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Priest admitted sexual abuse nearly 20 years ago, church sent him overseas without notifying police

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fr Rowan Dongohue outside the Christchurch District Court last month. Nathan McKinnon / RNZ

A priest admitted sexual abuse to leaders of his religious order nearly 20 years before he would be convicted of sexually abusing four boys, RNZ can reveal.

However, at the time in 2007, he was unable to identify the anonymous complainant and instead of notifying police, the order sent him to Australia for a six-month programme that provided “professional risk assessment and therapy” for people accused of sexual abuse.

RNZ earlier revealed Fr Rowan Donoghue had admitted six charges including indecent assault on a boy aged 12-16, indecent assault on a boy 16 and over and sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection.

The offending related to four boys who were boarding at St Bede’s College in Christchurch between 1996 and 2000.

RNZ also revealed that the Society of Mary was made aware of allegations against the priest nearly 20 years ago. The religious order was unable to verify the allegations from the anonymous complainant, but removed Donoghue from public ministry and enacted a “safety plan”.

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

In response to further questions by RNZ a Society of Mary spokesperson said a complaint alleging offending by Fr Donoghue was received by the priest via an anonymous Hotmail account in October 2007.

“He advised Society of Mary administration and in a conversation with leaders of the Society of Mary, Donoghue admitted that he was guilty of abuse but could not identify the complainant.

“He was removed from his ministry as a priest immediately. This permanent removal from ministry and subsequent ongoing monitoring has continued to the present day.”

The spokesperson said the society reached out to the anonymous emailer “encouraging him to identify himself” and make a complaint to the police so the matter might be properly investigated, and so that he might receive appropriate support.

Fr Rowan Donoghue pictured in the 1993 year book. RNZ

“Those attempts to connect with and support the victim, made over many months, were unsuccessful and so no complaint could be made by the Society to the police.

“Donoghue was sent for a six-month programme to Encompass, an institute in Australia that provided professional risk assessment and therapy for those accused of sexual abuse.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons told RNZ police were unable to comment on processes of other organisations and their decision making and whether they decide to call the police but that police encouraged people to do so if they have information they believe could be relevant to any investigation or suspected offending.

In response to earlier questions from RNZ, a Teaching Council spokesperson said in general, the council did not comment on complaints or mandatory reports to the council.

“However, given the level of public interest, we can confirm that we have been working closely with New Zealand Police since early 2025 in support of their investigation into offending by Mr Donoghue.

“The legal requirement for mandatory reporting to the New Zealand Teachers Council (now the Teaching Council) relating to the dismissal, resignation under investigation, serious misconduct, competence concerns, or specified convictions of teachers was first inserted into the Education Act 1989 by the Education Standards Act 2001 to protect the safety of children and young people in our education system.”

Now the criminal process had concluded, the council’s professional disciplinary process would resume.

“This process will include consideration of whether obligations have been met to report conduct or competence concerns to the council that were known at the time, and appropriate action depending on the findings.”

Asked who the disciplinary process would look at, the spokesperson said the council would “into the actions of everyone involved“.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety of children and young people and the quality of teaching in our education system, and we encourage anyone who has concerns about the conduct or competence of a formally registered teacher to reach out to us.”

St Bede’s College rector Jon McDowall earlier told RNZ the details outlined through the court process were “deeply disturbing”.

“As rector, it makes me feel sick to think that young people entrusted to an adult’s care were abused in this way. I am deeply sorry that this happened to them, and my thoughts are with the victims and survivors who continue to live with the impact of that harm.”

McDowall said the school had worked openly with police throughout the process.

“We will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities should any further information come to light.

“Abuse has no place at St Bede’s – past, present, or future. The College has an established policy in place to respond and support victims of historical abuse, alongside safeguarding policies and practices to protect the wellbeing and safety of students today. Our focus remains on providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community.”

McDowall extended an open invitation for victims in the case, and others who may have been impacted, or anyone with concerns to contact him directly.

In early 2023, police were contacted about the allegations of sexual abuse by Donoghue in relation to his time at St Bede’s College.

St Patrick’s Silverstream rector Rob Ferreira told RNZ the school had not been made aware of any allegations of abuse in care while Fr Donoghue worked at the school between 1982 to 1992.

“We have not had any inquiries from the police either.

“We operate according to clearly set out guidelines and best practice and you should note that our primary concern is the wellbeing of our students. Given that – our protection of the privacy and any other rights of survivors of abuse and other individuals would be paramount.”

He said the school had informed the community that Donoghue’s name suppression had lifted.

St Patrick’s College Wellington rector Mike Savali confirmed to RNZ that Donoghue was on the college staff from 2003 to 2007.

Where to get help:

  • If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
  • If you’ve ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone call the confidential crisis helpline Safe to Talk on 0800 044 334 or text 4334. (available 24/7)
  • Male Survivors Aotearoa offers a range of confidential support at centres across New Zealand – find your closest one here.
  • Men and Trauma New Zealand: 0800 636 263
  • Alternatively contact your local police station

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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/2026/02/09/priest-admitted-sexual-abuse-nearly-20-years-ago-church-sent-him-overseas-without-notifying-police/

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Changan Launches 2026 Global Testing Season with SDA Intelligence Update and Sodium-Ion Battery Strategy

Source: Media Outreach

YAKESHI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2026 – Changan Automobile held a release event themed “Changan SDA Intelligence Update & Global Launch of Sodium-Ion Battery Strategy” in Yakeshi, Inner Mongolia. During the event, Changan formally unveiled its global sodium-ion battery strategy and announced the commencement of its 2026 Global Testing Season.

Changan is accelerating the advancement of sodium-ion battery technology as part of its global battery strategy. Tan Benhong, Chief Brand Officer of China Changan Automobile Group, noted that Changan will continue to roll out new sodium-ion battery–equipped vehicles across multiple brands in the near future.

“From extreme conditions to everyday driving — every pursuit of limits at Changan ultimately serves to protect each of our users’ everyday journeys.” stated Mr. Tan.

Under extreme low temperatures, sodium-ion battery systems demonstrated stable discharge capability, with validation extending beyond minus 40 degrees Celsius. To verify intrinsic safety, Changan and CATL conducted extreme abuse tests exceeding national standards, including compression, nail penetration, drilling, and full cutting under full charge, all without fire, explosion, smoke, or thermal runaway.

SDA Intelligence: Validation in Extreme Conditions

The launch also showcased SDA Intelligence, which moves beyond passive safety into proactive, AI-driven vehicle stabilization. During live extreme-cold testing in Yakeshi, vehicles from AVATR and Changan brands—including the CS Series, CHANGAN DEEPAL, and CHANGAN NEVO—were subjected to real-world scenarios under severe low-temperature conditions.

The AVATR 12 completed an ice-surface emergency lane-change following a tire blowout at 80 km/h. CHANGAN NEVO Q05 identified obstacles on low-friction ice during an Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) challenge and achieved a controlled emergency halt. CHANGAN DEEPAL L06 demonstrated rapid posture adjustments during a high-speed circular drift challenge on snow.

User-facing safety at Changan is built on a validation-first approach supported by a robust verification system and globally advanced laboratory infrastructure, including the Western Automotive Proving Ground and the CHANGAN SDA Lab, enabling comprehensive, all-scenario validation across the full vehicle lifecycle.

Yakeshi is only the starting point. The 2026 Global Testing Season will include Southeast Asia for high-humidity durability and the European Alps for high-altitude chassis tuning. In Eurasia, Changan will conduct winter testing centered on confidence in ice and snow, with AVATR 12 as the test vehicle. In Latin America, Changan will carry out a Mexico cross-country drive from Cancun to Merida, focusing on long-distance reliability.

Hashtag: #Changan

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/2026/02/09/changan-launches-2026-global-testing-season-with-sda-intelligence-update-and-sodium-ion-battery-strategy/

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T20 cricket World Cup: New Zealand Black Caps defeat Afghanistan

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow all the cricket acton, as the Black Caps take on Afghanistan at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for their first match of the T20 World Cup.

Afghanistan have set a target of 183 and it is now the Black Caps at bat.

The 10th edition of the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup runs from 7 February to 8 March.

