Category: LiveNews

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Country Life: Growing a farmer on Pāmu’s apprentice scheme

Source: Radio New Zealand

Pāmu apprentice Archie Davidson and Te Wharua farm manager Alan Micky MacDonald RNZ/Sally Round

Apprentice farmer Archie Davidson is learning a thing or two from his dogs.

“That heading dog, he knows everything.

“You send him one way; he goes the other way.

“He’s like, uh-uh, and I’m like, ‘Oh, should have sent you that way’.”

Seventeen-year-old Archie is in his second year on the three-year Pāmu apprenticeship scheme finding his feet at Te Wharua Station, a 1900-hectare sheep and beef farm in central King Country.

Sky, his heading dog, and Grace, his huntaway, are invaluable tools for mustering sheep on the steep hill country.

“[They] teach me patience, teach me how sheep move, sheep flow.”

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Archie with two of his dogs RNZ/Sally Round

He jumps in the side-by-side and heads off up a steep track with me alongside.

The sheep are due for dagging the next day and Archie needs to bring them down from the tops to a paddock closer to the yards.

He’s on a shepherd’s wage now, after learning the basics – on training pay – with the other apprentices at the scheme’s headquarters in Taupo.

Archie got a place on the first intake of the scheme which started in January 2025. Up to nine school leavers earn while they learn and don’t need any prior experience farming.

In their first year, as well as learning the basics of dairying and livestock farming, they do some academic study with the aim of gaining Level 3 and 4 agricultural papers.

Apprentices on Pāmu’s apprenticeship scheme Abby Dance-The Photographer

In the second year they move into an apprentice’s job at one of Pāmu’s farms around the country while they continue their studies.

The son of dairy farmers, Archie decided to move onto Te Wharua, under the wing of farm manager Alan “Micky” MacDonald.

The teen did OK at school but loves the “hands on” nature of on-farm learning.

“I like being out in the hills and there’s hunting on your doorstep.”

Archie watches the muster from a hiiltop RNZ/Sally Round

He’s in and out of the side-by-side, his whistle clenched between his lips, practising the signals which direct the dogs to bring the sheep out of some tricky gullies.

Micky, waiting down below, says it’s important to have the apprentices do valuable jobs on the farm.

“It’s trying to keep it interesting, but it does take time, and sometimes you could do it faster, but then you think, well, these are the future, so give them the space and the time.”

Te Wharua, with its hilly back country and more forgiving finishing paddocks, covers a fair bit for an apprentice, Micky told Country Life.

“If someone does a good stint here and picks up a school level and all those aspects of it, they’re ready to go farming anywhere, really.”

His biggest concern with the cadets is on-farm safety, particularly with Te Wharua’s terrain.

“I sort of try and work them into it, you know, without putting them in a situation where they’re scared or out of their depth.

“We keep them pretty close to one of the team for a bit to see where their skill level’s at, and then we try and build on that while they’re here.”

Archie’s dogs ready for action RNZ/Sally Round

Pastoral care is part of his job too, encouraging the apprentices to get off farm during their time off, and keeping them focused.

“I just straighten them up if they need it, or just talk to them, as I would expect from anyone else.

“They accept it and learn from it and go forward.”

The sheep are safely mustered and in the paddock, ready for dagging tomorrow.

Archie’s looking forward to shearing time and learning more from Micky, a champion in his day.

While the dogs take a break, Micky gives Archie some final instructions, with a bit of banter thrown in.

The partnership is one of the reasons Archie chose this farm for his placement.

“Me and Micky got along well.”

“I liked him from the from the word go,” Micky says about Archie.

“He came here with a good attitude, and he had all the things I like, in a young person, cheeky smile, and, you know, very good work ethic and respectful.

“And there’s some poor old bugger that did that for me once, so it’s my turn now to give it back.”

Learn more:

  • Learn more about Pāmu’s apprenticeship scheme here (PDF)

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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/2026/02/14/country-life-growing-a-farmer-on-pamus-apprentice-scheme/

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Country Life: Behind the scenes of Central Otago’s cherry harvest

Source: Radio New Zealand

Clyde Orchards has been owned and operated by the Paulin family since 1921. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

In the weeks before Chinese New Year, Clyde Orchard’s packhouse is a hive of activity as rich, red cherries freshly picked from surrounding Central Otago orchards are brought in to be washed, packed and prepped – ready for export.

The auspicious colouring of the sweet stone fruits – shades of deep plum and ruby jewels – makes it a sought after treat to celebrate the Lunar New Year.

“We’re now packing fruit today that was picked this morning,” explained Kris Robb, the manager of Clyde Orchards headquartered in Earnscleugh.

“We want to keep the cherries fresh, we want to keep the stalks fresh, and we want to really maintain that crispness of the fruit before it gets into the cool store.”

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Clyde Orchards is a family business, started by the Paulin family in 1921.

Today it’s run by third-generation brothers Kevin and Raymond “Musso”, with the next generation also starting to come on board.

The orchards total over 105-hectares on three different sites throughout Central Otago – the Earnscleugh blocks, some in Bannockburn near Cromwell and another in Bendigo.

Robb explained the orchard is “reasonably unique” in that it grows, packs, exports and markets all its own fruit.

“That vertical integration for us is probably a real driver of the success of the business, and the viability of it going forward. It really means that we’re in charge of our own destiny.

“We’re focusing on high-end niche products [so] that we are able to control how it’s grown and when it’s packed, how it’s packed, and how it’s sold.”

Clyde Orchards general manager Kris Robb. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Clyde Orchards has a number of different orchards throughout Central Otago. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Clyde Orchards also grows a range of flat peaches known as flattos. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

With hot, dry summers and cold winters, Central Otago is a region of extremes. It also makes it ideal for growing summer fruit varities.

“The trees need those cooler temperatures in the winter – it’s called winter chilling – and they need a certain amount of hours, the lowest degrees for them to know that it’s time to wake up again when the spring comes,” Robb told Country Life.

“Then that hot, dry summer helps us with pest and disease control, but it also assists with those flavours of the fruit that everyone loves, you know, those juicy, sweet flavours come out with the heat.”

The “core business” is cherries and flat peaches, he says.

Clyde Orchards grows about 10 different types of cherries across half its orchards, which means the harvest period runs for about 8 weeks starting in mid-December. These are largely destined for export, markets such as Taiwan, China, Malaysia and Singapore.

Clyde Orchards is also the only commercial grower, packer and distributor of flat peaches, or flattos, in New Zealand.

Many of the cherries will be destine for export markets ahead of the Chinese Lunar New Year period. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

At the peak harvest period, Clyde Orchards has about 150 staff working – picking and packing. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Technology helps ensure the quality of the fruit being picked. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Central Otago’s wet summer has made for a challenging growing season this year and delayed the cherry harvest by a week or so.

Robb says it’s more important to allow the fruit to mature properly and pick when it’s at it’s best rather than rush the process.

It’s not quite been the harvest they hoped for, with volumes down, but it’s far from a disaster and they are now turning their attention to bringing in the peaches.

Key to the harvest is the more than 150 staff who help pick and pack the produce.

The team uses Hydralada Platforms to pick cherries. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

The team comprises locals ranging in age from high schoolers to retirees, backpackers from around the globe, and 20 ni-Vanuatu, who are part of the Recognised Seasonal Employer, or RSE, programme.

Clyde Orchards has been involved with the programme since its inception in 2007.

It is a grower-initiated scheme to fill the shortfall of available labour in the horticulture and viticulture sectors and is also aimed at supporting economic development in the Pacific region.

Many of the workers at Clyde Orchards have been coming for almost 20 years.

Robb says they’re “very, very efficient”, averaging about 50-odd buckets a day. The team of five picking cherries in the orchard today, harvest as much as 15 or even 20 new pickers, he told Country Life.

“It’s great to have them here.”

Clyde Orchards has opened its new 10-room accommodation for the RSE team, inspired by a traditional Vanuatuan meeting house. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Mike, a ni-Van RSE worker, has been coming to Clyde Orchards from Vanuatu for almost 20 years. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

This season Clyde Orchards opened a new 10-room accommodation unit for the RSE team, inspired by a traditional Vanuatuan meeting house.

