Plea for information on offshore water quality on Wellington’s South Coast after sewage spill

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little took a dip in Lyall Bay on Wednesday to prove it was safe, but by Friday the Land Air Water Aotearoa (LAWA) website listed much of the south coast as being unsuitable for swimming. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The chair of Lyall Bay Surf Lifesaving club says despite the partial lifting of a rahui on Wellington’s South Coast information on offshore conditions remains unavailable.

Mayor Andrew Little took a dip in the water on Wednesday to prove residents could swim again at southern beaches after a major sewage leak at the Moa Point Wastewater Plant earlier this month pumped thousands of litres of raw sewage into the sea, closing the beaches for weeks.

He did however caveat that people should follow advice on the Land, Air, Water Aotearoa website before they dive in.

Club chair Matt Flannery said he was delighted that lifesaving teams could resume training in the bay but said ocean swimmers, kayakers and divers were still in the dark.

“The LAWA website, unfortunately, doesn’t include tests beyond the shoreline. That’s probably okay when you’re looking at shoreline discharges from stormwater drains and contaminations but it’s inappropriate when your dealing with an ocean outfall that has the potential to be coming back into the bay,” Flannery said.

“We’ve had to already make some decisions as to the limits that we feel acceptable in the bay but we would truly benefit from the experts stepping up here and giving guidance.”

Flannery said the club’s teams had been training at swim spots within the harbour ahead of the upcoming national championships next month.

He said prior to the spill nearly 70 lifesavers a day were training in the waters off Lyall Bay.

“We’ve shuffled our training around to be using locations such as Scorching Bay, Worser Bay and Evans Bay [and] we’re delighted to have access back on the beach – that’s the most important thing – but we’d just like a bit more information to reflect actually what’s going on in the bay.

“I think it’s a little bit unfair in the sense that they put the risk back on the other users, declare the beach open, without actually giving all the information that’s necessary to make an informed decision,” Flannery said.

Flannery said he raised the point at a local meeting with councillors, experts and Wellington Water staff last week.

Greater Wellington director knowledge and insights David Hipkins said the advice on the LAWA website only reflected public health advice for near shore activities.

“All samples have been taken close to the shore and not near the end of the long outfall pipe. This is why the advice from public health officials is that activities further from the shore are ‘to be conducted at people’s own risk’.”

He said the regional council was talking to the Department of Conservation and other research agencies about any additional monitoring that may be required further out to sea.

The LAWA website also advises people not to collect any kai moana from the area previously under the rahui.

“Testing of kai moana is not being undertaken by Greater Wellington and we are referring the public to advice from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), the agency responsible for the safety of food gathered from the wild,” Hipkins said.

“MPI recommends not gathering shellfish from densely populated urban areas, areas near pipes or culverts, areas near to where wastewater or stormwater is being discharged, and to wait a few days after heavy rain before gathering shellfish.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/28/plea-for-information-on-offshore-water-quality-on-wellingtons-south-coast-after-sewage-spill/

Green SM Launches All-Electric Taxi Service in Bali with Taksi Komotra

Source: Media Outreach

DENPASAR, BALI – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – Green SM has launched its operations in Bali through a strategic partnership with Taksi Komotra, introducing an all-electric taxi service to support the island’s sustainable tourism and urban mobility agenda. To celebrate the 238th anniversary of Denpasar City, Green SM is offering a limited-time 25 percent fare promotion, with discounts of up to IDR 238,000 per trip.

Green SM’s professional drivers are ready to provide high-quality, safe, and eco-friendly service.

Under the partnership structure, Green SM provides the technology platform, all-electric vehicle fleet, operational standards, and driver development system, while Taksi Komotra contributes its established local expertise and network across Bali. The collaboration integrates electric mobility technology with on-the-ground operational capabilities to deliver a scalable, governance-driven transportation model.

Operations in Bali are implemented under Green SM’s “5 Green Promises” service commitment framework. Established as a foundational operating standard since the company’s inception, the framework ensures that each ride delivers an excellent customer experience, professional drivers, high-quality and safe vehicles, fair and transparent pricing, and a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability.

The service operates an all-electric fleet that produces no exhaust emissions or fuel combustion. All vehicles are maintained under strict technical and safety protocols to ensure consistent service performance while contributing to cleaner air and quieter urban environments.

A central pillar of the launch is the Green SM Driver ecosystem. Drivers are positioned as professional green mobility ambassadors guided by five core values: Respect, Professionalism, Dedication, Discipline, and Competitive Income with Stable Career Pathways. Structured training, transparent earnings mechanisms, and disciplined service governance aim to elevate driving into a respected profession while maintaining safety and reliability as foundational standards. This framework aligns income stability with environmental responsibility, reinforcing the role of drivers in supporting Bali’s sustainable tourism trajectory.

The launch comes amid rising mobility demand driven by tourism growth and daily transportation needs across the island. The Indonesia Tourism Outlook 2025 report notes a sustained shift toward environmentally responsible travel, underscoring the relevance of electric mobility in long-term development planning. According to projections from Indonesia’s National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), green employment nationwide is expected to reach 4.8-5.3 million by 2029, reflecting the broader economic potential of sustainable industries.

Mr. Deny Tjia – Green SM Indonesia Managing Director (third from left), Mr H. Hasbi – Chairman of Komotra Taxi Bali (second from left), along with representatives from government agencies at the launch ceremony.

Mr. Deny Tjia, Managing Director of Green SM Indonesia, said: “The partnership with Taksi Komotra reflects our long-term commitment to building a high-quality, well-governed mobility ecosystem in Indonesia. By combining electric vehicles with professional driver development and clear operational standards, we aim to support Bali’s sustainable tourism ambitions while delivering safe, reliable, and comfortable rides for the community.”

H. Hasbi, Chairman of Koperasi Komotra, said: “We are proud to partner with Green SM to introduce electric taxis in Bali. Electric mobility will become part of the new standard for tourism and daily transportation on the island, and this collaboration helps us better serve local residents and visitors while preparing for the future of sustainable transport.”

The Bali launch marks another strategic milestone in Green SM’s expansion in Indonesia, following earlier operations in key markets including Jakarta, Makassar, Bekasi, and Surabaya. In these cities, the service has been positively received by local residents and international visitors alike, who value its clean electric fleet, professional drivers, and structured safety standards that enhance travel confidence.

With its growing presence across the country, Green SM continues to build a scalable electric mobility ecosystem that balances environmental responsibility, service excellence, and inclusive economic growth.

Hashtag: #GreenSM

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/green-sm-launches-all-electric-taxi-service-in-bali-with-taksi-komotra/

Experiencing an Authentic Chinese New Year in Chinese Gardens Around the World

Source: Media Outreach

NANJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – Since 1980, when the Metropolitan Museum of Art opened “Ming Xuan” modeled after Dianchun Yi of Suzhou’s Master of the Nets Garden, Suzhou gardens have taken root in more than 30 countries and regions. As the Chinese New Year arrives, these gardens have launched Spring Festival celebrations, sharing festive joy and cultural traditions with visitors from around the world.

Kunqu Performing Art in the Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney

On Feb. 6, the China Cultural Center in Budapest hosted the “Galloping into the Spring Festival in the Garden” event. Audiences marveled at Kung Fu tea performances, where tea masters skillfully poured water from long-spouted copper kettles in graceful arcs. Artisans demonstrated traditional sugar painting and dough figurine crafting, drawing crowds of curious children, while opera performers in elaborate costumes captivated visitors with refined singing and elegant movements.

