NZ First to campaign on ministers getting final say in fast track projects

Source: Radio New Zealand

NZ First deputy leader Shane Jones addressing Fast Track protesters last year. (File photo) RNZ / Peter de Graaf

New Zealand First will campaign on reinstating sweeping ministerial powers in the fast track legislation this election.

The law, set up as a ‘one stop shop’ process for consenting infrastructure, initially proposed three ministers would refer projects and make the final approval decision.

After widespread pushback during the select committee process, the government changed the legislation so an independent expert panel would get the final say.

Speaking at a breakfast with energy sector stakeholders in Wellington, New Zealand First’s deputy leader Shane Jones was asked by Minerals Council CEO Josie Vidal how the government could convince investors that businesses, not just government, could get projects going.

“When the government was formed in 2023, the Prime Minister met with Winston and myself. I kinda got hōhā and went for a holiday to the Gold Coast so if there’s anything wrong with the coalition agreement you might want to blame me,” he told the group as some chuckled.

“But one thing that the Prime Minister embraced, along with Mr Bishop, was the need to substantially improve the fast track legislation that Parker had in place,” Jones said.

“My honest view, and I have to be bound by the collective decision, I always wanted ministers to be making the decisions. I felt that if something was in a regional or national interest the ultimate test is for a politician who goes every three years to renew their warrant to be the proxy for that national interest.”

Jones said he would campaign on a fast track system where politicians “failed or flourished” by making big calls.

“That malaise you talk about was evidenced through the massive march on Queen Street who felt that that was corrupting a process of assessing risk and finding balance and I just can’t get my head around why four individuals…[are] more morally fit to make those calls than politicians and I’m going to campaign on that.”

‘We’re comfortable with the model’ – National

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the fast track law was working “exceptionally well” and he didn’t see any need to reinstate the sweeing ministerial powers.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. (File photo) RNZ/Mark Papalii

“No, we’re comfortable with the model. It’s got to have checks and balances. Fast track is not a rubber stamp. Fast track is designed to say, bring all your information together, make the case for your project but it doesn’t need to take five years if we can do it in 110 days.

Luxon said New Zealand First was entitled to campaign on changes if it wanted.

“They can do whatever but the point is it actually has got checks and balances on it, deliberately so. It doesn’t mean every project is going to get approved.

“As I said, it’s not a rubber stamp. It’s important that there is rigor and robustness in the cases that are presented… but it doesn’t need to take us as long as it’s been taking us.”

National’s campaign chairperson Chris Bishop said the fast track approvals regime was “the law of the land” as government policy and Jones’ view wasn’t new.

National’s Chris Bishop. (File photo) RNZ / Nathan McKinnon

“Shane’s had a view around this for for quite some time and that was how the original fast track proposal started. In the end, Cabinet landed where we’ve got to, which is a pretty robust regime where ministers make the referral decisions.

“They come across my desk at least once a week and I refer process of projects into the process and then they go off to the expert panels for a yay or a nay.”

Bishop said nine projects had been approved through the fast track in the first year and more were in the process of referral or before panels.

“I’m really proud of how it’s working, I think it’s going really well so far.”

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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/2026/02/10/nz-first-to-campaign-on-ministers-getting-final-say-in-fast-track-projects/

Disability support improvements begin

Source: New Zealand Government

From this week, a new nationally consistent approach will begin to benefit disabled people, families and carers who use supports funded by Disability Support Services (DSS).  

Minister for Disability Issues Louise Upston says the new approach is significant and confirms the first tranche of the changes announced in September 2025.

“We listened to the disability community who said that the assessment and allocation processes needed to be easier, more consistent and streamlined,” Louise Upston says.

“We’ve also responded to Independent Review findings that disability support services had become a postcode lottery for disabled people around the country.

“From this week, All Needs Assessment Service Coordination organisations (NASCs) and Enabling Good Lives (EGL) sites will use the same approach to assess needs and ensure supports are allocated fairly and consistently – no matter where people live.

“After their assessment, people will get a clear plan focused on their needs and explaining the purpose of their funding. Support will be available if they need it to help them manage their plan.

“Families and carers can also now be considered as part of the assessment. We recognise that better support for the wellbeing of families and carers also greatly improves the disabled person’s wellbeing and quality of life. 

“In April, further improvements mean people with flexible funding will get budgets to manage within and current purchasing rules will be removed (including the March 2024 changes).

“We recognise that disabled people are the experts in their own lives. This will give greater choice and control over their supports and spending to around 38,500 people who already receive flexible funding.