For RSE workers like Mike Mangau it is an opportunity to support those on his home island of Tanna.

“When we earn money here, it’s good to take something back home.”

Mike has invested the money earned in a coffee plantation and beekeeping business, as well as building a local kindergarten.

It can be hard being away from home for so long though – he arrived in October and will stay through the harvest period until May.

“It’s good to come over here and help somebody to help our communities and some other things.”

Learn more:

  • Find out more about Clyde Orchards and what they’re growing here

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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/2026/02/14/country-life-behind-the-scenes-of-central-otagos-cherry-harvest/

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‘It’s hard to get healthy kai when you don’t have healthy whenua’

Source: Radio New Zealand

Dr Madeline Shelling (Ngāti Porou) from the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland. Supplied/Madeline Shelling

A new study has linked food insecurity experienced by Māori to the ongoing consequence of colonisation rather than the result of individual choice or lifestyle.

The study, led by postdoctoral health researcher Dr Madeline Shelling (Ngāti Porou) from the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland draws on in-depth interviews with Māori kai experts.

It documents how land loss, environmental degradation, restrictive laws and the marginalisation of mātauranga Māori have dismantled Māori food systems across generations.

Shelling said the research began with a visit to her whānau in Te Araroa, where despite the community taking pride in the food they could source from the land they were still counted as being food insecure.

“It came out quite clearly in my PhD that the way that we assess kai security or food security in Aotearoa is not representing Māori values, traditions or knowledge because it’s a questionnaire made up of eight questions that are all related to how we access food by having money and obviously in te ao Māori and many indigenous cultures around the world, having money is not the only way that you access kai, and it never has been.”

The outcomes of food insecurity in Aotearoa, as a wealthy, settler colonial nation, are expressed in obesity, diabetes and non-communicable and diet-related diseases which come with stigma, she said.

“Having great access to bad food is a problem that is faced by indigenous people in settler colonised countries all over the world it’s a very common pattern and yet individual choice is still blamed and so I’m just really passionate about moving away from that stigma that there is a choice because there often is very little choice.

“What if fish and chips is the only option in your area that you can access? What if you work two jobs and you don’t have transport and the only place you can walk to is McDonald’s?

“People who have the privilege of choice don’t understand what it’s like to not have that choice.”

Shelling said reducing food insecurity to individual choice ignores systemic issues faced by people in lower socio-economic areas and it excludes people who have experienced colonisation.

“Colonisation is such an important determinant of food insecurity and it has to be acknowledged so that we can remove some of these stigmas about individuals having choice over their food, when really their environment, their intergenerational trauma, their lack of intergenerational wealth through colonisation has all contributed to their inability to choose certain types of food and particularly healthy foods.”

The study identified four key impacts of colonisation, loss of land, erosion of rangatiratanga, marginalisation of Māori knowledge and impacts on health.

“It’s hard to get healthy kai when you don’t have healthy whenua that you can access,” Shelling said.

To solve the problems of food insecurity there is a responsibility from the top down to implement policy and there’s also from the bottom up, what whānau decide to do day to day and what they are able to do, because for a lot of whānau choosing where to buy food is not an option, she said.

“I want to make it really clear that Māori are trying to do something about it and Māori don’t want to be reliant on fast foods and takeaways.

“If we truly understood how colonisation impacted our food systems, we would not call it playing the victim it’s about understanding truly the effects of colonisation on every aspect of our life and for my research in particular on food systems and then where do we go from there and that’s a responsibility that we have for tangata tiriti and tangata whenua for doing it from the top down and the bottom up.”

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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/2026/02/14/its-hard-to-get-healthy-kai-when-you-dont-have-healthy-whenua/

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Road closed, Old Coach Road, Gore

Source: New Zealand Police

Old Coach Road, between Kaiwera Downs Road and Isla Road, is closed following a two-vehicle crash.

The crash, involving a car and a truck and trailer unit, was reported to emergency services about 6am.

Police are in attendance and diversions are in place.

Three people are reported to be injured.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/14/road-closed-old-coach-road-gore/

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New Zealand SailGP: What you need to know

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand SailGP

4pm Saturday, 14 February

11.30am Sunday, 15 February*

Wynyard Point, Auckland

Live updates on RNZ

*Start time has been change for the weather

Amid considerable fanfare, SailGP has returned to Auckland, building on a wildly successful – not for the home team though – debut in 2025.

The wait for availability of the Wynyard Point site proved well worthwhile, when spectators crammed the giant grandstand on the waterfront to watch Australia claim honours last year – and organisers promise bigger and better this time round.

Here’s what you should know about the professional sailing event.

History

Sail Grand Prix was created in 2018 by billionaire Larry Ellison and Kiwi sailing legend Sir Russell Coutts, loosely based on the America’s Cup, where both its founders originated from.

Unlike the ‘Auld Mug’, this format was designed for high-speed racing in identical F50 catamarans around spectator-friendly courses near the shoreline.

Black Foils win a race at 2025 New Zealand SailGP on the Waitematā Harbour. Felix Diemer for SailGP

Many of the crews are also involved in the America’s Cup, so this event enables them to remain fully professional sailors between four-year cycles, albeit in a different class of boat.

The fleet began with just six teams, but has since doubled in size, with the addition of Brazil and Italy last year, before adding Sweden as the 13th entry for 2026.

Guided by Tom Slingsby, Australia have dominated the league, winning the first three editions and finishing runners-up in the last two. Spain were 2023/24 champions, while Great Britain triumphed in 2024/25.

Another feature of the competition is known as the ‘Impact League’, which rewards teams for promoting sustainability and inclusivity within their organisations. Winning teams receive prizemoney to donate to charities and New Zealand took 2021/22 honours.

Format

Each regatta takes place over a series of tightly contested fleet races (up to seven) across two days, with teams gaining points based on their placings and the top three qualifying for the final at the end of the weekend.

Overall results from each stopover count towards season rankings, with the top three again qualifying for the series final.

Black Foils

New Zealand did not contest the inaugural SailGP series, but joined the fleet in 2020, under the leadership of America’s Cup supremo Peter Burling and sidekick Blair Tuke.

New Zealand celebrate victory at Portsmouth 2025. Kieran Cleeves for SailGP

Their distinctive boat Amokura was launched the following year and has suffered several accidents since.

In 2023, its mast was struck by lightning in Singapore, as it was being towed back to base, frying its electrical systems. The NZ crew were already ashore, collecting their winners’ prize, but Danish grinder Martin Kirketerp – who was helping return the boat to port – was taken to hospital with an electric shock.

Later that same season, Amokura’s wing collapsed while racing at Saint-Tropez. No-one was hurt, but the damage was too serious to continue racing and repairs could not be carried out before the next round at Taranto, Italy.

In March 2024, the NZ team announced their ‘Black Foils’ nickname, aligning with other famous Kiwi sporting outfits.

Burling and Tuke have won Olympic and world championship gold, won and defended the America’s Cup and sailed around the world (separately), but SailGP success has eluded them. They finished second in 2022/23 and third the last two years.

Form

The 2026 series has had only one stop so far, at Perth, with the defending champion British team picking up where they left off last year, heading off Australia and France in the event final.

Sweden won two of the seven preliminary races, but finished last in the seventh to place fourth, while Canada also showed their ability with victory in the last race.

New Zealand were off to the worst-possible start to their campaign, damaging their stern in a collision with Switzerland during the opening race and, while the Swiss were able to return to the water on the second day, the Kiwis were shorebound for the rest of the weekend and faced some time pressure to repair their board for the Auckland leg.

They are now at the bottom of the table with no points, alongside Switzerland and Spain, who also suffered malfunctions off Perth.

Great Britain claim victory off Perth in January. James Gourley for SailGP

New Zealand SailGP

New Zealand was originally included on the 2021/22 championship schedule, with Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch, as the venue on an alternating arrangement with Auckland’s Wynyard Point.