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Glenn Phillips and Jimmy Neesham. Photosport

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/08/t20-cricket-world-cup-new-zealand-black-caps-defeat-afghanistan/

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Speedsters Zoe Hobbs, Tiaan Whelpton qualify for world indoor championships at Douglas International

Source: Radio New Zealand

Zoe Hobbs shows her rivals a clean pair of heels over the sprints at the Douglas International. David Rowland/Photosport

Kiwi speedster Zoe Hobbs has shown her readiness for a full international programme, cracking the still respectable 11-second mark over 100m at the Sir Graeme Douglas International in Auckland.

Running with the benefit of an excessive tailwind, Hobbs tore down the backstraight in 10.99s to punctuate a day that also saw her qualifying for the world indoor championships over 60m.

With winds fluctuating in direction throughout the evening, she recorded her 7.18s into a similar headwind to the one that later carried her home over the longer distance.

“Great day at the office,” Hobbs agreed. “Most of my focus has been around the 60, so to have a 10 in front of the number over 100 is a bonus.

“Even though it’s an illegal wind, I’ll take that.”

The Kiwi sprinters have been somewhat plagued by weather and winds so far this summer, with headwinds at the Potts Classic in Hastings and massive tailwinds at the Cooks Classic at Whanganui.

In the end, the West Auckland winds probably cancelled themselves out sufficiently to produce ideal results all round.

“I really needed to get the weight off my shoulder with that qualifier and the first two comps if the season have unfortunately been cold ones,” Hobbs said. “The conditions haven’t been the best, but I knew today I really had to take advantage of the warm weather.

“It was nice not to run in tights today and to actually run in proper comp kit. It felt good to be at a home meet as well, with family here and the comfort of staying at home.”

Tiaan Whelpton dominated his opposition for a pair of sprint victories at the Douglas International. David Rowland/Photosport

Hobbs has twice reached the world indoor final over the shorter distance and has now booked her ticket to Poland in March.

Another to check that off his priority list was male counterpart Tiaan Whelpton, who was hampered by the same headwind over 60m, but nailed his qualifier en route to a 10.10s meet record over 100m.

Unlike Hobbs, his time over the longer distance was a personal best, matching his time at the same venue last year.

“Big shout out to the officials for setting that up for us, so we could get a 60 split in the 100,” Whelpton said. “Unfortunately, we had a headwind in the 60 and 6.63s was still pretty good, but I knew there was more in the tank and the 100 metres absolutely produced that.

“That 6.55s with a legal wind should stamp my ticket to Poland for my third world indoor campaign, which I’m very excited for.”

Whelpton clocked 10.02s over 100m at Whanganui with a massive wind at his back that ruled out what would have been a national record, but he’s sure Eddie Oseai-Nketia’s 10.08s mark is not far away under the right conditions.

Another to master the swirling winds was pole vaulter Eliza McCartney, who cleared 4.63m on her third attempt to prove she’s in great physical and mental shape.

She needed three attempts to achieve her opening height of 4.30m, squirmed over 4.50m on her second, but stayed in the game to soar over 4.63m, before calling it quits, after one miss at 4.70m.

“Things have been tracking really, really well over the last few months, so to have good conditions today made it really easy,” she said.

Eliza McCartney soared over 4.63m at the Douglas International. David Rowland/Photosport

“It was challenging, but certainly not the most challenging you have to deal with in pole vault. When it moves around a bit, it’s tricky to get your marks right and you can imagine, when you’re carrying a long pole, it’s getting blown around and doesn’t help your run either.”

McCartney’s career has been plagued with injury and illness, but she’s buoyed by this performance and will now reconsider her next move, with world indoors also her most immediate goal.

She’s keenly aware that training partners Olivia McTaggart and Imogen Ayris are in top form on the European indoor circuit, she’s now considering bypassing the rest of the NZ summer to chase more benign conditions under the roof.

Shot putter Tom Walsh also hopes to defend his world indoor title next month and declared himself pleased with his 20.80m winning effort in his first competition of the year.

“There were a lot of good things,” he assessed. “Things seemed to work easily – I’ve tried a lot harder and thrown about the same, especially early in the season.

“I haven’t been this strong all round this early in the season. Yes, my squat’s been better or my bench has been better, but not all together.

“All the numbers are better than they’ve ever been together, so we’re ready to go.”

Tom Walsh was in solid early-season form at the Douglas International. David Rowland/Photosport

Elsewhere around the stadium, Rosa Twyford ran a big personal best 4m 14.10s over 1500 metres, while Lex Revell-Lewis could not hold off the challenge of Danish champion Gustav Lundholm Nielsen over 400 metres, clocking 46.64s.

Whelpton returned to the track for an attempt on the national 4×100 metres mixed relay, but while his team clocked 43.04s, they ran out of their zone on the last change and were disqualified.

“To know we can run that time with a couple of sloppy changes tells me we can shave off another half a second and that would put us top 10 in the world,” he reflected.

“Absolutely, we’re going to keep working on it – the relay’s a major focus for me. I see it as an awesome opportunity to represent New Zealand on the world stage.”

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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/2026/02/08/speedsters-zoe-hobbs-tiaan-whelpton-qualify-for-world-indoor-championships-at-douglas-international/

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Tennis: NZ advances in Davis Cup after felling Bosnia and Herzegovina

Source: Radio New Zealand

Action during the singles tennis match between Anton Shepp of New Zealand and Mirza Basic of Bosnia & Herzegovina at the David Cup match in Whangarei. Michael Bradley/Tennis NZ

New Zealand have advanced to the next round of tennis’ Davis Cup with a remarkable victory in their tie against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Whangārei.

The New Zealanders were staring defeat in the face after Anton Shepp and James Watt lost their opening singles matches on Saturday.

But they were revived by an inspiring effort from Ajeet Rai and Finn Reynolds in the doubles today. They played assured tennis to shut out Tomislav Brkic and Vladan Tadic 6-2 6-1.

The Kiwis still needed to win both reverse singles, but Watt and Shepp lifted their efforts in dramatic fashion.

Watt beat Andrej Nedic 6-3 7-6, taking the match in a tiebreak despite struggling physically.

“I felt like I let the crowd down yesterday,” Watt said in his on-court interview.

“I was cramping in that tiebreak, but I wanted to put my body on the line for my country.”

Then Shepp kept the Whangārei crowd cheering by taking the first set off Mirza Basic, 6-2. Shepp was up 5-2 in the second set but the 34-year-old Basic broke Shepp’s serve and then got back to 5-4 and had Shepp in trouble on his serve again at 15-40 before Shepp fought back.

He thumped successive aces to take the match and the tie and give New Zealand coach Artem Sitak one huge 40th birthday present.

The team rushed to embrace the 23-year-old Shepp, who told the crowd he was very proud of his team-mates.

“We had a big task today coming back from two-zero. Credit to all the lads, we put on a really big performance,” he said on the Sky Sport broadcast.

“Honoured to be here. This is my debut so thank you very much for making me feel so welcome.”

New Zealand now progresses to the second round, which will be held after the US Open in September. The draw has not been done yet, so they don’t know yet who their opponents will be.

The next round will be in September, with the draw yet to be made.

If they win their second round match, they make the final eight teams, plus the wildcard of Italy.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/08/tennis-nz-advances-in-davis-cup-after-felling-bosnia-and-herzegovina/

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From caucus to admin: Kevin Hague on his new role

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Green Party’s relatively new Chief of Staff, former MP Kevin Hague. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Few political staff roles are more crucial than a party’s chief of staff.

While television and film depictions of the role in shows like House of Cards and The West Wing have helped cement the role in the political imagination of audiences, those portrayals occasionally ring true but are more drama than reality.

A chief of staff needs sharp political instincts and a deep understanding of how Parliament works, which is why it might not surprise you that former MPs sometimes take the job.

Former MP Kevin Hague is the Green Party’s relatively new chief of staff. After time away, Hague has returned to the Parliamentary ecosystem, likely facing a frantic first year as the Greens prepare for the 7 November election.

New arrivals often have interesting insights (and are more willing to chat), so in late 2025, The House sat down with Hague to talk about what the chief job involves beyond its on-screen reputation.

Hague was a Green MP from 2008 to 2016. He had a reputation around Parliament as a backroom thinker and organiser. In the decade since, he held the role of chief executive of Forest and Bird, along with time spent on various boards.

Hague acknowledges parallels between his new role and being a CEO.

In a political party, “MPs are both the board of the company… the people to whom I report, but also the key clients of our work.”