“Throughout this stabilisation period, it’s been important for us to continue to listen. These improvements are informed by what more than 1,800 disabled people, families and carers told us during nationwide consultation last year.

“The changes will also provide a more stable foundation to strengthen the disability support system over the longer term.” 

Notes for Editors

Disability Support Services is working with NASCs, EGL sites and hosts to ensure a smooth transition for disabled people, families and carers who use disability supports.
People will receive improved information before their assessment to help them prepare and understand what to expect during the process.
Following their assessment, people and their families will gain a personalised “My DSS” funding plan which sets out the intent of the funding and what’s required to support their disability needs.
The DSS website www.disabilitysupport.govt.nz / Changes to disability support services | Disability Support Services has more information on the changes.

 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/10/disability-support-improvements-begin/

Work safety group says proposed law change likely to increase harm to people

Source: Radio New Zealand

Minister for Workplace Relations Brooke van Velden says she is looking to cut health and safety red tape for low-risk businesses. 123RF

A work safety group says a new bill before Parliament is likely to increase harm to people and cause cost blowouts from accidents.

The amendment bill is the first big change proposed in a decade to health and safety laws brought in after the Pike River disaster.

The bill sets out to cut death and injury rates, and compliance costs, by focusing on the most serious critical risks and reducing confusion.

But the Institute of Safety Management said this ignored the fact most workplace harm was not at the critical end.

“All of the back injuries, the psychological harm, violence and aggression, all of the things that are the most common, the most costly and overall the most harmful, wouldn’t meet the definition of critical risk,” spokesperson Mike Cosman told RNZ on Tuesday.

The bill would increase compliance costs for firms that would need to keep checking if they qualified as “small” enough under the law to avoid managing many risks, he added.

The bill adds a new definition of critical risk and businesses would be responsible for checking if it applied to them.

The official disclosure about the bill said the law in place since 2016 put too many duties on to businesses, and the “broad nature … has led to confusion and overcompliance” with many finding it difficult to prove to regulators they were complying.

“Focusing the system on critical risks is designed to direct attention and resources towards preventing serious workplace harms and away from more minor issues,” it said.

The government aims for the bill to enable stronger approved codes of practice (ACOPs) within particular high-risk industries to help tamp down on risks. The forestry industry recently launched a new ACOP.

Cosman retorted that the bill should not take an “either-or” approach.

Most businesses wanted to do the right thing but “the clear message is if you’re a small firm, you don’t have to provide instruction, training, supervision, even PPE for your workers … unless it’s in relation to a critical risk”, he said.

“So for those firms who are looking for a way out, this will provide it.”

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden has talked about dealing to the “huge culture of fear” around Worksafe by changing it to prioritise education over punishment.

However, a common theme of criticism for years had been that Worksafe was too soft and, for instance, did not go after company directors and executives enough.

Cosman said the bill reflected a dogma that compliance costs were inherently bad, rather than reflecting accurately the submissions to a nationwide roadshow and review that van Velden fronted.

“We see this as a significant missed opportunity to improve New Zealand’s patchy record on health and safety,” he said in a statement.

“These changes are likely to increase harm to workers, families, businesses, communities along with cost blowouts for the Government books in ACC, health and welfare.”

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/10/work-safety-group-says-proposed-law-change-likely-to-increase-harm-to-people/

New liquified natural gas terminal: ‘Vital’ or ‘bonkers’?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Energy minister Simon Watts. RNZ/Mark Papalii

The government wants taxpayers to pay for a new liquified natural gas import terminal, but is promising lower power prices will come as a result.

It is estimated the new terminal, expected to be ready next year at the earliest, will save New Zealanders around $265 million a year by reducing price spikes and lowering the risk premiums.

But a new levy will be charged to get it built.

The government is touting it as a solution to New Zealand’s energy woes.

“It will mean that Kiwis will not need to suffer through an endless series of winter bill shocks,” energy minister Simon Watts said on Monday.

‘Vital part of the overall puzzle’ – Energy Resources Aotearoa

The idea is that it will reduce the risk of shortages during a dry year.

Liquified natural gas (LNG) can be imported at large volumes, stored, and then ‘regasified’ to be sent out for use.

John Carnegie, chief executive of industry body Energy Resources Aotearoa, said the terminal would be a useful insurance policy for when the weather did not play ball.

“LNG will be useful as a vital part of the overall puzzle of New Zealand’s energy system security,” he said.