Covid-19 delayed the NZ stopover until 2023, with Christchurch hosting the very successful event, and it returned there the following year, when the Auckland waterfront site was unavailable.

This time, racing was not possible on the opening day, due to dolphins on the course, and Coutts vowed not to use the venue again.

Instead, Auckland staged the 2025 event, fully justifying the decision to develop Wynyard Point, with a grandstand that is expected to hold more than 10,000 spectators and break the SailGP attendance record, along with unticketed viewing along the shoreline.

Kiwi Phil Robertson skippered Canada to victory at the inaugural 2023 NZ SailGP, Burling steered the Kiwis home in 2024, but the Black Foils struck electrical problems at Auckland, with the Aussies dominating the weekend.

Sir Russell Coutts makes the decision to cancel racing at Lyttelton 2024, as dolphins invade the racecourse. Chloe Knott for SailGP

Teams

Australia: Tom Slingsby (driver), Tash Bryant (strategist), Nina Curtis (strategist), Iain Jensen (wing trimmer), Kinley Fowler (flight controller/grinder), Sam Newton (grinder), Jason Waterhouse (flight controller/tactician), Tom Needham (reserve)

Brazil: Martine Grael (driver), Marco Grael (grinder), Mateus Isaac (grinder), Rasmus Kostner (flight controller), Pietro Sibello (wing trimmer), Paul Goodison (strategist), Richard Mason (reserve), Breno Kneipp (grinder)

Canada: Giles Scott (driver), Billy Gooderham (flight controller), Paul Campbell-James (wing trimmer), Annie Haeger (strategist), Georgia Lewin-LaFrance (strategist), Tom Ramshaw (grinder), Tim Hornsby (grinder/technical director), Alex Sinclair (grinder)

Denmark: Nicolai Sehested (driver), Tom Johnson (wing trimmer), Ed Powys (flight controller), Anee-Marie Rindom (strategist), Hans-Christian Rosendahl (grinder), Luke Payne (grinder), Kahena Kunze (strategist)

France: Quentin Delapierre (driver), Manon Audinet (strategist), Leigh McMillan (wing trimmer), Jason Saunders (flight controller), Olivier Herledant (grinder), Bruno Mourniac (grinder), Timothy Lapauw (grinder), Enzo Balanger (reserve), Amelie Riou (reserve)

Germany: Erik Kosegarten-Heil (driver), Kevin Peponnet (wing trimmer), James Wierzbowski (flight controller), Anna Barth (strategist), Will Tiller (grinder), Linov Scheel (grinder)

Great Britain: Dylan Fletcher (driver), Hannah Mills (strategist), Stuart Bithell (wing trimmer), Luke Parkinson (flight controller),, Nick Hutton (trimmer/grinder), Neil Hunter (grinder), Kai Hockley (development), Ben Cornish (reserve), Ellie Aldridge (development)

Italy: Phil Robertson (driver), Ruggero Tita (alternate driver), Kyle Langford (wing trimmer), Andrea Tesei (flight controller), Will Ryan (grinder), Enrico Voltolini (grinder), Jana Germani (strategist), Maelle Frascari (strategist), Jimmy Spithill (reserve driver)

Australia celebrate their 2025 victory at New Zealand SailGP. Brett Phibbs for SailGP

New Zealand: Peter Burling (driver), Blair Tuke (wing trimmer), Leo Takahashi (flight controller), Liv Mackay (strategist), Louis Sinclair (grinder), Marcus Hansen (grinder)

Spain: Diego Botin (driver), Florian Trittel (wing trimmer), Joel Rodriguez (flight controller), Nicolle van der Velden (strategist), Joan Cardona (tactician/grinder), Bernard Freitas (grinder), Matthew Barber (grinder)

Sweden: Nathan Outteridge (driver), Julia Gross (strategist), Chris Draper (wing trimmer), Any Maloney (flight controller), Brad Farrand (wing trimmer), Julius Hallstrom (grinder)

Switzerland: Sebastian Schneiter (driver), Arnaud Psarofaghis (wing trimmer), Bryan Mattraux (flight controller), Stewart Dodson (grinder), Arno de Planta (reserve), Maud Jayet (strategist), Matt Gotrel (grinder)

USA: Taylor Canfield (driver), Michael Menninger (wing trimmer), Hans Henken (flight controller), Andrew Campbell (strategist), Anna Weis (grinder), Peter Kinney (grinder), Mac Agnese (grinder), Harry Melges IV (reserve)

Weather

In a case of imperfect timing, New Zealand’s North Island – including Auckland – is under storm warning this weekend, which has already forced a couple of changes to event scheduling.

Friday practice racing was cancelled, with only New Zealand, Spain and Germany allowed out on the water to test their recent modifications before racing begins in earnest.

In anticipation of worsening conditions on Sunday afternoon, the second day’s racing has been brought forward to 11.30am.

Everyone is talking glowingly of great sailing conditions, but maybe not so great for spectators.

Asked about the expected big winds, Auckland-born Italy driver Phil Robertson replied: “You wet your pants a little and you move on.”

Where to watch

Organisers have increased the size of the already impressive Wynyard Point grandstand by 30 percent to more than 10,000 seats. Boats will whistle past so close, you can almost reach out and touch them.

Other vantage points around the harbour include any of the wharves as far as Bledisloe Wharf on the city side, Westhaven Marina and Stanley Point on the North Shore.

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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/2026/02/14/new-zealand-sailgp-what-you-need-to-know/

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Wellington Phoenix fight back on and off the field

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ifeanyi Eze of the Phoenix AAP / Photosport

The Wellington Phoenix have questions.

The Phoenix came back from 2-0 down at halftime to draw 2-2 with Western Sydney Wanderers in Sydney, thanks to a maiden A-League goal from All Whites defender Bill Tuiloma and an eighth of the season from golden boot leader Ifeanyi Eze.

However, after the final whistle the Phoenix were still perplexed by a decision head coach Giancarlo Italiano believed could have influenced the outcome.

The Phoenix feel they should have been awarded a penalty early in the second half when defender Matt Sheridan was brought down in the Wanderers box.

Despite the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) instructing referee Adam Kersey to take a closer look at his decision not to give a penalty, Kersey upheld his decision.

Italiano was left confused by the officials’ decision making.

“The fourth [official] said there was no contact so then they’re reviewing the process so there is contact, but then they said there wasn’t a foul or intention,” Italiano said post-match.

“I’m not really sure what was seen or said and that’s the frustrating part.

“If there’s no contact then obviously VAR doesn’t review but they must have seen contact. And then for me if there’s contact then it’s a foul.”

Italiano was happy with the team’s “bounce back” in the second half.

“I’m not sure how many teams are coming back from 2-nil down away from home and they’re (Wanderers) are playing for their season.

“We made some changes at halftime… and I thought the players that came on gave us the difference.

“I feel like we probably could have won that in the end.”

Italiano made three changes to the side from the Waitangi Day defeat to Melbourne Victory, with Sarpreet Singh making his first appearance for the club in the best part of seven years.

However, he was forced from the field just after halftime with a knee injury.

Fit-again club captain Alex Rufer and Sheridan also returned to the starting side.

The draw lifts Wellington up one spot on the ladder to 10th, three points outside the top six.

The Phoenix’s next game is against Auckland FC in the sixth New Zealand derby.

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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/2026/02/14/wellington-phoenix-fight-back-on-and-off-the-field/

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Weather live: State of Emergency declared in Ōtorohanga

Source: Radio New Zealand

Flooding at Ōtorohanga Museum. Supplied / Amanda Kiddie

Ōtorohanga is under a State of Emergency after it was hit by widespread flooding and heavy rain.

Mayor Rodney Dow made the declaration at 12:57am on Saturday. It expires in seven days.

He said there had been reports of flooding, slips and inundation.

“The situation in Ōtorohanga is serious, and with nightfall upon us, it’s important we are prepared and have the right controls in place to provide help and support, including required evacuations if needed.”

Heavy rain warnings and watches are in place for much of the North Island, with downpours likely to continue throughout the day.

