Category: LiveNews

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New health funding for winter a drop in the bucket – unions

Source: Radio New Zealand

More than 70 beds will be added to hospitals ahead of the colder months, which the government says will reduce wait times. File photo. Supplied/ Waikato Hospital

Millions in new government funding to meet winter demand is a drop in the bucket, healthcare unions say.

The $25 million funding will see 378 full-time staff and 71 beds added to hospitals ahead of the colder months, which the government says will increase patient flow and reduce wait times.

Health minister Simeon Brown said the goal was to keep people out of hospital by strengthening GP-level care, and improving patient flow by getting people out of those beds and into care in the community.

“Of course, this plan is not a silver bullet,” he said at the announcement at the Auckland Business Chamber on Tuesday morning.

“We know that demand will still be high and hospitals will face record levels of patients this winter,” he said.

“But by planning early, expanding capacity and supporting front-line teams we give our staff the tools, resources and flexibility they need to manage this pressure, and deliver the care when New Zealanders need it the most.”

The package included funding for 567 short-stay spots in aged care facilities, to free up space in hospitals.

Aged Care Association chief executive Tracey Martin said it was great to see the value of the aged care sector being recognised, but it was already at more than 90 percent capacity.

Finding beds to fund, and the staff to go with them, might be tricky, she said.

“So you might have money, but can you find a bed? And can you find a place that has the beds and the staffing that you need?” she said. “When you starve the sector for so long, you can’t just suddenly dial it up.”

It could be an option for aged care facilities – which were predominantly privately owned – to physically add more beds, but Martin said they might be reluctant to grow their footprint or hire staff on a short-term basis.

“I don’t think it’s going to be as easy to implement as they think it is,” she said. “There aren’t 567 short-term care beds just sitting empty right now, in New Zealand.”

Labour’s health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said demand needed to be addressed in the community first.

“It’s a pretty standard winter plan, the sort that was rolled out under Labour governments,” she said.

“But the difference here is now we know 650,000 New Zealanders each year can’t afford to go to the general practitioner because of the cost. As long as that’s the case, demand will remain high in our hospitals, and they’ll continue to struggle.”

Labour has committed to three free GP visits for every New Zealander, if they are elected, to treat people before they need hospital level care.

Meanwhile, the nurses’ union said any increase in staff was welcome, but this announcement severely underplayed the shortage.

New Zealand Nurses Organisation chief executive Paul Goulter said it was not yet clear how much of the funding would go towards hiring nurses specifically, but the union’s own research estimated a business-as-usual shortage far beyond what could be met by this funding.

“We’ve got an ongoing shortage of nurses across the hospital system, and our research showed that our hospitals are short on average 587 nurses every shift, and then you’ve got the impact of winter coming.”

Sarah Dalton from the senior doctor’s union, the Association of Salaried Medical Specialists, called it a drop in the bucket.

When that criticism was put to Brown, he stood by his announcement.

“We’re focused on putting more resource into the front line and actually making progress, and actually, this has been a plan put together by working with our local hospitals across the country, them highlighting what’s going to make the biggest difference.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/new-health-funding-for-winter-a-drop-in-the-bucket-unions/

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White Ferns lose to South Africa Proteas Women in second T20

Source: Radio New Zealand

South Africa’s top scorer Tazmin Brits. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

White Ferns captain Amelia Kerr brought up a T20 milestone in a 19-run loss to South Africa in Hamilton.

South Africa have levelled the five match series at 1-1.

South Africa won the toss and opted to bat at Seddon Park with openers Sune Luus and Tazmin Brits putting on 62 runs for the first wicket.

Amelia Kerr finally broke the partnership in the sixth over getting Luus LBW for her 100th T20 international wicket.

She then got Brits for 53 caught by Jess Kerr.

Jess Kerr also got in on the wickets taking two as the visitors reached 177-5 off their 20 overs.

The White Ferns’ scored quickly to open their chase but also lost wickets regularly.

New Zealand were 72-4 in the eighth over and despite the some lower order fight from Izzy Sharp and Jess Kerr New Zealand fell short.

The third game of the series is in Auckland on Friday.

Follow back on the action 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/2026/03/17/white-ferns-lose-to-south-africa-proteas-women-in-second-t20/

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Home invasion in Howick leads to police chase across Auckland

Source: Radio New Zealand

A damaged car was seen after police cars swarmed central Auckland. Kim Baker Wilson/RNZ

Police have chased a stolen car across Auckland as it hit other vehicles following a home invasion in the east of the city.

The burglary in Howick was reported just after 3pm on Tuesday, with offenders reportedly armed with a machete. The offenders left the scene in a Ford Ranger taken from the property on Bleakhouse Rd, police said.

Police had seen the vehicle heading towards the East Tāmaki area.

“Eagle monitored the vehicle as it drove dangerously through Ōtara, Manukau and onto the Southern Motorway into the central city.” Superintendent Shanan Gray said

Police officers seen in downtown Auckland after an incident resulted in a pursuit. Kim Baker Wilson/RNZ

On multiple occasions it was seen driving on the wrong side of the road at high speeds.”

Gray said the Ford Ranger was the cause of several collisions with cars that belong to members of the public.

“Police vehicles were rammed on more than one occasion.”

Another damaged car at the scene of the incident. SUPPLIED

One lane of Karangahape Rd was blocked by police.

