Category: LiveNews

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Live: Trump says ‘big wave’ in Iran is yet to come as conflict widens

Source: Radio New Zealand

[liveblog ]https://rnz.liveblog.pro/lb-rnz/blogs/69a55551b6f113bca370435e/index.html

Follow the latest with our live blog above

US President Donald Trump is warning what he is describing as ‘a big wave’ is still to come in the war with Iran.

Speaking to CNN, Trump said the US hasn’t even begun to hit the Iranian regime hard yet.

Missile strikes continued to fly over the Middle East overnight, with multiple countries threatening escalation of the ongoing conflict.

Top members of the Trump administration have spoken publicly about ‘Operation Epic Fury’ for the first time at a Pentagon press conference. The US said the goal of the war was not regime change, despite the deaths of top Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States was not ruling out any options in the war, but promised, “This is not Iraq … This is not endless”.

Meanwhile, Iran said it was ready for a “long war” and has targeted US military bases in other Gulf states.

Kuwait said it accidentally shot down “several” US military aircraft in friendly fire.

Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel continue to trade blows, prompting the Lebanese government to ban Hezbollah’s military and security activities and call on the group to hand over its weapons to the state.

Trump has said he envisages the conflict could last four weeks.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of this page.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/03/live-trump-says-big-wave-in-iran-is-yet-to-come-as-conflict-widens/

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Personal loan arrears hit 10-year high as people struggle to meet repayment obligations

Source: Radio New Zealand

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Consumers’ appetite to spend is growing but many are still struggling to meet their loan repayment obligations.

Data from credit reporting firm Centrix shows consumer credit demand is up 8.3 percent compared to a year ago, driven in large part by mortgage holders shopping around for a better deal and refinancing their debt.

Loan arrears overall are lower than a year ago, but personal loan arrears have hit a 10-year high at 10.2 percent, up 6 percent on last year.

“Consumers with a personal loan that aren’t homeowners are experiencing more difficulty in paying those loans back and that’s probably because homeowners have had some relief through interest rate reductions,” said Monika Lacey, chief operating officer for Centrix.

“People that don’t own a home just aren’t getting that relief flowing through, and their food and insurance costs, for example, have remained at a higher inflated level, whereas homeowners are getting a little bit of relief on the interest rate side.”

The challenges loan holders are battling are also reflected in financial hardship numbers, with personal loan hardships up 45 percent year on year.

Mortgage holders lock in a better deal

Demand for new mortgage lending in the January quarter was up 34 percent on this time last year, with refinancing a major driver. Close to half of all new mortgage lending in December was for refinancing.

“We have seen switching between banks and there is definitely some competition, so consumers are doing the right thing and shopping around and trying to get the best deal.”

Almost three quarters of switching is happening between the four largest banks compared to 56 percent a year ago.

Signs of recovery but liquidations still high

Meanwhile, businesses appear to be struggling to get out of the mire with demand for credit falling and liquidations still at high levels.

The Centrix data shows business credit demand is down 1 percent on a year ago, indicating a lack of optimism among businesses.

Company liquidations rose to 2952 in the year to January, up 16 percent on last year, with 70 percent of those liquidations stem from Inland Revenue action on tax debt.

“There’s a massive clean-up going on and it’s not unexpected as it’s well known in the market,” Lacey said.

“I think the tail is long, but it shouldn’t get any worse than what it is.

“I think it’s also really important to point out that although the liquidations are higher than they’ve been for a while, when you look at the relevance by industry, it’s still really small.”

Lacey said sector-wise, construction is the leading contributor to liquidations followed by hospitality.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/03/personal-loan-arrears-hit-10-year-high-as-people-struggle-to-meet-repayment-obligations/

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Echo Technology expands footprint, acquires new company

Source: Radio New Zealand

Echo chief executive Patrick Moynahan, right. Supplied.

The country’s biggest e-waste recycling company is expanding its footprint.

Echo Technology is acquiring BMS, a specialist in secure data storage disposal and the refurbishment and resale of end‑of‑life IT equipment.

The acquisition price was not disclosed.

BMS, founded by Stephen Westcott‑Jones, focuses on IT asset disposition, including breaking down data storage drives and refurbishing and remarketing used computers and devices.

Echo chief executive Patrick Moynahan said the partnership aimed to create New Zealand’s leading full‑service IT and e‑waste lifecycle provider.

“We’re committed to building long‑term capability for sustainable technology lifecycle services and e‑waste processing in Aotearoa New Zealand, and this acquisition is a substantial step towards that ambition,” he said.

“Together, Echo and BMS repurpose more than 150,000 IT assets for resale and process over four million kilograms of electronic waste each year.”

Westcott‑Jones would become a shareholder in Echo and join the company’s board.

“The transaction will allow us to build on the strong foundations of BMS and take our customer offering to the next level by integrating with Echo,” he said.

Altered Capital – a local venture capital and private‑equity investment firm, and an existing investor in Echo – brought the two companies together and would remain invested in the combined business.

Altered made a strategic investment in Echo in 2025.

The companies would be integrated over the next 18 months but continue to operate separately in the meantime, with existing customer arrangements unchanged.

Moynahan said Echo would initially focus on improving household e‑waste recycling by working with councils and running neighbourhood collection events, before expanding further into corporate and government e‑waste recovery and refurbishment.

He said the merged company also plans to open a new recycling plant in Christchurch, complementing existing facilities in Auckland and Wellington.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/03/echo-technology-expands-footprint-acquires-new-company/

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Wellington council releases first triennium plan in almost a decade

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington’s mayor says making building cheaper through a one-stop shop for consents and fixing the failed Moa Point plant will be part of a three-year council plan.

On Tuesday morning, the council released a triennium plan for the first time in nearly a decade.

It outlined a range of policy ideas councillors were advocating to get done over the council term such as establishing an office that streamlined the building consent process, improving confidence in the council and fixing its ageing infrastructure.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little said an overwhelming majority of councillors and pou iwi had pledged to support the plan at a meeting next week.

Little said the plan’s purpose was to align council staff with councillors’ priorities.

Moa Point

A major element of the plan was the Moa Point sewage plant which Little admitted to RNZ was added to the plan recently.

“Moa Point has become a prominent issue for us just in a matter of the last few weeks and we have to address it.”

One of the priorities of the council was supporting the region to negotiate a regional deal with the government after it missed a deadline to show interest in doing so, which Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described at the time as “pretty lame-o”.

Little told RNZ it was possible funding for fixing the Moa Point sewage plant could be part of those negotiations.

“It might be something that goes on the table at the beginning.”

He said he could not predict “what the prospects of that would be”.

The mayor said generally it could be possible to get Crown funding for infrastructure through those negotiations.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Consents

As part of the plan the council would develop an urban development office which it described as similar to Auckland’s Eke Panuku which was an organisation that supported development in the city.