“LNG can be expected to take the heat out of the electricity market when renewable fuels like wind, water, and the sun don’t turn up when they’re needed. It will place downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices and reduce the risk premium in the out years.”

Energy Resources Aotearoa chief executive John Carnegie. Supplied / Rob Tucker

Last year’s Frontier Report – commissioned to review the performance of the electricity market – warned it should only be used as a last resort.

The report said using it just to meet dry year risk made no economic sense, as the large fixed costs would be spread over a relatively small amount of output.

But Carnegie said LNG provided a “virtuous circle” to support the development of more renewables, and pointed the finger at the previous government’s ban on offshore oil and gas exploration as a reason why power prices were spiking in dry years.

“More wind and solar and batteries are great, but also the conundrum is their growth exacerbates the problem of being too weather dependent. So we need a reliable fuel to fill the gaps which domestic gas previously filled. And so New Zealand’s energy system, I believe, will be at its most effective when renewable generation and firming fuels like LNG and domestic gas work in harmony.”

A separate study by gas company Clarus, along with the four gentailers, found it was feasible but would likely be costly, and only needed occasionally.

Following the announcement, Clarus’ chief executive Paul Goodeve said it would increase New Zealand’s energy resilience and increase the range of markets it could draw from.

“At the moment, the coal that we import is relatively restricted where it comes from. The global market in LNG is vast and diverse, and appears to be continuing as we speak.”

Goodeve was confident it could be financially sustainable, and the government’s involvement in the procurement system made sense.

“It appears as though they’ve got work done by financial advisors who pointed out the benefits to the overall New Zealand energy system, but particularly the electricity system, of having LNG in the mix.”

Details on the shortlist of six were being kept under wraps, but all were in Taranaki.

Port of Taranaki chief executive Simon Craddock said it was a great opportunity for the region, and while the port was not an LNG developer, it was keen to support it.

“The current terminal developments, as I understand it, are all focused on the Taranaki region, and the reason for that is largely proximity to the Maui gas pipeline. But the developers are international companies who may or may not partner with local interests.”

Port of Taranaki chief executive Simon Craddock. Tom Roberton / 2015

Craddock said there was nothing the port had seen that could have major adverse effects on its current trade.

“The port has a number of advantages… the proximity to the pipeline, we’re the only deep water port on the West Coast. So this is the sort of thing we do day to day, where our main customer to-date has been Methanex. We also have other petrochemical customers on the port, so it really is within our core business suite.”

ACT’s energy spokesperson Simon Court said it was a “sad but necessary bookend” to the oil and gas exploration ban.

“Labour promoted the view that gas is something to be ashamed of. It’s not. Gas is a practical, reliable option when hydro lakes are low. Gas keeps factories running, heaters humming, and lights buzzing. And the environmental case for gas is strong too, because when we can’t burn gas, we burn coal,” he said.

‘It’s cooked’ – Green Party

On Monday, Watts said discussions were commercially sensitive but it would cost “north of a billion dollars” to build.

To pay for those infrastructure costs, the government will charge users an electricity levy of $2 to $4 per megawatt hour.

But Watts was keen to point to the net benefit, with advice showing the facility was expected to cut future prices by at least $10 per megawatt hour.

“So straight away, we’re in the money in regards to benefits versus costs, and our expectation of having that certainty of supply takes away the price spikes that we saw, for example, in 2024.”

That has not convinced the Green Party.

Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick said the government was guaranteeing added costs to New Zealanders, while relying on “hopes, wishes, and prayers” for future savings.

Green Party co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick. RNZ / Reece Baker

“I think it’s absolutely bonkers for power bills, for the planet, for our country’s energy resilience. The only people who want this are the fossil fuel industry and seemingly the National Party. Whatever claim, whatever remaining claim the Nats have to being economic managers is now, frankly, up in flames,” she said.

“Honestly, it’s cooked. Christopher Luxon has once again chosen to throw New Zealanders’ money at fossil fuels, which is bad for power bills, energy security and the planet. This is Christopher Luxon’s New Zealand. Profits are flowing offshore, while New Zealanders are paying handsomely for it.”

[h]’Gas tax’ – Labour

Labour, meanwhile, is calling it a “gas tax”.

Leader Chris Hipkins said households were already struggling with the cost of living, and he did not believe it would reduce power prices.

“I think, if anything, they’re trying to make the argument that this will decrease the rate of increase in power prices. There are other ways to do that. A billion dollars would buy you a hell of a lot of solar panels and batteries, which would save households a significant amount of money.”