Another way of looking at it, said Hague, is that of a coach of a sports team; an analogy especially apt in what is both an election and World Cup year.

“You’re not trying to be at your peak performance all the way through, you’re practising things, you’re seeing how things are, how various tactics will go.”

Though the chief of staff does work closely with MPs, the remit is primarily ensuring cohesion between the engine room of a political party (its staff) and the MPs.

Surprisingly, the chief of staff role is not a specifically political one. It is more crucial that the chief is capable of managing a range of highly political personalities.

But politics is unavoidable, he said.

“I think if I didn’t have a commitment to the same values and vision that the MPs have, [and] the party has, it would be difficult to do the job. Fundamentally, you’re giving political advice. Well, how do you do that if you don’t have a shared understanding of what we’re trying to achieve?”

During the current Parliament, an unusually high number of Green MPs have exited, whether by tragedy, choice or scandal. This exodus hasn’t just been limited to MPs. A lot of staff have also resigned, leading to speculations of either testy relations or poor management.

A key part of the chief of staff role is to keep everyone rowing in the same direction and stopping anyone from jumping out of the boat altogether. Hague said he plans to bring some discipline from both his time as a caucus strategist and also as a chief executive.

To listen to The House‘s full interview with Kevin Hague, click the link near the top of the page.

RNZ’s The House, with insights into Parliament, legislation and issues, is made with funding from Parliament’s Office of the Clerk.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/08/from-caucus-to-admin-kevin-hague-on-his-new-role/

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Alibaba Group Debuts “Wonder on Ice,” an Immersive AI Experience at Milan’s Sforza Castle for Milano Cortina 2026

Source: Media Outreach

MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2026 – Alibaba Group today opened “Alibaba Wonder on Ice” (AWI), an interactive public installation in Milan’s Piazza del Castello Sforzesco, using artificial intelligence and cloud computing to showcase how virtual retail experiences could evolve during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Set against the historic backdrop of the Sforza Castle and the commercial artery of Via Dante, AWI turns one of Milan’s most recognizable public spaces into a live demonstration of how digital technologies can intersect with culture, commerce and consumer engagement. Powered by Alibaba’s advanced technology stack, the showcase illustrates how artificial intelligence can enable immersive, interactive digital retail experiences that respond dynamically to individual preferences.

“Alibaba and the IOC share a simple belief together: technology should enable the Olympic Games to be more exciting, accessible, sustainable and connected,” said Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group. “With the power of AI, we are moving from “Cloud Olympics” toward “Intelligent Olympics”, as AI helps us work better, make smarter decisions, and connect more meaningfully.”

“I’m delighted to be here at the Alibaba Group Showcase, celebrating nine years of our partnership which represents one of the most significant technological transformations in Olympic history. Building on innovations delivered at recent Games, Milano Cortina 2026 represents a major step forward in cloud-based, AI-enabled broadcasting and operations, setting a new benchmark for future editionsn. Together with Alibaba, we’re not only ensuring the Games remain efficient and sustainable, but also remain engaging through sports media technology to audiences, athletes and fans worldwide”, said Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)”

A Personalized Journey Guided by AI

At the core of the installation is an AI-guided journey that brings virtual retail into a physical environment. Upon entry, visitors are invited to share simple preferences—such as their favorite Milano Cortina 2026 sport—with an AI agent, which uses these inputs to curate a personalized journey throughout the space. Visitors may also choose to have their photo taken to generate a real-time digital avatar, further tailoring the journey to the individual.

The AI agent then acts as a virtual stylist, interacting with visitors and offering tailored recommendations for clothing, fragrance, and makeup. As participants make selections, the experience evolves continuously, demonstrating how AI-enabled retail can move beyond static product catalogues towards adaptive, interactive experiences. Each journey culminates in a personalized AI-generated video in which the visitor’s avatar becomes the central character in a digital gala setting.

The experience is supported by Alibaba’s latest AI and cloud technologies, including its Qwen3 series of large language and vision models, Wan 2.2 image-to-video generation model, and Taobao Vision’s immersive shopping solution, and Alibaba Cloud’s global cloud infrastructure.

Architecture Inspired by Ice and Light

Spanning 40 meters, the installation consists of two architectural elements:

  • The Snow Globe, a spherical pavilion that serves as an interactive space during the day and transforms into a projection surface for AI-generated visuals in the evening
  • The Crystalized Skirt Building, a sculptural structure inspired by the crystalline geometry of frost and snowflakes, which houses the immersive AI-powered virtual retail experience.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the installation uses recyclable materials and leaves no permanent footprint on the historic plaza.

AWI will be open to the public from February 7–22, 2026, during the Olympic Winter Games, and March 6–15, 2026, during the Paralympic Winter Games.

Showcasing the First AI-Generated Olympic Fan Art Collection

The opening of AWI also marked the unveiling of the results of the Alibaba Cloud AIGC Championship @ Milano Cortina 2026, the first Olympic fan engagement initiative of its kind developed in partnership with the International Olympic Committee, the Olympic Museum and the Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee.

Using Alibaba’s Wan video generation models, fans from around the world created original video artworks inspired by four winter sports: figure skating, short track speed skating, alpine skiing, and snowboarding.

A curated selection of the top 100 works is now being displayed on the surface of the Snow Globe. This collection represents the first AI-generated artworks to be displayed by the Olympic Museum located in Lausanne, Switzerland. Ten creators will be awarded tickets to attend the Olympic Winter Games in person.

By combining Olympic inspiration with accessible AI technology, Alibaba Wonder on Ice invites fans worldwide to go beyond spectating, allowing them to step into the Games, express their “vibe,” and join the Olympic Movement in an entirely new way.

Hashtag: #Alibaba

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/2026/02/08/alibaba-group-debuts-wonder-on-ice-an-immersive-ai-experience-at-milans-sforza-castle-for-milano-cortina-2026/

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AIA Alta Club Launches “Family Health MedTeam”: Hong Kong Insurance Market’s First 24/7 Dedicated Healthcare Support for High-Net-Worth Families

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – AIA Alta Club launches Family Health MedTeam, an industry-first service1 designed to give high-net-worth families2 the privilege, convenience, and care at their fingertips. This exclusive offering provides round-the-clock, dedicated healthcare support across the Chinese Mainland with coverage of Grade 3A hospitals,3 ensuring families can focus on what matters most: living well together across three generations.

AIA Alta Club launches Family Health MedTeam, an industry-first service designed to give high-net-worth families the privilege, convenience, and care at their fingertips.

For many high-net-worth families, health is the ultimate legacy. Over 70% of AIA Alta Club members maintain close ties to the Chinese Mainland,4 with frequent northbound travel and demanding schedules. As a result, they often value assistance that helps them navigate complex cross‑boundary healthcare arrangements for themselves and their loved ones. Through a dedicated group chat on WeChat application staffed by doctors and nurses,5 Family Health MedTeam delivers trusted 24/7 support,6 and seamless access to Grade 3A hospitals across the Chinese Mainland, offering convenience and peace of mind so AIA Alta Club families (applicable to Solar and Luna Tier members) 2 can live life without compromise.

Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said: “Longevity and wellbeing are now central to how high-net-worth families think about their legacy. With Family Health MedTeam, we are removing complexity from cross-boundary healthcare and supporting families to safeguard their health across generations.”

“As an industry-first service,1 Family Health MedTeam represents an innovative step forward. It provides a seamless continuum of support, from general health consultation, to privileged access to top tier medical resources, and comprehensive chronic disease management — all delivered through round-the-clock medical support and coordinated care across the Chinese Mainland. The service empowers families to make critical health decisions with clarity, confidence, and continuity, offering meaningful and lasting protection that extends across three generations, and truly fulfilling the promise of a lasting health legacy.”

Key Features of Family Health MedTeam: Innovation Meets Exclusivity

Professional Family Care:

  • 24/7 Dedicated Online Service Team:6 Eligible AIA Alta Club members and their families2 have round-the-clock access to a dedicated online service team, providing immediate, professional support anytime, anywhere, ensuring peace of mind wherever life takes them.
  • Expert Care: Each designated team comprises an experienced doctor, who has worked at a Grade 3A hospital; and a registered nurse with nutrition qualifications in the Chinese Mainland who acts as family health ambassador.5 This ensures expert, empathetic care tailored to each family’s unique needs.
  • Easy Onboarding: Eligible members2 can call the exclusive hotline to activate the services with guidance. The services cover four family members in total,2 all sharing exclusive medical experiences.