Orange heavy rain warnings are in place for Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne. Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti, in particular, is expected to see a more sustained period of heavy rain.

There are also a heavy rain watches for Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Hawke’s Bay.

Multiple roads remain closed after significant flooding and slips.

Flooding in Waikato has closed State Highway 39 between Pirongia and Ōtorohanga. A detour is available via State Highway 3.

Whirinaki Valley Road in Horohoro is open under stop/go traffic management following a slip, but the Transport Agency warns the State Highway 30 road could close at short notice if weather conditions changed.

Towards Tai Rāwhiti, other roads remained closed following earlier storms.

State Highway 2 Waioweka Gorge is closed between Ōpōtiki to Mātāwai because of slips and flooding.

State Highway 35 is shut between Pōtaka and Te Araroa while it’s being repaired, while the stretch between Whakaangiangi Road and Te Araroa is also closed for the weekend, because of the adverse weather forecast.

See our live blog above for the latest updates.

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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/2026/02/14/weather-live-state-of-emergency-declared-in-otorohanga/

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What makes a good break-up song?

Source: Radio New Zealand

It’s a situation that will be familiar to many of us: you’re hurting after the demise of a romantic relationship, and you hear a song, with its key, rhythm and lyrics, perfectly putting sound and words to the feeling in your heart.

You put it on high rotation, drawing out the pain and drip feeding your soul.

“It’s the emotion around that that a break-up song can help shift,” says Chris O’Connor, a music therapist at Auckland’s Raukatauri Music Therapy Trust.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/14/what-makes-a-good-break-up-song/

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Ōtorohanga Museum’s precious taonga wrecked by floodwaters

Source: Radio New Zealand

Volunteers try to protect what they can from the rising floodwaters. Supplied / Amanda Kiddie

Several precious taonga from Ōtorohanga Museum will not be able to be saved after floodwaters rushed inside it.

Almost two dozen members of the community rallied to save what they could.

But it would not be until Saturday that the full extent of the damage could be gauged.

“So by the time we got inside we had called the fire brigade,” museum treasurer Amanda Kiddie said.

“There was nothing they could do of course because it was beyond sandbagging.

“We went inside, there were taonga floating around.”

Kiddie said about 20 people turned up to help, and she was immensely grateful to the community for doing so.

“All nationalities, all cultures, everybody just wanting to save our taonga, just amazing,” Kiddie said.

When she arrived water was above the bottom of the waka whare’s door, the museum’s biggest taonga.

They had to cut power because the power outlets were under water, but managed to save some delicate items.

Some whānau took items home for safety.

But the “beautiful” display boards could not be saved.

Damage to the waka would be looked at in the light of day.

Flooding at Ōtorohanga Museum. Supplied / Amanda Kiddie

“But the flood waters have actually touched our waka … we’re not quite sure how much there is to assess,” she said.

“Definitely I had some tears.”

As treasurer, Kiddie said she knew all the hard work, money and grants that had gone into the museum.

“And I looked at it and thought, wow, how much of that is now gone in the space of a few hours?”

She spoke to RNZ after she left the museum and was trying to get home to Maihiihi.

“There’s a few cars now stuck but thankfully some of the young local boys are standing there waving people back,” she said.

“The road is a mess, there’s lots of slips, lots of floodwater … there’s floods on roads we didn’t even know would flood.

“I mean, I can’t remember even reading the museum ever flooding,” Kiddie said.

Waikato Regional Council, just before 11pm on Friday, said 165.5mm of rain had fallen on the Pūniu River at Ngaroma in 12 hours.

The town has been flooded after 100mm of rain fell in 8hrs on Friday. Supplied / Amanda Kiddie

Church, marae stood up for people unable to get home

Ōtorohanga District Council said on Friday night that St David’s Church on Ranfurly Street was open to anyone who could not make it home.

“If you need somewhere warm and dry, please come by for a hot cup of tea and stay out of the rain,” it said.

The town’s wastewater system was overwhelmed and stretched to capacity, and the council urged people not to flush toilets or use unnecessary water.

“Reducing water use will help ease pressure on the network and minimise the risk of overflows,” it said.

“If you are experiencing flooding, please stay safe and avoid driving through floodwaters. If possible, stay home until conditions improve.”

Hauraki-Waikato MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi Clarke last night posted an update from Civil Defence.

It said Police and FENZ had arrived in Ōtorohanga and were meeting with the Civil Defence controller to get a full picture.

“There are multiple slips on state highway and local roads,” it said.

Waikato Tainui said Te Kotahitanga Marae was also open “for whanau to come to get warm and dry”.

Some roads in the Waipā district are closed due to severe flooding. Waipā District Council

The Waipā district

Waipā District Council last night said it was fielding multiple calls of flooding across the district.

This was particularly around Pirongia and Te Pahu, it said.

Flooding on Friday night closed Kakepuku Road, Corcoran Road, Grey Road and Waite Road in Te Pahu.

“Our teams are on the ground, and we’ll provide updates as soon as we can,” the council said.

Debris and boulders were being pushed onto roads.

Liz Parker, who lived on Corcoran Road, said things got bad quickly.

“There has been huge flooding all the way down our little tiny stream, ripping out a lot of plants and trees and bringing boulders down the river.

“I believe that there’s a big boulder or something that’s blocking the bridge.”

Parker said she had never seen it so bad in her five years living in the area.

Waipā Networks said last night it was responding to power outages caused by the severe weather and flooding, with several areas across its network affected.

“Flooded roads and challenging conditions are limiting crew access, and some customers will remain without power overnight,” it said.

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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/2026/02/14/otorohanga-museums-precious-taonga-wrecked-by-floodwaters/

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Love, lies, and prime-time pressure

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Detail’s Amanda Gillies sat down with MAFS expert John Aiken for insight into this season’s highs and lows. RNZ

Former New Zealand cricket star turned Australian love expert John Aiken talks love, scandals and the show that changed reality TV

John Aiken was 15 minutes late for our 15-minute interview to talk about desperate Australian singles chasing their 15 minutes of fame.

A text message from his publicity team explained the problem: he loves to chat, especially about Married at First Sight. And, as a result, he was behind schedule.

Sydney-based Aiken is a relationship expert on the show and is in New Zealand on the publicity trail for the latest season, number 13. But there’s nothing unlucky about this season (unless you are an awkward couple looking for love).

One week in, and the show is already number one in Australia. It now airs in 120 countries, including New Zealand. And here, it’s a ratings hit for Three.

Aiken finally arrived at The Detail studio armed with a chocolate brownie, iced with “I can’t marry you”. He roars with laughter before quickly offering another brownie, this time emblazoned with “Love You”. He has a box of the treats, for each of his interviewers.

A relationship specialist and long-time husband to former New Zealand presenter Kelly Swanson Roe, Aiken loves love.

And that makes him a perfect fit for MAFS, a job he secured after responding to a “random email” that arrived in his inbox at his relationship psychologist practice in 2014, before the start of season one.

Back then, he thought it would be a one-season wonder – four couples took part in the social experiment where they met for the first time at the altar. Just six episodes aired.

“Everybody thought it would be one and done,” Aiken tells The Detail. “I was excited by it, scared by it. But also thinking in the back of my mind, this will be six episodes, and I’ll never see it again.”

But “the show exploded” with audiences quickly falling in love with the unpredictable tears, tantrums, and love drama.

And the now 40-episode show with 12 couples has made Aiken a star in his own right and one of the most recognisable faces in Australia.

But that comes at a cost – last year, he was cornered outside a cafe, filmed, and followed by a podcaster, who told him that the MAFS experts are the “real villains of this show”.

“It’s confronting, because your mind goes into this state of ‘how does someone know where you are?’, and ‘am I being followed?’, you sort of get paranoid, really,” Aiken says.

“And it rattles you a little bit because you are in a state where you feel like you could say something wrong, and you get a ‘gotcha moment’ that could hurt the show or could hurt you. And you are on edge.”