Hipkins dismissed questions over whether Labour would terminate any agreements, or put the costs onto the energy companies and take away the levy on households, as “hypothetical.”

Labour leader Chris Hipkins. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The prime minister’s assertion it was a levy, and not a tax, was criticised by the Taxpayers’ Union.

“You don’t make electricity bills cheaper by taxing them. Dancing on the head of a pin over what is a tax and what is a levy is a Labour Party talking point. Luxon should spare us the spin and abandon this folly,” said spokesperson James Ross.

Climate change advocacy group 350 Aotearoa was previously one of twenty signatories that sent an open letter to Luxon and Watts, urging against the new terminal when it was first signalled in October.

Following the confirmation, co-director Alva Feldmeier said while she agreed with the government that New Zealanders were feeling the squeeze with their power bills, the terminal was not the solution.

“Essentially, what they’re doing now is putting a new tax on every New Zealander’s power bill to subsidise an expensive sunset industry,” she said.

Feldmeier said LNG-generated electricity was double the price of new renewable electricity, and the risk of importing and being reliant on international fossil fuels was that New Zealand could also import international price shocks.

“This is a political choice this government is making. They’d rather kowtow to the fossil fuel and the gas lobbies and keep us hooked on gas for longer, than explore how we’re going to get off it, and how we’re going to make some tough decisions in the next few months and years.”

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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/2026/02/10/new-liquified-natural-gas-terminal-vital-or-bonkers/

Voicecomm Technology Wins 300 million RMB Major “AI+ Elderly Care” Project Forging a New Engine for the Silver Economy

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – Voicecomm Technology Co., Ltd. (“Voicecomm Technology” or the “Company”, Stock Code: 2495.HK), one of the leading enterprises in Conversational Artificial Intelligence (CoAI), is pleased to announce that it has successfully won the bid for the “South Sichuan Intelligent Valley AI Vertical Large Model Innovation Platform (川南智谷人工智能垂直大模型創新平台)- Silver Economy Construction and Operation Project” in Neijiang City, Sichuan Province. The total contract value is close to 300 million RMB, including approximately RMB 150 million for the initial platform construction costs; and approximately RMB 140 million for medium- to long-term project operation costs. This indicates that Voicecomm Technology has successfully established a full-stack service closed loop of “construction + operation”. This project marks a significant breakthrough for the Company in pioneering the new strategic track of “AI + healthcare” and represents its first replicable city-level smart elderly care benchmark project.

According to report from iResearch, as the end of 2024, China’s population aged 60 and above has exceeded 310 million, accounting for 22.0% of the total population. As the first city-level AI elderly care project, this not only affirms Voicecomm Technology’s position in the “AI + Elderly Care” sector but also signals a new trend in government investment towards smart elderly care—shifting from infrastructure construction to pursuing effective operational services.

Mr. Sun Qi, Founder and Executive Director of Voicecomm Technology Co., Ltd., said: “China is accelerating into a phase of deep aging, and the needs of hundreds of millions of elderly people constitute a vast blue ocean. Faced with the challenges of an aging society today, we aim to leverage artificial intelligence technology to explore a new, scientifically-driven path for elderly care. The Neijiang project is our first demonstration project in the healthcare sector. Its core lies not in stacking hardware but in using AI as the engine to make elderly care services truly intelligent and smooth, thereby enhancing the quality of life and dignity of the elderly. We hope to build this project into a replicable model for more cities to learn from.”

This project is expected to become a powerful engine for activating the silver economy in Neijiang City. Guided by national Smart Elderly Care policies, the project is anticipated to drive an annual output value exceeding 1 billion RMB in the local elderly care service industry and create a large number of job opportunities. By establishing a unified smart health and elderly care service platform, the project will strive to build a “15-minute elderly care service circle,” achieving deep integration between technology and people’s livelihoods.

Since its establishment in 2005, Voicecomm Technology has been committed to the research and application of Conversational Artificial Intelligence and unified communications technologies. Its solutions cover multiple scenarios in fields such as city management and administration, automotive and transportation, telecommunications, finance, healthcare, and energy management. This successful bid once again unveils Voicecomm Technology’s commitment to promoting technological progress and social development.

Hashtag: #Voicecomm

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/2026/02/10/voicecomm-technology-wins-300-million-rmb-major-ai-elderly-care-project-forging-a-new-engine-for-the-silver-economy/

YF Life Launches Exclusive Concert Tickets Lucky Draw via YFLink

Source: Media Outreach

Register Now for a Chance to Win YF Life Presents: LEON LAI ROBBABA CONCERT 2026 Live Tickets

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 -YF Life Insurance International Ltd. (YF Life) is excited to announce the launch of the “YFLink Concert Tickets Lucky Draw”, offering music fans the chance to win tickets to one of the city’s most anticipated concert, inviting music lovers to take a break from their daily routines and immerse themselves in an unforgettable musical experience.