A Seamless, One‑stop Experience:

  • Fast-Track Access to Leading Hospitals: Eligible Members and their families2 benefit from priority access to outpatient and inpatient services, with specified diagnostic tests available upon request at designated Grade 3A hospitals in the Chinese Mainland, enabling timely and efficient treatment.
  • Online General Health Consulting:7 Eligible Members and their families2 can consult their dedicated family doctor at any time, from any city in the Chinese Mainland, for general health concerns and wellness information, and access convenient and professional online consultations with specialists from Grade 3A hospitals as needed.
  • Health Concierge Services: A dedicated health ambassador coordinates the entire medical journey, including medical companion8, making healthcare experiences seamless and stress-free.

Personalised Experience:

  • Exclusive, Tailored Health Checkup Plans: The family doctor will customise a health checkup and arrange for it to be performed at designated Grade 3A public hospitals in the Chinese Mainland,7, 9 with the flexibility to adjust check-up items for individual needs.10
  • Chronic Disease Management and Home Medication Delivery: The service supports ongoing health with regular follow-ups and convenient medication delivery,7, 11 empowering families to manage chronic conditions with ease.

AIA Alta Club is an exclusive membership programme created for high-net-worth customers who aspire to achieve the optimal balance of wealth and wellness. Through a seamless blend of personalised wealth management, holistic health solutions, and exclusive lifestyle privileges, AIA Alta Club empowers members to pursue their aspirations and enjoy a life of distinction.

Remarks:

  1. As of 16 September 2025, Hong Kong insurance industry’s first healthcare support in the Chinese Mainland, which integrates Online General Health Consulting along with Personalising Health Checkup at Grade 3A Hospitals and Online Support for Chronic Disease Management and Home Medication Delivery, Priority Booking for Outpatient and Inpatient Services, and Medical Companion Service, was compared with the similar services offered by major Hong Kong insurance companies.
  2. Family Health MedTeam offered as a privilege of AIA Alta Club are available to (i) AIA Alta Club member in the Solar or Luna tier (“Eligible Member”) and (ii) up to three of his/her eligible family members as nominated by the Eligible Member (“Eligible Family Members”), subject to the terms and conditions of Family Health MedTeam and AIA Alta Club.
  3. Applicable to Priority Booking for Outpatient and Inpatient Services and Diagnostic Tests.
  4. Source: AIA Hong Kong internal data (as at 27 June 2025)
  5. Designated family doctor as well as a nurse registered in the Chinese Mainland.
  6. The Service User may contact the servicing team of Family Health MedTeam through WeChat mobile application or the service hotline during the service hours as set out in the “Terms of Use of Family Health MedTeam” for (i) coordinating the Services and
    (ii) using Online General Health Consulting. All the other services under Family Health MedTeam are provided during the designated service hours subject to the availability of the Service Provider. For details, please contact the Service Provider via the service hotline at (86) 400 961 0933. “Service User” refers to each Eligible Member or Eligible Family Member as defined in Remarks 2 above, who is entitled to use the Services.
  7. Any information and recommendation provided under Family Health MedTeam is for general health and wellness information only and does not replace any medical advice or treatment. None of the Services shall be considered as a medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or recommendation in any kind. Except for the administrative support for the purchase and delivery of certain prescription medications under Online Support for Chronic Disease Management and Home Medication Delivery, the Services do not include any prescription, dispensing, administration and delivery of medications. The Service User must be physically present in the Chinese Mainland during the time of provision of the Services otherwise no Services will be provided.
  8. Medical Companion Service is not available to the Service User who has already been hospitalised during the hospitalisation.
  9. The costs of the health checkup and any related expenses shall be borne and settled directly with the relevant medical institution by the Service User.
  10. Subject to availability and suitability upon review of the Service Provider.
  11. The costs of the medications and the medications delivery shall be borne and settled directly with the Service Provider by the Service User. Online Support for Chronic Disease Management and Home Medication Delivery is limited to the administrative support for the purchase and delivery of certain prescription medications to designated delivery location only.

Important Information:

  • The above information provided herein shall not be construed as providing, selling, or soliciting the purchase of any insurance products or services outside Hong Kong and/or Macau, nor does it constitute any sales advice, product recommendation, or any form of service offer. Where the offering or sale of insurance products is prohibited under the laws of any jurisdiction outside Hong Kong and/or Macau, AIA shall not engage in such activities within that jurisdiction. AIA does not provide or sell insurance products or services in any territory other than Hong Kong and/or Macau. The above information is for reference purposes only and does not include detailed terms, conditions, or risk disclosures associated with the relevant products.
  • The services under Family Health MedTeam (“Services”) are provided by the designated independent third-party service provider in the Chinese Mainland (“Service Provider”) when the Service Users are in the Chinese Mainland subject to the relevant terms and conditions thereto.
  • AIA reserves the right to amend, suspend or terminate the Services, any part thereof, service provider(s) or change any terms and conditions relating thereto at any time without prior notice at its absolute discretion.
  • None of the Services shall be considered as a medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or recommendation in any kind. Any information and recommendation provided under the Services is for general health and wellness information only and does not replace any medical advice or treatment. The Service User is advised not to change or discontinue any medical assistance or treatment that he/she may be receiving based on any information and/or recommendation provided under the Services. If the Service User is in doubt or consider necessary, please seek medical advice from his/her registered medical practitioner or other health professional immediately and do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice and treatment.
  • 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 by the Service Provider.
  • Any service, product or solicitation of any kind provided by the Service Provider are not sold or promoted by AIA, and AIA shall not be responsible and/or liable for any service, product or solicitation of any kind provided by the Service Provider.

Hashtag: #AIA

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/2026/02/08/aia-alta-club-launches-family-health-medteam-hong-kong-insurance-markets-first-24-7-dedicated-healthcare-support-for-high-net-worth-families/

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“The World TCM Heritage Odyssey” Held in Beijing, Showcasing New Practices in International Communication of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – On the evening of February 4, “The World TCM Heritage Odyssey,” co-hosted by Phoenix Satellite TV and Dong-E-E-Jiao, took place at the Phoenix Center in Beijing and successfully concluded. The event, marking the beginning of spring, showcased the latest practices and achievements in the international dissemination, academic exchange, and modern transformation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) through cultural tributes, cross-disciplinary dialogues, and the integration of technology and art.

The ceremony centered on TCM culture and leveraged the immersive cultural, technological, and experiential environment of the Phoenix Center. It connected traditional medical wisdom with contemporary global health issues, demonstrating the pathways of inheritance and innovation for TCM in diverse cultural contexts around the world.

In his speech, Xu Wei, Chairman and CEO of Phoenix Satellite TV, stated that the global spread of TCM is not just about medical communication but also a process of cross-cultural understanding and exchange. He emphasized the need to build communication bridges through modern dissemination methods while respecting differences. Phoenix Satellite TV will continue to focus on and document the international dissemination of TCM.

Cheng Jie, Chairman of Dong-E-E-Jiao, remarked that TCM culture belongs to all humanity and that the company will keep promoting the synergy between cultural dissemination and industrial development, facilitating a deep integration of technology, culture, and brand narrative to contribute to global health.

The event featured a “Tribute” segment honoring five representatives dedicated to the international spread and cross-disciplinary integration of TCM, covering fields such as academic translation, medical practice, technology integration, and public welfare dissemination.

Scholar Ehsan Doostmohammadi from Iran was honored for completing the first Persian translation of the “Huangdi Neijing: Suwen” and promoting TCM in the West Asia region. Zhao Zhongzhen, Emeritus Professor at Hong Kong Baptist University’s School of Chinese Medicine, presented the honor and advocated for further collaboration.

Malaysian TCM practitioner Neoh Karen was recognized for promoting the modernization and internationalization of TCM through innovative communication methods.

Lee Tsung-En Andy, CEO of the Yangqi Integrative Medicine Center in Silicon Valley, was honored for his exploratory practices integrating TCM concepts with artificial intelligence and big data, sparking discussions about the modernization of TCM.

Italian physician Valeria Toso, a proponent of TCM meridian theory, was acknowledged for her long-term efforts to promote TCM concepts in Europe.

Dr. Diarra Boubacar Thiemoko from Mali, the first foreign postdoctoral fellow in TCM in China, received high praise for his years of grassroots medical exchanges in Central Africa and his work in developing TCM training and public welfare diagnosis programs on the continent.

