped a second vehicle in connection with the family harm incident, taking that driver into custody as well.
“Our enquiries are continuing, and we expect charges will be laid,” he says.
“It’s a good outcome for the Māngere community that these firearms are now out of circulation.”
An offender left himself seeing red, after a dangerous dash through red lights foiled his getaway from a burglary.
The man came to Police attention in Newmarket just after 10am on Tuesday.
“A camera operator based in Newmarket observed a ute running through several red lights and travelling on the wrong side of the road, into oncoming traffic on Broadway,” Sergeant Lindsey Dawson, from Newmarket Police says.
“This information was relayed to Police, with the ute eventually being located parked up, hidden at the rear of a motel on Owens Road in Epsom.”
A male matching the description of the driver was seen exiting one of the units and was quickly taken into custody.
“Our staff were quickly putting the dots together, as the ute matched the description of a vehicle seen casing out several Newmarket businesses earlier in the morning,” Sergeant Dawson says.
Police soon established that a burglary occurred at a Newmarket restaurant off Khyber Pass Road just prior to 10am, where a safe was taken from the premises.
After being spoken to, the man led Police to the location where the safe had been stashed, cash still inside, Sergeant Dawson says.
It’s left the 53-year-old man facing charges of burglary and dangerous driving in the Auckland District Court today.
Sergeant Dawson says Police will oppose the man’s bail.
“It’s a fantastic result, thanks to the watchful eye of the Newmarket camera operator in collaboration with Police, along with good old Police work in locating the ute, which means we’ve been able to hold the man accountable for poor driving behaviour and a burglary.”
Auckland competes in a highly dynamic global market for tourists and major events. The City Rail Link (CRL) is tipped to give the city a new edge in both arenas.
Annie Dundas, Director Destination for Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, says greater ease of access enabled by the CRL will support the agency’s aims.
“CRL will help elevate all our goals. We work hard to secure a strong pipeline of major and business events. In the last financial year, the events we supported in Auckland delivered more than $89 million in GDP – they are crucial for our success as a region and a country,” she says.
We sat down with Annie Dundas and asked her more about how she thinks the City Rail Link will enhance Auckland’s tourism and events sectors when the new rail system opens in the second half of 2026.
This is part of an occasional Q&A series with urban and economic development leads within the Auckland Council group, looking ahead at the region-wide benefits of the City Rail Link for multiple sectors.
Our Q&A with Annie Dundas:
Q. What is the role of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited?
We are Auckland Council’s cultural, events and destination agency. We attract visitors to the region, invest in major and business events and deliver cultural events such as Pasifika Festival and BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival.
We champion Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s global reputation and strive to make it a vibrant place to live and visit. We own and operate venues and cultural institutions including Auckland Zoo, Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, Aotea Centre, New Zealand Maritime Museum Hui Te Ananui a Tangaroa, The Civic, Western Springs Stadium, North Harbour Stadium and Go Media Stadium.
We also attract performing arts to the city through New Zealand’s largest performing arts organisation Auckland Live, and put on free Auckland Council Events in public spaces for all to enjoy.
Q. How will the CRL help visitors to our region experience it better?
Getting people around more swiftly will be a game-changer. The CRL is not just about new stops in the city, it enables better train services across Auckland by linking up the network and unlocking space for more trains to travel more often. It will provide visitors an easier way to experience more of our region – if they’re in downtown Auckland or arriving on a cruise ship, they’ll be able to hit Karangahape Road or an event at Go Media Stadium much more easily. If they’re staying further away, they can get to the waterfront, which we know is a major drawcard for visitors, much more easily.
This ease of travel will be especially valuable for visitors here for business events. Usually they’ll stay longer than three or four days, and are likely to attend a conference at say, the new NZICC or Aotea Centre. The new Te Waihorotiu Station will be right on those venues’ doorsteps – this will make us an even more business event friendly city. There will be frequent services, meaning no long waits for the next train. It will be a true international experience. It positions our reputation very well internationally.
CRL stations and surrounding areas also incorporate beautiful Māori design – it’s important to represent our unique culture in this way and we know visitors value this.
Recently re-opened glasshouse entrance to Waitematā Station.
Q. How about locals – will it make coming into the city for events easier?
It will take away parking stress and cost for a much wider group of people and make it easier for them to get to events and shows. If you live in Maungawhau (Mt Eden) for example, you’ll be able to get to Waitematā Station in less than 10 minutes, then Spark Arena is right there. If you live in Henderson, you’ll be able to get to Te Waihorotiu Station in 35 minutes, 24 minutes quicker than the current public transport. That station is very close to The Civic, Basement Theatre, Q Theatre, Auckland Town Hall and Aotea Centre – so suddenly getting to that concert or a free festival in Aotea Square becomes a lot more attractive. From Glen Innes in the east, you’ll be able to get to Te Waihorotiu Station in 15 minutes, 10 minutes quicker. So we are really excited about the barriers it will reduce and cultural participation it will encourage for all Aucklanders.