YF Life launches YFLink Concert Tickets Lucky Draw. Register now for a chance to win YF Life Presents: LEON LAI ROBBABA CONCERT 2026 Live tickets

From February 9 to February 27, 2026, Eligible customers can enter the lucky draw by simply logging into the “YFLink” Mobile App and completing a quick registration. Participants stand a chance to win tickets to the “YF Life Presents: LEON LAI ROBBABA CONCERT 2026 Live” to experience the electric atmosphere in person. Each existing customer can enjoy up to five chances to win during the camp. Each eligible customer is eligible for 5 changes at most in the lucky draw.

Prizes:

  • Grand prize: Two “YF Life Presents: LEON LAI ROBBABA CONCERT 2026 Live” in Hong Kong concert tickets (each ticket is worth HK$1380)
  • 2nd prize: Two “YF Life Presents: LEON LAI ROBBABA CONCERT 2026 Live” in Hong Kong concert tickets (each ticket is worth HK$680)

Existing YF Life customers1 aged 18 or above who successfully completes the “Lucky Draw” registration via the “YFLink” platform within the Campaign Period are eligible to enter into the Lucky Draw. Each eligible participant will earn at least one chance of winning a prize in the Lucky Draw based on the number of in-force YF Life’s individual insurance policy (basic plan) (“Eligible Policy(ies)”) and member accounts of Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) Scheme/ Macau Pension Scheme/ Macau Non-Mandatory Central Provident Fund Scheme (CPS) provided by YF Life they have (“Eligible Member Account(s)”), and fulfilling the relevant requirements. Each Eligible Policy or Eligible Member Account will be counted as 1 entry into the Lucky Draw of this Campaign. Accordingly, holding 2 Eligible Policies or Eligible Member Accounts will be counted as 2 entries, and so on. Each Eligible Participant is eligible for 5 chances at most in the Lucky Draw during the Campaign Period.

The lucky draw will be officially conducted on March 4, 2026. Winners will be drawn by computer system randomly. The results of the lucky draw will be published on the campaign website2,3, The Standard, and Sing Tao Daily (only applicable to Hong Kong) on March 9, 2026. Winners will be personally notified regarding the prize redemption arrangements via “YFLink” and SMS.

For more details about the lucky draw, please visit the campaign website (Hong Kong)/ campaign website (Macau).

Trade Promotion Competition Licence No.: 61079 (Only applicable to Hong Kong)

Terms and conditions apply.

Remark:

  1. Existing YF Life customers refer to existing policyholder holding at least one YF Life’s in-force individual insurance policy as of February 27, 2026 17:30; or existing member of the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF)Scheme/ Macau Pension Scheme/ Macau Non-Mandatory Central Provident Fund Scheme (CPS) provided by YF Life as of February 27, 2026 (with an account balance greater than zero on February 27, 2026).
  2. “YFLink Concert Tickets Lucky Draw” Campaign Website (Hong Kong)
  3. “YFLink Concert Tickets Lucky Draw” Campaign Website (Macau)

Hashtag: #YFLife

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/yf-life-launches-exclusive-concert-tickets-lucky-draw-via-yflink/

Energy Sector – LNG Import Facility an Insurance Policy for Future

Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa

Energy Resources Aotearoa acknowledges the Government’s decision to progress importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a practical step to strengthen New Zealand’s energy security.
Today’s announcement to move rapidly with the aim of signing a contract by mid-2026 to build an LNG import facility by 2028 responds to a growing fuel shortage in the energy system, driven by tightened domestic gas supply and intermittent weather-based sources of generation.
Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie says the decision recognises the system’s vulnerability in dry years, when low rainfall or wind and reducing domestic gas supply constrain fuel availability during high electricity demand periods.
“Thermal fuels back our energy security, and LNG gives the system another option when it is under pressure.
This is about giving the system breathing room. LNG isn’t a replacement for domestic gas or renewables, but can help stabilise electricity supply and prices when the sun doesn’t shine, the wind doesn’t blow, and hydro lakes are low.”
The Crown procuring this infrastructure on behalf of electricity users seems a sensible way to protect New Zealanders against future policy changes, Carnegie says.
“The market is best placed to decide how much LNG is needed and when it is used. What matters is keeping the option available so the system has fuel when it needs it.
LNG can act as an insurance policy, but it comes with risks that must be managed, such as exposing New Zealand to international prices and global events beyond our control.”
For that reason, domestic gas remains critical, Carnegie says.
Carnegie also says New Zealand’s energy system will be at its most effective when renewable generation and firming fuels work in harmony.
“Strengthening the system over time will require continued investment in renewables, firming capacity and domestic gas supply, backed by clear and durable policy settings.
Keeping LNG as an option while more wind, geothermal and solar are built, and the gas sector rebuilds, helps manage risk and keep electricity more reliable.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/energy-sector-lng-import-facility-an-insurance-policy-for-future/