During the event, Phoenix Satellite TV officially launched the second season of “The Healing Path.” The new season will document TCM’s development and application across different countries and cultural contexts, showcasing its diverse expressions in a global setting.

Throughout the ceremony, the Phoenix Center also established a global TCM cultural interactive experience area, enhancing the public’s intuitive understanding of TCM culture through cultural displays, product exhibitions, and interactive experiences. A special livestream program titled “Let’s Talk! Friends of TCM” preceded the event, generating public discussion.

As the event concluded, the theme song “The Healing Path,” created with AI participation, resonated in the venue, marking the end of the ceremony.

The organizers stated that this ceremony was not only a concentrated display of TCM culture but also a forward-looking exchange practice, showcasing new expressions and possibilities for traditional medicine in the contemporary technological and global health context.

Hashtag: #TheWorldTCMHeritageOdyssey #TraditionalChineseMedicine #GlobalHealth #TCMCulture #TCMInnovation

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/2026/02/08/the-world-tcm-heritage-odyssey-held-in-beijing-showcasing-new-practices-in-international-communication-of-traditional-chinese-medicine/

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DBS ARTable 2026 Returns with an Elevated Fusion of Art and Culinary Mastery

Source: Media Outreach

DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ratings are among the highest in the world.

Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named ” World’s Best Bank” by Global Finance, “ World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney and “ Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “ World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney and the world’s “ Most Innovative in Digital Banking” by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the ” Safest Bank in Asia” award by Global Finance for 17 consecutive years from 2009 to 2025.

DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets.
DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. Through the DBS Foundation, the bank creates impact beyond banking by uplifting lives and livelihoods of those in need. It provides essential needs to the underprivileged, and fosters inclusion by equipping the underserved with financial and digital literacy skills. It also nurtures innovative social enterprises that create positive impact.

With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/08/dbs-artable-2026-returns-with-an-elevated-fusion-of-art-and-culinary-mastery/

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‘Whimsical Gallop’ Invites The City to Stride into the Year of the Horse at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct

Source: Media Outreach

Marvel at the Whimsical Gallop of Horses Adorned in Embroidered Artistry, Alongside an AI Fai Chun Photo Booth and Joyful New Year Rewards

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – This Chinese New Year, Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct invite you to take a joyful gallop into the Year of the Horse with ‘Whimsical Gallop’ — a celebration that blends artistry, imagination and auspicious cheer. From 5 February to 3 March 2026, the mall is transformed into a contemporary Chinese garden awash in soft, nature-inspired pink hues. Leading the way is a striking 3.5-metre-tall embroidered horse in Park Court, alongside three other beautifully adorned horses brought to life by Hong Kong embroidery atelier YLYstudio. Together, this quartet of horses brings luck and fortune to all.

Spring Bloom Gallop Pavilion

Beyond the installations, the festivities continue with thoughtful and playful experiences. Create your own personalised blessings at the ‘Splendid Blessings’ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth, and enjoy ‘Galloping Joy’ New Year Shopping Rewards with festive ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets and exclusive shopping treats. The celebration culminates with lively jazz tap dance performances and a lion dance parade, bringing heritage and modern festivity together for everyone to enjoy.

A Garden Where Embroidery Meets Imagination

Across the mall and into Starstreet Precinct, visitors are immersed in a fantastical Chinese landscape of embroidered ornaments, blooming florals, lanterns and gazebos. YLYstudio dedicated over 1,000 hours to handcrafting more than 590 ornaments featuring eight auspicious motifs — feathers, birds, pomegranates, coins, flowers, four-leaf clovers, ladybirds, and clouds — using over 80 types of sequins, threads, and ribbons. These motifs are showcased on the four horses, spreading good fortune while enriching the festive landscape with depth and artistry.

Spring Bloom Gallop Pavilion

Location: Garden Court, Level LG1, Pacific Place

 Three embroidered horses stand in quiet splendour — each a symbol of good luck, harmony and prosperity. Rising above them, a five‑metre‑tall gazebo becomes a sanctuary of artistry, where the eight auspicious motifs conceived by YLYstudio are revealed in delicate detail. Each work conveys multicultural blessings, all rendered with exquisite craftsmanship.
Blossoms of Imagination

Location: Level L1 (near lululemon), Pacific Place

 Amid peach blossoms, a pastel pavilion shelters two young horses at rest. The scene evokes New Year anticipation, filled with hope and the promise of spring.

‘Splendid Blessings‘ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth

Blending tradition with technology, the ‘Splendid Blessings’ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth invites visitors to create personalised New Year blessings with a contemporary twist.

By registering as an above member and spending HK$300 on the same day via electronic payment, shoppers can select an auspicious message, capture full-body photos, and receive both printed and animated digital versions to take home and share with loved ones.

Date: 5 February – 3 March 2026
Time: 10am – 10pm
Magical Blessings

Location: Level L1 (near Lane Crawford), Pacific Place

 Energetic mini horses line both sides of the pathway, accompanied by floral arrangements and whimsical plants that create a festive corridor of movement and charm. An abundance of mini horses extends the blessings along the way, embodying prosperity and joy in every step.
Poised in Bloom

Location: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place

 At the heart of Park Court, a 3.5‑metre‑tall

giant horse is poised in mid‑gallop — a graceful emblem of blossoming fortune. Flanked by peach blossoms, it moves forward to usher in a more prosperous year ahead.
Lanterns of Serenity

Location: Outside Three Pacific Place on Wing Fung Street and Star Street

 Lanterns sway and blossoms bloom in this outdoor extension of the celebration. Set against the urban backdrop of Starstreet Precinct, the installation carries the festive spirit beyond the mall — inviting passersby to pause, smile and soak in the new year fantasy.


Poised in Bloom


‘Blooming Splendour‘ Lai See Packets – Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Flourishing Flowers

The ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets are inspired by the elegance of embroidery. They feature delicate floral motifs rendered with painterly precision, blending layers of red, pink, and orange threads to create a sense of graceful movement. At the heart of the design, a sculpted floral emblem evokes abundance, beauty, and new beginnings, enriched with pearl-like accents recalling couture embroidery techniques, where beads, sequins and threads are meticulously layered.

Each set includes 10 Lai See packets in two harmonious colourways, accompanied by a velvet pouch in either soft pink, adorned with a pomegranate charm, or rich green, accented with a lucky four-leaf clover charm. These detachable embroidered charms are thoughtfully designed to be worn or styled long after the festive season, carrying the spirit of prosperity and good fortune throughout the year.

‘Galloping Joy‘ – Elevate Your Experience with Exclusive Shopping Rewards

From 5 to 16 February 2026, shoppers can enjoy festive privileges designed to usher in a prosperous year, including exclusive ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets, movie ticket exchange coupons, Pacific Place shopping e-vouchers and gourmet treats.

Accumulated Same-day
Electronic Spending		 Shopping Rewards*
HK$3,800 – HK$8,799

One Set of
‘Blooming Splendour’
Lai See Packets
+
Two MOViE MOViE
Pacific Place
Ticket Exchange Coupons (valued at HK$260)

 —
HK$8,800 – HK$17,999 HK$300 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$18,000 – HK$37,999 HK$600 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
+ The Grand Sicilian Pistachio Puff
(valued at HK$128)
HK$38,000 – HK$87,999 HK$1,400 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
+ The Grand Sicilian Pistachio Puff
(valued at HK$128)
HK$88,000

or above

 HK$2,400 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
+ COVA Nutty Duo Cookie Gift Box
(valued at HK$198)

*Shoppers are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem Shopping Rewards. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last. Other Terms and Conditions apply.

Redemption Period: 5 – 16 February 2026
Redemption Location: Gift Redemption Counter, Level L1 (near Theory)
Redemption Hours: 11am – 10pm

Where Hooves Move to the Rhythm

The Year of the Horse arrives in a dance of joy. Step Out Studio and fellow tap dancers will be tapping out the heartbeat of the season, their rhythms galloping alongside the soaring notes of Jazz Band led by Nate Wong. Together, they will conjure a celebration where artistry and vitality run free. After the lions are awakened in an eye‑dotting ritual, our lion dance parade will unfurl like a living tapestry of tradition — spreading fortune, unity and exuberance throughout the mall, and inviting everyone to stride boldly into the year ahead.