An RNZ reporter at the seen said two damaged vehicles can be seen, a small Honda with extensive damage to the front and its bumper ripped off and lying on the road, and a Ford Ranger nearby.

A damaged car was seen after police cars swarmed central Auckland. Kim Baker Wilson/RNZ

Because of the risk, Gray said the Armed Offenders Squad (AOS) was deployed and followed the car on Queen St.

Several police cars were seen swarming downtown Auckland SUPPLIED

“AOS has carried out a non-compliant vehicle stop on Karangahape Road, immediately taking all four occupants into custody,” he said

“Police deployed a range of tactics including a distraction device, a non-lethal sponge round and a police dog to effect the arrests.”

It was lucky no-one was seriously hurt, he added.

Police also want to hear from anyone who had their vehicle damaged by the incident.

They will be laying charges on Tuesday afternoon.

Police officers seen in downtown Auckland after an incident resulted in a pursuit. Kim Baker Wilson/RNZ

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/home-invasion-in-howick-leads-to-police-chase-across-auckland/

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Western Bay of Plenty sees boost in childhood vaccination rates

Source: Radio New Zealand

Donna Moon vaccinating a child. Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (PHO)

A Bay of Plenty health team has had a big boost in childhood vaccination rates, saying “pressure free kōrero” and giving people space are the keys to success.

Over about 18 months, the Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (PHO) has lifted the vaccination rate for Māori under-twos in its care from 58 percent to 70 percent.

For all its under-twos, it has gone from 78 to 83 percent.

Childhood vaccination rates for diseases like whooping cough and measles took a hit in the Covid era and have been slow to recover in many parts of the country.

The Western Bay of Plenty team said a flexible and personalised approach was driving change.

It was holding night and mobile clinics, and had nurses who would visit people at home if they had not been able to contact them.

Donna Moon was one of the outreach vaccinators.

She got mixed reactions when she turned up at people’s homes but said face-to-face visits made a huge difference.

It was a privilege to be at someone’s home and she always tried to respect their boundaries, she said.

“I will always say ‘look there is no pressure in this conversation’ early in the conversation,” she said.

Donna Moon was one of the outreach vaccinators. Western Bay of Plenty Primary Health Organisation (PHO)

There were many reasons why people were behind on their vaccinations.

“It could simply be that they haven’t had time, they haven’t had petrol money, they’ve made appointments then the kids have been sick so there’s so many different reasons. Sometimes mum is needle-phobic and they just can’t face it,” she said.

Moon said she rarely vaccinated children at the first home visit, more often having a chat and listening to any concerns before leaving.

The nurses understood that patients had often been dealing with a lot of conflicting information on social media and it was hard for many to work out what was scientific and what was emotional, she said.

It was important to give people lots of space – many wanted to discuss it with their whānau, she said.

“We know that if we go at people with a whole lot of factual information, they’ll just close off. They need time to think about it, especially if they have been in that space of being reluctant,” she said.

The team never judged people on their decisions or the time they were taking, she said.

The Western Bay of Plenty PHO is a partnership between 23 GP practices and the Ngāi te Rangi and Ngāti Ranginui iwis.

They also worked with the public health services and other iwi health organisations – it ran its overnight clinics alongside Ngati Kahu Health.

Tori Macartney oversees the outreach vaccination team and said, for the night clinics, the starting point was a “pressure free kōrero.”

Some people would choose to have their children immunised there, others would just glean information.

About 75 percent of the PHO’s vaccinations were done in standard clinics – but having options for the other quarter was crucial, she said.

“Is it easiest for us to come to the home? Would they prefer the immunisation done in their whare or in a van or in a night clinic?” she said.

The chief executive of the PHO, Sarah Stevenson, said the collaborative approach was key.

It was also working hard to take an equitable approach to its work and the team had been working on getting a better understanding of te reo Māori and tikanga Māori.

Stevenson said one of the keys was to be very tailored to what the community needed and it was fantastic to see that working.

“It’s kind of delivering healthcare out there on the road in a way that is just more convenient,” she said.

“It’s an important service I think in any healthcare delivery that we look at what is the easiest and best way to deliver healthcare – and immunisation is no different.”

The organisation had about 148,000 patients enrolled across its clinics.

There were more than 800 under-twos covered by the statistics in the 18 month period, just over 120 of them Māori.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/western-bay-of-plenty-sees-boost-in-childhood-vaccination-rates/

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NZ economy to face crunch point over next two weeks – economist

Source: Radio New Zealand

Food prices are up 4.5 percent, one of several economic indicators that household budgets are being squeezed. RNZ

New Zealand could experience a real fuel choke point in a fortnight, and Treasury’s worst-case scenario for inflation is too optimistic, says a leading economist.

War in the Middle East has effectively closed the Hormuz Strait, one of the world’s major shipping routes for crude oil.

While the government says New Zealand does not have a supply problem, it has conceded that rising prices will be putting pressure on some households.

Economist Cameron Bagrie says the real crunch point will come in just a few weeks, with fuel destined for New Zealand currently being refined in SIngapore or Korea after going through the strait before it closed.

“What that means in practise is that we’ve got about 30 days supply stored here locally, there’s about another 20 days on the water

“But it’s anybody’s guess as to what ships are going to be in the water two weeks down the track.”

He said a realistic picture should start becoming clear in the next week or two – “The critical variable to watch is going to be despatches of vessels out of Korea.”

