Category: Middle East

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National Party politicians rule out leadership bid

Source: Radio New Zealand

Education Minister Erica Stanford has often been tipped as a possible leadership contender. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Education Minister Erica Stanford has been damning in her assessment of last week’s disastrous poll result for National, calling it a “bad week” for the party and for the caucus.

Speculation has been swirling about Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s leadership after the Taxpayers’ Union Curia Poll result put National on 28.4 per cent – the party’s lowest result since Luxon became leader.

Asked on Tuesday whether she was happy with the result, Stanford – often tipped as a possible leadership contender – said: “No, of course not”.

“We’ve got to do a lot better as a party, all of us pull together, we’ve got to respect what voters are telling us,” she said.

In addition to the horror poll, Luxon also struggled to articulate the government’s position on the Iran conflict and flubbed his answers to questions on the same topic at his post-Cabinet press conference last week.

Asked whether it was a bad week for the prime minister, Stanford said the result reflected poorly on the party.

“I would say it’s a bad week for the National Party and our caucus, and we’ve got to do better all of us together, pull together and remember that our focus is on the New Zealand people, and in my case, raising student achievement,” Stanford said.

Any speculation she was vying for the top job was “reporters interviewing their own typewriters”, Stanford said, adding that she supported the prime minister “100 percent”.

On Tuesday afternoon, Stanford ruled out making any bids for the leadership.

“We have a leader, he’s doing a really good job, and I am part of a high-performing team just doing my job, reforming the education system.”

In a busy day in Parliament – when the Covid-19 inquiry report was released, National MP and Minister Shane Reti announced his retirement, and MP Mariameno Kapa-Kingi was reinstated to Te Pāti Māori by the High Court – National Party ministers and backbenchers were resolute in their support of the prime minister.

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said he had “no intentions” to run for the top job. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said he backed Luxon and looked forward to the coming election campaign.

Asked whether he wanted to be the leader, he repeatedly said he had “no intentions” to run for the top job but also refused to rule out a future bid.

“It’s got nothing to do with me… I’m not here to answer questions about me running for the leadership, because, as you know, I support the prime minister.”

Tim Costley, MP for Ōtaki, said that asking Luxon to step down, should his polling worsen, had never crossed his mind.

“We’ve got a strong caucus. We’ve got 49. We’re looking great.”

Banks Peninsula MP Vanessa Weenink said she was not concerned about her seat, which was one of the most marginal at the last election.

“I’m not worried about my job. I’m not worried about my seat. I’m worried about the country if we have an alternative government.”

Takinini MP Rima Nakhle put her level of support for the prime minister at “123 percent”, while Upper Harbour MP Cameron Brewer said the caucus was unified.

“We respect the guy, we’re tight, we’re disciplined, and you can see that with all our answers in the last 72 hours. You know, we actually just want to get on with the job.”

The prime minister himself continued to brush off concerns about the poll, telling reporters on Tuesday that the party’s caucus meeting would feature normal business, adding the team was “really united, really focused, really driven”.

But Labour leader Chris Hipkins blasted National for getting itself into “one heck of a mess”.

“They promised they were going to fix the economy, they’ve shrunk it. They promised they were going to get Kiwis into work, more Kiwis are unemployed now. They promised they were going to fix government debt, government debt’s gone up. They promised they were going to fix the cost of living, the cost of living’s got harder for New Zealand households.

“Whether it’s Christopher Luxon or one of the other ministers who was involved in all of those decisions leading the National Party, the problem is they haven’t done what they said they were going to do.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/national-party-politicians-rule-out-leadership-bid/

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Government may offer asylum to Iranian female football players, Seymour says

Source: Radio New Zealand

Iranian players saluting for the national anthem after being reprimanded for not singing in an earlier match. AFP

The New Zealand government may offer asylum to Iranian female football players in Australia who are likely to face persecution if they return to their home country.

The ABC reported that five players are currently being protected by police in Queensland after evading their team handlers at their Gold Coast accommodation.

The players, Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh and Mona Hamoudi, refused to sing the national anthem before their opening match with South Korea at the Women’s Asian Cup earlier this month, the ABC said.

It said fears that the players would be targeted by the Iranian regime when they returned home have grown after Iranian state TV labelled them as “traitors,” the ABC said.

US President Donald Trump has urged Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant the whole team asylum.

In a post on his social media platform, Trump said: “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Woman’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Mr. Prime Minister, give ASYLUM. The U.S. will take them if you won’t.”

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour. RNZ / Mark Papalii

On First Up, Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour was asked if Australia should grant the players asylum – or if New Zealand should offer it.

Seymour said the Australian government had to make that decision based on law and it didn’t help “for their cousins across the ditch to start lobbying advice at them”.

But Seymour said it was a humanitarian question.

“Any sort-of lay person would sit there and say ‘do they have a well-founded fear of persecution of they return to their home country?’ I think the common sense answer is that they do.

“Would a country like Australia, or New Zealand for that matter, want to help people in that situation? I think the answer is we would, so let’s let the Australian government work through that question according to law as they have to.

“But I think any person looking at it would come to a pretty obvious answer in their heart and mind.”

Seymour said New Zealand has done something similar for refugees/aslyum seekers in the past.

“Perhaps the New Zealand government will do something like that today.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/government-may-offer-asylum-to-iranian-female-football-players-seymour-says/

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Jessie Buckley, Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson and Michelle Williams Wear Desert Diamonds on The Red Carpet at The 32nd Actors Awards

Source: Media Outreach

Today’s biggest stars express individuality and confidence with natural diamonds

LOS ANGELES, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – At this year’s The Actor Awards, the red carpet was illuminated with natural diamonds worn by some of the acting world’s most respected talents, with Desert diamonds taking center stage.

Jessie Buckley, Rose Byrne, Kate Hudson and Michelle Williams at the Actors Awards wear natural diamonds; Photo Credits: Getty Images

Leading entertainers wore natural diamonds in ranges of shades from sunlit whites to cognacs that spoke to individuality, creativity and brilliance. Natural diamonds shone brightly on award winners Jessie Buckley and Michelle Williams, while nominees Kate Hudson and Rose Byrne proudly wore natural diamonds from Botswana and Namibia, respectively. In an array of shapes and designs, natural diamonds — especially in the latest Desert diamond hues — blended timeless elegance with effortless style.

Desert diamonds

Desert diamonds, ranging from sunlit whites to pale cognacs, were a defining presence of the evening, reinforcing the growing appetite for naturally warm-toned stones.

Kate Hudson embraced the trend in custom Emily P. Wheeler designs, including an open torque necklace centered with a pale cognac Desert diamond, two circular bubble statement rings featuring Desert diamond center stones sourced from Botswana, and a reinterpretation of the brand’s signature “twist” silhouette set with an east-west moval cognac diamond. She completed the look with bubble fringe earrings accented by pale cognac Desert diamond center stones.

Rose Byrne also opted for Desert diamonds, wearing sunlit white natural diamonds sourced from Namibia by Messika, including the brand’s EM Divine Enigma rings and Sirenetta earrings.

Michelle Williams selected additional Messika designs featuring natural diamonds from Namibia, including the Créoles PM Snake Dance earrings and the Totem Coeur ring.

Jessie Buckley had her own take on the trend in warm white Desert diamond earrings, a diamond button back necklace and a pear-shaped natural diamond button-back ring, all by Jessica McCormack.

Statement Earrings

Earrings of every silhouette and scale took center stage, emerging as one of the evening’s most defining jewelry statements. Chandelier styles proved particularly prominent, with Chase Infiniti in striking De Beers London desert-hued statement earrings, Mindy Kaling in Bucherer Fine Jewellery, and Demi Moore in a luminous Harry Winston set. Calista Flockhart wore dramatic large-scale natural diamond feather earrings by LEVIEV.
Medium-sized circular silhouettes also made a strong showing. Zanna Roberts Rassi selected Martin Katz circle diamond earrings; Hannah Einbinder opted for square hoop styles by Fope; Rhea Seehorn chose Marco Bicego teardrop hoops; and Kristen Bell wore diamond drops by Messika.
More closely cropped, ear-hugging designs offered a modern counterpoint. Yerin Ha wore David Yurman’s floating diamond shrimp earrings, while Teyana Taylor selected Tiffany & Co. ear clips.
The most prevalent style across the carpet, however, was the diamond stud. Seen on Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, Connor Storrie, Tyler, the Creator, Miles Caton, and Sarah Pidgeon (in Rahaminov Diamonds), the classic stud reaffirmed its status as a timeless classic.