Tap and Jazz into the New Season Let your feet and heart gallop with joy as Step Out Studio and fellow tap dancers bring tap to life, echoing the energy of racing hooves. Accompanied by keyboard, bass, and saxophone from Nate Wong’s Jazz Band, the performance blends percussive footwork with swinging jazz, creating a lively celebration of the Year of the Horse.

Dates:

  • 14 February 2026 – Performers: Cal (Step Out Studio), Zoe Chan, Jazz Band led by Nate Wong
  • 21 February 2026 – Performers: Cal (Step Out Studio), Natalie Hung, Jazz Band led by Nate Wong

Time: 3:30pm

Location: Level L1 (near Shiro), Pacific Place
Roaring into Prosperity: Eye-dotting Ceremony & Lion Dance Parade Stride into the excitement of the Chinese New Year at Pacific Place! After bringing the lions to life in a traditional eye-dotting ceremony, the lion dance parade will wind its way through the mall, spreading energy, luck, and prosperity for the year ahead.

Date: 23 February 2026 (Monday, 7th day of Chinese New Year)

Time: 1pm

Location: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place

Join the ‘Whimsical Gallop’at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct this Chinese New Year — where embroidered artistry, festive celebrations, and joyful rewards come together to welcome a year filled with good fortune and blooming possibilities.

Hashtag: #WhimsicalGallop #HorseInBloom #GallopingJoyAtPP

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/2026/02/08/whimsical-gallop-invites-the-city-to-stride-into-the-year-of-the-horse-at-pacific-place-and-starstreet-precinct/

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China and ASEAN Celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival Together

Source: Media Outreach

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – 2026 marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of dialogue relations between China and ASEAN and the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It also coincides with the Year of the Horse in Chinese Spring Festival. On February 5, the “Steeds Herald Spring, Blessings Fill ASEAN”—Spring Festival @ ASEAN Headquarters 2026 was successfully held at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN and representatives of the Guangxi government pose for a handshake group photo with the permanent representatives of the 11 ASEAN member states (Photo by Huang Jundong)

The event, supported by the Mission of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat, was hosted by the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and jointly organized by Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, Guangxi Tourism Development Group, and Guangxi Cultural Industry Group. More than 250 guests attended the event, including envoys from the 11 ASEAN countries and external partners such as Russia, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil, senior officials from the ASEAN Secretariat, representatives from mainstream ASEAN media, local university faculty and students, and representatives from Chinese-funded enterprises.

I. A Gathering of Distinguished Guests, Sharing a Common Vision

This marks the first time that Chinese Spring Festival cultural activities have been held at the ASEAN Headquarters. With the deepening of globalization, the traditional festival of Spring Festival is not only a time for family reunions for the Chinese people, but also a new bond for dialogue between different civilizations. The Chinese Spring Festival embodies the philosophy of “harmony and coexistence”, which aligns perfectly with the ASEAN countries’ pursuit of “unity and cooperation”. Furthermore, the sustainable development concept of “rejuvenating the old and welcoming the new” resonates strongly with the ASEAN region’s vision of “common prosperity”.

Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, stated in his video address that over time, the Spring Festival has evolved into a global celebration. Its inscription on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024 underscores the rich significance of this precious human heritage. Within ASEAN, many member states celebrate the Spring Festival, reminding people of the deep emotional bonds that transcend national borders. ASEAN will continue its commitment to fostering a community proud of its identity, actively undertaking the responsibility of protecting, preserving, and creating culture, arts, and traditions, and promoting the development of the cultural and creative industries. As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we hope everyone will embrace the elegance, vitality, and forward momentum that the horse represents, and embark on the new year together with hope, resilience, and unity.

Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN, stated in his address that the Spring Festival symbolizes reunion, joy, and harmony. Celebrating the holiday together exemplifies the close bonds between the people of China and ASEAN, the integration of our civilizations, and our harmonious coexistence. The China-ASEAN community with a shared future is growing ever closer, demonstrating powerful vitality and setting an exemplary model for building a community with a shared future for mankind. He specifically noted that Guangxi serves as a vital “connection point” and “intersection point” for China-ASEAN friendship, exchanges, and cooperation, functioning as both a “gateway and engine” within the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In the new year, he extended heartfelt wishes for China-ASEAN friendship and cooperation to surge forward like galloping horses, unstoppable in its momentum.

Ambassador Sarah, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, noted in the address that as the Country Coordinator for China-ASEAN Relations, Malaysia has been privileged to witness and foster the flourishing development of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cultural celebrations like today’s Spring Festival event vividly demonstrate that our partnership extends far beyond trade agreements and diplomatic protocols. ASEAN and China share a deep, mature, and resilient relationship that will continue to grow and strengthen on the solid foundation of mutual respect, shared interests, and a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

Li Pan, Director of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, stated in his address that Guangxi is honored to host this event at the ASEAN Headquarters. As the permanent host city of the China-ASEAN Expo, Guangxi serves as an important platform for China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation and cultural exchanges. Guangxi is working with ASEAN countries to build an artificial intelligence development path of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou + Integration in Guangxi + Application in ASEAN”, and actively creating a new trade chain of “Production in ASEAN + Distribution in Guangxi + Sales in China”. In 2026, Guangxi will work hand in hand with all sectors of ASEAN to forge ahead and strengthen the neighborly bond between China and ASEAN over time.

II. Celebrating the Spring Festival and Savoring the Festive Flavors

The event invited guests from around the world to gather together, celebrating the Spring Festival for the Year of the Horse, savoring the flavors of the Chinese Spring Festival, and appreciating the beauty of the arts. The opening performance, “The Beauty of China: Guangxi’s Zhuang Ethnic Charm”, featured a symbolic dance and connected it with a classic excerpt from the Caidiao Opera “Liu Sanjie”, including the “Antiphonal Song”, creating an artistic masterpiece that blends Eastern poetry with innovative ingenuity. The Chinese instrumental performance, “Chinese Chic Performance for Celebrating the Spring Festival of the Year of the Horse”, featured erhu and suona as the main instruments, playing classic melodies such as the theme song from “Journey to the West” and “Black Myth: Wukong”, converging into a “National Trend IP Music Festival”. When Guangxi ethnic instruments, the maguhu (horse-bone fiddle) and the bolie, met Indonesian gamelan, Chinese and Indonesian musicians jointly performed classics like “Jasmine Flower” and “Folk Songs Like Spring River Water”making the phrase “high mountains and flowing water meet a kindred spirit” more concrete and creating a lasting artistic resonance.

During the event, Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, together with ASEAN media such as TVRI, El John TV, and Harian Inhua, jointly launched the China-ASEAN Spring Festival Short Video Exhibition Week. Using short videos as a link, the event showcased the joyous scenes of China and ASEAN countries celebrating the Spring Festival together from multiple dimensions, inviting netizens around the world to jointly celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival as a global festival through the Internet.

III. Savoring the Cultural Gathering, Welcoming the Prosperous Spring Festival

On the same day, the “Spring Blessings for Success at the Year of the Horse” Chinese Spring Festival Cultural Exhibition and the “Instant Joy Market” Spring Festival Cultural Market were held simultaneously at the ASEAN Headquarters. Guests from various countries experienced the hospitality of “Tea Harmonies the World” through immersive experiences that included playing, appreciating, and tasting, creating “Ancient Charm and Blessings” calligraphy and painting rubbings, admiring the exquisite paper-cutting art, and enjoying a feast of Spring Festival delicacies from all directions.

The most surprising experience for the guests was exploring the smart future using Guangxi’s cutting-edge AI technology. Guests from various countries experienced intelligent translation devices and wore AR glasses, immersing themselves in barrier-free communication and exploring the thousand-year-old legend of the Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Hardy Chung, a reporter from Harian Inhua, remarked that China’s AI technology not only accurately depicted the beautiful scenery of the Spring Festival but also vividly expressed the touching story of ASEAN and China being connected by mountains and seas and sharing good neighborly friendship, presenting a beautiful picture of cooperation towards the future.

On February 4th, two “Instant Blessings” Pop-Up Events were held at the Halim Station of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway and the Mall Central Park in Jakarta, Indonesia, creating a festive atmosphere for the Chinese Spring Festival. Performers from Guangxi presented a variety of acts including song, dance, opera, and puppetry, attracting many locals to participate in interactive activities, join in the “Guangxi Kemusan Dance”, and share the joy of the Spring Festival. Yi Yan, a social media blogger traveling and living in Indonesia, exclaimed, “This year’s Spring Festival atmosphere in Jakarta is different!”