On the show, he’s also had plenty of “moments” with lovelorn contestants who take exception to his straightforward, no-nonsense advice. He’s not afraid to call out toxic behaviour and hold couples accountable for their often-outlandish behaviour.

“During the show, yes, they have had me on, used some colourful language.”

He says this year, audiences have to “brace themselves for a hectic and confronting season”.

“Because we have a group dynamic of very overpowering, domineering women who are going to come for everybody.”

They call themselves the boss babes.

“They band together at the hens’ night, and then they go forth, and they look to conquer anyone and anything during the experiment.

“It makes it very difficult for love to come through in such a toxic environment.”

About 12,000 Aussies now put their hands up to appear on the show every year. But this is then whittled down to the “top 30 or 40” for Aiken and the team to match up.

He appreciates that many are chasing their 15 minutes of fame, but contrary to popular belief, he insists nothing is scripted, singles aren’t plied with alcohol to create drama, and there isn’t a “villain edit … what you see on camera is exactly what you see off camera”.

“People will cross the road to abuse me, but they will also cross the road to thank me because it’s polarising, people will either love it or hate it. They don’t sit in the middle.

“But there are many myths.

“It is totally unscripted and unpredictable, that’s why I watch it like everyone else … even though I have lived it, I don’t know what’s going to make it to air.”

He says couples are told they will be constantly filmed, and it’s up to them how they act and what they say.

But he adds, the show does have “a system [and] a duty of care” to ensure contestants are well supported.

“They meet psychologists before going on the show, and they get fully assessed. They have social media training before they go on the show, and then they have psychologists on set and available to them throughout the show and then after the show indefinitely … so they can really access that support all the time.”

Over the past 12 seasons, just six couples have truly fallen in love and stayed together. But they are crucial to the show’s success.

“We need this – the show has to work, otherwise people aren’t going to watch it, if it was just chaos,” says Aiken, who admitted he wouldn’t be a contestant on the show.

There’s no sign of MAFS losing momentum; if anything, it’s getting bigger and more explosive.

“The show appeals to both singles and couples, so I think it has longevity to it. How long that will be, I’m not sure, but I certainly would love to see it out if I could.”

Check out how to listen to and follow The Detail here.

You can also stay up-to-date by liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/14/love-lies-and-prime-time-pressure/

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Blues v Chiefs: What you need to know

Source: Radio New Zealand

Blues v Chiefs

Kick-off: 7:05pm Saturday 14 February

Eden Park, Auckland

Live updates on RNZ

Can the Chiefs overcome three straight years of heartbreak and finally win a Super Rugby Pacific title? Their quest starts tonight at Eden Park, where they face another team with redemption on their minds in the Blues.

New Chiefs coach Jonno Gibbes inherited a very strong squad from Clayton McMillan, one that most people tipped to win the competition last year. They made it all the way to the final, before losing to the Crusaders in Christchurch. The reason they had given up home ground advantage for that final was because of a loss to the Blues in the first round of the playoffs, so there’s definitely still some feeling over that one you’d think.

Jono Gibbes PHOTOSPORT

Team lists

Blues: 1 Joshua Fusitu’a, 2 Bradley Slater, 3 Ofa Tu’ungafasi, 4 Sam Darry, 5 Josh Beehre, 6 Torian Barnes, 7 Dalton Papali’I (c), 8 Hoskins Sotutu, 9 Finlay Christie, 10 Stephen Perofeta, 11 Caleb Clarke, 12 Pita Ahki, 13 AJ Lam, 14 Cole Forbes, 15 Zarn Sullivan

Bench: 16 James Mullan, 17 Mason Tupaea, 18 Marcel Renata, 19 Laghlan McWhannell, 20 Anton Segner, 21 Sam Nock, 22 Xavi Taele, 23 Codemeru Vai

Chiefs: 1 Jared Proffit, 2 Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3 George Dyer, 4 Josh Lord, 5 Tupou Vaa’i, 6 Kaylum Bosher, 7 Jahrome Brown, 8 Luke Jacobson, 9 Xavier Roe, 10 Josh Jacomb, 11 Liam Coombes-Fabling, 12 Quinn Tupaea, 13 Daniel Rona, 14 Kyren Taumoefolau, 15 Etene Nanai-Seturo

Bench: 16 Tyrone Thompson, 17 Benet Kumeroa, 18 Reuben O’Neill, 19 Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 20 Samipeni Finau, 21 Cortez Ratima, 22 Tepaea Cook-Savage, 23 Kyle Brown

Blues team news

Tonga’s inside centre Pita Ahki dives across the line to score a try during the France 2023 Rugby World Cup Pool B match between Tonga and Romania at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, near Lille. AFP

Vern Cotter has sprung a bit of a surprise by selecting Torian Barnes at blindside, the Christchurch product set to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut. That moves Anton Segner to the bench, but Cotter explained that was part of a plan to negate the Chiefs’ ruck speed at the back end of the game. New signing Pita Ahki starts at second five, while Stephen Perofeta gets the first five spot for at least a month or so before Beauden Barrett becomes available.

Chiefs team news

Josh Jacomb of the Chiefs, Chiefs v Brumbies Super Rugby Pacific semi final rugby union match at FMG Stadium, Hamilton, New Zealand on Saturday 14 June 2025. Jeremy Ward / www.photosport.nz

No Damian McKenzie, so Josh Jacomb steps up for a good chance at 10. Xavier Roe is inside him as Gibbes continues McMillan’s policy of bringing All Black halfback Cortez Ratima off the bench. Kyren Taumoefolau debuts on the right wing after his shift from Moana Pasifika, Quinn Tupaea and Daniel Rona will be looking to continue their excellent form from last season too.

Key stats

Dalton Papali’i of the Blues. Blues v Western Force, round 7 of the Super Rugby Pacific competition at Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand on Friday 5 March 2024. Photo by Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

The Chiefs will be aiming for consecutive wins against the Blues at Eden Park for the first time since July 2014.

This is set to be the fifth meeting between the Blues and Chiefs in round one of a Super Rugby season, the Chiefs have won the last three encounters.

Dalton Papali’i was the player to make first contact on 132 tackles in the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, the most of any player in the competition. His 212 tackles completed were the third most of any player across the campaign.

What they’re saying

“We’re very conscious of the Chiefs’ ability to go 60 minutes and apply pressure to have a very good 20 minutes at the end. I think the bench represents what they intend to do. So locking in for 60 and having players with experience and energy is going to be important to finish this game.” – Vern Cotter.

“I think one of the really pleasing parts is our utility factor in our backline. So we have a number of players who can play a number of positions, so that helps later on down the line, and squad health has a massive impact, there’s a lot of competition for the back three, and Kyren’s right in the middle of that.” – Jono Gibbes.

The last time they met

Blues 20 – 19 Chiefs

[embedded content]

A try after the hooter by Josh Beehre sealed an upset win in Hamilton for the Blues, after an incredibly physical and tense match. The result meant that the Chiefs lost home ground advantage for the eventual final but also made up for the very poor start the Blues had to the 2025 season.

What’s going to happen

The Blues basically need to not be beaten at their own game like they were last season here at Eden Park. That night, the Chiefs simply rolled up their sleeves and did the dirty work, so this time around the Blues should show a bit more in the first half rather than simply relying on their heavy ball carriers. The Chiefs do have a great ability to switch up on the fly, if Jacomb can get front foot ball that will make that option far easier.

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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/2026/02/14/blues-v-chiefs-what-you-need-to-know/

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Ōtorohanga under week-long state of emergency, more rain on the way

Source: Radio New Zealand

A slip on State Highway 39, Ōtorohanga. Supplied / Otorohanga Volunteer Fire Brigade

A local state of emergency has been declared in Ōtorohanga, Waikato, after the district was lashed by heavy rains.

The declaration was made at 12:57am on Saturday and will stay in effect for seven days.

Mayor Rodney Dow said the district had experienced widespread flooding, slips and inundation.

“The situation in Ōtorohanga is serious … it’s important we are prepared and have the right controls in place to provide help and support, including required evacuations if needed,” he said.

“I urge you to stay safe and do not venture out into floodwater.”