Neck-Hugging Diamonds

Close-to-the-neck necklaces emerged as the evening’s most prominent neckwear trend, with torques, structured collars, and sculptural diamond designs defining the category. Sarah Paulson’s Boucheron necklace exemplified the look, as did Sheryl Lee Ralph’s De Beers London design. Connor Storrie made a confident statement in a Tiffany & Co. mixed cluster diamond collar, while Rhea Seehorn opted for a more understated yet striking Marco Bicego piece. Teyana Taylor, Ali Larter, and Wunmi Mosaku further embraced the trend in bold, closely cropped designs from Tiffany & Co., Repossi, and Messika, respectively.

Statement Rings

Statement rings served as a refined finishing touch. Kristen Bell selected the Messika by Kate Moss Exotic Charm ring, adding a sculptural accent to her ensemble. Connor Storrie opted for a statement design from Tiffany & Co., while Tyler, the Creator embraced a large yellow diamond ring, further solidifying the continued interest in warm-toned Desert diamonds. Wunmi Mosaku chose a substantial Messika ring and Zanna Roberts Rassi rounded out the trend with two standout Martin Katz designs: a modified heart rose-cut trillion diamond ring accented with microset diamonds in platinum, and a two row Asscher-cut diamond eternity band in 18kt white gold.

Desert diamonds highlight natural stones shaped by time and the elements, each one carrying the spirit of the land. They form a unique link between the earth and those who wear them.

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Hashtag: #adiamondisforever #naturaldiamonds #diamonds #Desertdiamonds #ACTORSAWARDS

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/2026/03/09/jessie-buckley-rose-byrne-kate-hudson-and-michelle-williams-wear-desert-diamonds-on-the-red-carpet-at-the-32nd-actors-awards/

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Advocacy – Government needs to close “back-door” method of restricting rights using proposed “move-on orders” – PSNA

Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa

 

PSNA has written to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith today requesting proposed ‘move-on’ laws will specifically continue to allow free speech and the right to protest under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.

 

The approach to government comes in the wake of last week’s attempt by Christchurch City Councillor, Aaron Keown, to close down Palestine solidarity protests at Christchurch’s Bridge of Remembrance. 

 

As reported on Radio New Zealand Keown is insisting the police are keen to use the proposed new laws to shift protests on:

 

Keown said police told him months ago that they needed powers like the proposed move-on orders, which he believed would help disperse protesters.

Councillor Keown welcomed the newly announced move-on powers, which he believed would “absolutely help” disperse protesters, something Woods (Amnesty International director of advocacy and movement building Lisa Woods) said was of grave concern to Amnesty International.

 

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa’s Co-chair, John Minto says Keown’s statements contradict assurances made by senior police when a PSNA delegation met with them two weeks ago in Wellington to discuss increasing attacks on Palestine solidarity supporters by IDF soldiers and other elements of the pro-Israel lobby. 

 

“At the meeting police specifically told our delegation these ‘move-on’ orders would NOT be used to restrict protest rights.”

 

“So, there is a mass of confusion around over the proposed new law.”

“We need the Justice Minister to use clear wording, when he introduces legislation into Parliament, that anyone exercising their rights under the Bill of Rights Act will not be included.”

 

“We already have many laws which were introduced for a particular purpose, but which have been used to restrict the right to protest – for example trespass orders and ‘unlawful assembly’ provisions under the Crimes Act,” Minto says.

 

“New Zealanders rights to free speech and right to protest in public are under attack. Last year police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority colluded to propose legislation which would have required police permission to organise a protest”

 

“Authoritarian regimes the world over are putting heavy restriction on the right to protest. Many of them claim to be democracies.  It’s important we resist jack-boot policing here.”

 

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/advocacy-government-needs-to-close-back-door-method-of-restricting-rights-using-proposed-move-on-orders-psna/

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Politics live: Christopher Luxon responds to poll result

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance minster Nicola Willis is joining Christopher Luxon at the weekly post-Cabinet media conference, with an update on the economy. But attention is likely to fall on the Prime Minister with questions about his leadership, the polls and Iran.

Follow all the latest news with RNZ’s live blog.

The prime minister is facing disastrous poll numbers, while also dealing with global issues, as missiles continue to tear through Middle Eastern skies.

Pressure is mounting on the Christopher Luxon with a poll result last week putting National in the 20s.

Listen to the PM’s appearance on Morning Report here:

Luxon batted away questions last week about stepping down as party leader following the latest Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll that had National on 28.4 – down nearly 3 points from its poll last month.

Luxon said on Friday evening none of his Cabinet colleagues had told him to reconsider his future, saying “all of them” back him.

He said he was “absolutely not” considering standing down and said he had the skills to lead the National Party and the country.

Luxon also made a personal explanation in the House on Tuesday night, after he stated incorrectly the government was automatically extending visas for people in New Zealand affected by the war in Iran.

RNZ / Angus Dreaver

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/politics-live-christopher-luxon-responds-to-poll-result/

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1win Arranges Private Charter Flights for VIP Clients Leaving the UAE Amid Aviation Disruptions

Source: Media Outreach

DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – As aviation disruptions continue in the Gulf region following reports of a drone strike near Dubai International Airport, global company 1win has organized a private evacuation operation for its VIP clients currently in the United Arab Emirates.

“Safety first,” the Owner of 1win commented on X. “When airports in Dubai closed, and many were stranded, not knowing how to get out, in less than a day, we organized the evacuation of our VIP clients on all private jets, so they could return home safely without waiting for the situation to stabilize. We are here to support you in any situation.”

Commercial aviation in the region has been heavily disrupted. The airline Emirates temporarily suspended flights to and from Dubai International Airport, urging passengers not to travel to the airport until the security situation stabilizes. Several international routes have also been cancelled in the coming weeks as airlines reassess operational risks.

To provide additional flexibility for VIP clients who were unable or unwilling to rely on disrupted commercial flights, 1win coordinated private aviation options with several international charter operators. The initiative focused on offering direct departures from airports in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to destinations across Latin America, Asia, and the CIS region.

Industry reports indicate that demand for business aviation in the UAE has surged sharply as travelers seek alternatives to disrupted commercial flights. Several aviation outlets and international media reported a significant spike in private jet charters and sharply rising prices for departures from Dubai, reflecting the growing demand for alternative travel options during the crisis.

1win’s charter program remains ongoing, with additional aircraft arranged depending on client travel needs.

Hashtag: #1win

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

About 1win

Founded in 2016, 1win is a crypto platform in the global gaming industry. Operating across Asia, Latin America, and Africa, 1win offers a wide range of services adapted to regional audiences. In 2024, 1win partnered with actor Johnny Sins as its brand ambassador. In 2025, MMA legend Jon Jones joined 1win as its global ambassador. American professional wrestler and mixed martial artist, Gable Steveson, stepped into the 1win global ambassador team earlier this year.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/1win-arranges-private-charter-flights-for-vip-clients-leaving-the-uae-amid-aviation-disruptions/

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Super Rugby Pacific: Crusaders win a ‘turning point’ for Blues

Source: Radio New Zealand

Blues winger Caleb Clarke scores a second half try during the Super Rugby Pacific – Blues v Crusaders at Eden Park, Auckland, New Zealand. Photosport

Prior to the weekend, an uncomfortable question had started to form in the Blues camp.

An increasingly one-sided rivalry against the Crusaders had the Blues begin to wonder whether a mental block had crept in when facing the perennial powerhouses.

Heading into Saturday night’s 29-13 win at Eden Park, the Blues had won just three of 23 against the Crusaders dating back to 2014.

Skipper Dalton Papali’i, playing in his first home game since bringing up his 100th cap the previous weekend against the Brumbies in Canberra, has endured a rough run against the Cantabs during his Blues’ career.

“I’ve only beaten them twice before in my career, third time tonight. So it’s always been a tough ride against them. Every team has that one team you always struggle with.”

Blues coach Vern Cotter said earlier in the week that the record against the Crusaders spoke for itself, and may have acted as a motivator for his troops.

“It was said, so I think the players said ‘we’ve had enough of that.’ I think it was more about us than the record. It was about us playing our game, imposing our game on them and you see what happens. I think that’s a real turning point for this team, knowing that when we do it right and we focus on it during the week, then put it out in the paddock.”