Little told RNZ the idea would be that one person would take responsibility for a consent rather than builders being passed between several people.

“It is about trying to co-operate with applicants because, look, we want to get these developments done.”

He said there was a large amount of support for the idea amongst councillors, so he believed once the plan was signed off it would not take “too long” before it worked through council.

The council would also set KPIs for building and resource consent timelines and review fees for consents in order to bring time and cost down.

Transparency

In a pre-election report released last year, it said less than a third of Wellingtonians surveyed had trust in the council.

In the introduction to the triennium plan, Little said “that must change”.

He told RNZ transparency, particularly when a councillor or staff member made a mistake, was important.

“Most of these things are more you know, cock-up than conspiracy.”

Little said he expected there to be fewer publicly excluded meetings around the council table.

“I am paying close attention to suggestions that something might be taken to publicly excluded and I want to be satisfied it genuinely is justified.”

He said there was one situation where a councillor suggested a meeting be publicly excluded, which was rejected.

A spokesperson for the mayor confirmed it was relating to when councillor Diane Calvert was chairing a briefing which was made publicly excluded in December.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/wellington-council-releases-first-triennium-plan-in-almost-a-decade/

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Only lunar eclipse of 2026 taking place tonight

Source: Radio New Zealand

A montage of pictures shows the phases of the Blood Moon Total Lunar Eclipse as it is seen in Depok City, West Java province, Indonesia, on September 8, 2025. Aditya Irawan / NurPhoto via AFP

A total lunar eclipse is taking place tonight – and New Zealand has the “best seat in the world” to view it.

According to Stardome, the only lunar eclipse of 2026 (also known as a blood moon) will begin about 9.45pm.

“We are one of a few countries that will be able to witness the eclipse for its entire duration,” it said on social media.

“The best time to see the blood moon will be from midnight to 1am, with the peak of the eclipse occurring just after 12.30am (Wednesday).”

Send us your pictures of the blood moon to iwitness@rnz.co.nz

Stardome astronomer Josh Aoraki earlier told RNZ lunar eclipses were not rare per se – the rarity was whether or not it was visible from your location.

“For this one in particular, we really have the best seat in the world, really. It’s really only visible for its entirety over the Pacific. And it’s the only one that we’re going to see this year. I don’t think we have another until 2028, about two years.”

With Nasa’s Artemis missions and sending people back to the moon, Aoraki said there was a lot of buzz and excitement around the moon and space exploration.

“Having this lunar event is just one of those reminders that there’s really cool things happening up there all the time.”

Aoraki said he had his “fingers crossed” that it wouldn’t be cloudy during the event.

Stardome has outlined the timings for the total lunar eclipse tonight – and when is best to view it. Supplied / Stardome

According to MetService meteorologist Dan Corrigan, the South Island and upper North Island will be the best places to see the lunar eclipse “If you’re daring enough to leave the comfort of a warm bed”.

It is likely to be cold – with single digit temperatures possible for much of the country.

“These next couple of days are for everyone who loves the feeling of being wrapped up in a cozy bed. If you had to grab an extra blanket (Sunday night), it’s probably going to be needed for the next three nights as well.”

But what do you need to see the eclipse?

Nothing special, just your eyes, Stardome said.

“Just your eyes and a clear view of the sky. Be sure to check the forecast for your local area if you’re planning to watch this dazzling celestial display.

“There will not be another total lunar eclipse until 2028, and we are among the few locations able to watch the entire event unfold over the Pacific. Only an estimated 2 percent of Earth’s population will be able to view this eclipse from beginning to end.”

According to Nasa, totality of the eclipse will also be visible in eastern Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and North and Central America.

Partial visibility will be visible from central Asia and much of South America – but it will not be visible in Africa or Europe.

Key events – Auckland time

  • 8.11pm Tuesday 3 March – Moonrise (AKL time, varies slightly between regions)
  • 9.44pm Tuesday 3 March – Penumbral eclipse begins: Earth’s outer shadow starts to touch the moon.
  • 10.50pm Tuesday 3 March – Partial eclipse begins: The moon begins to darken as Earth’s main shadow moves across it.
  • 12.04am Wednesday 4 March – Total eclipse begins: The moon is fully immersed in Earth’s shadow and appears red.
  • 12.33am Wednesday 4 March – Maximum eclipse: The moon is closest to the centre of Earth’s shadow.
  • 1.02am Wednesday 4 March – Total eclipse ends: The moon begins to exit Earth’s shadow.
  • 2.17am Wednesday 4 March – Partial eclipse ends: The dark shadow fully clears the moon.
  • 3.23am Wednesday 4 March – Penumbral eclipse ends: The Earth’s outer shadow leaves the moon completely.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/only-lunar-eclipse-of-2026-taking-place-tonight/

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Previously unknown faultlines discovered in Auckland

Source: Radio New Zealand

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Dozens of previously unknown faultlines have been discovered under Auckland – and new work is set to find out if they are likely to cause quakes.

Scientists will soon start to dig trenches across some of the lines to see if they are active.

So far the discovery has not increased the known risk to the city.

One of the scientists, Auckland University senior lecturer James Muirhead, said any fault that had moved in the past 125,000 years was considered active.

Some of the faults could have been still for six million years – which meant they were technically not active. Others were suspected faults.

Muirhead’s team would begin by looking at some of the most likely – near Pukekohe or Drury in the city’s rural south.

Diggers would carve out four-metre deep trenches across the fault which would then be analysed to see how recently they had moved.

Likely faults, possible faults and possible structures identified in the study superimposed on a shaded relief map of Auckland and plotted alongside Auckland Volcanic Field centres and earthquake epicentres since 1988. Supplied

“So hopefully two years from now we have a really good answer to that question – whether these faultlines in Auckland are active and whether they represent a significant seismic hazard,” he said.

There was a common perception that Auckland was not very seismic but that was probably because it was compared with other places in New Zealand which was a very seismic country, he said.

It had actually experienced some significant events, like the 1891 Port Waikato quake which was strong enough to shatter windows in the city, he said.

The new potential faults were discovered when researchers analysed borehole samples.

“Basically holes that have been drilled around Auckland to look at how the sub surface has moved both up and down below our feet through time,” Muirhead said.

The team divided the lines into likely faults, possible faults and possible structures – lines that showed signs of ground movement but it was unclear why.

Two of the most prominent probable faults ran from the Waitematā to the Manukau harbours, one through Avondale, the other from Glendowie to Blockhouse Bay.

They had already been suspected but the latest research had shored them up and more accurately measured them, Muirhead said.

Some of the possible faults were around Northcote, Birkenhead and Wiri.

There were many more in the “possible structure” category which meant they needed a lot more investigation, such as in Sandringham, Newmarket and Ōtāhuhu.