Ōtorohanga District Council said an emergency operations centre had been stood up in its chambers after the initial deluge.

Duty controller Dave Simes formally advised the council to declare the state of emergency to allow response agencies to draw on additional resources and powers, it said.

Infrastructure and emergency services have worked through the night to assess damage caused by the weather, including on water infrastructure and roading, the council said.

The Lines Company website showed some households have been without power overnight, with further outages reported in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Heavy rain warnings and watches remain in place for much of the North Island, with downpours likely to continue throughout the day.

MetService has issued orange heavy rain warnings for Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne. Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti, in particular, is expected to see a more sustained period of heavy rain.

There are also a heavy rain watches in place for Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Hawke’s Bay.

Multiple roads remain closed after significant flooding and slips.

A slip on State Highway 39, Ōtorohanga. Supplied / Otorohanga Volunteer Fire Brigade

Flooding in Waikato has closed State Highway 39 between Pirongia and Ōtorohanga. A detour is available via State Highway 3.

Whirinaki Valley Road in Horohoro is open under stop/go traffic management following a slip, but the Transport Agency warns the State Highway 30 road could close at short notice if weather conditions chang.

Towards Tai Rāwhiti, other roads remain blocked following recent storms.

State Highway 2 Waioweka Gorge is closed between Ōpōtiki to Mātāwai because of slips and flooding.

State Highway 35 is shut between Pōtaka and Te Araroa while it’s being repaired. The stretch between Whakaangiangi Road and Te Araroa is closed until Monday, because of the adverse weather forecast.

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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/2026/02/14/otorohanga-under-week-long-state-of-emergency-more-rain-on-the-way/

Posted on

As it happened: Warnings across North Island

Source: Radio New Zealand

A State of Emergency has been declared in Ōtorohanga, after the district was hit by widespread flooding and heavy rain.

The declaration took effect immediately when it was signed at 12:57am and expires in seven days.

Mayor Rodney Dow said there had been reports of flooding, slips and inundation.

“The situation in Ōtorohanga is serious, and with nightfall upon us, it’s important we are prepared and have the right controls in place to provide help and support, including required evacuations if needed.”

Significant flooding and slips have closed highways in Ōtorohanga, Waikato, as heavy rain hits the region.

Heavy rain warnings and watches are in place for much of the North Island, with downpours likely to continue into Saturday morning.

An orange heavy rain warning is in place for Coromandel Peninsula, Bay of Plenty including Rotorua and Gisborne/Tai Rāwhiti.

Meanwhile, Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Waikato and Waitomo as well as Hawke’s Bay and Manawatū are all under a heavy rain watch.

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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/2026/02/14/as-it-happened-warnings-across-north-island/

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Net migration gain of 14,200 – International migration: December 2025 – Stats NZ news story and information release

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/net-migration-gain-of-14200-international-migration-december-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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Visitor arrivals pass 3.5 million – International travel: December 2025 – Stats NZ news story and information release

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/13/visitor-arrivals-pass-3-5-million-international-travel-december-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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AsiaBC Introduces Award-Winning Incorporation & Asia Market Entry Expertise to UAE’s Global Founders

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR/DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Asia Business Centre (AsiaBC), a Hong Kong-based leader in corporate services and cross-border startup consultancy, has been named “Outstanding Company Formation Services of the Year“ at the HKCT Business Awards 2025.

Presented by the Hong Kong Commercial Times (HKCT), the award recognises AsiaBC’s excellence in helping global founders establish, scale, and succeed in business hubs across Asia and the Middle East. With deep expertise in regulatory frameworks and banking ecosystems, AsiaBC helps entrepreneurs overcome market-entry challenges faced by SMEs and new ventures.

AsiaBC plays a key role in simplifying and accelerating incorporation, bank account setup, and international compliance in Hong Kong, Singapore, and offshore centres.

AsiaBC’s Expertise Solves Hong Kong Setup Challenges

Since 2009, AsiaBC has turned entrepreneurial vision into operational businesses through end-to-end support. Beyond company registration, the team guides clients through structuring, documentation, bank onboarding, tax planning, and accounting, ensuring that each step fits the business model.

AsiaBC demystifies cross-border operations by leveraging market insight and ties with over 100 banks and FinTech providers. The firm delivers reduced setup time, guaranteed bank account results under its “No Win, No Fee” programme, and proven legal readiness. One recent case saw a client complete company formation and bank account opening in Hong Kong on the same day, just before flying home. Another client, a tech startup, secured banking approval within 48 hours, enabling rapid launch into the APAC market.

AI-Powered Compliance & UAE Hub to Serve Global Founders

To better serve international entrepreneurs, AsiaBC is broadening its presence and technology.

In 2026, AsiaBC will open its first advisory hub in Dubai to support UAE entrepreneurs entering Asia. Services will include offshore company planning, tax coordination, risk assessment, and compliance across jurisdictions.

AsiaBC is also launching AI-enabled tools to make bank onboarding more predictable. A smart matching engine will analyse each client’s profile – including business model and risk category – and map it to onboarding preferences across AsiaBC’s banking network. Drawing on 6,000+ cases, this tool aims to shorten approval time and improve success rates, especially for founders under scrutiny.

“For 16 years, we’ve followed one principle: ‘Professionalism is the foundation, but solving problems is the core,’” said Raymond Wong, Managing Director. “This award affirms our commitment to outcome-driven solutions that help clients expand smoothly and sustainably.”

Championing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
 AsiaBC’s client-first strategy includes:

  • Tailored support from incorporation to compliance
  • Guaranteed banking results
  • Strong ecosystem relationships
  • Multilingual support in English, French, Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin

Hashtag: #AsiaBC

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/2026/02/14/asiabc-introduces-award-winning-incorporation-asia-market-entry-expertise-to-uaes-global-founders/

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Appier Delivers Record Results Driven by Agentic AI Innovation

Source: Media Outreach

E-Commerce and Online Travel Dual Engines Reinforce Robust Expansion. Strong Guidance Underscores Optimistic Outlook for FY26

Highlights and achievements for fiscal year 2025

  • Delivered record high revenue of JPY 43.7 billion, up 28% YoY. (JPY 45.0 billion, up 32% YoY on an FX neutral basis)
  • Substantial growth in E-commerce (49% YoY) and Other Internet Services (59% YoY) led by the Travel sector, reflects dual engine growth, driving high revenue quality
  • All key regions demonstrate strong growth. NEA and US & EMEA both achieved 36% YoY revenue growth on an FX-neutral basis
  • Profitability improved consistently, operating profit hit a record JPY 3.0 billion, up 50% YoY with a 6.8% margin (JPY 3.8 billion with an 8.5% margin on an FX-neutral basis)
  • Gross profit achieved 32% YoY rise, driven by revenue scale, technology differentiations and a high-margin product mix
  • Q4 FY25 revenue growth accelerated to 34% (up from 26% in Q3), reached the highest level in the past 9 quarters, fueled by a strong E-commerce peak season

Guidance for fiscal year 2026

  • Core organic growth is expected to accelerate, with revenue projected to JPY 54 billion, up 24% YoY, driven by Agentic AI advancement and dual-engine market penetration
  • Gross profit expected to grow 25% YoY to JPY 29.4 billion, with 54.5% gross margin, propelled by sustained technology-led efficiency and margin expansion
  • Operating income is expected to grow 45% YoY to JPY 4.3 billion (8.0% margin) and EBITDA to grow 37% YoY to JPY 9.4 billion (17.4% margin)
  • Proven track record in leading enterprise-wide transformations, transitioning from legacy software and manual workflows to a future of Agentic AI-driven operational excellence

Scaling new heights: A landmark year of Agentic AI–led growth acceleration

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Appier Group Inc. (TSE: 4180), hereafter referred to as “Appier,” today announced its financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, and issued guidance for FY26. The company achieved record revenue of JPY 43.7 billion, a 28% YoY increase (JPY 45.0 billion, up 32% YoY on an FX-neutral basis). This stellar performance was fueled by dual growth engines: core E-commerce grew 49% YoY, and Other Internet Services surged 59% YoY, led by the Travel sector. Since FY19, Appier has delivered a sixfold surge in total revenue, a record performance anchored by consistent expansion in incremental revenue.