Papali’i said the head to head history can be given too much credence.

“You talk about that mental barrier, and in the years that we’ve played them and we’ve lost, we maybe push it a bit too much throughout the week and talk a bit too much about them.

“But the times I have beat them, we focused on ourselves. You study the other team as you always do, but then you’ve got to look within yourselves and actually find the buttons that push you to go forward.”

The All Blacks flanker said despite dropping two of three to start their campaign, the confidence did not wane.

“Tonight was no surprise, the whole week we were building and we weren’t panicking on the results, we talked our forward pack wanting to be dogs out there.

“I feel like when we have our attitude right, then we’re a team that can decide games and it’s all on us. I felt like we had the foot on the throat the whole game.

“I always think it is for a statement game as a forward pack to go against these guys.”

Elsewhere, the Hurricanes continued their dominance over the Waratahs, picking up their ninth win on the trot to shoot back up to third after the Lautoka slip.

The pace-setting Brumbies suffered their first loss, coming in dramatic and controversial fashion against the Reds.

Moana continue to look listless without Ardie Savea, with the Chiefs maintaining their unbeaten run against the bottom-placed battlers.

Jamie Joseph put the disappointment of missing out on the All Blacks job in the rear with a quality Highlanders win over the Force, with Caleb Tangitau continuing his stellar season in Dunedin.

Try of the round: Cody Vai’i’s miracle at Eden, launching himself to sensationally snag a Beauden Barrett crosskick and expertly grass it inches inside the line.

Stock rise: Highlanders flanker Veveni Lasaqa put in an absolute shift against the Force, bagging a try, three pilfers and making 17 tackles.

Stock drop: Taha Kemara was given the fullback jersey in Will Jordan’s absence, but made little impact from the back against the Blues, and was subbed at half-time.

Super Rugby standings after four rounds:

1. Brumbies

2. Chiefs

3. Hurricanes

4. Blues

5. Waratahs

6. Reds

7. Highlanders

8. Crusaders

9. Fijian Drua

10. Force

11. Moana Pasifika

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/super-rugby-pacific-crusaders-win-a-turning-point-for-blues/

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How strong is support for Christopher Luxon? We’re about to find out

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Analysis – The Prime Minister has doubled down in the wake of a horror poll on Friday, saying he is “absolutely not” considering stepping aside from the top job.

Christopher Luxon did a last-minute interview on Newstalk ZB on Friday night after a day of speculation and mounting pressure over whether he could convincingly stay on as prime minister after a new poll showed National had hit 28 percent.

He told ZB, “if there was a problem, I would be doing something about it, but we are a long way away from what we’ve seen published in a TPU poll today”.

The Taxpayers’ Union-Curia poll showed the centre-Left bloc narrowly able to govern with 61 seats to the coalition government bloc’s 59 seats.

It had Labour up slightly on 34, while the Greens, ACT, and Te Pāti Māori were all up on 10.5, 7.5 and 3 respectively.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Education Minister Erica Stanford. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

On Monday, Luxon told RNZ’s Morning Report he wasn’t going anywhere, however, he also said he didn’t ask any of his MPs over the weekend if he had their support because, “they tell me regularly and it’s just not a question that needs to be asked”.

It’s a bold prime minister who assumes the support of his entire caucus after one of his worst weeks in the job, that was bookended by his inability to articulate the government’s position on the Iran conflict last Monday and a poll showing National below the red line of 30 on Friday.

How strong that support is will be made clear when his MPs gather at Parliament on Tuesday morning for their caucus meeting.

The National Party isn’t afraid to tell a few home-truths in their caucus meetings, and Luxon may well be on the receiving end of that this week.

Beyond his caucus’ reckons, the prime minister will also need to manage the concerns of his staff.

On Friday, there were murmurings that some senior staff were increasingly frustrated by their advice being ignored by Luxon and some of the government messaging no longer being convincing.

A poll putting National in the high 20s – the second public poll saying so since October last year – isn’t by any means the end of the prime minister’s career.

It will take a few more polls saying the same thing and a clear trend developing before the pressure will really mount.

At that point it’s those in his caucus who will be turfed out of Parliament first by a worsening National result who will start agitating.

Christopher Luxon and Transport Minister Chris Bishop. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

A potential result in the 20s in November will not only impact senior ministers relying on the success of the party list, such as Nicola Willis, Paul Goldsmith, and Gerry Brownlee, but will also be damaging to swing seats like Hutt South, currently held by Chris Bishop.

At the moment, all of the polling shows the party blocs in a position to govern are still neck-and-neck.

That keeps National very much still in the game.

Probably more concerning for Luxon were the favourability results from Friday’s poll showing his net favourability has fallen three points to -19, well behind Labour leader Chris Hipkins on -5.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Even New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is polling better on that score than Luxon with a score of -8, while closer to home Bishop received -14 and Erica Stanford scored -16.

MPs and ministers arriving at Parliament on Monday morning were all publicly backing Luxon, noting the poll wasn’t positive but the prime minister remained the best person to lead.

That will douse some of the speculation fire for today at least.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/how-strong-is-support-for-christopher-luxon-were-about-to-find-out/

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Kiwi Paul Coll wins third NZ Squash Open title

Source: Radio New Zealand

Paul Coll in action at the New Zealand Open in Christchurch. photosport

Squash star Paul Coll defended his New Zealand Open title in Christchurch on Sunday, with a dominant 11-7, 11-2, 11-5 victory over Egyptian teenager Mohamad Zakaria in the final.

It’s the Kiwi’s third successive New Zealand Open triumph.

Zakaria rallied from a 4-2 deficit to lead 8-7 in the opening game, but that’s where the points ended for the two-time junior world champion.

Coll lifted his intensity and dictated terms with superior court positioning, stringing together four consecutive points to take the game 11-8.

The West Coaster held that momentum in the second game and looked to capitalise on tired legs after Zakaria’s marathon semi-final triumph less than 24 hours prior.

The world number two looked to take the ball early and seemed more comfortable in the longer rallies knowing fatigue was becoming a factor. Coll won the first eight points after the resumption, before clinching the second game 11-2 to take a commanding 2-0 lead.

There was no stopping Coll from there with the finish line in sight in front of friends and family who made the trip from the West Coast. He maintained his level, putting the hammer down to win the third game 11-5 inside seven minutes.

A “stoked” Coll said claiming the title at the Isaac Theatre Royal stage meant a lot to him.

“I’m very happy to win the NZ Squash Open for the third time. I was feeling a bit nervous, he [Zakaria] had a monster match yesterday. I knew he was going to feel tired, but I was trying to put that out of my mind and play my squash,” Coll said.

With the win Coll extended his unbeaten record to 8-0 on the Isaac Theatre Royal stage and moved to a 27-1 overall record for PSA matches held in New Zealand.

“Last year all the players left here saying how good it was and it was such a good showcase for New Zealand. I’m sure it’ll be great in Palmerston North in 2027, I’ll definitely be back to try and make it four [in a row],” Coll said.

Earlier, the Christchurch crowd was treated to a sibling rivalry in the NZ Women’s Open decider as top seed Tinne Gilles held her nerve to beat younger sister Nele 11-6, 5-11, 12-10, 11-9 in 78 minutes.

It’s the Belgian’s first New Zealand Open title, and just her second win in 11 attempts on the PSA Tour against Nele.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/kiwi-paul-coll-wins-third-nz-squash-open-title/

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Palestine Forum of New Zealand Marks International Women’s Day

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

Honouring the Courage, Resilience, and Strength of Palestinian Women – Palestine Forum of New Zealand joins communities around the world in commemorating International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026. This year, we dedicate its observance to the extraordinary Palestinian women mothers, doctors, journalists, teachers, and activists who continue to demonstrate unparalleled courage and resilience in the face of ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.

As the global community reflects on the theme of gender equality and women’s rights, we call on New Zealanders and the international community to recognise that Palestinian women are not merely victims of circumstance; they are leaders, caregivers, and the backbone of their communities, holding families and societies together under conditions of extraordinary hardship.

The Untold Stories of Palestinian Women

Palestinian women have long stood at the forefront of their people’s struggle for dignity, self-determination, and survival. From the fields of Gaza to the refugee camps of the West Bank, Lebanese border towns, and the Palestinian diaspora worldwide, women have been the anchors of family life, cultural preservation, and community resistance.