Beginning Feb. 17, the Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland launched a series of celebrations, including a ceremony to welcome the God of Wealth, a zodiac handover ceremony, lantern fairs, and dragon and lion dance performances. The garden was adorned with red lanterns and Spring Festival decorations, while Taohuawu woodblock New Year prints, silk scarves, and other cultural creative products were displayed throughout the venue. Interactive experiences such as lantern-making, Year of the Horse paper-cutting, and themed stamp-collecting sites invited visitors to take home New Year blessings.

In Vancouver, the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden — North America’s first full-scale classical Suzhou-style garden — marked its upcoming 40th anniversary in 2026 with festive events on Feb. 21 and 22. Gifts from its sister garden, the Humble Administrator’s Garden, added to the celebratory atmosphere. Activities included calligraphy workshops, sugar painting demonstrations, rice cake tastings, and lion dance performances, drawing local families and visitors alike.

Tourists experience the Kunqu Performing Art in the Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney

On Feb. 23, the Spring Festival event was also held at the Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney, which maintains close cooperation with the Humble Administrator’s Garden in garden conservation and cultural exchange. Kunqu opera artist Wang Yueli performed an excerpt from The Peony Pavilion and guided audience members in learning basic movements and gestures. Visitors also viewed documentaries highlighting Suzhou’s intangible cultural heritage and classical gardens, further appreciating the refined elegance of Jiangnan culture.

From Budapest to Portland, from Vancouver to Sydney, Spring Festival celebrations in Chinese gardens worldwide have integrated “gardens to be seen” “opera to be heard” and “cultural creations to be taken home.” Together, they present a vivid portrait of Suzhou culture, attracting tens of thousands of local residents and tourists to celebrate a Chinese New Year filled with Eastern charm.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/experiencing-an-authentic-chinese-new-year-in-chinese-gardens-around-the-world/

Wuxi, the Newest UNESCO City of Music, Charms Europe with 2026 Folk Tour

Source: Media Outreach

VIENNA, AUSTRIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – A high-level cultural delegation from Wuxi, China’s renowned “Home of Erhu,” has completed a landmark two-week musical tour across Belgium, Germany, Austria, and Hungary. Featuring an over 80-member ensemble from the Wuxi Cultural Exchange Group, the tour represents the city’s most significant international outreach since it was designated a UNESCO Creative City of Music in 2025.

Caption: A standing ovation for the Wuxi Cultural Exchange Group at the Elbphilharmonie Hamburg.

Launched on February 14, the “Chinese Folk Music Odyssey” featured seven major concerts alongside a series of academic and grassroots cultural exchanges. The tour served as a high-level dialogue between the traditional heritage of China’s Jiangnan region and the classical musical heartlands of Europe.

The tour opened at the Centre for Fine Arts in Brussels, where a capacity crowd of 2,000 experienced the vibrant Spring Festival Overture. The ensemble presented a “Chinese Music Feast,” using traditional instruments to paint an auditory “Jiangnan Scroll” of southern Chinese life. In a poignant finale, Chinese fiddles joined forces with local keyed violins to perform the classic Horse Racing. The fusion of Eastern and Western strings brought tears to the eyes of the Chinese diaspora and earned standing ovations from local attendees.

“The melodies possess both natural charm and profound cultural heritage,” noted Belgian music critic Philippe, following six curtain calls. “It is a truly borderless musical exchange.”

Beyond the concert halls, the group engaged with European pop culture in the heart of Brussels’ Comic Strip district. A “flash mob” titled Tintin’s Encounter with Jiangnan Music saw musicians performing alongside iconic murals of Tintin, engaging local youth and residents through social media-friendly cultural interaction.

Caption: Local residents experienced traditional Chinese instruments at the street event.

The journey continued through Germany’s elite venues, including Hamburg’s Elbphilharmonie and the Tonhalle Düsseldorf, showcasing the technical precision of Chinese folk orchestration. In the Austrian Tyrol, the tour took an improvisational turn as Wuxi musicians performed alongside local artists against the backdrop of the Alps, a live demonstration of the “beauty without borders”.

The tour concluded on February 26 in Vienna, where the ensemble hosted the “Dreamy Jiangnan” cultural salon at the Wiener Konzerthaus. The event paired musical performances with an interactive exhibition of Wuxi’s intangible cultural heritage, featuring traditional embroidery and clay figurines. The delegation also visited the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna for the “Jiangnan Charm, Harmonious Resonance” China-Austria Music Exchange event. Through a series of academic dialogues with faculty and students, both sides engaged in a meaningful cultural encounter. These interactions went beyond simple performances, significantly deepening mutual understanding and strengthening the musical ties between East and West.

By integrating the “Voice of China” into the “World Symphony,” the Wuxi Cultural Exchange Group has opened a new chapter in Wuxi’s enduring musical engagement with the world.

Hashtag: #WuxiInformationOffice

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/wuxi-the-newest-unesco-city-of-music-charms-europe-with-2026-folk-tour/

Why Commonwealth Bank’s $1 billion suspected loan fraud should change how we bank and do business

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Toby Walsh, Professor of AI, Research Group Leader, UNSW Sydney

The Commonwealth Bank reportedly suspects around A$1 billion in home loans were obtained fraudulently, including through AI-generated documents. The Australian Financial Review says the bank has reported itself to police and the corporate watchdog to investigate.

According to sources quoted in the newspaper, Australia’s largest bank discovered the suspected fraud last year, partly thanks to two whistleblowers. After rival bank NAB was allegedly defrauded of around $150 million, the Commonwealth Bank also reportedly began investigating its own loans. Its Australian home loans alone are worth around $634 billion.

While the bank is yet to make any detailed comment on the case, a Commonwealth Bank spokesman said the industry faced “sustained and increasing levels of attempted fraud, driven by criminals who actively evolve their methods”.

This is an industry-wide challenge, with fraud being attempted through mortgage broking and referral channels.

Even though I’ve been warning about the need to make AI companies do more to stop facilitating crime, the sheer scale of this suspected fraud still surprised me.

We should assume criminals won’t only have been targeting the Commonwealth Bank and NAB, but that they’re trying all the banks.

This case has implications for all of us: from individuals to business owners wanting to avoid being fooled by fake AI invoices, to the banks, our government regulators and the AI companies themselves.

Don’t panic – but expect tighter security

First of all, given the Commonwealth Bank has 17 million customers, let’s be clear: this won’t be a $1 billion loss for the bank.

From what we’ve heard so far, the bank should be able to recover a significant amount of this money. These loans are reportedly being paid off, and there are bricks-and-mortar properties involved to sell if needed too.

But even for a bank as big as the Commonwealth, $1 billion is no loose change. After suspected fraud on this scale, I suspect we are going to see all banks ramp up their security.

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As customers, we should expect to be asked to do more to secure our accounts and secure our transactions. We’re also increasingly likely to need to use biometric authentication (such as facial recognition), as well as two-factor authentication.

I also think it’s likely to mean that, in future, we’ll need go into the bank to show ourselves along with our original documents – to a real person. That will be a lot less convenient than just providing certified copies to a mortgage broker. However, it’s also a lot more secure.