This event attracted more than 20 media outlets, including People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, China Media Group, China News Service, TVRI, METRO TV, bolong.id, and Vietnam News Agency to report on the event and widely spread the concepts of peace, amity, and harmony in the Spring Festival to people at home and abroad.

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/2026/02/08/china-and-asean-celebrate-the-chinese-spring-festival-together/

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Skylon Appoints COBNB as Hospitality Partner, Launches COBNB+ with L’Occitane en Provence Hotel Amenities

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2026 – Skylon, a premium development by GBD Land, located at Changkat Raja Chulan, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, has officially appointed COBNB as its hospitality partner, marking the launch of COBNB+, the company’s new premium hospitality brand. Skylon is the first development to debut under the initiative.

Image courtesy of COBNB+, L’Occitane en Provence and Skylon Residences

As part of the COBNB+ rollout, all PLUS-managed residences at Skylon will feature a full upgrade to L’Occitane en Provence hotel amenities, setting a new standard for guest comfort. The partnership reflects COBNB’s strategic move into experience-led hospitality, where design, service, and brand collaboration come together to enhance guest satisfaction and long-term asset value.

COBNB+ represents the highest tier within COBNB’s managed portfolio, designed for guests who value refined living, consistency, and effortless stays. The programme combines curated interiors, elevated operational standards, and technology-enabled hospitality, offering a boutique-hotel experience within a service apartment setting.

L’Occitane en Provence was selected as COBNB+’s premium amenities partner for its strong association with leading hotels and resorts worldwide, its commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, and its timeless French heritage. The brand’s emphasis on sensorial comfort and craftsmanship aligns naturally with COBNB’s vision of modern, experience-led hospitality.

Skylon’s designation as the first COBNB+ property establishes a new benchmark for managed residences in Malaysia. The collaboration reflects a shared vision between GBD Land and COBNB to operate residential assets at hospitality-grade standards, enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty, and strengthen long-term asset performance.

“At L’Occitane en Provence, we believe everyday rituals can become precious moments. Our partnership with COBNB+ at Skylon reflects a shared vision to elevate the guest experience through sensorial comfort, thoughtful details, and the art of Provençal living — even within a modern service apartment setting,” said Elida Wong, General Manager, Southeast Asia, L’Occitane en Provence.

The launch of COBNB+ at Skylon marks the beginning of a broader premium rollout across selected developments. As COBNB continues to expand its hospitality platform, COBNB+ will serve as its flagship standard for luxury short-stay and serviced living.

At COBNB, luxury is intentional — and it begins with attention to every detail.

https://www.cobnb.com.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobnb-sdn-bhd/
https://www.facebook.com/share/1DHQm5k9CA/
https://www.instagram.com/cobnbmsia?igsh=azlnYWhwMXRxdnk0

Hashtag: #cobnb #cobnb+ #loccitane #skylonresidences

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/2026/02/08/skylon-appoints-cobnb-as-hospitality-partner-launches-cobnb-with-loccitane-en-provence-hotel-amenities/

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T20 cricket World Cup live: New Zealand Black Caps v Afghanistan

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow all the cricket acton, as the Black Caps take on Afghanistan at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for their first match of the T20 World Cup.

The 10th edition of the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup runs from 7 February to 8 March.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

Glenn Phillips and Jimmy Neesham. Photosport

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/08/t20-cricket-world-cup-live-new-zealand-black-caps-v-afghanistan/

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Island Bay Festival cancels water-based activities due to sewage spill but thousands still attend

Source: Radio New Zealand

Thousands attended the popular festival despite cancellation of water-based activities. Krystal Gibbens/RNZ

The cancellation of water-based activities at this year’s Island Bay Festival didn’t put too much of a dampener on the day.

Thousands of people congregated at the festival which had to cancel one of its headline events, the Blessing of the Boats, earlier this week.

The festival said the decision was made in line with public health advice after thousands of litres of untreated sewage spilled into the sea around the southern coast after the long outfall pipe backed up at the Moa Point Wastewater Plant.

A rāhui remains in effect from Ōwhiro Bay to Breaker Bay, and advice to the public continues to be to stay off south coast beaches, not to collect or eat shellfish from the affected coastal waters, avoid the area around Tarakena Bay altogether, and avoid contact with sea water or spray.

Water-based activities had been cancelled from the Island Bay Festival. Krystal Gibbens/RNZ

Down at the festival Rosie said they came to the festival every year and made time for the Blessing of the Boats and the Tangata Manu Birdman Beach Party.

The Beach Party had avoided cancellation but had been relocated to Shorland Park and moved to Friday 13 February.

She said it was a shame the events had been affected by the wastewater discharge.

“It doesn’t feel like the normal Island Bay festival.”

Sam said she was very disappointed Blessing of the Boats had been cancelled. She said it was what many people came to the festival for.

“It’s a big Catholic community so I think it’s really important for them to see that and obviously the Italian side.”

Kate said the real disappointment was Wellington’s infrastructure.

“This is not the first time we’ve had sewerage going into the sea,” she said. “We’ve just got to stop making these mistakes.”

She had brought her stepson and his partner who were visiting from overseas to support the local event and they had enjoyed the variety of street food available.

Leanne said the kids were “bummed” they couldn’t go swimming and the sewage situation needed to get sorted.

A rāhui remains in effect from Ōwhiro Bay to Breaker Bay. Krystal Gibbens/RNZ

Anika hoped not being able to go in the ocean wouldn’t deter people from coming to the festival, but she said what was going on in the ocean was really sad.

“I’ve talked to quite a few people who are really grieving what this means for the creatures that live here for the marine life, for the diversity that we have, that has taken so long to protect,” she said.

For many the water events however weren’t why they came to the festival.

“We live locally, so it’s nice to come down and support and come check it out,” said Dave.

William said he and his family lived just up the street and came down to the festival for something to do.

He said with a young baby they wouldn’t have gone to the beach anyway.

Lin from Christchurch and Jan from Melbourne saw the festival advertised and decided to come along.

The pair had come for a pickleball tournament, which they ended up pulling out of due to injuries.

Lin said the pair had seen some signs about the wastewater, but it hadn’t impacted their trip at all.

“We’ve just been having an amazing time because Wellington weather’s been great and we’ve just been doing a lot of sightseeing,” said Jan.

Many still attended the festival despite the water restrictions. Krystal Gibbens/RNZ

Newest water samples show wastewater had not reached inner harbour

Wellington Water says the latest results show there is no indication that untreated wastewater has reached the inner harbour.

The latest water quality tests taken on Friday show wastewater is still discharging into the ocean and people should stay off south coast beaches.

But it shows there is no sign the polluted wastewater has reached Eastbourne, Petone the CBD or Kilbirnie.

Some areas where there had been higher readings also looked to be lower than in previous days.

Wellington Water chair Nick Leggett today’s results were positive news, but for now the advice is still to stay out of the water.

“What we will be doing is building up a pattern and a trend from the testing in the days ahead,” he said

“By the end of the week we might be in a better position to sort of say with some confidence and provide some clarity, whether or not that can change.”

Leggett said the clean up of the Moa Point plant would also continue over the next week.

“Our hope is that by this time next week, we will have a much cleaner plant which will allow the assessments to start taking place so we can understand what it’s going to take to rehabilitate the plant and get it back operating.”

People get in touch with marine life at the Bait House

While people weren’t able to dip a toe in the sea water at Island Bay, also open during the festival was the Marine Education Centre Bait House.

Visitors were told as they entered that the facility had stopped its seawater intake the night before the wastewater spillage due to the predicted heavy rain.

“All our marine life is healthy and happy,” the Marine Education Centre said on its Facebook page earlier this week.

The bait house is its touch pool at the Marine Education Centre Bait House was still open for those wanting to connect with the marine environment in a different way. Krystal Gibbens/RNZ

“We dodged a bullet. Many years of operating a tiny aquarium on the South Coast and being in tune with nature as much as possible paid off.”

One of the biggest attractions of the bait house is its touch pool where people could pick up starfish and other critters, and while people were given the option to ditch the hands-on experience if they were concerned about the water, most were still quick to dive in despite the water issues nearby.