Q. What about major events in Auckland with crowds of more than 10,000 people?
For major events coming up including the British & Irish Lions Women’s Series in 2027, Cricket World Cup in 2028, and men’s Lions tour in 2029, the CRL will be amazing. Fans flowing in and out of Eden Park will be able to hop down to Waitematā Station at the waterfront in just 13 minutes. That will make it easier to enjoy bars and restaurants before and after matches and give huge crowds multiple hospitality options. There will also be a single train ride from the east to Eden Park on the new network, which will make it easier for families in the eastern suburbs to go along.
At Go Media Stadium in Penrose where Ed Sheeran just performed, access will be easier with a single train ride from the west to the stadium on the new network.
We’ve just brought in a wayfinding map at Go Media Stadium that links through to public transport and gives information about the nearby Penrose train station that will connect to the new CRL stations. We’ll be able to integrate it with our existing tools and strategies to reduce barriers to attendance.
Q. What if people want to go out or stay out after work for a cocktail or to see a live band – will the CRL help?
Yes. Part of our work at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is to encourage a humming night-time economy. More frequent trains until about midnight from Sunday to Thursday, and between 1am and 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, will make it easier to go out or stay out later for a larger group of people.
There will also be a single train ride from the south to the famous night-time precinct of Karangahape Road. No more switching between trains and buses on the way. Fewer people will need to bring a car into town just so they can stay out at night after work. So definitely – the CRL is an important piece of the puzzle to help us elevate Auckland nightlife.
Q. How important is transport connectivity for what Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is tasked with achieving?
Ease of access, which the CRL will improve, will help us achieve our goals. We work relentlessly to secure a strong pipeline of major and business events in a hugely competitive global market.
We also push hard to attract screen production and boost visitor numbers from key markets including Australia, North American and Asia and run world-class attractions including Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland Zoo – in all these areas, ease of access and movement is vital. Visitors know about our scenery – but we need to offer more.
Having a truly international city where it’s easy to get around is a crucial part of the ecosystem of drawcards we offer to make Tāmaki Makaurau an amazing place to live, work and visit.
Viaduct Harbour. Photo credit: AucklandNZ.
Read more about the benefits of CRL in earlier Q&A on OurAuckland.
Learn how the new network is expected to lift Auckland’s international standing with Barry Potter; support the region’s productivity with Gary Blick; and provide everyday benefits for Aucklanders and visitors across the region with George Weeks.
City Rail Link information brochures are available in eight languages on the Auckland Transport website.
NZTA has applied for statutory approvals for the Northwest Busway project under the Fast‑track Approvals Act (FTAA), marking a major milestone for a project that will deliver faster, more frequent and more reliable public transport for Auckland’s growing northwest, says Transport Minister Chris Bishop.
“The project, similar to the successful Northern Busway, will provide a busway alongside State Highway 16 (SH16) between Brigham Creek and the city centre, and seven stations connected to the local bus and road network,” says Mr Bishop.
“People in the northwest are crying out for better transport options in one of the region’s largest planned growth areas, where an additional 100,000 people, along with 40,000 new homes and 40,000 new jobs, are expected by 2051.
“Lodging under the FTAA represents progress for the Northwest Busway, which is going to provide more transport choices for communities in the northwest. This is about building the future of public transport in New Zealand. Auckland is our largest city, and this will help support jobs and drive growth.
“The Northwest Busway includes a park and ride station at Brigham Creek and stations at Westgate, Royal Road, Lincoln Road, Te Atatū, Point Chevalier and Western Springs. It will be able to move up to 9,000 passengers per hour in each direction, the equivalent of four motorway lanes. It will also provide a reliable 25-minute journey time from Brigham Creek to the city centre – all day, every day.
“Construction is already underway on the new Westgate Station, which will open later this year, and works on the Brigham Creek Station are expected to start next year.
“The busway will increase the capacity of State Highway 16 by nearly 20% during peak times by freeing up space on the motorway for freight and those that need it.
“Aucklanders want better, faster and more reliable public transport and this project is a priority for this Government, so I welcome the progress being made by NZTA with the lodgement of statutory approvals for the project under the FTAA.
“The approvals will enable NZTA to construct the project in stages as further funding is made available.
“The Northwest Busway project has received around $550 million, covering statutory approvals, design and site investigations, construction of the Westgate Station and Brigham Creek Station and Park & Ride, and targeted property acquisition.
“The Northwest Busway project is part of an integrated plan to provide better connections to the wider transport network and maximise investment in other public transport projects like City Rail Link.”
Notes to the editor:
The northwest of Auckland is home to 90,000 people and is one of the city’s largest planned growth areas.
60 percent of residents commute out of the area for work and education, which means the Northwestern Motorway regularly suffers from congestion and delays.
This project covers an 18km corridor and navigates a heavily built-up urban environment. This means it requires underpasses and structures to navigate motorway interchanges, and it impacts some utility assets and property which also add to the cost.