The research said it was possible intense urbanisation could mask faults.

The report also revealed Auckland experienced more small earthquakes than previously thought, but Muirhead said that was likely because there was better monitoring.

The work has been partly funded by the Natural Hazards Commission which has highlighted them in its latest Resilience Highlights Report which looked into the impact of natural hazards.

The commission said even though major earthquakes remained unlikley, the findings could help decide how land is used as the city grew.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/previously-unknown-faultlines-discovered-in-auckland/

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US-Israeli strikes on Iran could last ‘weeks’, 48 Iranian leaders and 3 US soldiers killed

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above

Israel and the US have begun a fresh waves of strikes on Iran, with Israel saying it is continuing large-scale strikes against targets across Tehran.

The US military says it has sunk nine Iranian warships and is “going after the rest” in attacks which US President Donald Trump says have killed 48 top Iranian leaders – including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Trump said he envisages the conflict could last four weeks.

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour says the government has not taken a position on whether or not it is in support of the US and Israeli led attacks on Iran.

Australia has ruled out deploying troops if the conflict escalates.

The attacks have sparked warnings about KiwiSaver, fuel and inflation in New Zealand.

Major Middle Eastern airports have been shut and regional gateways including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi were closed.

MFAT is advising New Zealanders in affected areas to shelter in place and leave when it is possible to do so.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks on Saturday, which US President Donald Trump said were aimed at overturning Tehran’s government.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of the page

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/us-israeli-strikes-on-iran-could-last-weeks-48-iranian-leaders-and-3-us-soldiers-killed/

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Compax MVNE continues to support Airalo’s eSIM platform

Source: Media Outreach

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Newsaktuall – 2 March 2026 – Compax, a leading solution provider in the MVNO and telco space, will continue to support Airalo, the world’s first and largest eSIM platform.

Airalo and Compax have extended their partnership for another five years, ensuring Airalo continues to run on the powerful Compax backend platform. This technology allows Airalo to quickly launch and manage data plans across more than 200 destinations. By using the Compax real-time charging system, Airalo can accurately track data usage and set custom pricing independently, without having to rely on the technical systems of local phone carriers. This total control ensures that Airalo can offer its 20 million users the most flexible and competitive travel eSIM rates on the market.

Compax is proud to support Airalo as it continues to launch new products and services, ensuring its 20M+ customers can stay connected seamlessly across more than 200 destinations, regardless of their travel plans.

“At Airalo, our goal is to provide our customers with reliable connectivity and a seamless experience. Extending our partnership with Compax MVNE for another five years ensures we have the technical foundation to keep that promise,” explained Peter Nussbaumer, VP of Networks at Airalo. “Compax MVNE’s platform gives us the independence to launch new products and manage complex global data plans in real-time, allowing us to stay agile and focus on what matters most: keeping our 20 million users connected, no matter where their journey takes them.”

“The Airalo team set out to transform the way travelers enjoy connectivity abroad forever and they are not falling short on their goal. It’s an absolute pleasure for us to be a part of their journey and assist them on their mission. Connectivity is at the heart of everything we do in our modern ways of life and the Airalo offering is perfectly tuned to that beat.” said Werner Kohl, CEO of Compax.

Hashtag: #CompaxMVNE

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/2026/03/03/compax-mvne-continues-to-support-airalos-esim-platform/

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Many happy returns as Kai Tak Sports Park celebrates first anniversary

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) celebrated its milestone first anniversary on Sunday (1 March), successfully hosting nearly 50 major events and delivering over 120 international and local sports and entertainment days since its grand opening.

KTSP has established a unique identity as the city’s new “Home Venue” for major sports and entertainment events. Highlights have included the Hong Kong Sevens (rugby), the Hong Kong Football Festival featuring top teams such as Liverpool, AC Milan, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as concerts by British rock band Coldplay, Mandopop rock band Mayday, singer Jay Chou and global pop icons BLACKPINK.

Kai Tak Sports Park has established a unique identity as Hong Kong’s new “Home Venue” for major sports and entertainment events

Sports activities at the Park have welcomed more than 840,000 participants so far. In terms of sports activities, the three major facilities—Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Arena and Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground—together with the bowling centre, outdoor sports facilities and open spaces in the precinct, are expected to surpass 200 event days from the Park’s opening through to the end of March 2026.

In the past year, the utilisation rates of the Kai Tak Stadium and Kai Tak Arena have reached close to 90%. Kai Tak Stadium has already attracted over 1.8 million attendees, rapidly becoming a powerful new driving force in advancing Hong Kong’s sports industry, events economy, and tourism development.

“Our first anniversary is not only a major milestone for Kai Tak Sports Park, but also a moment of pride for Hong Kong. Over the past year, we witnessed athletes’ determination, outstanding performances from artists, and the unforgettable energy of cheering audiences. Each event has touched and inspired us.

“As Hong Kong’s largest integrated sports, leisure and entertainment landmark, we are committed to bringing the community together while strengthening Hong Kong’s connection with the Greater Bay Area and the international stage,” said a spokesperson for KTSP.

The centerpiece 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium was ranked third in the world and top in Asia for total ticket sales in 2025 just nine months after its debut, according to Pollstar’s 2025 year-end stadium charts (published mid-December 2025). Pollstar also ranked Kai Tak Stadium No.5 worldwide and No.1 in Asia for total gross revenue (1.25 million passes worth US$191.34 million). Meanwhile, the 10,000-seat Kai Tak Arena, was ranked Asia’s No. 8 in terms of total gross revenue.

“Seeing the Park evolve over the past year into a major sports destination for Hong Kong has been incredibly inspiring,” said Hong Kong, China karatedo team former representative, Lee Chun Ho. “Every time I walk in, I can feel the energy. The professional facilities not only support large-scale events but also make it easier for the public to access different sports, whether they’re beginners or experienced enthusiasts.”

With an expanding line‑up of exciting events, enhanced visitor experiences and an increasingly compelling programme of global attractions, KTSP will further advance the integration of culture, sports and tourism, ushering in an even brighter and more vibrant chapter for Hong Kong.

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

Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #KTSP #Sports #Entertainment #Landmark #MegaEvents

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/many-happy-returns-as-kai-tak-sports-park-celebrates-first-anniversary/

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Green SM Named “Best EV Carpooling App” In the Asia-Pacific Region

Source: Media Outreach

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – GreenSM has been honored at the Sensor Tower APAC Awards 2025 with the title of “Best EV Carpooling App.” The annual awards program, organized by global digital intelligence firm Sensor Tower, recognizes mobile applications demonstrating outstanding performance across the Asia–Pacific region.