LNG terminal decision: Dirty, dumb and expensive – Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace is slamming the Luxon government’s announcement it will build a liquid natural gas (LNG) import terminal, calling it a dirty, dumb and expensive decision that will leave New Zealanders subsidising more climate pollution through higher electricity bills.
The decision comes despite the expected high cost and high emission intensity of imported LNG. Building the LNG terminal is expected to cost $1 billion, while the cost of imported LNG is expected to be around twice as much per gigajoule as gas from existing onshore reserves.
“Electricity consumers will pay a Luxon Tax on their electricity bills to subsidize the fossil fuel industry,” says Greenpeace Executive Director Russel Norman.
“Instead of investing in clean energy, this Government is choosing to double down on the very fossil fuels that are driving both high power prices and extreme weather events.
“Every additional tonne of fossil fuels burned makes climate change worse. This LNG decision is yet another fossil fuel subsidy from the Luxon government that will mean more floods, storms, and climate fuelled damage.
“It makes no sense to rely on imported and expensive fossil fuels when we have abundant, cheap energy sources right here at home with wind and solar.”
A report by MBIE in 2024 found that there was no need for new fossil fuels to maintain New Zealand’s energy security out to 2050 and reported that wind and solar are the cheapest sources of new electricity generation.
Meanwhile, a 2023 Concept Consulting report found onshore gas reserves alone can supply all needs out to 2050 if Methanex, the company using between one third to a half of the country’s gas to make methanol for export, were to close, which it inevitably will as gas prices rise.
“This Government has made the energy and climate crises worse by dismantling nearly every initiative to decarbonise the energy system. They ditched the Government Investment in Decarbonising Industry fund, the NZ Battery Project, and the Gas Transition Plan.
“Businesses are closing because the Government believed its own nonsense that the oil and gas exploration ban was the cause of high electricity prices. It never was and the LNG subsidy will solve nothing,” says Dr Norman.
“They even got rid of the Climate Emergency Response Fund set up to help communities recover from climate disasters. Now, they are planning to use more public money to bankroll fossil fuels for more climate emergencies.
“The Government should be investing in cheap, renewable wind and solar, backed by more storage and demand response, not exposing the country to a volatile global LNG market and locking us into more polluting fossil fuels.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/lng-terminal-decision-dirty-dumb-and-expensive-greenpeace/

Concerns about increased ‘nangs’ use in Hawkes Bay being aimed at young people

Source: Radio New Zealand

Cartridge of nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas or nangs, can cause serious health problems. AFP/ GARO

A significant jump in the recreational use of nitrous oxide, or nangs, has community leaders worried, with claims big canisters of the gas are being marketed to children.

Nitrous oxide is a colourless gas, known as laughing gas, which is used as a painkiller in medical and dental procedures.

It is also used in catering to make whipped cream.

If inhaled recreationally nangs can have dangerous long-term side effects like nerve damage in the brain and spinal cord.

Under the Psychoactive Substances Act it’s illegal to sell the product for recreational use.

In recent weeks, dozens of the discarded canisters have started turning up in the Hawke’s Bay prompting a crisis meeting.

Stewart Whyte of Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga called the hui and told Checkpoint they were made aware of the issue through a retailer in the area.

“We just got a contact through one of the retailers here that actually works with oxygen bottles for dive supplies and things like that… and he had collected quite a few apple bins [worth] over a short period of time.”

A 1.6 litre cannister of nitrous oxide. Photo / File Supplied

Whyte said the largest canisters they had found had been around the size of a large thermos flask.

“They’re marketed in such a way that they’re very colourful and obviously aimed at young people. They certainly don’t look like industrial canisters for making whipped cream.”

While medical grade nitrous oxide is mixed with oxygen, Whyte said these canisters are purely nitrous oxide, making them extremely dangerous.