Today, Palestinian women face compounding crises: displacement, loss of loved ones, restrictions on movement, and limited access to healthcare and education. Yet, in the face of these immense challenges, they continue to lead, educate, heal, and inspire. Their stories must be told, their voices must be amplified, and their humanity must be recognised.

Palestine Forum of New Zealand’s Call to Action

On this International Women’s Day, Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls upon:

•  The New Zealand Government to take a firm and principled stand in advocating for the protection of Palestinian women and children under international humanitarian law.

•  The United Nations and international human rights bodies should urgently investigate and address the specific and disproportionate impact of the ongoing conflict on Palestinian women.

•  New Zealanders from all walks of life are to stand in solidarity with Palestinian women to listen to their stories, support humanitarian aid organisations, and speak out against injustice.

•  Media organisations dedicate space and airtime to the voices of Palestinian women, ensuring their experiences shape the global narrative.

“Palestinian women do not ask for pity; they ask for justice. They ask for the world to see them as they truly are, strong, dignified, and deserving of every right that every woman on this Earth deserves. On this International Women’s Day, we say: “We see you, we stand with you, and we will not be silent.”

– Palestine Forum of New Zealand

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/palestine-forum-of-new-zealand-marks-international-womens-day/

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Super Rugby Pacific: Crusaders attack exposed in Will Jordan’s absence against Blues

Source: Radio New Zealand

All Black Will Jordan was rested for the Crusaders’ clash against the Blues. Martin Hunter/ActionPress

World class one week, woeful the next.

The Crusaders barely fired a shot against the Blues at Eden Park, a sloppy and disjointed performance seeing them succumb 29-13 to their old rivals.

Most worryingly, their clunky attack failed to make any real inroads on the Blues defence.

After looking so potent against the Chiefs, the Crusaders lacked direction just a week later, fumbling passes, kicking aimlessly and repeatedly caught behind the advantage line.

Such a drastic dip forces questions and the obvious answer – they were without their primary weapon, Will Jordan, with the All Black rested for the round four clash.

Do the Crusaders rely on their sensational fullback too heavily? Coach Rob Penney concedes they might.

“We talk about that a bit and that’s the last thing we want to,” he said. “He’s world class and he makes a massive impact for any team he’s in.

“We need to take heat off Jordy. Will’s just an amazing talent, and we want to make sure he can come here and play with freedom, not feel as though he’s a critical piece.”

Penney described it as an “ugly performance”.

“Really disappointing,” he admitted. “We were messy, couldn’t get any rhythm.

“Looked as though we were a bit flat, didn’t bring any intensity really. We’ve got some talented players and we were inexplicably error-ridden tonight.

“There wouldn’t be too many that could put their hand up and say it wasn’t me.”

Handling errors plagued them throughout.

“You could see a lot of them were at times when there wasn’t a lot of defensive pressure on, so we can’t blame excess pressure. The boys are better than that.

“It’s hard to put your finger on when good players are making errors.”

They also had a Jamie Hannah try disallowed, due to an earlier high shot by Dom Gardiner.

“They’re big momentum shifters. We’re disappointed that we work hard on keeping our shots down, our tackle height down.

“We didn’t need to be in that position. Very frustrating, because it was a nice try and we’d fought our way back, so big turnaround.”

After their stunning upset win over the Chiefs, the Crusaders have now lost three of their first four matches to begin their title defence.

“It probably does feel as though we haven’t certainly made the progress we would’ve liked on the back of last week,” said Penney.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/super-rugby-pacific-crusaders-attack-exposed-in-will-jordans-absence-against-blues/

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Iranian diaspora form human chain on Wellington waterfront

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ali Jafari-Gh, an Iranian-born academic who teaches at Massey University, at a demonstration in Wellington on Saturday, to show support for those in Iran living under repression. RNZ/ Penny Smith

Members of New Zealand’s Iranian community and their supporters have formed a human chain on Wellington’s waterfront, calling attention to the situation in Iran and expressing solidarity with people they say are living under repression.

About 60 people from the Iranian diaspora and their supporters stood hand-in-hand for about an hour holding placards and flags, on the capital’s waterfront behind Frank Kitts Park.

Protesters said they organised the event to draw attention to what they describe as widespread unrest and government crackdowns inside the country.

Many participants said they had family members in Iran and were concerned about their safety.

Protesters calling for international support for people protesting against Iran’s government. RNZ/ Penny Smith

Among those attending was Ali Jafari-Gh, an Iranian-born academic who teaches animal science at Massey University.

Originally from Karaj, near Tehran, Jafari-Gh said he had recently travelled to Iran over the New Year period and witnessed protests first-hand.

He joined demonstrations during his visit and was injured when security forces opened fire.

“I was hit in the foot by gunfire,” he said.

“Many of the people out on the streets were young, and thousands came out to protest.”

Ali Jafari-Gh says he was shot in the foot while attending protests in Iran earlier this year. RNZ/ Penny Smith

Ali Jafari-Gh said the experience reinforced his decision to speak publicly in New Zealand about the situation in his home country.

Shirin, who has lived in New Zealand for about 13 years after leaving Iran, said she joined the demonstration to show support for people protesting against the government.

Shirin took part in the human chain protest in Wellington on Saturday. RNZ/ Penny Smith

“People raised their voices because life has become very hard,” Shirin said.

“Many innocent people have been killed or arrested. We are here to support them and show they are not alone.”

Several protesters said they supported international strikes against Iranian government targets, describing them as a necessary intervention rather than a war.

Dr Reza Farhour, a general practitioner who has lived in New Zealand for more than a decade, said demonstrators believed the action was aimed at helping ordinary Iranians rather than harming them.

“We do not see what is happening as a war,” he said.

“We see it as a rescue mission for the Iranian people. People have tried for decades to change the system peacefully and were met with bullets and prison.”

Dr Reza Farhour RNZ/ Penny Smith

Farhour said the aim of the gathering was also to bring attention to what he described as a lack of information coming out of the country.

“The main aim is to echo the Iranian voice, which is shut down by the government,” he said.

“There is no internet and no media coverage there, so we want people here to know what is happening.”

Participants said communication with relatives in Iran had become increasingly difficult due to internet shutdowns and media restrictions.

Amir, who has lived in New Zealand for more than 16 years, said he had struggled to reach family members in recent weeks.

“Our families are living in fear, but they are also hopeful,” he said.

“Nobody wants their country to be under attack, but many people believe this operation could help free them from the regime.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/iranian-diaspora-form-human-chain-on-wellington-waterfront/

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Thailand Unveils Public–Private Alliance to Lead Asia’s Wellness Economy Revolution BDMS Wellness Clinic Rises as National Orchestrator of a Science-Powered, Luxury-Integrated Wellness Ecosystem

Source: Media Outreach

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 March 2026 – BDMS Wellness Clinic, the preventive healthcare center under Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited (BDMS), is spearheading a defining new chapter in Thailand’s national development strategy through strategic partnerships with public and private sectors both locally and internationally — including collaboration with the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), the preeminent global research and advisory organization dedicated to advancing the wellness economy, widely recognized for its data-driven industry intelligence, economic impact reports, and policy guidance shaping wellness markets worldwide. Together with global biotechnology pioneers including Illumina, Abbott, Straumann Group, and Gene Solutions, and further strengthened by distinguished GCC partners such as Neem Hospital and the MODAWI Platform, BDMS Wellness Clinic is forging a powerful bridge between Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Complemented by leading Thai institutions including National Healthcare Systems (N Health), Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), this alliance reflects an unprecedented convergence of science, policy, infrastructure, and international collaboration — reinforcing Thailand’s rise as Asia’s premier Wellness Economy hub.

Tanupol Virunhagarun, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Public Company Limited

A Multi-Sector Coalition at Unprecedented Scale

Led and orchestrated by BDMS Wellness Clinic, this alliance represents one of the most holistic cross-industry coalitions in Thailand’s health and tourism landscape. As the central integrator, BDMS Wellness Clinic unites public agencies, aviation leaders, hospitality icons, financial institutions, and global biotechnology innovators into a single, strategically aligned Wellness Ecosystem. Key national partners include the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd., and the Thai Spa Association, with regional connectivity strengthened by Bangkok Airways. The luxury and lifestyle dimension features Sri panwa Phuket, CELES SAMUI, Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok, Dusit Thani Bangkok, King Power Corporation, Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., and Lancôme by L’Oréal Thailand.