That way, the bank can see the real, physical passport, with its holograms and stamps, which are hard to reproduce.

Faking financial or identification documents with AI is now free and easy. For example, only last year we heard how ChatGPT could be used to forge passports.


Read more: Can you spot a financial fake? How AI is raising our risks of billing fraud


Given the Commonwealth Bank is reportedly investigating the role of mortgage brokers and others in this suspected fraud, it’s likely we’ll see banks make mortgage brokers go through more hoops too.

And the Commonwealth isn’t the only bank offering loans. So people should be asking questions of their own bank: have you uncovered fraud like this in your own loan book? And what are you doing about it?

What regulators and governments need to do

As well as being used for fraud, AI is also being used by the banks to try to detect and catch scammers.

AI can be very helpful in looking for strange patterns – for instance, why a mortgage broker is suddenly submitting three times as many home loan applications?

But fraud on this scale, affecting Australia’s biggest bank, does show the federal government needs to stop saying we don’t need any new AI regulation. We just don’t have adequate safeguards in place.

Rethinking how we pay bills and do business

Whether you’re a business owner or an individual, if someone sends you a large invoice to pay, don’t pay it until you’re sure it’s real.

It’s just so easy to “spoof” (mimic) someone’s web address, email or invoice, especially the first time you’re paying someone.

We’ve seen too many cases of “middle men” attacks, where criminals get between a person and the company they’re trying to pay, then change the bank details.

There are some terrible stories about how people have transferred their deposit to buy a house to what they thought was the solicitor’s account. But it was changed – and they lost their whole deposit.

My rule of thumb is that any time it’s a first-time payment, or sum of money large enough to really hurt you, call whoever you’re paying over the phone and confirm their bank details are correct.

ref. Why Commonwealth Bank’s $1 billion suspected loan fraud should change how we bank and do business – https://theconversation.com/why-commonwealth-banks-1billion-suspected-loan-fraud-should-change-how-we-bank-and-do-business-277083

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/02/28/why-commonwealth-banks-1billion-suspected-loan-fraud-should-change-how-we-bank-and-do-business-277083/

Huawei Debuts Cutting-Edge Innovations in Madrid with Focus on Running Watches

Source: Media Outreach

MADRID, SPAIN – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – Huawei unveiled its latest innovations at the “Now is Your Run” global product launch event in Madrid, Spain on February 26. The tech giant marked its return to professional running watches after a five-year hiatus with the debut of the all-new HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2. The event also showcased the HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2, HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, HUAWEI MatePad Mini, HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5, and HUAWEI Band 11 Series. Two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge was introduced as the global ambassador for HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner. “Running means much more than running fast,” said Kipchoge. “I believe that running is the most beautiful activity on every level. Together with Huawei, we can reach millions of runners around the world and hopefully impact their lives in a beautiful and positive way.”

HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2: Five Years of Accumulation, Redefining Professional Running Watches

HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 is equipped with a new 3D floating antenna architecture, engineered to deliver unparalleled positioning precision. Equipped for the first time with an intelligent positioning algorithm, it continues to calculate the runner’s trajectory and distance even during signal interruptions, ensuring uninterrupted positioning. The new intelligent marathon mode offers one-stop race management, acting as a personal coach on your wrist throughout the journey. Not only does the HUAWEI WATCH GT Runner 2 help professional athletes boost their performance, but it also brings a smart and professional running experience to amateur runners. Eliud Kipchoge shared his experience of co-creating products with Huawei at the event, stating, “I am passionate to share my opinions and perspectives to improve the smartwatch experience not just for elite athletes but for runners all around the world.”

HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 and HUAWEI Band 11 Series: Next-Level Fitness

At this event, Huawei unveiled a range of new wearable devices designed to deliver more professional and personalized fitness experiences for users. The HUAWEI WATCH Ultimate 2 debuted in a striking “Green” color, maintaining its top-tier capabilities for diving and outdoor adventures while introducing enhanced features specifically tailored for golf driving range and on-course play. This offers a more precise and intelligent high-end sports experience. Meanwhile, the HUAWEI Band 11 Series combines sleek design with practical functionality, featuring a larger and clearer display that ensures excellent visibility even under bright sunlight. Integrating health monitoring, activity tracking, and convenient features into one compact device, it serves as a reliable companion for users’ daily fitness needs.

HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro: Cutting-edge Flagship Setting New Benchmark in Mobile Experience

Huawei makes a grand return to the global market with its Mate Series, showcasing the company’s technological prowess. The HUAWEI Mate 80 Pro, representing Huawei’s cutting-edge innovation, features an upgraded True-to-Color Camera that ensures consistent color accuracy across various lighting conditions and mixed color temperatures. Its new Dual Space Ring Design, which blends classic elegance with modern aesthetics, earned widespread acclaim from attendees. With enhanced performance, 2nd Gen Kunlun Glass, and advanced AI capabilities, Huawei continues to deliver state-of-the-art technology and experiences, pushing smartphone experience to new heights.

Trendsetting Technology Unveiled for Ultimate Intelligence

Huawei unveils its first-ever Mini tablet, the HUAWEI MatePad Mini. Featuring a compact 8.8-inch body that’s slimmer and lighter than traditional tablets, it easily fits into pockets or handbags. Whether for reading documents, watching your favorite shows, or on-the-go creative work during business trips, this device is ready whenever you need it. It serves as an ideal digital companion for business professionals, avid readers, office workers, and academic researchers alike. The company also introduced the HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro 5 earbuds, the industry’s first wireless earbuds with dual-engine AI noise cancellation. Paired with a dual-drive acoustic system, they deliver exceptional noise reduction while preserving vocal and instrumental details, offering users an immersive live-listening experience.

Last year, Huawei introduced its brand proposition “Now is Yours”, aiming to establish genuine and close connections with global consumers through a more inclusive and youthful communication approach. At this “Now is Your Run” launch event, Huawei partnered with Eliud Kipchoge to promote running as a sport and advocate for a healthy lifestyle. Moving forward, Huawei will continue to promote fitness and health through technological innovation, using warm products and sincere communication to enable more people to enjoy a healthier and more vibrant life through technology.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/huawei-debuts-cutting-edge-innovations-in-madrid-with-focus-on-running-watches/

Infinix Announces K-pop Icon ITZY’s YUNA as Its First Global Brand Ambassador

Source: Media Outreach

YUNA Joins Forces with Infinix to Launch the NOTE 60 SERIES, Marking the Brand’s Bold Step into a New Era of Innovation and Style.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – In a historic first, Infinix today announced K-pop girl group ITZY’s member, YUNA, as its first-ever Global Brand Ambassador, bringing her confidence, energy, and bold self-expression to global audiences.

The partnership reflects Infinix’s “Joy Tech, Beyond Limits” philosophy, reinforcing its commitment to empowering a new generation of users through creativity, individuality, and innovation. Coinciding with the global debut of Infinix’s annual flagship launch, the new NOTE 60 SERIES, the collaboration also signals a strategic step forward as the brand elevates its smartphone experiences for broader international users.

“I am so excited to reach out to my fans in a new way as Infinix’s Global Brand Ambassador. I’ve always believed that life should be filled with joy and the courage to show the world who you truly are. It’s been amazing to see how Infinix shares that same energy. I’m looking forward to this journey and can’t wait to show everyone the special stories we create together!” — YUNA, Global Brand Ambassador for Infinix.