Sensor Tower honored Green SM as the “BEST EV CARPOOLING APP” in the Asia-Pacific region. (Photo source: Sensor Tower)

Award recipients are evaluated entirely based on independent performance data, including key indicators such as downloads, monthly active users (MAU), growth rates, in-app purchase revenue, and user engagement. These metrics reflect sustained operational effectiveness and performance over time. Green SM’s recognition not only marks a breakthrough for the brand but also demonstrates consistent growth and sufficient operational stability to be recognized at a regional level.

According to the published results, Green SM achieved 114.4% year-on-year MAU growth in 2025 and ranked No. 1 in downloads among EV-focused carpooling platforms in the region. This performance reflects steady expansion across the company’s operating markets, including Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Behind these growth figures lies a systematically built operational foundation. Green SM maintains that growth is only sustainable when accompanied by the ability to deliver consistent service quality across all operating markets. Scaling its electric fleet while ensuring a uniform and reliable user experience has remained a central priority throughout the company’s development.

This operational stability benefits both sides of the platform. Passengers experience transparent, dependable services, while the Green Driver community operates within a clearly structured, long-term-oriented work environment. For Green SM, growth and quality control are pursued in parallel as two core pillars of sustainable development.

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh – Global CEO of Green SM stated: “Recognition through an independent data evaluation system affirms that the fully electric mobility model we are pursuing is on the right track. More important than growth speed is the trust we earn from users in every market where we operate. That trust motivates us to continuously refine our fully electric mobility model, ensuring stable operations, structured technology deployment, and sustainable long-term development.”

In the context of an increasingly competitive mobile application landscape, recognition grounded in independent performance data demonstrates that Green SM’s growth is built on a structured, scalable operational platform. The ability of an electric mobility model to achieve strong regional growth while maintaining consistent service quality confirms that this is no longer an experimental alternative, but a practical direction for modern urban transportation.

Previously, Green SM was also honored at the VnExpress Tech Awards 2025 with the titles “Outstanding Ride-Hailing App” and “Vietnamese Tech Brand of the Year,” and received the “CXP Best Customer Experience Award,” which recognized its implementation capabilities and consistent operational standards across the system.

Hashtag: #GreenSM

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/2026/03/03/green-sm-named-best-ev-carpooling-app-in-the-asia-pacific-region/

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Employment indicators: January 2026 – Stats NZ information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/employment-indicators-january-2026-stats-nz-information-release/

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Club 666 to Debut as Singapore’s First Micro Club, Featuring Capsule rooms for an Intimate, Curated Nightlife Experience

Source: Media Outreach

A discreet, reservation-led space in TPI Building designed for intimate experiences, elevated service, and a new kind of all-in-one entertainment destination

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – Singapore’s nightlife is about to get a new kind of pulse. One that beats smaller, sharper, and far more intentional. Opening on 6 March 2026, Club 666 will debut at TPI Building, positioning itself as Singapore’s first micro club built around exclusivity, discretion, and thoughtfully curated, intimate experiences.

In recent years, the city’s idea of a great night out has shifted. Less “big room, big chaos,” more considered corners, good company, and spaces that feel designed, not accidental. Club 666 arrives with that same instinct, created for guests with busy schedules, little appetite for wasted time, and a growing preference for nights that feel polished rather than frantic. It is a club concept that leans into the art of going smaller, with the confidence that intimacy can be its own kind of luxury.

Inspired by the secretive allure of world-class private clubs, Club 666 is designed for guests who prefer refinement over noise, and atmosphere over volume. The concept is not about scaling up. It is about stripping back, tightening the room, and making every detail count, from the ambience and acoustics to the art of hosting itself. Anchoring the experience are capsule rooms designed for closeness and comfort, creating intimate pockets where groups can settle in, stay present, and move through the night together.

While the space is intentionally intimate, Club 666 is not designed to stay quiet all night. Each evening will feature two signature hype programmes created to shift the room’s energy at key moments, delivering show-led crowd activation and interactive rituals that are designed to feel unexpected, elevated, and distinctly Club 666, without relying on the usual playbook.

Among the club’s signature offerings is a service style not commonly experienced in Singapore’s nightlife landscape, including personal butler service tailored to guest preferences. With a focus on comfort, privacy, and seamless hosting, Club 666 aims to deliver an experience that feels less like a typical night out and more like being welcomed into a carefully orchestrated space, where the night flows and the service anticipates.

Club 666 is helmed by Glenn, who will be known publicly by his first name only. He is also behind The Gentleman’s Club, located within the same building. With plans for another nightlife concept still under wraps, Glenn’s vision for TPI Building is shaping into a one stop destination made up of distinct spaces that move like chapters, each with its own mood, energy, and purpose.

“People go out because they want variety, but the reality is they end up spending half the night moving from place to place,” said Glenn, owner of Club 666. “I want to build a one-stop entertainment hub where guests can experience different moods and environments without wasting time club-hopping. When we do it right, the night flows better, and guests can focus on enjoying themselves.”

What to expect at Club 666

  • Singapore’s first micro club, built for intimate capacity and elevated ambience
  • Discreet, curated experiences inspired by private club culture
  • Personal butler service and hospitality-led nightlife tailored to guest preferences
  • A new chapter within TPI Building’s evolving entertainment ecosystem
  • Two signature nightly hype programmes, designed as crowd-led moments you will not find elsewhere in Singapore

More than a dance floor and more than a bar, Club 666 positions itself as a social room for people who value belonging as much as atmosphere. By keeping the experience intentionally intimate, the club aims to make it easier to return, reconnect, and share nights that feel considered from the first arrival to the last song.

https://club666-premium.com
https://www.instagram.com/666clubsingapore

Hashtag: #Club666 #Clubbing #Singapore #Lifestyle #Nightlife

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/2026/03/02/club-666-to-debut-as-singapores-first-micro-club-featuring-capsule-rooms-for-an-intimate-curated-nightlife-experience/

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Smart Design Global Awards 2026 Call for Final Applications Introducing Dual Incentive Scheme to Empower Local Talents to Go Global

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – The “Hong Kong Smart Design Awards” has officially been renamed “Smart Design Global” (SDG), marking a new start to Hong Kong’s annual flagship design event as it enters its fifteenth year running. The name change signifies the convergence of local design talents, with the competition serving as a gateway to the world. Organised by the Hong Kong Exporters’ Association and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the program has been instrumental in taking Hong Kong’s original design global since its inception in 2012.

This year’s rebranding represents a strategic transformation to further establish a holistic design ecosystem, with the goal to shape creativity as a new economic driver for Hong Kong. SDG will implement an incentive scheme which merges creativity with business to help winners connect with international markets. The program will consist of two key phases: the “Smart Design Global Awards 2026” competition, followed by a series of overseas trade shows.