While Treasury has said a 3.7 percent rise in inflation was the worst case scenario facing the country, Bagrie said he thought inflation was going to be closer to 3.7 percent as a baseline, with rises in oil costs following through into general price rises.

But he added that there was still so much uncertainty in the global economy.

“Three point seven is an incredibly low number to be putting out there if you are talking worst case scenario.

“There is a big risk that we need to manage, but that risk is unquantifiable at the moment because it’s a moving feast, just have a look at the volatility we’re seeing across markets oil prices get up around $110-$120 and then they’re down to $90, then they’re back up to $105

“There’s so much uncertainty out there and so much flip-flopping in regard to putting pen to paper and coming up with numbers.”

But Bagrie said he had been impressed by the finance minster’s moves this week.

“Nicola Willis has actually done a really good job in the past couple of days, being very measured and pretty honest in regard to her responses. Do we have a problem? The answer is yes. How much of a problem is it going to be? We don’t really know because this thing could settle down quickly, oil prices are up and down like a yo-yo.”

He said there would be a return to normalcy “at some stage”.

“No one knows what stage or how long the duration of this thing is going to last. If anybody can give me an idea of the duration or when Hormuz is going to open, we’ll give you a pretty firm economic assessment in regard to what’s going to be the economic hit.”

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/nz-economy-to-face-crunch-point-over-next-two-weeks-economist/

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Supermarket price warning issued by Consumer NZ

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fruit and vegetables are up 9.4 percent on last year, with meat, poultry and fish rising 7.5 percent. 123RF

New Zealand would benefit from a regime banning “excessive” supermarket prices, Consumer NZ says.

The organisation says some supermarket shoppers are questioning how quickly food prices have risen, as conflict in the Middle East pushes up oil prices.

There have been warnings that the cost of food may rise as producer and transportation costs increase.

Consumer NZ head of research and advocacy Gemma Rasmussen said it was understandable that shoppers were worried about how high prices could go.

Stats NZ data for February showed even before the impact of the conflict on oil prices was felt, food prices were up 4.5 percent year-on-year. Fruit and vegetables were up 9.4 percent and meat, poultry and fish 7.5 percent.

“When you pick up an item off the shelf, countless factors contribute to the final price. That makes it extremely difficult for consumers to know whether they are paying a fair and accurate amount,” Rasmussen said.

“Whether you’re an everyday shopper or a seasoned economist, breaking down the true pricing of any food item in a supermarket is close to impossible.

“The question for shoppers is: Are the prices you’re paying for food fair and competitive, and are there instances when the supermarkets are using external pressures as a smokescreen to jack their prices?”

She said when Cyclone Gabrielle hit the Hawkes Bay, she spoke to a producer who provided an example of a produce item that was affected by the floods.

“This resulted in the store price going from $3.50 a kg to $9 to $14.

“They said, if it’s sold for $3.50 retail, the supermarket is buying it for around $1.99 wholesale. It ended up reaching $4.50 wholesale, but despite this, it ended up being sold in the supermarkets for as high as $14.

“One supplier spoke on an instance when the margin a major supermarket made on a frozen product was close to 60 percent. He’s currently selling frozen produce with an alternative retailer who is ‘a dream to work with’ and takes only a 25 percent margin.”

She said businesses could set or increase their prices as they saw fit unless there was some form of price regulation in place.

“Australia had a similar model. However, from 1 July 2026, it will introduce a specific excessive pricing regime for very large supermarkets that will ban prices considered excessive in relation to supply cost plus a reasonable margin. If one of the big players breaches these rules it will face penalties of up to A$10 million, three times the benefit gained, or 10 percent of turnover.

“In effect, this is a direct attempt to curb price gouging and hold major supermarkets accountable where mark-ups are excessive and unjustified.

“New Zealand could benefit from a similar regime. Long-term structural reform has so far done little to meaningfully reduce supermarket pricing pressure, and with cost-of-living concerns continuing, households remain exposed to pricing that may be difficult to justify.”

Rasmussen said cost-of-living concerns were rising and shoppers were “continually” affected by potentially unfair or excessive pricing.

“New Zealanders don’t have time to wait for long term structural changes to be implemented and take effect.”

Woolworths and Foodstuffs were approached for comment.

Separately, Foodstuffs provided an update that said it was still business as usual at its supermarkets but its suppliers were planning ahead.

“New Zealand sits at the end of global supply chains, so we’re always looking upstream and keeping an eye on international events that could have flow-on effects for us,” said managing director Chris Quin.

“A large proportion of our products are grown or manufactured locally in New Zealand or Australia, sourced from Asia, or travel from Europe around the Cape of Good Hope at the bottom of Africa. So, right now our grocery supplies are largely unaffected by the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, and our normal offer’s available in our stores. 

“The main issue at the moment is higher fuel, freight and packaging costs rather than product availability.

“We’ve seen the cost of diesel for our transport fleet rise significantly, but at this stage we’re absorbing that to help keep our food prices as steady as possible for customers.

“For every dollar on-shelf, around two-thirds goes to suppliers for the goods themselves.

“So if suppliers are facing higher freight, fuel, packaging or other input costs, those pressures flow through over time. As we’ve all seen, this is a fast-moving situation, with no clear timeframes or outcomes. The effects of what’s happening now with supply chains and fuel prices could still be felt months down the track.”