Profitability surged to a record high, with operating income growing 50% YoY to JPY 3.0 billion, representing a 6.8% operating margin (JPY 3.8 billion with an 8.5% margin on an FX-neutral basis). Gross profit outpaced revenue growth, reaching a historical high of JPY 23.5 billion, up 32% YoY. Gross margin climbed to 53.8% (53.9% FX-neutral), bolstered by increased revenue scale, technological differentiation, and a high-margin product mix. This upward trajectory underscores Appier’s ability to scale customer value while driving operational leverage.

Balanced regional expansion and deepening vertical penetration drive quality growth

In FY25, all key regions delivered strong growth. Northeast Asia (68%) and the U.S. & EMEA (19%) both achieved 36% YoY growth (FX-neutral). NEA was supported by balanced expansion in E-commerce and continued vertical diversification, while the U.S. & EMEA benefited from solid momentum across E-commerce and Other Internet Services. Together, this regional strength and deeper vertical penetration reflect the effective scaling of Agentic AI-first strategy, driving sustained, high-quality, and resilient growth.

Revenue growth remains balanced, with 56% of incremental revenue driven by ROI-led upsells to existing E-commerce customers and 44% fueled by new customers, primarily from Online Travel. By leveraging Agentic AI to secure large enterprise catalysts, Appier delivered 13% YoY growth in both its customer base and FX-neutral ARPC. This strategic focus—coupled with disciplined OPEX—drove operating leverage. Furthermore, the operational productivity surged, driven by a 23% YoY growth in gross profit per headcount.

Entering FY26 with strong profitable momentum

Appier projects revenue growth to reaccelerate in FY26, with organic revenue expected to outpace total growth, driven by our dual-vertical growth engines. Forecasting revenue to reach JPY 54 billion, up 24% YoY and gross profit to hit JPY 29.4 billion, up 25% YoY, with a 54.5% margin. This optimistic outlook is anchored by a Q4 FY25 inflection point, where revenue growth surged to 34%, validating Appier’s strategic focus on key accounts and high-growth verticals. Operating income is projected to rise 45% YoY to JPY 4.3 billion, while EBITDA is expected to grow 37% YoY to JPY 9.4 billion—representing a 17.4% margin fueled by disciplined investment and operational leverage.

“2025 marks a defining year for Appier as we evolve into a global leader in Agentic AI as a Service. Our record profitability and consistent customer wins validate the strong momentum heading into FY26,” said Chih-Han Yu, CEO and Co-founder of Appier. “By combining differentiated Agentic AI with deep domain expertise, we have moved beyond single-point solutions to deploy coordinated multi-agent intelligence that delivers trusted, enterprise-grade performance. We are transforming our organization and customers’ workflows, replacing legacy software and manual processes with an autonomous, AI-led execution engine while scaling a highly efficient foundation for long-term, profitable growth.

Agentic AI empowers dual success of customer ROI and profitable growth

Appier’s Agentic AI competitive edge stems from a unique combination of proprietary data and vertical-specific and customer-centric AI models. This foundation empowers it to develop domain-specific agents that help leading organizations transition from traditional software to autonomous, ROI-driven Agentic workflows. The company’s AI capabilities also enable it to rapidly build Agentic AI models that adapt to customer workflows at enterprise level to drive broader market penetration and strengthen customer stickiness.

Powered by a world class Generative AI research team, Appier’s Agentic AI platform goes beyond conventional automation through proprietary LLM calibration and self-aware reasoning. This foundation of Trustworthy AI accelerates deployment, autonomously self-corrects, and delivers enterprise-grade safeguards, superior cost efficiency, and the reliability required for large-scale production. Together, these strengths position Appier to lead the next era of enterprise AI—turning autonomous intelligence into measurable, scalable business impact for customers worldwide.

https://www.appier.com/en/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/2774891/
https://www.facebook.com/appierinc?locale=zh_TW
Wechat: Appier 沛星互动科技

Hashtag: #Appier #AgenticAI #AIAgent

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/2026/02/14/appier-delivers-record-results-driven-by-agentic-ai-innovation/

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International Ophthalmic Extravaganza “APAO 2026 Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Congress” Concludes Successfully

Source: Media Outreach

Over 11,000 Experts from 111 Countries Converge Reaffirming Hong Kong’s Position as a Global Ophthalmic Hub

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – The four-day “APAO 2026 Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress” successfully concluded last week, marking a significant milestone in the global ophthalmic community. As the largest and most authoritative ophthalmic academic event in the Asia-Pacific region, this year’s Congress was hosted in Hong Kong for the fifth time, attracting over 11,000 ophthalmologists, vision scientists, and ophthalmic professionals from 111 countries and regions worldwide. This landmark event not only reaffirmed Hong Kong’s distinguished position as a prominent international ophthalmic hub but also fostered profound exchange and extensive collaboration within the global ophthalmic community.

Ophthalmic experts from around the world converge at APAO 2026 Opening Ceremony

Over 1,200 Ophthalmic Sessions: Exploring Clinical Applications and Translational Impact of Cutting-Edge Technology

The Congress was organized by APAO and jointly hosted by the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society and the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong. Operating under the theme “Eyes on the Future: Innovating Ophthalmology,” it presented an impressive agenda featuring over 1,200 specialized ophthalmic symposia and sessions. More than 1,000 distinguished speakers engaged with the 11,000 attendees, collectively exploring the clinical applications and translational potential of state-of-the-art technologies, thereby generating numerous thought-provoking and insightful discussions.

The comprehensive academic agenda spanned 19 ophthalmic subspecialties, offering a rich and diverse array of topics. It delved into not only foundational areas such as cataract, cornea, glaucoma, retina, paediatric ophthalmology, and oculoplastic surgery, among others, but also extended its focus to emerging fields including artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and virtual health. This extensive scope is poised to significantly advance global ophthalmology.

Hong Kong’s First Interdisciplinary Myopia Control Expert Research Group Formed to Propose Comprehensive Control Strategies to the Government

During the congress, four major ophthalmic organizations in Hong Kong – Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Association of Private Eye Surgeons, and the Hong Kong Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Society – jointly established Hong Kong’s first Interdisciplinary Myopia Control Expert Task Force. This group will pioneer the integration of academic research, clinical services, and public education to formulate myopia control strategies for Hong Kong and propose comprehensive recommendations to the HKSAR government. Furthermore, it will promote more holistic, cost-effective, and long-term myopia management solutions by incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, wearable devices, and novel therapies for the public’s benefit.

Special Chinese Sessions Accelerated Cross-border and Global Collaboration

To enhance regional cooperation and academic exchange, this year’s APAO Congress, in addition to its regular English lectures, has specially introduced Chinese-language sessions. The organisers have invited over a hundred authoritative ophthalmology experts from Chinese Mainland to Hong Kong for in-depth exchanges and participation in discussions in Chinese, aiming to accelerate collaboration between the ophthalmology communities of Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, and indeed, the world. The congress also attracted 3,000 Chinese Mainland experts and scholars, fully demonstrating the close ties as well as continuous cross-border and international cooperation.

Among these, a public health luncheon themed “China’s Myopia Prevention and Control Model” was held. Chinese Mainland experts elaborated to their international ophthalmic peers on how China has successfully established a far-reaching comprehensive myopia prevention and control system through robust public health management, solid scientific research, cutting-edge technologies, and effective policies. It offered valuable experiences for global myopia control efforts.

Cross-border Societies Sign Memorandum of Understanding

New Societies Established to Advance Ophthalmic AI and Stem Cell & Gene Therapy Development

To further strengthen collaboration between Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong in the field of ophthalmology, Chinese Ophthalmological Society, the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, and the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) during this congress. The MOU aims to jointly deepen and advance the long-term development of ophthalmology in both regions, charting a new chapter for the field.