Upgraded Perks: Shortlisted Participants to Secure Exhibition Spots

This year’s “Smart Design Global” comes with an upgraded suite of rewards for participants, and particularly those who qualify for the Corporate Group in order to reward SMEs and local designers that invest in creativity. All shortlisted participants will be allocated a dedicated display space at the Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, where they can showcase their competition entries and other company products. This provides a comprehensive platform for participants to interact with thousands of international buyers, boosting brand exposure and fostering collaboration. The final judging will also take place on the first day of the Gifts & Premium Fair, allowing participants to present their design concepts directly to the jury panel. This face-to-face interaction enables contestants to gather professional feedback and gain deeper insights into their product’s strengths and weaknesses.

Furthermore, award winners will be given the opportunity to take their winning products abroad for touring exhibitions. By taking part in major global trade shows, homegrown designs will shine on an international stage. The SDG Awards also offers a prototype subsidy, which grants crucial early-stage funding to help top winners transform innovative concepts into market-ready products for the world, maximizing value for all participants who enter.

Four Categories: Showcasing Hong Kong’s Unique Charm

“Smart Design Global Awards 2026” is now open for application. This edition focuses not only on the aesthetic appeal of products, but also the market potential, calling for entries from innovative products across four categories:

  • Live: Designs that elevate living spaces and personal style, such as distinctive furniture and home décor.
  • Dine: Kitchen innovations, tableware, and dining decorations that redefine culinary aesthetics and experience.
  • Gift: Exquisite, personalized gifts designed to create lasting memories, including festive products, personal collectibles, and corporate gifts.
  • Play: Nostalgic recreational items or educational games with pedagogical design, such as figures, STEM games, and cross-generational collectibles.
Seize the final chance to showcase unique designs to the world. For detailed information on entry requirements, judging criteria, and registration for “Smart Design Global Awards 2026”, please visit the official website: https://www.sdawards.org.hk.
Smart Design Global 2026 Submission Details
Corporate Group
Application Deadline: 10 March 2026 (Tues)
Application Fee: HK$600 per product category
Exhibition Fee*: HK$3,500 per product category
Conceptual Group
Application Deadline: 10 March 2026 (Tues)
Application Fee: HK$300 per product category (Waived for students)
Exhibition Fee*: Waived

* Shortlisted entries will enjoy an HK$600 registration fee waiver, bringing the actual exhibition fee to HK$2,900.
**For details, please visit the Smart Design Global website: https://www.sdawards.org.hk

https://www.sdawards.org.hk
https://www.facebook.com/SDG2026/
https://www.instagram.com/smart.design.global

Hashtag: #HongKongSmartDesignAwards #SmartDesignGlobal #SDG

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/2026/03/02/smart-design-global-awards-2026-call-for-final-applications-introducing-dual-incentive-scheme-to-empower-local-talents-to-go-global/

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Bridge Data Centres and Concord New Energy to Develop Singapore’s First Barge-Based Hydrogen Power Generation Solution for AI-Ready Digital Infrastructure

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE- Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – Bridge Data Centres (BDC) and Concord New Energy (CNE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation solution tailored for next-generation AI digital infrastructure, marking a significant milestone in advancing low-carbon energy pathways for the data centre sector.

Mr Eric Fan, Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Data Centres (left) and Mr Joe Zhou, Group Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Global Business of Concord New Energy (right) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation solution tailored for next-generation AI digital infrastructure.

The partnership represents a strategic step in BDC’s long-term roadmap to diversify power sourcing pathways, enhance energy security, and future-proof its Singapore data centre portfolio amid evolving grid constraints and decarbonisation dynamics.

The collaboration brings together BDC’s extensive expertise in developing and operating hyperscale data centres across Asia Pacific and CNE’s technical leadership in renewable and hydrogen energy systems. The parties will also collaborate with Nanyang Technological University (NTU), one of the world’s top universities, to support the development of Singapore’s hydrogen ecosystem Together, the parties will accelerate the research, engineering, and deployment of scalable clean energy solutions across the value chain.

Integrated Renewable and Hydrogen Pathways

Under the MOU, the parties will explore advanced power system architectures and generation configurations designed to enhance the resilience and reliability of AI-ready data centre campuses.

A key focus of the collaboration is the development of Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power generation model — an innovative marine-integrated deployment approach designed to deliver flexible and modular clean power capacity.

Compared to conventional land-based generation assets, a barge-based configuration offers structural advantages particularly suited to Singapore’s operating environment, including optimisation of scarce land resources through offshore or nearshore deployment, enhanced safety risk segregation between hydrogen handling infrastructure and core data centre operations, and greater flexibility in hydrogen transport and storage leveraging Singapore’s maritime ecosystem.

In parallel, the parties will develop scalable hydrogen supply chain frameworks covering storage, transport, and system integration to support high-density, AI-driven digital infrastructure. The alliance will also assess customised long-term power procurement structures, including renewable power purchase agreements (PPAs) and integrated energy storage solutions, to enhance operational flexibility and overall energy system resilience.

Mr Eric Fan, Chief Executive Officer of Bridge Data Centres, said, “The accelerating demand for AI-ready data centres requires new energy architectures that are resilient, scalable, and sustainable. This collaboration with Concord New Energy reflects our commitment to diversifying long-term power pathways. By pioneering Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen generation solution, we are exploring innovative models that integrate clean energy with advanced digital infrastructure.”

Mr Joe Zhou, Group Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Global Business of Concord New Energy, said, “Singapore’s hydrogen ambitions and its position as a global maritime and energy hub create a strong foundation for piloting advanced hydrogen power solutions. Through this partnership, we aim to contribute engineering expertise and scalable system design to support the decarbonisation of AI-intensive data centre environments.”

Advancing Singapore’s Clean Energy and Digital Infrastructure Ambitions

The collaboration is expected to anchor advanced hydrogen system engineering and barge-based deployment capabilities within Singapore’s energy ecosystem. Through its Concord Clean Energy Research Centre, CNE will expand applied clean energy research and collaborate with local institutions, including NTU and public agencies, to drive the development of scalable clean hydrogen energy solutions in Singapore.

The partnership will facilitate structured knowledge transfer and local talent development in hydrogen systems integration, renewable optimisation, and advanced energy engineering. The initiative is expected to support the creation of high-value jobs and specialised technical competencies in these domains.

In addition, the collaboration is anticipated to catalyse investment in hydrogen-related infrastructure, including storage, transport, generation assets, and associated supply chains, strengthening Singapore’s clean energy transition.

As Singapore scales AI-driven workloads and high-performance computing capacity, energy reliability, flexibility, and sustainability are becoming decisive enablers of digital growth. The collaboration between BDC and CNE reflects BDC’s proactive strategy to future-proof its power architecture, diversify long-term sourcing pathways, and strengthen infrastructure resilience.