Woolworths said it was watching the situation closely. “At this stage our stock levels and pricing have not been affected but we continue to monitor it.”

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/supermarket-price-warning-issued-by-consumer-nz/

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Four in custody following fleeing driver incident

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Superintendent Shanan Gray, Counties Manukau District Commander:

Police have arrested four men after they carried out a home invasion and fled across parts of Auckland.

At around 3.10pm Police received reports of an aggravated burglary at an address on Bleakhouse Road, Howick.

The offenders were reported to be in possession of a machete and left the scene in a Ford Ranger stolen from the address.

A short time later Police sighted the vehicle heading towards the East Tāmaki area.

Eagle monitored the vehicle as it drove dangerously through Ōtara, Manukau and onto the Southern Motorway into the central city.

On multiple occasions it was seen driving on the wrong side of the road at high speeds.

Through the course of the incident, it has been involved in several collisions with vehicles belonging to members of the public.

Police vehicles were rammed on more than one occasion.

Given the risk posed the Armed Offenders Squad was deployed and pursued the vehicle on Queen Street.

AOS has carried out a non-compliant vehicle stop on Karangahape Road, immediately taking all four occupants into custody.

Police deployed a range of tactics including a distraction device, a non-lethal sponge round and a Police dog to effect the arrests.

One person was transported to hospital in a moderate condition after receiving injuries from a dog bite.

It is extremely lucky that the reckless behaviour of these individuals did not result an anyone suffering serious injuries.

Police will be laying charges for the number of offences committed this afternoon.

Police seeking victims:

Police are aware a number of people may have been victims of minor collisions or have been side swiped by the offending vehicle.

If you believe you have had your vehicle damaged by a white Ford Ranger this afternoon between 3.15pm and 4.30pm, Police would like to hear from you.

Please call 105 and use the refence number P065783141.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/17/four-in-custody-following-fleeing-driver-incident/

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Watch: Labour leader Chris Hipkins holds media conference over ex-wife’s allegations

Source: Radio New Zealand

Labour leader Chris Hipkins is expected to respond to allegations made by his ex-wife at a media conference at 4.45pm today.

He arrived back in the country from Australia on Tuesday.

The claims – which do not relate to any unlawful activity – were posted on Jade Paul’s private Facebook page on Sunday evening but were since removed.

On Monday, Hipkins said “I reject the allegations entirely and don’t intend to make any further comment.”

In response to questions from RNZ, Paul said she stood by her comments.

Hipkins and Paul married at Premier House in early 2020 and separated in 2022. They have two children.

Hipkins publicly confirmed the split in January 2023, shortly after becoming prime minister, saying they had made the decision in the best interest of their family.

Later that year, Hipkins revealed during his election night concession speech that he had a new partner, Toni Grace.

Hipkins proposed to Grace in November.

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Rising petrol prices sees spike in Trade Me searches for electric vehicles

Source: Radio New Zealand

TradeMe said Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Kona were the most searched electric vehicles. 123RF

TradeMe says rising petrol prices are prompting more people to consider electric vehicles.

The site said it experienced a 142 percent spike in searches for electric vehicles in March compared to February.

The average price of 91 is now over $3.05 a litre according to price monitoring app Gaspy.

TradeMe said there were 125,000 searches for electric vehicles in the first half of March, compared to 50,000 in the same period of February.

TradeMe head of motors Brendan Hall said the end of the government’s Clean Car Scheme in December 2023 created a huge spike in demand previously.

“We saw EV searches peak at 111,000 in October 2023 as buyers rushed to take advantage of the rebate before it disappeared. As expected, interest cooled considerably after it ended, with searches declining in the beginning of 2024.

“The latest interest marks a significant turnaround, showing that while the rebate was a strong motivator, the current pressure of fuel prices has Kiwi drivers seriously considering whether an electric model would suit their needs.”

The average price of an electric vehicle on Trade Me is $39,000.

The most commonly searched cars were a Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Kona.

Hall said a 2015 Tesla Model S was the most viewed and watchlisted EV.

“At the same time, there is currently a 2013 Nissan Leaf with an asking price of $2,500, so there really is something for everybody.”

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/rising-petrol-prices-sees-spike-in-trade-me-searches-for-electric-vehicles/

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Several police cars involved in Auckland pursuit

Source: Radio New Zealand

A large number of police cars have been seen heading towards downtown Auckland and the police helicopter is circling.

A police spokesperson said the incident had resolved but would not provide further details.

More to come…

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New Zealand born US Marine denied citizenship says system is flawed

Source: Radio New Zealand

Paul Canton served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1991-1998. Military.com/Facebook/Supplied

A New Zealander who has lived in the US for 25 years and even served in the US Marine Corps now faces deportation from the country.

Paul Canton was in Marines for seven years and had built a life for himself in Florida, with a wife and children, Military.com reported. But a judge has denied his bid to stay.

He previously told US news channel Tampa Bay 28, that citizenship had been promised to him when he signed up to be a Marine.

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, Canton first visited the US as an exchange student and said he “fell in love” with the country.

Orlando’s Channel 9 reported that he enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1991 just weeks before the Persian Gulf conflict ended.

Canton said his recruiter promised him citizenship if he served and was discharged honourably, which he did in 1998.

He went on to marry a US citizen and have children who are also citizens, Channel 9 reported.

Canton had even voted in elections but while applying for a new driver’s license, he found out he had never become an American citizen.