Healthcare infrastructure and precision diagnostics are reinforced by National Healthcare Systems (N Health), enabling advanced laboratory networks, cross-border clinical data integration, and continuity of care. This capability is further elevated through collaboration with global medical and biotechnology leaders — Straumann Group in advanced dental innovation, Illumina in genomic sequencing, Abbott in precision diagnostics, and Gene Solutions in next-generation molecular testing.

Through this convergence of genomics, biomarker analytics, regenerative technology, and preventive medicine, BDMS Wellness Clinic delivers data-driven health optimization—from early disease detection and biological age assessment to personalized longevity programs. Together, under BDMS Wellness Clinic’s leadership, these partners form a fully integrated, science-powered ecosystem that transforms preventive care into measurable outcomes—firmly positioning Thailand at the forefront of Asia’s Wellness Economy.

From Healthcare Provider to National Orchestrator

BDMS Wellness Clinic has evolved beyond the traditional role of a healthcare provider to become the strategic integrator of Thailand’s Wellness Ecosystem—serving as the “National Orchestrator” uniting public institutions, private enterprises, academia, and global partners under one coordinated vision. Its mission extends far beyond treatment: to optimize healthspan, precise longevity science, and build a sustainable ecosystem where wellness becomes both a national economic engine and a form of diplomatic soft power. By synchronizing infrastructure, policy, aviation, hospitality, finance, and biotechnology, BDMS Wellness Clinic is repositioning Thailand from a destination known primarily for leisure and elective care into a global epicenter of evidence-based preventive medicine and measurable health optimization.

BDMS Wellness Clinic with Wellness Literacy: The Foundation of Sustainable Global Leadership

Sustainable global leadership demands more than world-class facilities—it requires a new generation of visionaries, scientists, and industry leaders equipped to redefine the future of health. BDMS Wellness Clinic has therefore launched a transformative Wellness Literacy strategy designed to cultivate world-class human capital, elevate professional standards, and shape a knowledge-driven ecosystem that positions Thailand at the forefront of preventive medicine and longevity science in Asia and beyond.

Through strategic alliances with leading institutions—including Thammasat University and King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) in Thailand, as well as the University of Sharjah (UAE) and Singapore Management University (SMU)—BDMS Wellness Clinic is co-developing advanced curricula in preventive medicine, longevity science, and wellness management. These collaborations are establishing a new Asian benchmark for preventive healthcare education while producing a future-ready workforce for the global wellness economy. Beyond academia, BDMS Wellness Clinic is empowering entrepreneurs and industry operators nationwide, equipping hospitality, spa, and lifestyle businesses with measurable wellness standards—elevating Thailand’s entire value chain to international levels of excellence.

From Thailand to the World: BDMS Wellness Clinic’s Global Wellness Network

Extending its ecosystem beyond national borders, BDMS Wellness Clinic has forged strategic alliances with Neem Hospital—a leading private healthcare institution in the Sultanate of Oman known for its integrated clinical services and patient-centered care—and the MODAWI Platform, a digital health coordination platform that streamlines medical referrals, clinical data exchange, and cross-border care navigation.

Together, these partnerships establish a seamless referral and clinical integration network linking the GCC region with BDMS Wellness Clinic services. By combining hospital-based clinical excellence with digital health infrastructure, the model ensures continuity of care across borders—enabling patients to transition smoothly from initial consultation in the Middle East to advanced diagnostics, genomics, and longevity programs.

The Proof of Concept: “The Journey Within”

The flagship initiative, “The Journey Within,” translates vision into execution—serving as the living blueprint of the Wellness Ecosystem envisioned by BDMS Wellness Clinic. Anchored in three seamlessly integrated pillars—Travel, Stay, and Scientific Wellness—the concept redefines how a nation can deliver holistic, outcome-driven health experiences.

  • Travel: Luxury aviation partnerships, streamlined entry facilitation, and curated collaborations with lifestyle partners—ensuring effortless arrival and a seamless transition into an elevated wellness journey.
  • Stay: Curated luxury hospitality designed to immerse guests in restorative comfort and elevated living.
  • Scientific Wellness: Technological diagnostics, genomics, and precision-driven longevity programs delivering measurable health transformation.

For more information about The Journey Within, click https://bdmswellness.co/40LNk4v

https://www.bdmswellness.com/en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bdmswellnessclinic/
https://www.facebook.com/bdmswellnessclinicinternational
https://www.instagram.com/bdmswellnessinternational/?hl=en

Hashtag: #BDMSWellnessClinic #สุขภาพที่ดีเริ่มที่การป้องกัน #LiveLongerHealthierHappier #PreventiveMedicine #LifestyleMedicine #ScientificWellness #WellnessHubThailand

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/2026/03/07/thailand-unveils-public-private-alliance-to-lead-asias-wellness-economy-revolution-bdms-wellness-clinic-rises-as-national-orchestrator-of-a-science-powered-luxury-integrated-wellness/

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Israel, US intensify attacks on Iran as war hits 7th day

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above.

The conflict in Iran continues to widen.

In Azerbaijan, two people have been injured after Iranian drones hit an airport and landed near a school building.Explosions have been heard over Bahrain and Qatar.

Evacuation notices have been issued for southern parts of Lebanon’s capital Beirut, Israel is attacking strongholds of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military says it has continued its attacks on Iran.

And, US President Donald Trump told news outlet Axios that he needs to personally be involved in selecting Iran’s new leader.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/israel-us-intensify-attacks-on-iran-as-war-hits-7th-day/

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Analysis: What would it take for Christopher Luxon to quit as prime minister?

Source: Radio New Zealand

One of Luxon’s weaknesses in the top job is his inability to take feedback. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Analysis – If anyone is going to convince Christopher Luxon it’s time to step aside from the prime ministership, it’s his forerunner and friend Sir John Key.

The pair are close, and throughout Luxon’s time at the helm he has checked in almost weekly with the former prime minister.

One of Luxon’s weaknesses in the top job has been his inability to take feedback from colleagues, staff or officials. That has even extended to Key on occasions, where it’s understood Luxon has been keen to do most of the talking while Key has been left to do the listening.

Another Achilles’ heel is Luxon’s complete lack of self-doubt.

It’s understood those two personality traits have more recently extended to him not reading focus group reports because much of the criticism is that it’s Luxon who is the problem.

Key and Luxon usually catch up at the weekend, and while their chat in the next 48 hours is more likely to focus on what Luxon needs to change to reclaim the narrative, if he has had any doubt seep in about his future in the job then Key would also be first port of call for how best to manage his exit.

Their talks come after a disastrous week for Luxon bookended with woeful interviews on Monday and a poll sliding National below 30, to 28.4 percent, on Friday.

Sir John Key. Tim Collins

That Taxpayers’-Union Curia poll would see the centre-left bloc slide into power, but only just, with 61 seats to the coalition government’s 59.

This is the second public poll to have National below 30 since October last year – the same pollster had National on 29.6.

Luxon says he doesn’t read into or comment on polls, but the fact the two sliding National below that red line of 30 were conducted by their own internal pollster makes it more difficult for the prime minister to ignore.

If National is going to hit the nuclear button on a new leader it needs to consider the political landscape at play.

For a start, a change of leader does not always lead to a change of fortunes.

Secondly, a new leader will be coming into the job at the exact point in the electoral cycle where the coalition parties are trying to present a strong and stable government while simultaneously trying to distinguish themselves from each other.

The step-up from minister to prime minister is enormous on its own, let alone when it also requires that person to work both with and against experienced and politically savvy operators David Seymour and Winston Peters.

David Seymour and Winston Peters. RNZ

National MPs were already spooked before Friday’s poll landed.

Luxon’s failure to articulate a clear message on Iran early in the week had some commenting that his communicating to the public, via the media, had got worse over time rather than better.

At this point the National Party looks to be sitting on an orange alert, but it wouldn’t take much to slide into red. The triggers for that will be either Luxon deciding he’s had enough (the least likely of scenarios), those closest to Luxon (his wife Amanda, and Key) convincing him the best path is stepping aside, or the caucus and his staff making it clear on Tuesday when Parliament is back sitting that he no longer has their confidence.

Any decision to change leader will need to consider what impact it could have on National’s coalition partners.

Peters and Seymour wouldn’t tolerate any change to the coalition agreements and commitments already made by Luxon, and if a fresh leader had desires to do so then it would be game-on for New Zealand First and Act to renegotiate and ask a high price.