By anchoring advanced hydrogen engineering and marine-integrated deployment capabilities in Singapore — a global maritime and energy trading hub — the initiative not only strengthens Singapore’s ability to pilot innovative hydrogen solutions within a land-constrained urban environment, but also establishes a scalable offshore-integrated clean power framework that can be extended to Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding AI-driven data centre markets.

Hashtag: #BridgeDataCentres

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/2026/03/02/bridge-data-centres-and-concord-new-energy-to-develop-singapores-first-barge-based-hydrogen-power-generation-solution-for-ai-ready-digital-infrastructure/

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Police looking for victim of alleged aggravated robbery

Source: Radio New Zealand

The incident happened at Ellerslie Train Station (file image). RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

Police have made the arrests, but now they are trying to find the victim after an aggravated robbery in Auckland.

They say a group of six people allegedly threatened a woman at Ellerslie Train Station on Monday afternoon before taking her personal belongings.

Auckland Transport staff saw the incident and alerted police, who then tracked the group on the rail network using cameras and arrested them.

Police said they now want to contact the victim, who was wearing a grey hooded top with a Nasa space agency logo on the front.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/02/police-looking-for-victim-of-alleged-aggravated-robbery/

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Pokémon’s 30th Anniversary: MemeStrategy (HKEX:2440) Launches World’s First Tokenized Collectible Card Fund

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 — MemeStrategy, Inc. (“MemeStrategy” or “the Company”; HKEX: 2440), an Asia-based publicly listed digital asset company, today announced the launch of the world’s first tokenized Pokémon trading card fund (the “Fund”). The Fund is designed to offer professional investors institutional-level access to the collectible trading card market through EVIDENT Platform Services Limited (“EVIDENT”), a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform, marking a significant step in establishing trading cards as a recognized alternative asset class. Scheduled to launch during the 30th anniversary of the Pokémon franchise, the Fund represents a unique initiative that bridges culturally iconic collectibles with traditional institutional-level financial services.

A Booming, Multi-Billion Dollar Market

This February, a PSA 10 “Pikachu Illustrator” card, widely regarded as the holy grail of Pokémon cards and previously owned by internationally renowned influencer Logan Paul, achieved a record-breaking auction price of USD 16.492 million (approximately HKD 128 million). This sale surpassed the previous record for the most expensive sports card, the one-of-one dual-signed Logoman card featuring NBA legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. The event brought the global spotlight back onto collectible cards and underscored the growing cultural and collector interest in high-end trading cards.

The global collectibles market is projected to reach USD 628 billion by 2031, with the Asia Pacific region demonstrating particularly rapid growth momentum.[1] Within this market, the collectible card games segment is expected to reach USD 37.42 billion by 2034, rising from a projected USD 14.7 billion in 2025.[2] This expansion is driven by increased participation from digital native consumers and heightened institutional attention towards alternative assets. This surge also reflects a broader cultural shift among younger generations, who are increasingly engaging and investing in alternative cultural assets.

Among trading cards, Pokémon cards hold a distinguished position in the collector community. They are viewed not merely as game cards, but also as culturally significant assets supported by active secondary markets and well-established collectible value. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal and historical data from the authoritative platform CARD LADDER[3], Pokémon card values have exhibited long-term appreciation of more than 30x over the past 20 years, reinforcing their status as a resilient alternative asset class.

Crossing the Chasm, Moving Towards Institutional-Level Collection Investment

Although the trading card market presents substantial growth, direct participation by professional and institutional investors has historically been limited due to several structural challenges, including:

  1. Authentication Risks: Concerns over asset provenance and widespread presence of counterfeits remain major deterrents for institutional-grade capital.
  2. Custody Complexities: The high cost and operational difficulty of museum-grade physical storage, including security, insurance and climate-controlled facilities, make proper custody prohibitively expensive and operationally burdensome.
  3. Market Fragmentation: A highly fragmented secondary market, dispersed inventory, and inconsistent sourcing channels make it difficult to acquire curated collections in bulk from reliable counterparties.

In view of this, MemeStrategy aims to deliver a comprehensive, institutional-ready one-stop solution. By launching the Fund through a publicly listed company platform and partnering with a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform, vault custodians supported by a professional third-party, and independent auditors and certifiers, MemeStrategy seeks to establish a robust, transparent, and institutional-level framework for professional investors to access the emerging cultural-asset market.

“Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat”: A Flagship Cultural Asset with Institutional Provenance

The Fund’s portfolio is anchored around a leading Pokémon card: the PSA 10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” card. Created through an official cross‑disciplinary collaboration between The Pokémon Company and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the card draws inspiration from Van Gogh’s iconic “Self‑Portrait with Grey Felt Hat.” It represents a rare convergence of the world’s highest-grossing entertainment franchise and a globally renowned fine art institution.

Widely recognized as one of the most prominent Pokémon cards worldwide, the PSA 10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” is estimated to have a total market capitalization of over USD 94 million.

In light of its prominence and established market status, the Fund aims to acquire exposure representing approximately 25% of the PSA10 “Pikachu with Grey Felt Hat” cards currently available in the market, underscoring its strategic focus on this key asset. This positioning is supported by the following characteristics:

  • Appreciation: Secondary market prices for the card have risen more than 400% since its limited release in late 2023, based on publicly available historical data[4].
  • Scarcity: The Pokémon–museum collaboration was a time-limited initiative that concluded earlier than planned due to overwhelming demand. With a PSA 10 population of approximately 47,000[5] cards now permanently capped, its rarity is firmly established.
  • Authenticity and Grade Assurance: All cards held by the Fund undergo expert verification and are PSA 10 graded, consistent with market-recognized standards for condition and authenticity.


An Institutional-Level Infrastructure for a New Asset Class

Building on its focus on flagship cultural assets, MemeStrategy complements the Fund’s portfolio construction with an institutional-grade operational framework. By partnering with EVIDENT, a licensed alternative asset digital investment platform through which tokenized interests in the Fund will be made available for professional investors, MemeStrategy aims to provide a secure, transparent and robust structure for accessing cultural-asset investment.

  • Institutional-Level Custody: All physical cards are authenticated, insured, and stored in a museum-grade environment with temperature control and 24-hour surveillance, operated by Grade10 Vault, the Company’s professional card-vaulting service.
  • Enhanced Accessibility: Tokenization facilitates primary transactions on a licensed and secure platform, enabling professional investors to access tokenized interests in the Fund with greater efficiency and transparency.
  • Independent Audits: All underlying assets are subject to biannual Proof-of-Reserve audits by Deloitte or another Big4 international audit firm, ensuring full transparency and independent verification of asset holdings.