Infinix Celebrates a Milestone with YUNA

As a young global K-pop icon, YUNA has risen to the top through discipline, self‑discovery, and fearless ambition. As the youngest member of ITZY, her vibrant confidence is her signature. Driven by an energetic passion, she inspires fans worldwide with her boundary-breaking spirit and continuous reinvention across music, acting, and beyond. These qualities align perfectly with Infinix’s commitment to flagship performance, refined aesthetics, and relentless innovation.

This partnership marks a strategic evolution for Infinix, elevating its appeal to the premium market. Together, Infinix and YUNA create a unified narrative that transcends hardware, positioning technology as a catalyst for joy and a powerful tool for self-expression. By integrating YUNA’s infectious energy with the NOTE 60 SERIES, Infinix is redefining its brand identity and empowering users worldwide, driving desirability among tech-savvy youth who demand both flagship-level sophistication and a platform for bold, joyful self-expression.

“Partnering with YUNA accelerates our mission to deliver a fun, cutting-edge mobile experience to young fans globally,” said TT Liu, CMO of Infinix Mobility. “Guided by the philosophy of Joy Tech, Infinix moves beyond talking about how advanced a phone is, to telling stories about how technology creates joy—when brands, users, and YUNA come together to illuminate every unique way of shining.”

Expanding into Global Premium Markets

This collaboration is strategically timed, launching alongside Infinix’s entry into the premium market and the global debut of its flagship NOTE 60 SERIES. This evolution is powered by a world-class ecosystem of industry leaders: Infinix’s first NOTE powered by Snapdragon from Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., Italian automotive and design legend Pininfarina for elegant aesthetics, and immersive SOUND BY JBL experience.

Together with YUNA, this partnership signals a transformative new chapter for Infinix—leveraging the NOTE 60 SERIES to inspire the generation of self-defined youth who prefer to express in their own unique way, and spread their voices to the world.

Amplifying Youthful Expression Through Joy Tech

With YUNA as Infinix’s global brand ambassador, Infinix NOTE 60 SERIES creates a deeper resonance with the youth by championing their pursuit of vibrant self-expression. This partnership transcends traditional technology, inviting a new generation to explore the boundless excitement of the “Joy Tech, Beyond Limits” philosophy.

Looking ahead, Infinix remains committed to advancing innovations that enable richer, more immersive experiences, while YUNA continues to inspire global audiences to embrace the joy, creativity, and limitless potential made possible through these breakthroughs.

Hashtag: #Infinix

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/infinix-announces-k-pop-icon-itzys-yuna-as-its-first-global-brand-ambassador/

Reds v Highlanders at Suncorp Stadium – Super Rugby Pacific

Source: Radio New Zealand

Photosport

The Highlanders have suffered another heartbreaking loss, after the Reds bounced back in style.

The Reds defeated the Highlanders by 17 points at Suncorp Stadium after leading by 12 at the break. It was a statement performance in front of a lively Brisbane crowd, the home side running in five tries to two and playing with far more clarity than they showed in Round 1.

The first half set the tone. Fraser McReight opened the scoring in the 18th minute after a stunning passage that started with Harry Wilson flicking a miracle ball through his legs to ignite the break, before a clever series of kicks ended with the flanker diving over beside the posts. Matt Faessler added another off a well-timed peel from a driving maul, and although the Highlanders hit back through Adam Lennox after spotting space around the ruck, the Reds struck again before the break. Slick hands left put Tim Ryan over in the corner, giving Queensland a deserved lead at half-time. It was high tempo, physical stuff, with the Reds well on top and the visitors guilty of too many costly errors.

The Highlanders showed some fight early in the second half. Lucas Casey powered through three tackles to score under the sticks in the 52nd minute and cut the margin, briefly shifting momentum. But just as quickly, the Reds responded. McReight pilfered possession at the breakdown, territory followed, and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto crashed over from close range to extend the lead. Moments later, a grubber forced panic at the back and Vaiuta Latu was on hand to dive on the loose ball for another Reds five-pointer.

From there, Queensland comfortably controlled the contest. The forwards went at it relentlessly, the backs continued to find space out wide, and the bench added real punch, with Filipo Daugunu especially lively. The Highlanders had patches of pressure but they lacked polish, their attack clunky at times and undermined by unforced errors. Jamie Joseph will be disappointed and know there were plenty of opportunities left out there.

Ryan brought real spark on the edge, Salakaia-Loto laid a strong platform, and McReight was a menace all night at the breakdown. For the Highlanders, Timoci Tavatavanawai impressed with his physicality and TK Howden worked tirelessly, but they lacked support at key moments.

This win lifts the Reds to 1-1 and restores confidence ahead of a trip to Canberra to face the Brumbies, while the Highlanders slip to 1-2 and return home to Dunedin to host the Force in Round 4, searching for a response.

See how the game unfolded in our blog:

Highlanders: 1. Ethan de Groot. 2. Jack Taylor. 3. Rohan Wingham. 4. Will Stodart. 5. Mitch Dunshea. 6. Te Kamaka Howden. 7. Sean Withy (cc) 8. Lucas Casey. 9. Adam Lennox. 10. Cameron Millar. 11. Jona Nareki. 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (cc) 13. Jonah Lowe. 14. Caleb Tangitau. 15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens.

Impact: 16. Soane Vikena. 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown. 18. Sosefo Kautai. 19. Oliver Haig. 20. Veveni Lasaqa. 21. Folau Fakatava. 22. Reesjan Pasitoa. 23. Tanielu Tele’a.

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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/2026/02/28/reds-v-highlanders-at-suncorp-stadium-super-rugby-pacific/

Reds v Highlanders at Suncorp Stadium – Super Rugby Pacific

Source: Radio New Zealand

Photosport

The Highlanders have suffered another heartbreaking loss, after the Reds bounced back in style.

The Reds defeated the Highlanders by 17 points at Suncorp Stadium after leading by 12 at the break. It was a statement performance in front of a lively Brisbane crowd, the home side running in five tries to two and playing with far more clarity than they showed in Round 1.

The first half set the tone. Fraser McReight opened the scoring in the 18th minute after a stunning passage that started with Harry Wilson flicking a miracle ball through his legs to ignite the break, before a clever series of kicks ended with the flanker diving over beside the posts. Matt Faessler added another off a well-timed peel from a driving maul, and although the Highlanders hit back through Adam Lennox after spotting space around the ruck, the Reds struck again before the break. Slick hands left put Tim Ryan over in the corner, giving Queensland a deserved lead at half-time. It was high tempo, physical stuff, with the Reds well on top and the visitors guilty of too many costly errors.

The Highlanders showed some fight early in the second half. Lucas Casey powered through three tackles to score under the sticks in the 52nd minute and cut the margin, briefly shifting momentum. But just as quickly, the Reds responded. McReight pilfered possession at the breakdown, territory followed, and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto crashed over from close range to extend the lead. Moments later, a grubber forced panic at the back and Vaiuta Latu was on hand to dive on the loose ball for another Reds five-pointer.

From there, Queensland comfortably controlled the contest. The forwards went at it relentlessly, the backs continued to find space out wide, and the bench added real punch, with Filipo Daugunu especially lively. The Highlanders had patches of pressure but they lacked polish, their attack clunky at times and undermined by unforced errors. Jamie Joseph will be disappointed and know there were plenty of opportunities left out there.