“These big canisters, I believe, have about 300 hits within each one.”

Whyte is worried the problem is bigger than what anyone is anticipating.

“It seems to me that it’s gone under the radar for quite a long period of time. I think the use of this particular substance though has spiked. Certainly the evidence of the empty canisters turning up at this company would be evidence of that.”

“There are huge side effects, quite dangerous to people’s health for the use of this product. So it is quite concerning.”

He said with evidence that nangs have contributed to fatalities on the roads, it is clear the gas is already affecting whanau.

“There is impacts already that can evidence people have been seriously hurt, the nervous system’s damaged, people have been blacking out for 30 minutes or longer,”

“While it might be a short-term, 30-second hit for a young person, what we need to do really quite clearly and quickly is to inform our community that these products are out there and at the moment they’re readily available through retail outlets with very little law to protect our young people from the danger that they present.”

A meeting with community leaders was held two weeks ago to discuss the issue.

Whyte said leaders landed on a two-step approach to addressing their concerns.

“One is educating and informing our community of the danger of this particular product. The second one is to try and get our retailers together that are offering this product to see if there’s a willingness for them to not supply it.”

“That would be the best outcome that we could achieve.”

He said they also want politicians to look at the law around selling nitrous oxide, banning it from dairies and vape stores, and making it available only from licensed premises that deal in catering.

“I think that would be the logical next step, but it’s a longer-term project.”

“There’s no reason for them to be in a dairy.”

Whyte said their number one priority is to spread awareness within the community, something that he said he has already seen rising.

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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/2026/02/09/concerns-about-increased-nangs-use-in-hawkes-bay-being-aimed-at-young-people/

Government backs energy resilience in Far North

Source: New Zealand Government

Reliable, affordable electricity is on the way for a kura (school) and five marae north of Kaitaia with a grant of up to $1.26 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF), Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka announced today.

“Marae and kura often double as vital civil defence centres for locals in times of crisis. The solar power generated from this project will supply six essential community hubs with reliable, reduced cost power, improving the region’s energy security and strengthening its resilience during emergencies.”

The project called Whiti Mai Te Rā is forecast to save the marae and kura more than $100,000 per year in energy costs. 

“The funding will pay for solar panels and batteries at Te Rangi Āniwaniwa Kura and at five rural marae north of Kaitaia. A diesel generator will also be installed to ensure the kura has additional power if required in a civil defence emergency. 

“The funding recipient Aupouri Ngāti Kahu Te Rarawa Trust is partnering with Northland power company Kaumātua Energy, who will install and maintain the systems and act as the electricity retailer. Kaumātua Energy will also co-fund 15 percent of the $1.48 million project.”

Mr Potaka says the initiative delivers long-term value and responds directly to the needs of the community.

“Whiti Mai Te Rā will strengthen communities by improving resilience, enabling critical infrastructure, and supporting energy security. 

“The government is proud to partner this locally led solution, which will ensure essential community facilities can support people for generations to come,” Mr Potaka says.

Installation of the solar panel and batteries begins in March 2026, starting with the kura before rolling out to the five marae.

Note to editors:

Aupōuri Ngāti Kahu Te Rarawa (ANT) Trust is a community-based organisation serving the Far North of New Zealand, offering Whānau Ora social services that address health, justice, housing, education, and financial challenges. 

ANT Trust is dedicated to supporting whānau to thrive, delivering tailored solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term empowerment for individuals and families. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/government-backs-energy-resilience-in-far-north/

New poll predicts hung Parliament

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ

Neither the right or left bloc would be able to govern if an election were held today, according to the latest Taxpayers’ Union-Curia Poll.

The Labour Party has dropped 0.3 points to 34.1 percent, while National dropped 0.2 points to 31.3 percent.

New Zealand First dropped 1.4 points to 10.5 percent, while the Greens jumped 2.6 points to 10.3 percent.

The ACT Party dropped 0.3 points to 6.7 percent, while Te Pāti Māori dropped 0.1 points to 2.9 percent.

The combined projected seats for the centre-right bloc was down 3 seats to 60, while the combined seats for the centre-left block rose 3 seats to 60.

On these numbers, there would be a hung Parliament.

For parties outside of Parliament, TOP was on 1.4 percent (+0.7 points), NZ Outdoors and Freedom was on 1.2 percent (+0.6 points), Vision NZ was on 0.4 percent (+0.1 points), and New Conservatives were on 0.1 percent (-0.2 points).

Cost of living remained the most important issue, jumping 7.4 points to 34.9 percent; the highest result since May 2024.