He then hired a lawyer and spent years trying to navigate the immigration system.

Tampa Bay 28 reported that last month a federal judge denied Canton’s legal status.

This was due to a US law that grants naturalisation to veterans but only if they actively served during a time of hostility.

Canton’s attorney Elizabeth Ricci had previously told Tampa Bay 28, that even though he was recruited during Operation Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf, Canton was not called to duty in the Selective Reserve until two weeks after the hostility ended.

She also told Channel 9 that his Australian citizenship was stripped when he joined the marines, so he is currently without a state.

Canton said he felt the US immigration system was flawed, according to Millitary.com

“I feel like I’ve been shoved through a crack.”

He said this was especially true when laws aren’t in the books to allow automatic citizenship to veterans who were honourably discharged with no criminal records.

Channel 9 also reported that Canton was not eligible for sponsorship from his partner due to his voting history.

He maintained that because he believed himself a citizen, he could vote but casting a ballot has prevented him from getting citizenship status even with his family’s help.

Canton’s family is now having to prepare for a potential, looming deportation back to New Zealand.

“My oldest boy is going to empty out the house and sell it,” Canton said in the report by Millitary.com.

“And that’s the end of my time in America. Because I can’t come back.”

“I have earned the title of United States Marine and they’re never going to take that from me,” he said.

His attorney told Channel 9 that Canton’s only pathway to remaining in the US is Congress passing a special naturalisation bill or US President Donald Trump getting involved.

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Whakaari / White Island volcanic alert level lowered

Source: Radio New Zealand

Whakaari / White Island on 17 March. Geonet

Volcanic alert levels for Whakaari / White Island have been lowered.

There was a minor eruption last week, raising warning levels and leaving flights at Tauranga Airport cancelled.

Earth Sciences New Zealand says new satellite data shows ash emissions could have started as early as 8 March.

Observations have now confirmed the volcanic activity is over with no further ash detected.

They also show a new thin deposit of ash over the floor of the inner crater, and some of the island’s southern side.

The volcanic alert level has been lowered back to Level 2, and the Aviation Colour Code reduced to Yellow.

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CARSOME Raises Over USD 30 Million in a Strategic Fundraising Round

Source: Media Outreach

PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 March 2026 – CARSOME Group Inc (CARSOME or the Group), Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, today announced a strategic investment round of more than USD 30 million from a set of new and existing investors including the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC), Gobi Partners, and Asia Partners. This fundraise underscores the investors’ confidence in CARSOME’s journey to profitability and long-term vision across the region, as demonstrated by the recent record FY25 results. These funds will further accelerate its profitable growth in the region for the coming years.

CARSOME Group Inc (CARSOME or the Group), Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, today announced a strategic investment round of more than USD 30 million from a set of new and existing investors including the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited (HKIC), Gobi Partners, and Asia Partners.

This investment and partnership reflect a shared ambition to strengthen connections between Southeast Asia and Greater China, leveraging Hong Kong’s role as a regional gateway for advanced automotive capabilities, technology development, and global talent. With the support from the HKIC, CARSOME will drive initiatives across areas such as supply chain sourcing and technology collaboration, accelerating the application of data and artificial intelligence (AI) in the automotive sector, which further empowers CARSOME for its regional expansion.

“CARSOME has spent the last several years focused on building a resilient, profitable business with strong fundamentals,” said Eric Cheng, CARSOME Group Co-founder and CEO. “This strategic collaboration and fundraise is a vote of confidence in our continued momentum and long-term vision. This partnership gives us crucial access to innovation capabilities, cross-border networks, and world-class talent that will support our work in AI, data, and next-generation mobility services across Southeast Asia.”

Clara Chan, Chief Executive Officer of the HKIC, said, “We are pleased to support CARSOME as part of our continued effort to harness technology to drive industry transformation, contributing to Hong Kong’s long-term economic development and resilience. With Hong Kong’s unique position as a gateway connecting global innovation and investment opportunities, CARSOME exemplifies the type of high-conviction, technology-driven enterprise that aligns with the HKIC’s mandate to foster scalable innovation across our strategic sectors. We look forward to supporting forward-thinking companies like CARSOME in creating tangible value for the future of Hong Kong.”

Chibo Tang, Managing Partner of Gobi Partners, said, “CARSOME is a leading example of how Southeast Asian startups are well-positioned to create close ties with partners in Greater China, leveraging each region’s unique strengths. We are pleased to be a returning investor in CARSOME, having supported them for almost a decade. Gobi was an early believer in CARSOME’s ability to scale across international borders, and we are happy to see their early potential come to fruition as they reimagine the way consumers across Asia purchase vehicles.”

http://www.carsome.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/carsome/

Hashtag: #CARSOME

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/17/carsome-raises-over-usd-30-million-in-a-strategic-fundraising-round/

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GMG Productions, David Ian For Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions Presents The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre Production of Jesus Christ Superstar

Source: Media Outreach

THE AWARD-WINNING PRODUCTIONOF THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR WILL VISIT THE GRAND THEATRE, HONG KONG CULTURAL CENTRE FROM 8 JULY AS PART OF ITS INTERNATIONAL TOUR

TIM RICE AND ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S ICONIC ROCK MUSICAL COMES TO HONG KONG FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME

PRIORITY BOOKING FROM25 -26 MARCH | PUBLIC SALE ON 27 MARCH

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 March 2026 – Following several acclaimed and sold-out runs in London as well as an extensive tour of North America, UK and Australia, the Olivier Award-winning reimagined production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s celebrated musical JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR will visit the Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre from 8 July as part of a major international tour, giving Hong Kong audiences their first opportunity to experience Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary rock musical live on stage.