Ryan brought real spark on the edge, Salakaia-Loto laid a strong platform, and McReight was a menace all night at the breakdown. For the Highlanders, Timoci Tavatavanawai impressed with his physicality and TK Howden worked tirelessly, but they lacked support at key moments.

This win lifts the Reds to 1-1 and restores confidence ahead of a trip to Canberra to face the Brumbies, while the Highlanders slip to 1-2 and return home to Dunedin to host the Force in Round 4, searching for a response.

See how the game unfolded in our blog:

Highlanders: 1. Ethan de Groot. 2. Jack Taylor. 3. Rohan Wingham. 4. Will Stodart. 5. Mitch Dunshea. 6. Te Kamaka Howden. 7. Sean Withy (cc) 8. Lucas Casey. 9. Adam Lennox. 10. Cameron Millar. 11. Jona Nareki. 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (cc) 13. Jonah Lowe. 14. Caleb Tangitau. 15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens.

Impact: 16. Soane Vikena. 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown. 18. Sosefo Kautai. 19. Oliver Haig. 20. Veveni Lasaqa. 21. Folau Fakatava. 22. Reesjan Pasitoa. 23. Tanielu Tele’a.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/28/reds-v-highlanders-at-suncorp-stadium-super-rugby-pacific/

Reds v Highlanders at Suncorp Stadium – Super Rugby Pacific

Source: Radio New Zealand

Photosport

The Highlanders have suffered another heartbreaking loss, after the Reds bounced back in style.

The Reds defeated the Highlanders by 17 points at Suncorp Stadium after leading by 12 at the break. It was a statement performance in front of a lively Brisbane crowd, the home side running in five tries to two and playing with far more clarity than they showed in Round 1.

The first half set the tone. Fraser McReight opened the scoring in the 18th minute after a stunning passage that started with Harry Wilson flicking a miracle ball through his legs to ignite the break, before a clever series of kicks ended with the flanker diving over beside the posts. Matt Faessler added another off a well-timed peel from a driving maul, and although the Highlanders hit back through Adam Lennox after spotting space around the ruck, the Reds struck again before the break. Slick hands left put Tim Ryan over in the corner, giving Queensland a deserved lead at half-time. It was high tempo, physical stuff, with the Reds well on top and the visitors guilty of too many costly errors.

The Highlanders showed some fight early in the second half. Lucas Casey powered through three tackles to score under the sticks in the 52nd minute and cut the margin, briefly shifting momentum. But just as quickly, the Reds responded. McReight pilfered possession at the breakdown, territory followed, and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto crashed over from close range to extend the lead. Moments later, a grubber forced panic at the back and Vaiuta Latu was on hand to dive on the loose ball for another Reds five-pointer.

From there, Queensland comfortably controlled the contest. The forwards went at it relentlessly, the backs continued to find space out wide, and the bench added real punch, with Filipo Daugunu especially lively. The Highlanders had patches of pressure but they lacked polish, their attack clunky at times and undermined by unforced errors. Jamie Joseph will be disappointed and know there were plenty of opportunities left out there.

Ryan brought real spark on the edge, Salakaia-Loto laid a strong platform, and McReight was a menace all night at the breakdown. For the Highlanders, Timoci Tavatavanawai impressed with his physicality and TK Howden worked tirelessly, but they lacked support at key moments.

This win lifts the Reds to 1-1 and restores confidence ahead of a trip to Canberra to face the Brumbies, while the Highlanders slip to 1-2 and return home to Dunedin to host the Force in Round 4, searching for a response.

See how the game unfolded in our blog:

Highlanders: 1. Ethan de Groot. 2. Jack Taylor. 3. Rohan Wingham. 4. Will Stodart. 5. Mitch Dunshea. 6. Te Kamaka Howden. 7. Sean Withy (cc) 8. Lucas Casey. 9. Adam Lennox. 10. Cameron Millar. 11. Jona Nareki. 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (cc) 13. Jonah Lowe. 14. Caleb Tangitau. 15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens.

Impact: 16. Soane Vikena. 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown. 18. Sosefo Kautai. 19. Oliver Haig. 20. Veveni Lasaqa. 21. Folau Fakatava. 22. Reesjan Pasitoa. 23. Tanielu Tele’a.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/28/reds-v-highlanders-at-suncorp-stadium-super-rugby-pacific/

Local plumber Hannah Spencer beats both Reform and Labour to win UK byelection

Novara Media

In a spectacular triumph, Britain’s Green Party has won the Gorton and Denton byelection in Greater Manchester.

Local plumber Hannah Spencer has now become the party’s fifth MP — a historic victory for the ascendent Greens, who ran a campaign of national hope and international solidarity against Israel’s genocide in Gaza.

The byelection result is also a huge upset in Britain’s political status quo.

The Labour party, which won the seat with more than 50 percent of the vote in 2024 and held the seat for many years, was pushed into third place behind Reform UK. No more.

After coming third behind the Greens and Reform, questions over the future of the party’s leader, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, now grow increasingly urgent.

Meanwhile, Reform UK came second. On their own terms, a result.

Clear defeat by Left
And yet, a clear defeat by the Left. Its candidate, Matt Goodwin, along with the party as a whole, will now be taking stock, disappointed that a major target constituency has rejected them.

The Greens stormed the seat and Spencer won a majority of more than 4000 despite a race sullied by dirty tricks and cynicism from a Labour Party that appeared desperate at every turn.

Tactics included an invented electoral organisation and misinformation over polling. A last ditch effort to transport Starmer to the constituency may have amounted to a final and fatal backfire.

This is the second byelection loss to the Green Party since Labour’s general election victory in 2024.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/02/28/local-plumber-hannah-spencer-beats-both-reform-and-labour-to-win-uk-byelection/

Cricket: White Ferns v Zimbabwe – second T20 International in Hamilton

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand’s Izzy Gaze bats during the White Ferns vs Zimbabwe Women, Twenty20 International cricket match at Seddon Park, Hamilton, New Zealand on Wednesday 25 February 2026. DJ Mills / Photosport DJ Mills

The White Ferns were much more ruthless with the ball as they bowled Zimbabwe out for just 86 to seal a 110-run win in the 2nd T20I in Hamilton.

Set 197 runs to win, the tourists were rocked early when Nyasha Gwanzura spooned one straight to short cover off Jess Kerr’s first over.

Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano played a couple of nice shots before she was cleaned up by Bree Illing in the fourth.

A 21-run stand third-wicket stand between Kellie Ndhlovu and Beloved Biza provided some hope for Zimbabwe but once that was broken it all unraveled.

While Chiyedza Dhururu hit three boundaries in a flashy 20 off 13, she received very little support from the Zimbabwe lower order.

Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight both got through some valuable overs and the Northern Districts’ pair were rewarded for their efforts with two wickets apiece.

Patel’s 2/11 off four could have been even better if not for some ordinary fielding efforts.

The White Ferns will be looking to claim a clean sweep at the third T20 International on Sunday afternoon at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

See how every ball played out on our blog:

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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/2026/02/27/cricket-white-ferns-v-zimbabwe-second-t20-international-in-hamilton/

Amateur golfer among three leading Kiwis at NZ Open

Source: Radio New Zealand

Yuki Miya of New Zealand Chris Symes / www.photosport.nz

Christchurch amateur golfer Yuki Miya has the lead at NZ Open going into day three at Millbrook Resort on Saturday.