The whole project has a benefit cost ratio of 2:1, with the first stage at 6.3:1 so for every dollar that’s spent we’re getting high benefits in return.
Stage 1 will see new stations at Brigham Creek and Lincoln Road as part of a $330m – $380m package of work.
Stage 2 will include the separated and bi-directional busway from Brigham Creek to Te Atatū, along with the stations at Royal Road and Te Atatū, the second stage of Westgate station, and the city centre connection at Newton at an estimated investment of $4,100m – $4,600m*.
The Point Chevalier and Western Springs stations are to be delivered as a third stage.
A newly discovered molecule shows promise for treating painful lymphoedema.
Scientists have made a breakthrough that could lead to effective treatments for lymphoedema, a painful swelling condition for which there is currently no cure.
Lymphoedema can be congenital or caused by an injury, but it mostly occurs as an unintended consequence following breast-cancer treatment.
It occurs when the lymphatic system, which moves fluid throughout the body via specialised vessels, is damaged, leading to fluid accumulation in tissues.
“Our group of researchers has discovered a new molecule and pathway that together promote lymphatic vessel growth,” says Dr Jonathan Astin, a senior lecturer in molecular medicine and pathology in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland. See Cell Reports.
“We initially made this discovery in zebrafish but have also shown that the factor works in human lymphatic cells.”
The scientists discovered the growth-promoting molecule, known as ‘insulin-like growth factor’, or IGF, accelerates the growth of lymphatic vessels in zebrafish, so has potential to repair damaged vessels.
They then worked with a University colleague, senior research fellow Dr Justin Rustenhoven, to grow human cells in the lab and found the IGF, could also ‘instruct’ human lymphatic vessels to grow.
“This work is of interest to the medical community as it provides an additional way to induce lymphatic vessel growth,” says Astin.
“This is especially important for people with lymphoedema. In Aotearoa New Zealand, approximately 20 percent of women who have lymph nodes removed as part of breast-cancer treatment will develop lymphoedema, and currently there is no cure.”
There is another molecule, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), that also promotes the growth of lymphatic vessels; the IGF molecule may work together with VEGF to promote the growth of lymphatic vessels, says Astin.
The work was conducted in Astin’s lab by then doctoral student Dr Wenxuan Chen and involved collaborations with Dr Kate Lee, Dr Justin Rustenhoven and Professor Stefan Bohlander, all in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, as well as a lab in the US.
“We use fish primarily because they’re very simple, but they’re still remarkably similar to us,” Astin says.
“The advantage of using fish is we can fluorescently label lymphatic vessels so that they glow and then image vessel growth in a whole larva or embryo and not impact its growth at all.
“We can just watch it grow, and things happen much quicker in a fish, because they develop much faster.”
The next step will be to test an IGF‑based therapy on mice with lymphoedema to see whether it helps.
Astin is cautious about promising too much but says this holds the potential to become a therapy for this painful, incurable condition in the future.
A first-of-its-kind health and rehabilitation centre has opened at Burnham Military Camp to support the health, wellbeing and operational readiness of New Zealand Defence Force personnel.
“Kiwis who put on the uniform put their lives on the line to defend and protect New Zealand and its people. They deserve the best support possible to proactively care for their minds and bodies, and to help them get back on their feet when they’re injured,” Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk says.
“The new Military Health and Performance Centre, Tû Manawa Ora, at Burnham Military Camp is the first combined health and rehabilitation facility across the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) estate, bringing together a broad range of services under one roof.”
The new facility includes:
Comprehensive medical treatment centre
Dental services
Physiotherapy, rehabilitation and performance spaces
Psychological resilience, pastoral care, social work and counselling services
Education, research, simulation and training facilities
Staff and logistics areas
Emergency response, including ambulance facilities
“Today’s opening represents a step forward in how the Defence Force looks after its people, setting a new standard for healthcare infrastructure across camps and bases,” Mr Penk says.
“Providing multi-disciplinary care will benefit both the prevention and treatment of health issues, ensuring Defence personnel are well supported during service and continue to thrive long after they leave the Force.
“Military healthcare professionals now also have a modern, fit-for-purpose environment that enables the delivery of high-quality health, rehabilitation and performance services, which in turn will improve retention and operational readiness across the Defence Force.
“Building the centre at Burnham, the largest military base in the South Island, reflects its strategic importance. The camp plays a key role in New Zealand’s national security system, supporting training, operational deployments, humanitarian assistance and disaster response.
“Completed in just 18 months, the $22 million project is a testament to the combined efforts of the Defence Estate and Infrastructure group, construction partner Hawkins New Zealand, and our Alliance partners Ernst & Young, GHD NZ and Beca.
“This new centre demonstrates to our Defence people that while they dedicate themselves to serving New Zealand, we are committed to ensuring they have the health, wellbeing and working environments they need to perform at their best.”