“A gorgeous, thrilling, heavenly musical.”

– The Guardian

“Hallelujah! An almighty revelation.”

– The Daily Telegraph

Featuring lyrics and music by Emmy, GRAMMY, Oscar and Tony winners Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, this production was reimagined by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre where it originated and is helmed by director Timothy Sheader and choreographer Drew McOnie. Completing the creative team is design by Tom Scutt, lighting design by Lee Curran, sound design by Nick Lidster and music supervision by Tom Deering.

A global phenomenon that has wowed audiences for decades, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is a timeless work that explores the biblical portrayal of the extraordinary events that led to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as seen through the eyes of his betrayer, Judas Iscariot. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles among Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, Jesus’ disciples, his followers and the Roman Empire. Originally released as a concept album, the iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as ‘Superstar’, ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’, and ‘Gethsemane’.

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR opened on Broadway in 1971 at the Mark Hellinger Theatre. The original London production opened at the Palace Theatre on 9 August 1972 and ran for over eight years. By the time it closed, after 3,358 performances, it had become the longest-running musical in West End history at that time. JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR has been reproduced regularly around the world in the years since its first appearance, with performances including a Broadway revival in 2012, an ITV competition TV show called Superstar that led to casting Ben Forster as Jesus in an arena tour of the show, and a production at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre celebrating 45 years since the musical’s Broadway debut. JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR will also have a limited run at the iconic London Palladium in summer 2026, starring Sam Ryder as Jesus. Produced by Michael Harrison for Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals, this production was originally created and produced at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

Producer David Ian said: “This Olivier Award-winning production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR has amazed audiences around the world, and we are thrilled to bring this phenomenon to the stage in Hong Kong. Marking the first Hong Kong season of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic rock musical, this engagement promises a spectacular new chapter for local audiences.”

GMG Productions CEO Carlos Candal shares“GMG Productions is thrilled to be bringing this extraordinary show to Hong Kong. Building on our growing success across Asia, we are proud to present such a dynamic and high-calibre production as part of our long-term commitment to delivering world-class entertainment in the region.”

This production of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival and the 2016 Evening Standard Award for Best Musical, selling out two consecutive engagements in 2016 and 2017. The production played a West End engagement at the Barbican in 2019 before returning to Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in concert version during the summer of 2020, followed by a universally acclaimed UK tour in 2023/24.

Casting to be announced.

The 2026 Tour of JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR is produced by David Ian for Crossroads Live and Work Light Productions. The original production was produced by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.

JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR will be performed in English with Chinese surtitles.

Tickets for the Hong Kong season will go on sale soon. Sign up to our online Priority List now at https://jesuschristsuperstar.hk to enjoy a 10% discount during Priority Booking from 25 March, 10am, for 48 hours. General Public Ticket Sales launch on 27 March; tickets are priced from HK$588 to $1,088.

For additional information about this production, please visit https://jesuschristsuperstar.hk

Facebook & Instagram: @GMGProductionsHK

SHOW AND TICKETING INFORMATION

DATES:
8 July – 1 August 2026

PERFORMANCE TIMES:
Tuesdays- Fridays: 8pm
Saturdays: 3pm and 8pm
Sundays: 2pm and 7pm

VENUE:
Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui

PERFORMANCE DURATION: 1 hour 50 mins including interval

TICKET PRICES:

VIP HK$1,088
A Reserve HK$988
B Reserve HK$888
C Reserve HK$688
D Reserve HK$588
Concession VIP HK$988
Concession A HK$888
Concession B HK$788

Concession tickets are available to full-time students, senior citizens aged 60 or above, persons with disabilities and CSSA recipients.

Performed in English, with Chinese surtitles

BOOKINGS
Website: https://jesuschristsuperstar.hk
Priority Booking from 25 March, 10am, for 48 hours; General Public Sales from 27 March.

Hashtag: #JesusChristSuperstar

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/17/gmg-productions-david-ian-for-crossroads-live-and-work-light-productions-presents-the-regents-park-open-air-theatre-production-of-jesus-christ-superstar/

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Labour leader Chris Hipkins holds press conference over ex-wife’s allegations

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Mark Papalii

Labour leader Chris Hipkins is expected to respond to allegations made by his ex-wife at a media conference at 4.45pm today.

He arrrived back in the country from Australia on Tuesday.

The claims – which do not relate to any unlawful activity – were posted on Jade Paul’s private Facebook page on Sunday evening but were since removed.

On Monday, Hipkins said “I reject the allegations entirely and don’t intend to make any further comment.”

In response to questions from RNZ, Paul said she stood by her comments.

Hipkins and Paul married at Premier House in early 2020 and separated in 2022. They have two children.

Hipkins publicly confirmed the split in January 2023, shortly after becoming prime minister, saying they had made the decision in the best interest of their family.

Later that year, Hipkins revealed during his election night concession speech that he had a new partner, Toni Grace.