The 20-year-old is 12-under-par after firing a second round of 4-under-par 67 to follow an opening 63 that he completed early on Friday.

Just one shot back is the highest-ranked player in the field, world No.100 Daniel Hillier.

Unhappy with his game, Hillier has still managed rounds of 63-68 in front of an expectant home crowd craving a first New Zealand victory in their national championship since 2017.

Newly married Hillier shares second with Australian duo Travis Smyth (63) and Wade Ormsby (65), while another New Zealand hope, Kerry Mountcastle, is just two shots adrift at 10-under-par following a 64 in the near-perfect scoring conditions.

Miya’s eye-catching performance was capped by a three-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole on the Remarkables course, moving him out of a tie at the top of the leaderboard.

The Golf NZ National Academy member may be still an amateur with no immediate plans to turn professional, but he’s had significant exposure to the pro game.

He showed great composure when he bounced back from a double-bogey five on the par-3 sixth with a run of three straight birdies that started two holes later.

“That double set me back a bit. I definitely had to regroup after that one, but I clawed my way back,” Miya said.

“Obviously there’s a long way to go, still 36 holes to play, but I’ll do my best, stick to my processes and see how it goes.”

Hillier’s only bogey in his second round came on his final hole, the water-ringed par-3 ninth hole on the Remarkables which will be the closing hole on the composite course over the weekend.

After struggling with his swing for most of the day, his tee shot found the hazard to the left of the green, but a four was rescued by a tidy chip and putt.

“Probably should have happened a lot earlier than it did,” he said of his last hole error.

“The swing wasn’t feeling that great. I stood up on the tee and tried to hold one up against the wind and just flipped it a bit and away she went. But a nice little up and down at least to limit the damage.”

Hillier’s day did have plenty of highlights, however, including an eagle on the par-5 14th to sit alongside four birdies.

“It’s been a long couple of days. Obviously a lot of golf crammed into a short period of time,” he said.

“A little bit tired at the moment, but nice to hang in there today. Hopefully get some good rest and come out firing tomorrow.”

A top-10 machine on the Asian Tour, Smyth does not expect to have too much crowd support on his side as he chases his second victory as a pro with three New Zealanders amongst his chief competition.

“It’s going to be fun,” he said after closing with four straight birdies.

“It’s not going to worry me at all. I’ve played in Korea towards the last groups and you get literally zero claps from the Koreans over there.

“I feel like the crowds this week, they’re pretty supportive of good golf and hopefully I can show them good golf.”

Ormsby finished his round after sunset, rolling in birdies on the 16th and 17th before missing from three metres on the last to tie Miya at the top.

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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/2026/02/27/amateur-golfer-among-three-leading-kiwis-at-nz-open/

Enhancing Hong Kong’s strength as a global financial centre: 2026-27 Budget

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – In his 2026-27 Budget announced on Wednesday (25 February), Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) outlined areas for comprehensively reinforcing the city’s position as a leading international financial hub.

Despite the complex and ever-changing external environment, Mr Chan noted that Hong Kong’s financial market had performed strongly and the city’s financial system remains robust.

HKSAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan (second left), outlines areas for comprehensively reinforcing the city’s position as a leading international financial hub

In 2025, Hong Kong ranked first globally for funds raised through initial public offerings.

“We will continue to consolidate our existing strengths, tap into emerging fields, strengthen market systems and risk control and deepen financial co-operation in the Greater Bay Area,” Mr Chan said. “By doing so, we will enhance Hong Kong’s role as an international financial centre on all fronts and contribute to the national strategic goal of ‘accelerating China’s development as a financial powerhouse’ “.

With Hong Kong being the world’s largest hub for offshore Renminbi (RMB) business, the Financial Secretary said the city would leverage its unique strengths and proactively align with national development strategies.

For advancing the internationalisation of the RMB, Mr Chan said Hong Kong would facilitate the wider use of RMB in activities such as trade and cross-boundary business; reduce transaction costs; enrich product offerings in the offshore RMB market; improve price discovery in the short-to-medium-term-interest-rate market; and attract high-quality issuers to increase RMB bond issuance in Hong Kong.

In 2025, the stock market delivered a stellar performance. The Hang Seng Index rose by 28 per cent over the year. The daily turnover surged by 90 per cent to a historic high of close to $250 billion (US$32 billion).

Mr Chan said the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) would continue enhancing the securities market, attracting issuers and boosting market efficiency.

“We will also introduce the next stage of reforms, including enhancing the regulatory regime for listed companies, providing specific guidelines for overseas companies seeking secondary listing in Hong Kong, offering more overseas markets as recognised exchanges, and continuing to explore with the market the provision of an over-the-counter trading platform for delisted stocks or those requiring special handling.

“The electronic bond-trading platform will also be launched in the second half of this year, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global fixed income and currency hub,” he said.

To attract more family offices and funds to set up in Hong Kong, Mr Chan said Hong Kong would enhance the tax regime, including expanding the scope of “fund” to cover specific funds-of-one, as well as classifying digital assets, precious metals, and specified commodities, etc. as qualifying investments eligible for tax concessions.

Regarding the development of digital assets, the Government published the second policy statement for developing Hong Kong into a global hub for digital asset innovation through the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework.

A bill will be introduced this year to establish licensing regimes for, among others, digital asset dealing and custodian service providers.

“We will also explore the adoption of electronic signature for bond issuance documents and the digitalisation of bearer bonds,” Mr Chan said.

To promote the application of fintech and enhance the efficiency of the asset management market, the CMU OmniClear, a market infrastructure operator established by the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, will establish a digital asset platform this year. It will support the issuance and settlement of digital bonds. The platform will also be gradually extended to other digital assets and linked with other tokenisation platforms in the region, consolidating Hong Kong’s leading role in the realm of digital assets.

In order to build an international gold trading market in Hong Kong, Mr Chan said the Government would explore offering tax incentives for eligible institutions conducting gold trading and settlement in Hong Kong; assist the industry in setting up an industry-led trade association to consolidate resources, step up promotion, and foster ties with industry stakeholders from around the world; and help the industry keep abreast of the latest gold market developments, acquire relevant skills and develop a training framework.

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Hashtag: #HongKong #BrandHongKong #Budget #International #Financial #Hub

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/27/enhancing-hong-kongs-strength-as-a-global-financial-centre-2026-27-budget/

Charges laid after Taranaki police forced to retreat from ‘hostile’ group at car meet

Source: Radio New Zealand

[embedded content]

Taranaki Police have laid charges against two people after encountering what they described as a “hostile” group of people at a car meet in Oaonui.

Police attended a callout to a group of “antisocial road users” gathering at Kina Road at about 1am last Saturday. However, they soon retreated, later saying, “Due to the hostile nature of the group, it was determined that the safest course of action was to monitor the meet from nearby and gather information.”

A video posted on YouTube showed about a dozen people approaching a police car, which then reversed as people ran after it. Another car then proceeded to do burnouts.

A video posted on YouTube shows about a dozen people approaching a police car, which then reverses, with people running after it. Supplied / YouTube

Taranaki Area Commander Inspector Mark Miller said two men had now been charged with reckless driving.

An 18-year-old was arrested and is due to appear in Hāwera District Court on 3 March. Another man was summoned to appear at the court a week later, on 10 March.