Concurrently, the Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society (GOATS) and the Asia-Pacific Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Society (APSOCGT) were officially established during the conference. The formation of these two new societies will provide substantial impetus for the advancement of ophthalmic artificial intelligence, technological innovation, stem cell and gene therapy, facilitating their translation from foundational research to clinical application across the Asia-Pacific region and globally.

APAO Congress Held for the Fifth Time in Hong Kong Solidifying the City’s Status as an International Ophthalmic Hub

Professor Jason Yam Cheuk-sing, President of APAO 2026 Congress & President of The Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society concluded, “The APAO Congress being held in Hong Kong for the fifth time has underscored the city’s internationally recognised excellence in ophthalmology. It not only enhances our clinical capabilities in managing complex cases but also allows this city to showcase its cutting-edge ophthalmic medical technology and research prowess to the world. “

He continued, “On this occasion, I would like to extend my most sincere gratitude to all co-organizers, invited speakers, participants, and sponsoring organizations, especially for the staunch support from the Funding Schemes under the Innovation and Technology Commission, which made APAO 2026 a resounding success. We look forward to Hong Kong securing the hosting rights for APAO again in the future.”

This press release is issued by the APAO 2026 Congress.

Hashtag: #APAO2026

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/2026/02/13/international-ophthalmic-extravaganza-apao-2026-asia-pacific-academy-of-ophthalmology-congress-concludes-successfully/

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Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble to Present “Symphony of Light & Legacy” Concert in March

Source: Media Outreach

Supporting Sustainable Social Development through Arts and Education Celebrating the Power of “Music Changes Lives”

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Great Eagle Group (Stock Code: 41) today announced that the Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble, supported by the Group, will present its annual concert, “Symphony of Light & Legacy”, on 29 March 2026 at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in Wanchai. Through the children’s performances, the concert will share their growth and transformation along their music-learning journeys.

Titled “Symphony of Light & Legacy”, the concert reflects the belief that music, like starlight, can gently illuminate children’s paths forward. “Light” symbolises music as a guiding presence, while “Legacy” represents the continuation of care and encouragement—so that each generation of children may feel supported as they explore a broader future.

Following the inaugural “Grow & Glow” concert in 2023, the Ensemble once again appears on a professional stage. The performance offers a glimpse into the children’s learning journeys and the values nurtured through music training, including discipline, confidence and a sense of responsibility. It also reflects the steady efforts of dedicated educators and the support of the wider community.

For many years, Great Eagle Group has supported the Music Children Foundation (the “Foundation”) in providing underprivileged children with access to structured, quality early music education. In 2018, the Group established the Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble under the Foundation to offer outstanding students a continuous and progressive platform. Through professional training, public performances and competitions, the programme seeks to nurture children’s musical abilities and whole-person development. Currently, the Ensemble comprises 73 orchestra members and 24 choir members. To date, the programme has benefited more than 187 children and delivered over 40 public performances.

Mr Alexander Lo, Executive Director of Great Eagle Group, said: “At Great Eagle, our vision is ‘Sustainable Growth’. We believe a company’s responsibility extends beyond business, and that we must use our resources thoughtfully in support of the communities we serve. Over the years, we have focused on arts, youth education and environmental protection, and remain committed to working alongside partners who share these values. We hope, in our own small way, to help create more opportunities for children to be seen, encouraged and supported, so they may move forward with greater confidence and choice.”

Ms Annike Pong and Ms Monique Pong, Co-founders of the Music Children Foundation, said: “Music brings together art and education in a way that can help children build confidence, broaden their horizons and discover their potential. We are thankful for Great Eagle Group’s long-standing support, which allows us to reach more communities and provide quality music education to more children.”

Tickets for “Symphony of Light & Legacy” are available via Cityline starting today. The concert is also supported by Cordis, under Langham Hospitality Group, a member of Great Eagle Group. Cordis’s brand manifesto, “Let Your Heart Rule”, encourages people to stay true to themselves and cherish authentic connections, which resonates with the positive messages conveyed through music.

“Symphony of Light & Legacy” – Concert Details

Date: 29 March 2026 (Sunday)
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Venue: Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre,
The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
Ticketing: Cityline https://cultural.cityline.com/en/2026/symphonylightlegacy.html

Programme Highlights and Concert Narrative

The concert will be led by renowned music educator Mr Ray Tsoi as Orchestra Conductor, with Dr Lo Po Yan serving as Choral Director and Choir Conductor.

First Half: Choral works portraying children’s inner journeys from enlightenment to growth.

Second Half: Orchestral performances that, through richly layered melodies, express the strength and momentum of moving forward.

Sustained Commitment, Creating a Shared Future

Great Eagle Group believes the role of a corporation extends beyond achieving business success to making good use of its resources and uniting collective efforts to bring meaningful and sustainable positive impact to the community. Through continued investment in children and youth development, mental wellbeing and cultural education, the Group will continue to move forward hand in hand with society to help create a better future.

At the “Symphony of Light & Legacy” Concert, children will write their dreams through music and pass on hope.

Hashtag: #GreatEagleGroup

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/2026/02/13/great-eagle-music-children-ensemble-to-present-symphony-of-light-legacy-concert-in-march/

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WRISE Group Launches Client Service Centre in Taipei

Source: Media Outreach

New client service centre expands WRISE’s regional footprint by serving as a bridge for cross-border capital flow and integrated family office services in East Asia

HONG KONG SAR AND SINGAPORE AND MAINLAND CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – WRISE Group, one of Asia’s fastest-growing wealth management firms, today announced the strategic expansion of its regional footprint with the opening of a new client service centre* in Taipei, Taiwan. This expansion reinforces the Group’s commitment to providing localised expertise while supporting the complex, long-term wealth needs of clients across the region.

The establishment of a physical presence in Taipei underscores WRISE’s dedication to the Taiwan market and its role within the broader family wealth landscape. With the combined assets of Taiwanese ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) expected to reach US$1.9 trillion by 2029, the new centre is strategically positioned to address the increasing demand for sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional wealth management and intergenerational planning.

In addition to client advisory and consultation services, WRISE will introduce family wealth–related educational and engagement initiatives in Taipei. These programmes will focus on sharing long-term perspectives and encouraging next-generation dialogue, offering a dedicated space for families to explore the foundations of lasting wealth stewardship.

“The establishment of our client service centre in Taipei is a strategic step in WRISE’s broader strategy to build a borderless, 360-degree wealth management ecosystem across Asia. Taiwan’s wealth landscape is evolving rapidly, and we are positioning WRISE to be the nexus for families seeking to navigate this complexity,” said Derrick Tan, Group Executive Chairman, WRISE Group. “By strengthening our presence in East Asia, we ensure our integrated platform provides the seamless connectivity and global reach necessary to preserve and transition wealth across generations.”

The centre will be led by Andrew Wang, Managing Director of WRISE Taipei. With previous experience as chairman of several publicly listed companies, including Jhen Vei Electronic, United Fiber Optic Communication, and Jye Tai Precision Industrial, as well as a board director of multiple listed entities, he brings extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, capital investments, venture capital and public listings. Andrew also brings a strong strategic and governance-oriented perspective to supporting long-term engagement with family-owned businesses.

“As Taiwan transitions into an increasingly sophisticated wealth hub, we are seeing a significant shift towards institutionalised family governance and global asset diversification among UHNW families,” said Andrew Wang, Managing Director, WRISE Taipei. “The establishment of our client advisory centre in Taipei allows WRISE to maintain closer engagement and provide the coordinated, on-the-ground support necessary for families looking to secure their legacies across the region.”

The new centre’s opening was officially marked by a ceremony in Taipei’s Xinyi District, attended by key industry partners, long-standing clients, and WRISE senior leadership.

Headquartered in Singapore, WRISE Group operates across Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Changsha, Tokyo and Taipei, and is built on three core business lines, WRISE Private, WRISE Prestige and WRISE Capital, serving high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth families through an integrated regional platform.

Hashtag: #WRISE #WealthManagement #FamilyWealth #UHNW #CrossBorderWealth

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/2026/02/13/wrise-group-launches-client-service-centre-in-taipei/