Ray Chan, Chief Executive Officer of MemeStrategy, said, “This initiative is about harnessing the distinctive market dynamics of cultural assets through institutional-level financial rigor. The collectibles market is expanding rapidly, yet institutional participation has remained limited due to logistical and security barriers. We are solving that problem. For the first time, we are providing a convenient and secure structure that allows professional investors to engage in this growing market without the burdens of physical ownership. This reflects our core mission to bridge culture and capital by creating accessible structures for the professional market.”

Florian M. Spiegl, Founder & CEO of EVIDENT, said, “Collectibles represent one of the most compelling frontiers in alternative assets — a market with proven performance but, until now, without the infrastructure to serve institutional capital. This fund demonstrates exactly what EVIDENT’s platform is built to do: take high-conviction asset verticals and structure them to the highest regulatory and institutional-grade standards. From custody to compliance to secondary liquidity, every layer is designed for professional investors. As we continue to expand our asset base into new verticals, the standard remains the same: institutional rigor, full regulatory compliance, and market infrastructure that investors can trust.”

MemeStrategy will serve as the General Partner (GP) through its wholly owned subsidiary, RWA Labs Limited, and will also make a strategic investment as a Limited Partner (LP), reflecting its strong conviction in the long-term cultural significance and market relevance of cultural collectibles. By combining blockchain-enabled transparency with institutional-level real-world custodianship, MemeStrategy aims to help shape the evolution of how collectibles are valued and traded in the Web3 era, contributing to the development of a structured cultural-finance landscape.

Disclaimer: This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or invitation to the public in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (“HKSAR”) to invest in the Fund or to acquire or subscribe for any securities or interests in any collective investment scheme. The Fund has not been authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission of HKSAR and is only available to “professional investors” (as defined in section 1 of Part 1 of Schedule 1 to the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571)). This announcement is not intended for distribution to, or use by, any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation.

https://memestrategy.com.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/memestrategy/
https://x.com/MemeStrategy
https://www.facebook.com/grade10hk/
https://www.instagram.com/grade10hk/

Hashtag: #MemeStrategy #Grade10 #EVIDENT #Culture #Collectibles #Pokémon #TradingCards #TokenizedFund #AlternativeInvestment #AlternativeAssets

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/2026/03/02/pokemons-30th-anniversary-memestrategy-hkex2440-launches-worlds-first-tokenized-collectible-card-fund/

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Football Ferns v Solomon Islands – FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers

Source: Radio New Zealand

Manaia Elliott Joshua Devenie / Phototek.nz

The Football Ferns crushed the Solomon Islands 8-0 at National Stadium in Honiara for their second World Cup qualifying match win.

They have officially qualified for Round 3 of the OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

New Zealand’s other Group A opponents in the Oceania Qualifiers for next year’s Fifa Women’s World Cup in Brazil are America Samoa, with the top two teams from the pool advancing to the semi-finals and final, hosted by New Zealand in April.

The Football Ferns play American Samoa on Thursday afternoon.

Follow how the game unfolded in the live blog below:

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/02/football-ferns-v-solomon-islands-fifa-womens-world-cup-qualifiers/

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Watch: New Zealand not asking questions about US, Israel attacks

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Prime Minister says only the US and Israel have the intelligence to back up their attacks on Iran – and New Zealand won’t be asking to see it.

Christopher Luxon was asked if he believed the attacks were a breach of international law in his weekly post-Cabinet media conference Monday afternoon.

“Issues of legality [are] for Israel and the US to talk to because we’re not party to that information or that intelligence they may have,” he said.

Luxon went on to say it wasn’t guaranteed New Zealand would ever see this intelligence – and his government would not be asking to see it.

“We’ve had a long standing commitment under successive governments that any actions that stop Iran from getting a nuclear weapon is a good thing, any actions that take to stop them from sponsoring terrorism is a good thing, any actions that stops them from killing their own people is a good thing.

“This is not a good regime and that has been a long standing position of New Zealand governments under different administrations.”

Asked if New Zealand’s support for “any actions” extended to “carpet bombing” Iran, Luxon made several attempts at answering the question before repeating his earlier lines.

“We’ve long supported actions under our governments, under successive political parties, that actually stop Iran from getting nuclear weapons.

“There have been endless rounds of diplomacy where Iran has flagrantly disregarded international law with respect to nuclear weapons programmes. That has not worked.”

Luxon was asked if New Zealand’s support for “any actions” extended to the bombing of a girls’ school that – according to reports by the BBC – killed at least 153 people.

“That is up to them [the US and Israel] to present what has happened there because I’m not in a position to judge that from sitting in New Zealand.”

Asked to clarify if he meant to say he couldn’t make a judgement call if a children’s school being bombed was a good or bad thing, Luxon said civilians should be protected.

“We want to make sure that any action is consistent with international law but we also need Israel and the US to explain their actions and their understanding of that event and that is for them to explain.”

The coalition has condemned the Iranian regime, focusing its criticism on the regime’s killing of civilians and pursuit of its nuclear programme.

The New Zealand government’s criticism has not extended to the United States and Israel’s actions, even after former Prime Minister Helen Clark said they clearly breached international law.

Asked if the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade had advised the government on the legality of the US and Israel’s attacks, Luxon said he couldn’t comment.

In terms of advice he had received from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Luxon said he couldn’t go into it.

“I just can’t comment on that. Cabinet rules preclude me from doing so.”

Hard ‘no’ from Labour on supporting the US and Israel’s attacks

Fronting reporters shortly after the post-Cabinet briefing, Labour leader Chris Hipkins was asked if his party supported the actions of the US and Israel.

“No,” he said.

Hipkins says New Zealand should, as it had in the past, stand up for its values and international law. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Hipkins said he had been taken aback by Luxon’s language around New Zealand supporting “all actions” to stop Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

“I was somewhat shocked to see that comment…that does not reflect the position that successive New Zealand governments have taken.

“Successive New Zealand governments have expressed significant concern about the Iranian regime but that does not justify any action, particularly when it breaches international law.”

Hipkins said New Zealand should, as it had in the past, stand up for its values and international law.

“When it came to the invasion of Iraq, New Zealand stood apart from what was a lot of international support for that action, and said no we did not think that was the right thing to do and I think we should do so here as well.”

Hipkins said there was “never a justification for killing school children”.

“International rules still matter. New Zealand has been very clear and consistent in its position of condemning the actions of the Iranian government and that’s been across successive governments.

“But that doesn’t justify simply ripping up the international rule book. There’s a need for a return to diplomacy, a return to international institutions. This is why bodies like the United Nations were established in the first place.”

Hipkins said if he were prime minister, he would be asking for New Zealand’s Five Eyes partners for more information about the situation.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/02/watch-new-zealand-not-asking-questions-about-us-israel-attacks/

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Oriental fruit fly: Trapping zone widens in South Auckland as more flies found

Source: Radio New Zealand

Three more male Oriental fruit flies have been trapped in Papatoetoe. Supplied / Biosecurity NZ

Biosecurity New Zealand is widening its trapping zone in South Auckland after finding three more male Oriental fruit flies.