“This is in addition to impounding one vehicle, and 14 infringement notices that have been issued for driver licence breaches – nine of which were issued on the night of the incident, and five during our investigation phase,” Miller said.

“The investigation remains ongoing, and Police are appealing for any information on the whereabouts of a silver or light-coloured Toyota Estima – or its driver – that was involved in Saturday night’s activities.”

He urged anyone with information to contact Police, referencing file number 260221/1417.

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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/2026/02/27/charges-laid-after-taranaki-police-forced-to-retreat-from-hostile-group-at-car-meet/

Benefiting from Property Sales Growth, Sino Land Interim Revenue Increases by 34.5% to HK$5,185 Million

Source: Media Outreach

Solid Fundamentals and Prudent Financial Management Positioned to Capture Opportunities

Summary of 2025/2026Interim Results

  • The Group’s revenue for the six months ended 31 December 2025 (“Interim Period”) was HK$5,185 million (2024: HK$3,854 million), representing an increase of 34.5% year-on-year. The Group’s unaudited underlying profit attributable to shareholders, excluding the effect of fair-value changes on investment properties, was HK$2,220 million (2024: HK$2,241 million).
  • Steady interim dividend at HK15 cents per share (2024: HK15 cents per share).
  • Attributable revenue from property sales for the Interim Period, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$6,912 million (2024: HK$2,448 million), representing an increase of 182.4% year-on-year. The recent positive sales momentum was driven by the well-received launches of Villa Garda, Grand Mayfair III, and ONE PARK PLACE, as well as the sales of residential units and car parking spaces at St. George’s Mansions.
  • Attributable gross rental revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$1,708 million (2024: HK$1,748 million).
  • Attributable hotel revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$822 million (2024: HK$794 million).
  • Over the past six months, the Group acquired two land parcels in Tuen Mun and Jordan Valley, demonstrating our confidence in Hong Kong’s long-term prospects and our disciplined and strategic approach to land bank replenishment.

Financial Highlights

For the six months ended 31 December: 2025 2024 Change
Revenue HK$5,185 million HK$3,854 million +34.5%
Underlying profit HK$2,220 million HK$2,241 million -0.9%
Profit attributable to shareholders HK$1,533 million HK$1,820 million -15.8%
Dividend per share
Interim HK15 cents HK15 cents

Results and Business Highlights

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2026 – Sino Land Company Limited (Stock Code: 83) today announced its interim results for the six months ended 31 December 2025 (the “Interim Period”). The Group’s unaudited underlying profit attributable to shareholders, excluding the effect of fair-value changes on investment properties for the Interim Period, was HK$2,220 million (2024: HK$2,241 million). Underlying earnings per share was HK$0.24 (2024: HK$0.26).

Mr. Daryl Ng Win Kong, Chairman of Sino Land, and the Group’s management will continue to uphold prudent financial management while striving to enhance operational efficiency and productivity to capture future opportunities.

After taking into account the revaluation loss (net of deferred taxation) on investment properties of HK$682 million (2024: revaluation loss of HK$407 million), which is a non-cash item, the Group reported a net profit attributable to shareholders of HK$1,533 million for the Interim Period (2024: HK$1,820 million). Earnings per share was HK$0.17 (2024: HK$0.21). As at 31 December 2025, the Group had net cash of HK$51,402 million.

Property Sales – Accelerated sales momentum drives strong segment performance

Total revenue from property sales for the Interim Period, including property sales of associates and joint ventures, attributable to the Group was HK$6,912 million (2024: HK$2,448 million). Market sentiment improved notably in the second half of 2025, supported by the interest rate cut cycle, stronger financial market performance, and the inflow of talent and overseas students, all of which helped underpin housing demand.

The Group has won two government land tenders over the past six months, namely Tuen Mun Town Lot No. 569 on Hoi Chu Road in Tuen Mun and New Kowloon Inland Lot No. 6674 on Choi Hing Road in Jordan Valley. These acquisitions continue to reflect our confidence in Hong Kong’s long‑term prospects and our disciplined and strategic approach to replenishing the land bank with projects offering good development value.

Two new projects are scheduled for launch in 2026, namely La Mirabelle in Tseung Kwan O and the Wing Kwong Street/Sung On Street Development Project in To Kwa Wan. Total units sold from 1 July 2025 to 13 February 2026 reached 2,325 (attributable units: 1,052), mainly driven by the well‑received launches at Villa Garda, Grand Mayfair III and ONE PARK PLACE.

A diversified and balanced investment property portfolio reinforces long-term resilience

For the Interim Period, the Group’s attributable gross rental revenue, including share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$1,708 million (2024: HK$1,748 million), representing a decrease of 2.3% year-on-year. This decline was mainly due to the soft retail environment at the beginning of 2025, which put pressure on rental reversions, although retail sentiment improved sequentially. Overall occupancy of the Group’s investment property portfolio remained stable during the Interim Period.

Hong Kong remains well positioned to leverage its status as an international hub and financial centre, highlighted by the 119 new listings that ranked the city first globally in IPO fundraising in 2025. Supported by the HKSAR Government, the strong uptake of talent schemes and robust financial market activity strengthen overall market sentiment and lay a solid foundation for sustained business growth. The Group is actively implementing targeted marketing and promotional campaigns to stimulate foot traffic to its malls and drive retail consumption.

As at 31 December 2025, the Group has approximately 13.5 million square feet of attributable floor area of investment properties and hotels in the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney.

Hotel Operations – Continuous improvement in occupancy rates

For the Interim Period, the Group’s hotel revenue, including attributable share from associates and joint ventures, was HK$822 million compared to HK$794 million in the last interim period, and the corresponding operating profit was HK$289 million (2024: HK$261 million).

Hong Kong continued to see a solid tourism rebound in 2025, with visitor arrivals recovering amid an increasingly vibrant event calendar. With a diverse pipeline of events scheduled for 2026, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Finance Ministers’ Meeting, the Group remains confident in the outlook for Hong Kong’s tourism sector.

With solid fundamentals and balance sheet, the Group is well-positioned to capitalise on opportunities

The Group continues to make steady strides on its sustainability journey. In the Interim Period, Sino Land was recognised in CDP’s Climate Change A List and named Global Sector Leader in the Residential category of the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark, achieving the highest five‑star rating in both Development Benchmark and Standing Investment Benchmark. The Company also received MSCI’s top ‘AAA’ ESG rating, up from ‘AA’. These recognitions reaffirm Sino Land’s commitment to promoting ESG and sustainability.

‘As the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong are poised to attract increasing global capital inflows from investors, I am encouraged by the notable improvement in the economic and operating environment since the second half of 2025. Supported by the Government’s measures, more than 270,000 talent have been attracted to Hong Kong to date, while visitor arrivals and the establishment of family offices have both recorded double‑digit growth in recent years. Hong Kong also ranked first globally in IPO fundraising last year, which has helped strengthen market sentiment and support the upward trajectory. The newly announced Budget is closely aligned with the nation’s development strategy and the 15th Five‑Year Plan across key priority areas. It fosters the development of the Northern Metropolis and innovation and technology, further highlighting Hong Kong’s close connectivity with Chinese Mainland and the world, as well as its large pool of talent. These initiatives are expected to help draw additional talent, enterprises and capital, and to reinforce international investors’ confidence in the Hong Kong market.