While all of these considerations go on in the background, those fancying themselves as the next prime minister will be spending the weekend weighing up the pros and cons.

Education Minister Erica Stanford has long been tipped as a future leader, while Housing and Transport Minister Chris Bishop will also be doing the maths.

He’s on his way to India to watch the T20 Cricket World Cup final between New Zealand and India in the wee hours of Monday morning (NZT).

If things start moving fast back home at the weekend, it wouldn’t be surprising if he got back on a plane before the first ball was bowled.

Luxon’s last engagement with the press gallery was on Wednesday at Parliament.

RNZ bumped into him briefly on Friday afternoon on the streets of Botany, but our questions all went unanswered.

He currently isn’t scheduled to front media again until his Monday morning regular slots, which is a very long time in politics.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/analysis-what-would-it-take-for-christopher-luxon-to-quit-as-prime-minister/

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Building ties with Brazil

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand will continue to build its relationship with Brazil, Latin America’s most populous country, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. 

“Our delegation’s visit to Brazil has highlighted a range of areas in which our two countries want to do more together, including agriculture, aviation, trade and investment, education and film collaboration.

“Brazil seriously matters to Latin America, and the world, and New Zealand will accordingly be investing more in our relationship here.

“In these uncertain and challenging times, it’s more important than ever that countries like Brazil and New Zealand, as mature, open democracies, work together closely.” 

 “Brazil is an influential player in global affairs, as the world’s eleventh largest economy in the world. That’s why New Zealand needs to be engaging frankly and at a senior political level with our Brazilian partners.”

 During his wide-ranging meetings with Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and other Brazilian Ministers, Mr Peters discussed areas with potential for enhanced bilateral cooperation, highlighted our shared interests in the development of the Pacific Islands region, and exchanged views on major international issues including recent developments in Venezuela and Iran.

 Mr Peters also reconnected with Ambassador Celso Amorim, Chief Foreign Affairs Adviser to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Ambassador Amorim was Foreign Minister when Mr Peters last visited Brazil in 2007.

 Foreign Ministers Peters and Vieira signed an Audio-Visual Co-Production Agreement, which will deepen New Zealand and Brazil’s screen industry ties and create fresh opportunities for filmmakers on both sides.

 Minister Peters also signed a comprehensive Education Cooperation Arrangement with Brazil’s Acting Minister of Education Leonardo Barchini.

 “Brazil is our largest source of students from Latin America, and more New Zealand students and researchers have come to Brazil over the last decade than ever before. We want to see these positive trends continue, and this arrangement will further strengthen these ties.”

 While in Brazil, Mr Peters also delivered a keynote speech on New Zealand’s relationship with Latin America as well as attending with the New Zealand Parliamentary and business delegation a Business Showcase focused on New Zealand companies’ innovative products and services in the Brazilian market.

In the speech, Mr Peters said: “We see Latin America as an important partner in addressing major global challenges, including building climate resilience, and boosting food and energy security … Put simply, New Zealand cannot expect to be able to progress initiatives in the international arena without Latin American cooperation. Your region matters enormously for us.”

The New Zealand Parliamentary and business delegation – which has this week completed programmes in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil – travels tomorrow to Chile (Santiago and Rapa Nui) and then on to French Polynesia.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/building-ties-with-brazil/

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Super Rugby preview: Barrett and D’Mac back, old rivals do battle

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Brumbies are winning the race after three rounds of Super Rugby. Brett Phibbs/Photosport

The Brumbies have galloped out of the gates, and after three rounds lead the Super Rugby field.

The two-time champs sit six points clear of the best placed New Zealand side the Chiefs, with the Waratahs still in second.

It was a rough week for Kiwis teams, the sole side to taste victory, the comeback kings, the Crusaders who picked up their first win of the season in a humdinger in Hamilton.

Despite the defeat, the Chiefs can count themselves almost a lock for try of the season, after Etene Nanai-Seturo’s length of the field stunner.

The Chiefs continue their run of derbies, though should expect an easier encounter on Friday night against an out of sorts Moana Pasifika.

Tana Umaga’s men were woeful against the Force, and they now find themselves at the bottom of the ladder with a wounded and dangerous Chiefs outfit awaiting.

The Hurricanes were dealt a cruel hand in Lautoka, forced to not only battle the heat but the wet in ‘sauna’ like conditions against the Drua.

They look to bounce back in an enticing clash in Sydney against the Waratahs, fresh off two wins and a bye.

The Highlanders were also luck-less in Brisbane, and head back under the roof to host the Force on Saturday afternoon.

The match of the round without a doubt is at Eden Park as two of Super’s greatest rivals go to battle.

The Crusaders turned around a poor start to their campaign with their 43-33 victory while the Blues had their hearts broken by the Brumbies.

Selection notes

All Black first five’s Beauden Barrett and Damian Mackenzie return for his first matches of the season.

Tupou Vai’i will skipper the Chiefs in the absence of Luke Jacobson Wallaby Lalakai Foeketi will get his first at centre. Augustine Pulu will make his debut for Moana Pasifika with Joel Lam and Tyler Pulini also to debut form the bench.

Angus Ta’avao returns for the Highlanders while the promising Lucas Casey has been left out of the 23.

All Black hooker Codie Taylor also returns for the Crusaders while Rivez Reihana is back at first five, with Taha Kemara dropping to 15, Will Jordan earning a rest.

Injury ward

Brett Cameron’s season has been confirmed to be over, while Ruben Love’s ankle is still anywhere from two to four weeks away from match fitness.

Luke Jacobson sits the week out with a hip complaint while Brodie McAlister will be back for week five. Moana have a packed casualty ward with Jimmy Tupou, Julian Savea, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Israel Leota and William Havili all out.

The Blues are low on locking stocks with Laghlan McWhannell and Patrick Tuipulotu both unavailable. Crusaders hooker George Bell suffered a foot injury last week and will be at least two weeks away.

Key stats

  • The Chiefs are 7-0 against Moana Pasifika.
  • Moana Pasifika have conceded 35 tries across their last four away games.
  • Hurricanes are on an eight game winning streak against the Waratahs.
  • Lehi Fineanganofo has scored eight tries across his last six starting appearances.
  • The Highlanders are on a six-game losing streak against teams from Australia.
  • Timoci Tavatavanawai has broken 36 tackle in his last five matches.
  • The Blues have won just once from their past ten encounters with the Crusaders at Eden Park.

Team lists

Chiefs vs Moana

Kick-off: 7:05pm Friday March 6

FMG Stadium, Hamilton

Live blog updates on RNZ

Chiefs:

1. Benet Kumeroa. 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho. 3. Reuben O’Neill. 4. Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi. 5. Tupou Vaa’i, who will captain the side. 6. Samipeni Finau. 7. Jahrome Brown. 8. Wallace Sititi. 9. Cortez Ratima. 10. Damian McKenzie. 11. Leroy Carter. 12. Quinn Tupaea, who is vice-captain. 13. Lalakai Foketi. 14. Emoni Narawa. 15. Liam Coombes-Fabling.

Bench: 16. Tyrone Thompson. 17. Ollie Norris. 18. George Dyer. 19. Josh Lord. 20. Simon Parker. 21. Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi. 22. Josh Jacomb. 23. Kyle Brown.

“It’s a very strong team for a game where we need to respond after we got a punch in the nose by the Crusaders.” – Chiefs coach Jonno Gibbs.

Moana Pasifika:

1. Abraham Pole 2. Millennium Sanerivi 3. Chris Apoua 4. Tom Savage 5. Allan Craig 6. Miracle Faiilagi (c) 7. Semisi Paea 8. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa 9. Augustine Pulu (debut) 10. Jackson Garden-Bachop 11. Solomon Alaimalo 12. Ngani Laumape 13. Tevita Latu 14. Tevita Ofa 15. Glen Vaihu

Bench: 16. Samiuela Moli 17. Malakai Hala-Ngatai 18. Lolani Faleiva 19. Ofa Tauatevalu 20. Ola Tauelangi 21. Joel Lam debut 22. Patrick Pellegrini 23. Tyler Pulini (debut.)