Hipkins proposed to Grace in November.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/labour-leader-chris-hipkins-holds-press-conference-over-ex-wifes-allegations/

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App Store Accountability Bill Proposed To Strengthen Online Safety For Children

Source: Family First

MEDIA RELEASE

17 March 2026

App Store Accountability Bill Proposed To Strengthen Online Safety For Children

Family First is calling on the government, or individual Members of Parliament, to adopt its App Store Accountability Bill, designed to target an obvious ‘choke point’ for accessing digital content, to improve online safety for children and young people by placing new responsibilities on app store providers and app developers operating in New Zealand.

The draft Bill proposes that age verification or estimation is adopted by app store providers and developers, and for those underage, clear consent given by parents or caregivers. The proposed Bill responds to growing concerns about those under 16 accessing inappropriate digital content, making in‑app purchases without proper oversight, and being exposed to privacy risks. It establishes a clear and enforceable framework that ensures young New Zealanders can use mobile apps more safely while giving parents greater visibility and control.

“We believe the Bill is an achievable and realistic first solution, while also watching how Australia and other jurisdictions are attempting to implement their social media bans.  Importantly, this Bill empowers parents to make decisions affecting their own children and places an appropriate level of accountability and responsibility on Big Tech,” says Simon O’Connor, Director of External Engagement with Family First NZ.

So-called App Store Accountability Bills are now law in Louisiana, and Utah, and Texas (with Texas’ law being challenged).  Multiple other US state are considering similar laws including  Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Hawaii, Mississippi, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, West Virginia, Kansas and New Hampshire. Federal legislation has also been introduced to Congress

In the New Zealand-based Bill, key protections for children and parents include requirements for app store providers to:

  • Verify the age category of all account holders, using accurate and commercially viable methods (note, this is age verification or estimation, and not digital ID)
  • Obtain verifiable parental consent before minors can download apps, make purchases, or access certain features.
  • Share limited age‑category data and consent status with developers so they can apply age‑appropriate restrictions.
  • Reconfirm parental consent when an app undergoes a “significant change,” such as introducing new data collection, monetisation features, or content.
  • Protect sensitive age‑related data through strict data minimisation and security requirements aligned with the Privacy Act 2020.

Similarly, developers will be required to:

  • Use the age‑category information provided by app stores to enforce age‑appropriate settings and comply with New Zealand law.
  • Request and use age‑category data only when necessary and in accordance with privacy standards.
  • Notify app stores of any significant changes that may impact on the safety or privacy of young users.

The Bill also prevents both app store providers and developers from enforcing financial contracts (such as in‑app purchases) against minors unless proper parental consent has been verified.

The draft Bill reinforces New Zealand’s commitment to protecting children’s privacy by ensuring that only the minimum necessary information is collected, that data is secured to industry standards, and that it cannot be repurposed beyond what the Act permits.

Emergency-only apps, such as 111 or crisis support applications, are explicitly exempt from parental consent requirements to preserve immediate access in urgent situations.

Family First calls on the government or individual MPs to take up this sensible and world-leading draft legislation.  Drawing off developments overseas, New Zealand is well placed to be one of the first countries to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework requiring age verification / estimation, parental consent, and responsible data sharing across mobile app ecosystems.

Family First calls on the current parliament to make this App Store Accountability Bill a priority before the 2026 election.

READ THE BILL HERE

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/app-store-accountability-bill-proposed-to-strengthen-online-safety-for-children/

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Coroner to hold inquest into fatal stabbing on Christchurch street

Source: Radio New Zealand

From left, Nemani Tunidau, Eparama Tunidau and Laisa Waka Tunidau Supplied

An inquest into the death of a Christchurch woman – who was killed by a forensic mental health patient while walking home from work – will be held in August.

Laisa Waka Tunidau, a mother of four, was fatally stabbed in June 2022 by Zakariye Mohamed Hussein, a patient at secure mental health facility Hillmorton Hospital.

Hussein was on community leave at the time of the killing outside Tunidau’s home in Sockburn, which happened while her then 11-year-old son looked on.

He was jailed for life with a non-parole period of 13 years.

Hussein had previously served more than six years in prison for kidnapping, stabbing and intimidating multiple people across Christchurch in March 2012.

Earlier, Tunidau’s husband Nemani Tunidau told RNZ he wanted compensation for what he saw as carelessness by health agencies in the leadup to his wife’s death.

The killing prompted an inquiry into Canterbury’s Mental Health Service.

But last year Nemani Tunidau said his family had not heard from authorities for more than a year, and felt forgotten.

“It just makes me angry and feel that they don’t want to blame themselves for what has happened to my wife,” he said.

The inquest is scheduled to run for about five weeks from mid-August in the Coroner’s Court at Christchurch.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/17/coroner-to-hold-inquest-into-fatal-stabbing-on-christchurch-street/

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Bringing heat to New Zealand’s geothermal sector

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has unveiled its strategy to harness the tremendous power of its geothermal resources and double its energy use by 2040, Resources Minister Shane Jones says.

From the Ground Up was launched by Mr Jones in Rotorua today, at an event attended by industry, stakeholders and media. The document sets out a practical plan to boost investment in the sector, build regional resilience and economic growth.

“Geothermal has been used for generations to power our regions and industries. This strategy provides momentum by clearing barriers, speeding up development, giving investors confidence and giving developers a green light to get on with it,” Mr Jones says.

The strategy lays out actions to modernise outdated regulatory settings, improve access to geothermal data, reduce early-stage risk for developers and support the growth of both traditional geothermal power and lower‑temperature geoheat applications.