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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/2026/02/08/island-bay-festival-cancels-water-based-activities-due-to-sewage-spill-but-thousands-still-attend/

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Cook Islands reports dengue death, amid increase in outbreak

Source: Radio New Zealand

Aedes aegypti mosquitos spreading the dengue virus between people, people in the Cook Islands, including tourists, have been warned to take precautions. Tony Wills via iNaturalist (CC BY-SA 4.0)

A clinician says dengue fever vaccines should be made available in New Zealand as the Cook Islands reports a death from their current outbreak – an outbreak that has seen cases of the disease in Aotearoa grow too.

The country’s health ministry said an elderly patient with underlying conditions had arrived to hospital late in the disease’s progression, and died on 2 February.

Authorities have now announced Operation Namu-26 to raise awareness and promote prevention, including reminding tourists to stay safe.

Dengue is a virus passed between people by mosquitos, and Operation Namu-26 will include an increase in insecticide spraying work on the affected islands, as well as a nation-wide clean up to reduce places where water could pool and mosquito eggs could be.

The Cook Islands declared a dengue outbreak in May 2025, and more than 500 cases have been recorded there since.

In New Zealand, 86 people had been reported to have contracted dengue, with 75 of those cases connected to travel to the Cook Islands.

There had been “a significant increase in dengue cases on Rarotonga at the end of December 2025, and again at the end of January 2026”, the Cook Islands health ministry said. Cases had also been found on the islands of Aitutaki, Atiu, Mauke and Mangaia.

Clinician calls for travellers to take precautions, and vaccine to be made available in New Zealand

A vaccine against dengue is essential for New Zealanders to avoid potentially life-threatening bouts of the disease, and should also be made available here too, Auckland doctor Marc Shaw told RNZ.

There is currently no vaccine against dengue currently available in New Zealand, Health New Zealand said.

Shaw is the founder and medical director of Worldwise Travellers Health, and said a dengue vaccine is available in Australia, and has been trailed and tested across most of the world, including in Europe, the US, and South America.

There was strong demand for it in New Zealand, but it needs to be registered by Medsafe in order to be offered here, he said.

Children and older people are more susceptible to dengue fever, Shaw said. And while a first infection is usually not too serious for a healthy adult, the disease is also dangerous for anyone who catches it a second time.

Everyone headed to the Pacific should use the insect repellent permethrin, including spraying their clothes with it, and should wear light coloured clothing, Shaw said.

“The second attack can be a lot more sinister, in that it can cause a lot more potential for death or more serious disease requiring hospitalisation.

“So to this end, it is very important, that if people have had dengue fever in the past, that they take extra precautions for prevention of the disease on the second, third or fourth attack.”

Most types of mosquito are more active at dawn and dusk, but the mosquito species that transmits dengue is active for many hours during the day. It can also transmit other harmful viruses, including Zika and Chikungunya.

“It’s a daytime biting mosquito, and because of that, mosquito repellant is going to be essential for the prevention of diseases at that time,” Shaw said.

“I don’t recommend that people need to necessarily stop going to these wonderful areas that we have on our back doorstep, but to take good precautions – just to be aware of having some good mosquito repellant.

“I and my group are trying to make [a vaccine against dengue] more readily available, because we have a lot of demand for it – and it is this demand I think which is particularly significant at the moment, where the potential of the disease becomes a lot more likely given that people going into a dengue-ridden area can be attacked very easily by mosquito bites.”

Cook Islands tourism spots to take prevention measures

Tourist companies would be providing dengue prevention items to visitors and spraying on their properties following the ministry’s guidelines, the Cook Islands ministry of health said.

Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms, headache, joint or muscle pain, or rash should “seek urgent medical attention immediately …so that timely care can be provided”.

New Zealand clinician and University of Auckland lecturer Dr Maryann Heather recently told RNZ that one in four people infected with dengue get sick.

Symptoms include headaches, pain behind the eyes, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, joint pain, skin rash, lethargy, tiredness, and high fever, and can be severe. The disease can be more dangerous for young children and elderly people.

“If you aren’t improving or concerned, you should seek medical attention, especially if you think you have dengue fever after returning from the islands,” Heather said.

“It’s crucial to educate and warn people travelling back to the islands so they are aware that dengue fever is present, especially since it is seasonal.”

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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/2026/02/08/cook-islands-reports-dengue-death-amid-increase-in-outbreak/

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Flames seen in school as smoke rises over Taupō

Source: Radio New Zealand

(File photo) RNZ/Marika Khabazi

Taupō firefighters are responding to a large fire at Taupo Nui-a-Tia Tia College.

Fire and Emergency NZ said it was called to the already large fire about 2:10pm on Sunday.

Nearby residents were advised to close their doors and windows.

Photos and videos posted on social media showed an enormous plume of black smoke visible from across the lake.

A deluge of posts to an online community page said they could see flames or smoke coming from the school, on Sunday afternoon, while photos showed a large black plume of smoke rising from the town.

“N block fully ablazed ash is coming down all over Motutahae Street,” one person said.

“A significant amount of the school has already burned down,” another said.

Local MP Louise Upston said in a Facebook post the news was “devastating”.

The school is on Spa Road, at the north east end of the town.

Firefighting crews from the Lake Taupō, Taupo, Kinloch, Rotorua, Tokoroa, Greerton, Tauranga and Kaingaroa stations were responding.

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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/2026/02/08/flames-seen-in-school-as-smoke-rises-over-taupo/

Posted on

Who is megastar Bad Bunny and why he sings in Puerto Rican Spanish

Source: Radio New Zealand

Bad Bunny is on a roll. Among the three wins at the 68th Grammy Awards, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS (I should have taken more pictures) became the first Spanish-language record to win Album of the Year.

On Sunday, Bad Bunny will be the first Latino and Spanish-speaking artist to perform as a solo headliner at the Super Bowl halftime show.

Born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, and raised in Borinquen (the Taíno-language name for Puerto Rico), Bad Bunny’s life and music have been marked by political, social and economic crises affecting the archipelago: government corruption, failing infrastructure and debt.

Puerto Rican reggaeton singer Bad Bunny waves a Puerto Rican flag as he takes part of a demonstration demanding Governor Ricardo Rossello’s resignation in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 17 July, 2019.

AFP / Eric Rojas

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/08/who-is-megastar-bad-bunny-and-why-he-sings-in-puerto-rican-spanish/

Posted on

Cook Islands reports first dengue death in current outbreak

Source: Radio New Zealand

Aedes aegypti mosquitos spreading the dengue virus between people, people in the Cook Islands, including tourists, have been warned to take precautions. Supplied/ US Centers for Disease Control

The Cook Islands has reported its first dengue-related death of the current outbreak, amid a significant increase in cases, and reminders to tourists to stay safe.

The country’s health ministry said an elderly patient with underlying conditions had arrived to hospital late in the disease’s progression, and died on 2 February.

Authorities have now announced Operation Namu-26 to raise awareness and promote prevention.

Dengue is a virus passed between people by mosquitos, and Operation Namu-26 will include an increase in insecticide spraying work on the affected islands, as well as a nation-wide clean up to reduce places where water could pool and mosquito eggs could be.

The Cook Islands declared a dengue outbreak in May 2025, and more than 500 cases have been recorded there since.

In New Zealand, 86 people had been reported to have contracted dengue, with 75 of those cases connected to travel to the Cook Islands.

There had been “a significant increase in dengue cases on Rarotonga at the end of December 2025, and again at the end of January 2026”, the Cook Islands health ministry said.

Cases had been found on the islands of Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atiu, Mauke and Mangaia.

Tourist companies would be providing dengue prevention items to visitors, and spraying on their properties following the ministry’s guidelines, it said.

Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms, headache, joint or muscle pain, or rash should “seek urgent medical attention immediately …so that timely care can be provided”.

New Zealand clinician and University of Auckland lecturer Dr Maryann Heather recently told RNZ that one in four people infected with dengue get sick.

Symptoms include headaches, pain behind the eyes, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, joint pain, skin rash, lethargy, tiredness, and high fever, and can be severe. The disease can be more dangerous for young children and elderly people.

“If you aren’t improving or concerned, you should seek medical attention, especially if you think you have dengue fever after returning from the islands,” Heather said.

“It’s crucial to educate and warn people travelling back to the islands so they are aware that dengue fever is present, especially since it is seasonal.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/08/cook-islands-reports-first-dengue-death-in-current-outbreak/