“The Chiefs always bring a great challenge and we know that we need to be accurate and come out strong from the start. As a team we’re focused on trusting what we can do and going out there and executing our game plan.” – Moana coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga

Waratahs vs Hurricanes

Kick-off: 9:35pm Friday March 6

Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Live blog updates on RNZ

Hurricanes:

1. Xavier Numia 2. Asafo Aumua (vc) 3. Pasilio Tosi 4. Warner Dearns 5. Isaia Walker-Leawere 6. Devan Flanders 7. Du’Plessis Kirifi (c) 8. Peter Lakai 9. Cam Roigard 10. Callum Harkin 11. Fehi Fineanganofo 12. Jordie Barrett 13. Billy Proctor 14. Bailyn Sullivan 15. Josh Moorby

Bench: 16. Jacob Devery 17. Siale Lauaki 18. Tevita Mafileo 19. Brad Shields 20. Brayden Iose 21. Ereatara Enari 22. Lucas Cashmore 23. Jone Rova

“They’re coming off a bye week, so they’ll be ready to go. We feel really prepared. We’ve travelled well and recovered well from Fiji.” – Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw.

Highlanders vs Western Force

Kick-off: 4:35pm Saturday March 7

Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin

Live blog updates on RNZ

Highlanders:

1. Ethan de Groot (CC) 2. Jack Taylor 3. Angus Ta’avao 4. Oliver Haig 5. Mitch Dunshea 6. Te Kamaka Howden 7. Veveni Lasaqa 8. Nikora Broughton 9. Folau Fakatava 10. Cameron Millar 11. Jona Nareki 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (CC) 13. Jonah Lowe 14. Caleb Tangitau 15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens

Bench: 16. Soane Vikena 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown 18. Sosefo Kautai 19. Will Stodart 20. Sean Withy 21. Adam Lennox 22. Reesjan Pasitoa 23. Tanielu Tele’a

“We need to build on our start to the season, lift a notch or two, and convert more of the pressure we’re applying into points.” – Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph.

Blues vs Crusaders

Kick-off: 7:05pm Saturday March 7

Eden Park, Auckland

Live blog updates on RNZ

Blues:

1. Ofa Tu’ungafasi 2. Kurt Eklund 3. Marcel Renata 4. Josh Beehre 5. Sam Darry 6. Torian Barnes 7. Dalton Papali’i (c) 8. Hoskins Sotutu 9. Finlay Christie 10. Stephen Perofeta 11. Caleb Clarke 12. Pita Ahki 13. AJ Lam 14. Codemeru Vai 15. Zarn Sullivan

Bench: 16. James Mullan 17. Mason Tupaea 18. Sam Matenga 19. Che Clark 20. Anton Segner 21. Taufa Funaki 22. Beauden Barrett 23. Xavi Taele

“The Crusaders are always a quality side and these contests carry a bit of extra edge. It’s special to be back at home in front of our supporters. We know the lift that Eden Park gives us and the boys are looking forward to putting in a big performance.” – Blues coach Vern Cotter

Crusaders:

1. George Bower 2. Codie Taylor 3. Fletcher Newell 4. Antonio Shalfoon 5. Jamie Hannah 6. Dom Gardiner 7. Ethan Blackadder (VC) 8. Christian Lio-Willie 9. Noah Hotham 10. Rivez Reihana 11. Sevu Reece 12. David Havili (c) 13. Leicester Fainga’anuku 14. Chay Fihaki 15. Taha Kemara

Bench: 16. Manumaua Letiu 17. Finlay Brewis 18. Seb Calder 19. Will Tucker (Crusaders Debut) 20. Corey Kellow 21. Kyle Preston 22. Xavier Saifoloi 23. Dallas McLeod

“One win doesn’t make a season, but the energy was great and everyone’s done a great job keeping things grounded as we look forward to heading up to Eden Park.” – Crusaders coach Rob Penney.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/super-rugby-preview-barrett-and-dmac-back-old-rivals-do-battle/

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“Children living in fear”: More than 100 million children impacted in Middle East regional conflict – Save the Children

Source: Save the Children

At least 100 million children in countries directly impacted by the escalating violence in the Middle East and wider region face deepening fear, distress and the risk of physical harm and displacement, Save the Children said. 
This is the most expansive conflict in the region in decades, impacting at least 15 countries with strikes destroying homes, schools and hospitals in some of the worst-affected countries. Children are at heightened risk of physical and mental harm, exploitation and abuse. 
Nearly 200 children have been killed in the first five days, according to official and media reports – the equivalent of more than six classrooms full of children. 
Many schools across the wider region have closed due to the conflict, children are being kept inside and not allowed out to play, families are struggling to access healthcare services, and children are struggling to sleep. 
Prices of certain food items have skyrocketed in some areas. Families living in the region have spoken of doing everything they can to protect their children, ranging from fleeing homes to seek safety in schools and other buildings to moving in with relatives and friends with basements and more secure areas. 
Save the Children staff said people are taping up windows to stop the glass shattering with explosions and playing white noise to help their children sleep. 
Ahmad Alhendawi, Save the Children’s Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Europe Regional Director, said children were paying the highest price in the conflict: 
“Every war is a war on children, and as always, we are seeing children impacted the most. Children are living in fear, caught in the crossfire of this adult war. We have already seen nearly 200 children killed, and more innocent lives could be lost without immediate action. Children must never be considered as acceptable ‘collateral’. Wars have laws and children must be off limits in every conflict. 
“Children across the region are terrified of being pulled into a devastating regional war. For some, this is the first time they have faced blasts and explosions that shake their homes, and they don’t understand what is happening. Others have faced too many years of conflict that have marred their childhoods. Some have been displaced multiple times and lost all sense of safety and security. 
“More than 100 million children are living in areas that have been impacted by the escalating hostilities. Every possible effort must be taken to end all hostilities, prevent further escalation, and safeguard children. Only diplomacy can prevent further civilian suffering and create the conditions for lasting security for children across the region. Any further escalation risks pushing an already fragile region into a wider conflagration, with children paying the highest price of a war that they played no part in creating.” 
Save the Children urgently calls on all parties involved to immediately de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, including by ensuring that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, are spared from attack. 
The use of explosive weapons in populated areas risks severe harm to civilians, especially children, and should be avoided at all costs. 
Save the Children is the world’s largest independent child rights organisation, reaching tens of millions of children annually in about 110 countries through its work to save and improve children’s lives. 
Save the Children is currently raising funds in New Zealand to support the response in the Middle East through its Children’s Emergency Fund.
Notes:
  • [1] In the first five days since the escalation of hostilities in the Middle East and the wider region, government statements and media reports indicate that at least 181 children under the age of 10 have been killed in Iran, eight in Lebanon according to the country’s ministry of health, three in Israel and one in Kuwait
  • More than 100 million children live in at least 15 countries that have been impacted by the escalation including Bahrain, Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, occupied Palestinian territory, Syria, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates. At least 14 countries have experienced one or more missile or air strikes since 28 February, while Israel closed some of the border crossings into Gaza following this escalation. Child population data for 2026 is taken from UN World Population Prospects. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/children-living-in-fear-more-than-100-million-children-impacted-in-middle-east-regional-conflict-save-the-children/

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NZ spy agency providing Iran war threat intelligence

Source: Radio New Zealand

GCSB Director General Andrew Clark. VNP/Louis Collins

The Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) spy agency says it is providing round-the-clock threat intelligence updates on the Iran war.

The GCSB, along with its partner agency NZ Security Intelligence Service (SIS), appeared at a Parliamentary select committee for their annual reviews on Wednesday.

GCSB Director-General Andrew Clark told MPs it was a very volatile geopolitical environment.

“Conflict and tensions have sometimes arisen with little notice and this week’s major conflict in the Middle East is no exception, and our team has been providing round-the-clock threat intelligence updates to our customers, especially to the NZDF and MFAT,” Clark said.

In general, the bureau, which collects ‘signals’ intelligence, was taking a more proactive approach to detecting and disrupting threats while coping with the “rapid pace” of change in “disruptive technologies”.