“The strategy also lays a pathway for New Zealand to lead the world in next-generation geothermal technologies, including supercritical/superhot geothermal projects.” Mr Jones says.

“From Ngāwhā, Kawerau, Taupō and beyond, geothermal is already powering industry, tourism and local jobs while contributing around 18 percent of the electricity to the national grid.

“With the right settings, geothermal can do even more through attracting investment, enabling new technologies and giving Māori landowners and regional businesses real opportunities to create value from the resources beneath their feet.” Mr Jones says

Following consultation on a draft, the strategy has been strengthened to better reflect the cultural and economic importance of geothermal resources to tāngata whenua and commits to ongoing partnerships in development, protection and economic participation.

“Geothermal has always been a taonga for Māori. This strategy respects that history while opening the door to shared prosperity and long-term regional benefits.

“This strategy is about action through unlocking investment, supporting innovation, and building a stronger, more resilient energy system. We’re backing geothermal to help power New Zealand’s next chapter of growth.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/17/bringing-heat-to-new-zealands-geothermal-sector/

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RIF funding underpins geothermal sector

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has ringfenced $50 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund for the development of geothermal projects, Regional Development and Resources Minister Shane Jones says.

“Early-stage geothermal exploration involves high upfront costs. Targeted government investment will help de-risk exploration and get more projects off the ground,” Mr Jones says.

“Given the scale of opportunity, it makes sense to ringfence $50m to help de-risk and ensure geothermal projects are well-positioned to lift productivity and strengthen regional resilience,” Mr Jones says.

In New Zealand, geothermal energy accounts for about 20 percent of our electricity supply. Geothermal heat can also have direct industrial and commercial uses such as in timber or milk drying, heating glasshouses for horticulture, or water for prawn farms. It’s also used to heat buildings and water in hospitals, homes and tourist spas.  

Three projects have so far been successful in seeking funding, totalling $23m, from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF).

“Through this ringfenced funding, two $10m loans have been granted to two projects – the Taumanu and Kopura geothermal projects near Rotomā and Kawerau,” Mr Jones says.

The projects involve early work needed to potentially unlock two new geothermal power stations for electricity generation. It includes underground surveys and the exploration well-drilling and testing necessary to confirm the geothermal resource.

The funding for the Taumanu and Kopura Projects will be delivered through joint ventures between renewable energy company Eastland Generation and local Māori land trusts. 

“These are early-stage projects that, if successful, have the potential to develop additional renewable, reliable, low-emissions, home‑grown energy, while helping boost Māori economic development, jobs, and long‑term regional growth and resilience,” Mr Jones says.

Around 140 jobs are expected during construction, with up to 20 permanent roles once the power stations are operating and opportunities for local suppliers.

A third project, in the Bay of Plenty, has received a $3m grant. The Whakatāne Geothermal Temperature Gradient Well Programme is a project run by the University of Auckland through the Geothermal Institute. It plans to drill three exploratory wells in Whakatāne to provide data that will reduce geological uncertainty and enable future development of renewable heat supply for industrial and community users in the eastern Bay of Plenty.

Relevant projects which meet the criteria and have already applied to the RIF will be considered for the ring-fenced funding. Applications for new projects will also be accepted for consideration.

Successful projects will be announced when they have been evaluated and ministers have made decisions.

Today’s funding announcements follow on from the $60m ringfenced for supercritical geothermal announced in November 2024. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/17/rif-funding-underpins-geothermal-sector/

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Kārearea NZ falcon breeding in Auckland’s Hūnua Ranges

Source: Radio New Zealand

It is estimated that there are 5000-8000 native falcons (kārearea) in Aotearoa. File photo. Supplied / Paul O’Hagan

Native bush falcons are breeding at Auckland’s Hūnua Ranges after years of uncertainty about the species’ future.

It is estimated that there are 5000-8000 native falcons (kārearea) in the country. They are classified as ‘Threatened – Nationally Increasing’.

But a 40-day observation of kārearea at Hūnua this summer – commissioned by Auckland Council – led to the discovery of a breeding pair raising two fledglings.

Auckland Council spokesperson Paul Duffy said it was a significant finding.

“This study gives us the first clear evidence that kārearea are successfully breeding in the Te Ngāherehere o Kohukohunui Hūnua Ranges.

“It also shows that intensive predator management and ground-based trapping are giving this threatened species the chance to make a comeback in the Auckland region.”

Not to be mistaken with the more common swamp harrier (kāhu), which glides slowly, the smaller kārearea is New Zealand’s fastest bird, capable of high-speed pursuit through the forest canopy.

Kārearea nest on or near the ground in a simple hollow known as a ‘scrape’, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable to predators such as cats, mustelids, pigs, and possums.

Kārearea specialist Chifuyu Horikoshi, who led the field work, said the result was “incredibly encouraging”.

“Watching kārearea hunt through native forest is breathtaking; they are exceptionally fast, agile, and intelligent birds truly built for pursuit.

“Seeing them deliver prey and continue caring for their young shows this habitat is supporting their full breeding cycle.”

The survey was undertaken between December 2025 and February 2026, and was the first formal assessment of kārearea presence and breeding activity in the park.

Residents are encouraged to report sightings through citizen science platforms such as iNaturalist or eBird, and to include photographs if possible to help with identification.

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/2026/03/17/karearea-nz-falcon-breeding-in-aucklands-hunua-ranges/