Amid expectations of further interest rate cuts and a solid recovery in tourism, the Group remains optimistic about the overall outlook and expects the residential market to retain its momentum. We will continue to uphold prudent financial management while striving to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. With a solid financial position and forward‑looking strategies, we are well positioned to capture future opportunities and deliver sustainable long‑term value for our investors,’ said Mr. Daryl Ng Win Kong, Chairman of Sino Land.

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Hashtag: #SinoLand

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/27/benefiting-from-property-sales-growth-sino-land-interim-revenue-increases-by-34-5-to-hk5185-million/

Cricket: White Ferns v Zimbabwe – second T20 International in Hamilton

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand’s Izzy Gaze bats during the White Ferns vs Zimbabwe Women, Twenty20 International cricket match at Seddon Park, Hamilton, New Zealand on Wednesday 25 February 2026. DJ Mills / Photosport DJ Mills

The White Ferns were much more ruthless with the ball as they bowled Zimbabwe out for just 86 to seal a 110-run win in the 2nd T20I in Hamilton.

Set 197 runs to win, the tourists were rocked early when Nyasha Gwanzura spooned one straight to short cover off Jess Kerr’s first over.

Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano played a couple of nice shots before she was cleaned up by Bree Illing in the fourth.

A 21-run stand third-wicket stand between Kellie Ndhlovu and Beloved Biza provided some hope for Zimbabwe but once that was broken it all unraveled.

While Chiyedza Dhururu hit three boundaries in a flashy 20 off 13, she received very little support from the Zimbabwe lower order.

Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight both got through some valuable overs and the Northern Districts’ pair were rewarded for their efforts with two wickets apiece.

Patel’s 2/11 off four could have been even better if not for some ordinary fielding efforts.

The White Ferns will be looking to claim a clean sweep at the third T20 International on Sunday afternoon at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

See how every ball played out on our blog:

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/27/cricket-white-ferns-v-zimbabwe-second-t20-international-in-hamilton/

Amateur golfer among three leading Kiwis at NZ Open

Source: Radio New Zealand

Yuki Miya of New Zealand Chris Symes / www.photosport.nz

Christchurch amateur golfer Yuki Miya has the lead at NZ Open going into day three at Millbrook Resort on Saturday.

The 20-year-old is 12-under-par after firing a second round of 4-under-par 67 to follow an opening 63 that he completed early on Friday.

Just one shot back is the highest-ranked player in the field, world No.100 Daniel Hillier.

Unhappy with his game, Hillier has still managed rounds of 63-68 in front of an expectant home crowd craving a first New Zealand victory in their national championship since 2017.

Newly married Hillier shares second with Australian duo Travis Smyth (63) and Wade Ormsby (65), while another New Zealand hope, Kerry Mountcastle, is just two shots adrift at 10-under-par following a 64 in the near-perfect scoring conditions.

Miya’s eye-catching performance was capped by a three-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole on the Remarkables course, moving him out of a tie at the top of the leaderboard.

The Golf NZ National Academy member may be still an amateur with no immediate plans to turn professional, but he’s had significant exposure to the pro game.

He showed great composure when he bounced back from a double-bogey five on the par-3 sixth with a run of three straight birdies that started two holes later.

“That double set me back a bit. I definitely had to regroup after that one, but I clawed my way back,” Miya said.

“Obviously there’s a long way to go, still 36 holes to play, but I’ll do my best, stick to my processes and see how it goes.”

Hillier’s only bogey in his second round came on his final hole, the water-ringed par-3 ninth hole on the Remarkables which will be the closing hole on the composite course over the weekend.

After struggling with his swing for most of the day, his tee shot found the hazard to the left of the green, but a four was rescued by a tidy chip and putt.

“Probably should have happened a lot earlier than it did,” he said of his last hole error.

“The swing wasn’t feeling that great. I stood up on the tee and tried to hold one up against the wind and just flipped it a bit and away she went. But a nice little up and down at least to limit the damage.”

Hillier’s day did have plenty of highlights, however, including an eagle on the par-5 14th to sit alongside four birdies.

“It’s been a long couple of days. Obviously a lot of golf crammed into a short period of time,” he said.

“A little bit tired at the moment, but nice to hang in there today. Hopefully get some good rest and come out firing tomorrow.”

A top-10 machine on the Asian Tour, Smyth does not expect to have too much crowd support on his side as he chases his second victory as a pro with three New Zealanders amongst his chief competition.

“It’s going to be fun,” he said after closing with four straight birdies.

“It’s not going to worry me at all. I’ve played in Korea towards the last groups and you get literally zero claps from the Koreans over there.

“I feel like the crowds this week, they’re pretty supportive of good golf and hopefully I can show them good golf.”

Ormsby finished his round after sunset, rolling in birdies on the 16th and 17th before missing from three metres on the last to tie Miya at the top.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/27/amateur-golfer-among-three-leading-kiwis-at-nz-open/

Charges laid after Taranaki police forced to retreat from ‘hostile’ group at car meet

Source: Radio New Zealand

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Taranaki Police have laid charges against two people after encountering what they described as a “hostile” group of people at a car meet in Oaonui.

Police attended a callout to a group of “antisocial road users” gathering at Kina Road at about 1am last Saturday. However, they soon retreated, later saying, “Due to the hostile nature of the group, it was determined that the safest course of action was to monitor the meet from nearby and gather information.”

A video posted on YouTube showed about a dozen people approaching a police car, which then reversed as people ran after it. Another car then proceeded to do burnouts.

A video posted on YouTube shows about a dozen people approaching a police car, which then reverses, with people running after it. Supplied / YouTube

Taranaki Area Commander Inspector Mark Miller said two men had now been charged with reckless driving.

An 18-year-old was arrested and is due to appear in Hāwera District Court on 3 March. Another man was summoned to appear at the court a week later, on 10 March.

“This is in addition to impounding one vehicle, and 14 infringement notices that have been issued for driver licence breaches – nine of which were issued on the night of the incident, and five during our investigation phase,” Miller said.

“The investigation remains ongoing, and Police are appealing for any information on the whereabouts of a silver or light-coloured Toyota Estima – or its driver – that was involved in Saturday night’s activities.”

He urged anyone with information to contact Police, referencing file number 260221/1417.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/27/charges-laid-after-taranaki-police-forced-to-retreat-from-hostile-group-at-car-meet/

Valle Venia presents new song by LPS feat. Lara: Where will it take me

Source: Media Outreach

NEUSTADT AN DER WEINSTRASSE, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 27 February 2026 – The song describes the challenge of trusting the flow, relying on oneself, following one’s own values with confidence.

Valle Venia presents new song by LPS feat. Lara: Where will it take me Picture: Leo Philipp Schmidt

In a time when everything seems to begin to dissolve, when disorientation prevails more than ever and when one is searching for something to hold on to, certainty can be found in uncertainty.

Lara’s authentic interpretation, with her multi-faceted voice, conveys confidence in finding a way for oneself and others.

In the faceless, noisy crowd, where glances are not returned and touches are not felt, one is pulled away by an invisible hand.

Multilink: https://valevenia.lnk.to/wherewillittakeme
Youtube: https://youtu.be/0MVTgXO2E_M
Website: www.valle-venia.com

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/27/valle-venia-presents-new-song-by-lps-feat-lara-where-will-it-take-me/