A single male fly was found in Papatoetoe last week – and on Monday, three more males were trapped in the suburb.

“The finds in our traps, following last week’s detection of a single male fly in the suburb, are not unexpected and shows our enhanced surveillance and inspection is working,” said Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North Mike Inglis.

Inglis said there was no evidence of a breeding population.

“We continue to bolster our network of traps in the controlled area to ensure good coverage near to each fly detection. The lures we use in the traps are very strong and attract the fly,” he said.

Restrictions on the movement of fruit and vegetables have been in place since Wednesday last week, and Inglis said today’s detections meant the restrictions had been extended.

Signs would go up on roads in the new controlled area to remind locals the restrictions were in place.

A detailed map of the controlled area and a full description of the new boundaries and movement controls is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries’ website.

“We have successfully eradicated fruit fly from New Zealand 15 times, so we have very strong and detailed operational plans to guide our work and that includes a comprehensive trapping and inspection programme,” Inglis said.

Residents in the area where movement restrictions were in place were being asked to put fruit and vegetable waste into bins provided by Biosecurity New Zealand.

“Our people will be continuing their work on the ground, engaging with the local community and sharing information with residents in the newly extended controlled area,”Inglis said.

The Oriental fruit fly did not pose a risk to humans but would hit the horticulture industry if it was allowed to establish in New Zealand.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/02/oriental-fruit-fly-trapping-zone-widens-in-south-auckland-as-more-flies-found/

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AIA Alta Club Launches Brain Health Programme

Source: Media Outreach

Pioneering World-First AI Retinal Scan for Early Detection and Proactive Prevention of Cognitive Decline

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 March 2026 – AIA Alta Club, an exclusive membership programme for high-net-worth customers by AIA Hong Kong, announced the launch of the Brain Health Programme.* Featuring a world-first AI-driven retinal imaging health management solution, the programme makes AIA Hong Kong the first insurer in the market to offer this innovative, proven screening experience.

AIA Alta Club, an exclusive membership programme for high-net-worth customers by AIA Hong Kong, announced the launch of the Brain Health Programme, featuring a world-first AI-driven retinal imaging health management solution, which makes AIA Hong Kong the first insurer in the market to offer this innovative, proven screening experience.

The Brain Health Programme provides a non-invasive and highly accurate solution for early detection of cognitive conditions, effectively enabling early identification and proactive prevention of cognitive decline. More than a screening service, the programme provides personalised coaching and tailor-made, science-backed wellness plans targeting cognitive health based on each member’s evaluation. Each member receives customised guidance that is not just preventive, but transformative.

Dementia leads to the loss of daily self‑care ability and is among the top three retirement concerns,1 with care reaching around HK$200,000 annually.2 In Hong Kong, one in three people aged over 85 lives with significant impairment.3

By positioning cognitive health as one of the core pillars of healthspan, AIA Alta Club empowers its members to take charge of their wellbeing and enjoy longer, more fulfilling lives. The programme pioneers the world’s first AI-powered retinal imaging technology for brain health, a non-invasive retinal scan with up to 92% accuracy. The technology was developed by i-Cognitio Sciences, a research-based company originating from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), and launched through the collaboration of AIA Hong Kong and Humansa. This makes AIA Hong Kong the first insurer in Hong Kong to offer such an innovative and reliable screening experience.

Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said: “Cognitive decline often begins years before symptoms appear. More than 70% of AIA Alta Club members, who are aged 40 years and above,4 see protecting brain health as a priority. Meanwhile, research shows that up to 45% of dementia cases can be prevented or delayed.5 Once the condition is detected, the programme can provide members with personalised, science-based care and coaching based on the results.”

Ms Liang added: “At AIA Alta Club, we believe longevity is about quality as much as quantity, adding life to years, not just years to life. The Brain Health Programme brings this vision to life by making cognitive health a central pillar of healthspan. By being the first insurer in Hong Kong to offer the world’s first AI-powered retinal scan for cognitive health, we are setting a new industry benchmark by integrating health, wealth and lifestyle into a truly holistic ecosystem. In addition to protecting brain health, we empower our customers to embrace genuine wellbeing and enjoy Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

Brain Health Programme: Combining Technology with Care

The programme combines advanced AI diagnostics with personalised support:

  • i-Cog Retinal Imaging Scan – World’s first AI-powered retinal scan for brain health
  • Montreal Cognitive Assessment 5-minute Protocol (MoCA-5) Test – A five-minute test to quickly assess memory, attention, and thinking skills
  • Comprehensive Brain Health Assessment to identify risk factors that influence brain ageing

The programme also includes wellness coaching and anti-ageing supplements that support antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detox functions. Each service comes with prevention strategies and medical guidance. AIA Alta Club members can redeem complimentary sessions.

Since its establishment in 2023, AIA Alta Club has been renowned for its bespoke privileges and diverse services for members to find their optimal balance of wealth and wellness. It provides science-based, personalised healthcare services and health management solutions. Through Infinite Health Programmes, launched in 2024, AIA Alta Club adopts a proactive and preventive approach, using early detection, precise measurements, and continuous monitoring to optimise physical functions, mental health, and metabolic performance.

Remarks:

  • This “Brain Health Programme” is operated by a third-party service provider – Humansa Company Limited. AIA shall not be responsible for any act, negligence or omission of medical advice, opinion, service or treatment on the part of the service(s) provided by them. AIA reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate the service without further notice. AIA is not the service provider, or the agent of the service provider, of the Services. AIA makes no representation, warranty or undertaking as to the quality and availability of the Services, and shall not be responsible or liable for the Services provided by the service provider. Under no circumstance shall AIA be responsible or liable for the acts, omission or negligence in provision of the Services (including but not limited to diagnosis, treatment and medical and healthcare services) by the service provider.
  1. Source: AIA Hong Kong Internal data (a total of 650 Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland residents were interviewed between 17 and 24 June 2025 to understand their attitudes towards retirement life and their retirement planning.)
  2. Source: Alzheimer’s Disease International (2016). Cost of Community Care for Dementia and Cognitive Impairment in Hong Kong Chinese: Social and Informal Care Time Analysis
  3. Source: The Chinese University of Hong Kong (2017). CUHK Launches World’s First Study Utilizing Retinal Imaging for Alzheimer’s Disease Screening in Chinese Population
  4. Source: AIA Hong Kong internal data (as at Dec 31, 2025).
  5. Source: Livingston, G., Huntley, J., Liu, K.Y. , Costafreda, S.G., Selbæk, G., Alladi, S. (2024). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission. The Lancet, 404(10452), 572-628.

Hashtag: #AIA

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/aia-alta-club-launches-brain-health-programme/