“In this changing environment, we’ve provided intelligence relating to terrorist activity and to foreign state activity where that could threaten the safety of New Zealanders and international partners.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/nz-spy-agency-providing-iran-war-threat-intelligence/

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Amnesty International Update – Urgent call to protect civilians and respect international law amid escalating regional conflict following US and Israeli attacks on Iran

Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

Amid rapid expansion of regional hostilities across the Middle East following the ongoing joint United States-Israel attacks on Iran and the subsequent wave of Iranian retaliatory attacks across the region, Amnesty International is issuing an urgent call on all parties to protect civilians, adhere to international humanitarian law, in particular by ending unlawful attacks, such as deliberate, indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks on civilians and civilians infrastructures.
Military operations have spread across the region and now involve more than 10 countries. They have already resulted in significant loss of civilian life and destruction of civilian infrastructure. Israel has escalated its attacks on Lebanon in the past 24 hours in response to Hezbollah’s attacks. The US has said that “the hardest hits are yet to come”. Iran has warned of further intensification and insecurity across the whole region following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader and commander-in-chief Ali Khamenei.
“Civilians should not pay the price for the unlawful and reckless acts by parties to the conflict, ravaging the principles of humanity and distinction at the heart of international humanitarian law and threatening the very foundations of international peace and security. The stakes could not be higher. Across the region, civilians have already endured successive cycles of conflict and mass violations and crimes under international law. Their protection should now be the top priority. Instead, they are facing more senseless killings and repression,” said Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International.
“Parties to the conflict must immediately refrain from and cease unlawful attacks, whether direct attacks on civilians, indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks, or the use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in densely populated areas. They must take all feasible precautions to prevent civilian harm.
“As the threat of a protracted international conflict grows, compliance with international human rights law and international humanitarian law is more urgent than ever. Any failure to uphold these obligations will intensify an already devastating human toll and push the region even further towards another humanitarian and human rights catastrophe.”
Attacks on Iran and Iran’s response
On 3 March the Iranian Red Crescent Society, reported that 787 people have been killed in Iran since the attacks began. On 28 February 2026, according to the Iranian authorities around 150 school children were among 165 people killed when a school in the southern city of Minab, Hormozgan province, was struck. The UN has described the bombing of this school as a ‘ grave violation of humanitarian law’, with UNESCO warning that attacks on educational institutions endanger students and teachers and undermine the protections guaranteed under international humanitarian law. The UN Human Rights Office has called for a prompt, impartial and thorough investigation into the “horrific” incident.
Amnesty International verified six videos from the aftermath of the strike that impacted the school, which show black smoke rising from the partially collapsed building and rescuers and excavators searching through the rubble for victims. Footage filmed from the school entrance shows walls marking the parameter of the school yard and building, with smoke visible in the background from the direction of a nearby Iranian Revolutionary Guards Compound.
According to the head of the Medical Council of Iran, 10 medical centres have been damaged by the Israeli and US attacks. Hospitals in Iran have already been subjected to militarized raids by Iran’s security forces who committed widespread human rights violations against injured protesters and medical workers during and in the aftermath of the protest massacres in January 2026.
The Iranian authorities shut down access to the internet again on 28 February, preventing millions of people from accessing essential information about armed hostilities and communicating with loved ones inside and outside the country, and suppressing the flow of information about violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.
The armed conflict has intensified concerns about the fate and safety of prisoners across Iran, including the thousands of protesters and dissidents arrested in connection with the January 2026 uprising. These concerns stem from reports by human rights defenders of explosions near prisons and other facilities where prisoners are held as well as Israel’s previous attack on Tehran’s Evin prison during the 12-day war.
Human rights defenders are also expressing fears that the Iranian authorities have often used armed conflict as pretext to subject dissidents to intensified patterns of torture and other ill-treatment as well as summary, arbitrary or extrajudicial executions. Amnesty International calls on the Iranian authorities to immediately release all those arbitrarily detained and take effective measures to secure the safety of all other prisoners, including through temporary release on humanitarian grounds. Concerns for the rights of people in Iran are compounded by the Iranian authorities’ well-documented record to repeated crimes under international law and other serious human rights violations, including during successive lethal crackdowns to eradicate dissent. On 8-9 January, Iranian authorities carried out unprecedented massacres of thousands of protesters and bystanders during anti-establishment protests calling for an end to the Islamic Republic.
Iranian authorities responded to US and Israeli attacks with missile and unmanned aerial vehicle attack in Israel and across the Gulf region, including in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi Arabia.
Media reports and official government statements indicate that some of the attacks, including as a result of falling debris from intercepted missiles or drones, led to some deaths, injuries or damage to civilian infrastructure. According to the authorities in Abu Dhabi, an Iranian drone targeting Zayed International Airport (AUH) was intercepted, leading to “falling debris” killing one person and injuring seven. On 2 March, both the Qatari and Saudi authorities claimed their oil facilities were targeted by the Iranians, and a Gulf Cooperation Council statement condemned “indiscriminate and reckless missile and drone attacks.”
In Israel, according to media and rescue agencies, at least 10 people have been killed and tens injured as a result of Iranian attacks. This includes nine people killed and more than 20 injured in Beit Shemesh after an Iranian ballistic missile strike, as well as the death of a woman in the Tel Aviv area from falling shrapnel. Iranian strikes also damaged at least 40 buildings in Tel Aviv, according to local authorities.
Israel has escalated severe restrictions on movement across the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), effectively blocking movement between villages and towns in the occupied West Bank including East Jerusalem. The authorities have also closed all external crossings into and out of the OPT including Kerem Shalom/ Karem Abu Salem and Rafah crossings blocking lifesaving aid and effectively placing the entire Gaza Strip under siege. Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem was reopened on 3 March.
These arbitrary measures are gravely exacerbating the suffering of Palestinians living under Israel’s unlawful occupation and apartheid and are further compounding the multi-layered humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Palestinians are still living through Israel’s ongoing genocide.
In Iraq, a faction [Saraya Awliya Al-Dam] of the Iran-aligned militia groups, calling itself the Islamic Resistance, has claimed responsibility for multiple drone attacks on Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and later in the capital Baghdad, primarily targeting US military facilities. According to Kurdish Iranian opposition groups, drone strikes have targeted their positions in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq following warnings from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Escalation between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon
Following Hezbollah rocket attacks on northern Israel, which the group said was retaliation for Khamenei’s killing, the Israeli military significantly escalated its attacks on Lebanon, including the suburbs of Beirut, overnight on 2 March. Israeli air strikes in Lebanon had killed at least 40 people and injured 246, according to the Lebanese authorities, by 3 March. Before the recent escalation and since the November 2024 ceasefire agreement, Israel had been carrying out near daily attacks in the south of Lebanon, killing more than 380 people, including 127 civilians.
A new, mass “evacuation” warning, issued by the Israeli authorities after midnight on 2 March, has again displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians across Lebanon. The vague and broad warning covered more than 50 villages across the country’s south and east, and led to panic, clogged roads and another round of displacement for many. Additional broad mass evacuation warnings were issued early on 3 March ordering people in dozens of additional villages in southern Lebanon to leave their homes and expanding the area under threat.
On 2 March, the Israeli military said it would strike Hezbollah-affiliated financial institutions in multiple locations across Lebanon, then did. Israel previously targeted branches of the Hezbollah-affiliated financial institution in October 2024, which Amnesty International described as a likely violation of international humanitarian law, calling for such attacks to be investigated as a war crime.
International humanitarian law strictly prohibits direct attacks on civilians and civilian objects, as well as indiscriminate strikes that fail to distinguish between civilians and civilian object and combatants and military objectives, and disproportionate attacks. Aerial attacks impacting schools, medical facilities or residential buildings, as well as the firing of ballistic missiles and other explosive weapons with wide area effects into densely populated areas, raise grave concerns of possible violations of international humanitarian law.
Amnesty International is closely monitoring the situation and call on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law. In instances of civilian death, injury and infrastructure harm, parties should initiate immediate investigations and hold anyone responsible for violations of international law to account.
“The escalating crisis in the Middle East poses a grave threat to multilateralism and to the integrity of the international legal order. Unlawful acts by parties to the conflict, particularly those committed by influential states, not only endanger civilians across multiple countries, but also accelerate the erosion of the global norms that are essential for the protection of human rights and global peace and security,” said Agnès Callamard.
“It is imperative that all parties take urgent measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including airports, hospitals, residential buildings, schools and prisons. They must also ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all affected areas and enable independent international monitoring.
“We call on the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent further military escalation to avert additional civilian harm, and halt any further crimes under international law against populations who have already endured decades of repression. In line with international law, states must exercise the utmost restraint, refrain from any conduct that could fuel further violations, and remember that they have clear obligations not to aid or assist internationally wrongful acts, as well as a duty to cooperate to bring such breaches to an end.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/amnesty-international-update-urgent-call-to-protect-civilians-and-respect-international-law-amid-escalating-regional-conflict-following-us-and-israeli-attacks-on-iran/