The economy more generally sat as the second most important issue on 12.0 percent (-2.8 points), followed by health on 9.2 percent (+0.4 points).

The poll was conducted by Curia Market Research Ltd for the NZ Taxpayers’ Union. It is a random poll of 1000 adult New Zealanders and is weighted to the overall adult population. It was conducted by phone (landlines and mobile) and online between Sunday 1 February and Tuesday 3 February 2026. It has a maximum margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent.

Curia is a long-running and established pollster in New Zealand. In 2024 it resigned its membership from the Research Association New Zealand (RANZ) industry body.

Polls compare to the most recent poll by the same polling company, as different polls can use different methodologies. They are intended to track trends in voting preferences, showing a snapshot in time, rather than be a completely accurate predictor of the final election result.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/09/new-poll-predicts-hung-parliament/

Auckland mayor Wayne Brown says government ‘unqualified’ to lead city’s economic recovery

Source: Radio New Zealand

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown wearing a cap with the word ‘Rates’ on it. (File photo) Supplied

Auckland mayor Wayne Brown says the government is unqualified to lead the city’s economic recovery and should leave it to local council.

The comments came as Brown again renewed calls for a bed levy tax, despite the government’s opposition to the move.

A suite of events were set to be held in Auckland throughout the year, as major infrastructure projects neared completion.

The long-delayed International Convention Centre was finally due to open on Wednesday.

The new International Convention Centre. (File photo) New Zealand International Convention Centre

Construction of the Convention Centre began back in 2015 and was initially supposed to take 38 months, but had been plagued by a budget blow-out and legal wrangling.

“We’ve been waiting for such a long time. [Convention centres] are hard to make money out of.

“I understand it’s booked up pretty well, so it will bring in conventions and it will be part of the tourist offering. But that whole tourist thing is a bit of a question for us.”

The New Zealand leg of SailGP also returned to the waters of Waitematā Harbour this weekend.

Brown told Morning Report both events were a positive for the supercity.

“Those are two good things on this week, that’s for sure,” he said.

“It’s a big year really when you think about it.

“The Polo finals and the Blues and Chiefs are playing shortly. There’s a lot of sport,” he said.

Another long overdue milestone, the City Rail Link was also due to be completed later this year.

The Ocean Race, formerly known as the Round the World Race, was scheduled to return to the City of Sails in 2027.

Brown wasted no time pointing to the small matter of the Election, another major event pertinent to Auckland residents, he said.

“If you don’t win Auckland, you don’t get to be the government.”

Brown had long campaigned for a bed tax on visitors to help fund destination marketing and events.

He again expressed his desire for the scheme.

“The government can’t bring itself to do that yet, so that they’re raiding tourists at the border. And then central government will tell us how we spend on things, which is something we don’t like.

“All these big events want some money up front. And if we have the bed night levy we will have the money up front.”

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston, said a bed tax was not something she was pursuing this term.

“Our government has already announced a number of initiatives to boost tourism and events across New Zealand and in Auckland, including our $70 million major events and tourism package and a regional tourism boost announcement which invests in campaigns to market New Zealand (and Auckland) to overseas visitors.”

Upston said the government was firmly focused on growing the economy, including the Auckland economy, and tourism and major events remained integral to that.

“I recognise there’s been an interest in bed tax and am also aware of Wayne Brown’s recent comments.”

In response to Auckland’s lagging economy and high unemployment rate, the mayor said “it had its own ideas”.

Council-led initiatives such as the Auckland Innovation & Technology Alliance showed the council was better suited than the government in driving investment into the city, Brown said.

“Economic development; we’ve decided that council will lead this, because the government doesn’t quite know how to do that.”

When asked if he felt the government had dropped the ball, he replied “they hadn’t didn’t pick it up”.

“They’re not quite sure where it is/ There’s a lot we can do ourselves as well. Instead of them initiating things, we just want them to help with what we’re going to initiate.

“There’s too much centralised decision making in this country.”

Minister for Auckland, Simeon Brown said the government was focused on rebuilding the economy and Auckland was central to that.

“That’s why we’re fast-tracking major infrastructure like the $200 million Port of Auckland extension and incentivising business investment through Investment Boost and our Going for Growth agenda.

“The opening of the International Convention Centre and the City Rail Link later this year will further lift jobs and economic activity.”

Simeon Brown said business confidence in Auckland was at its highest in over a decade.

“GDP is up 12.1 per cent on 2019, labour force participation is 72.8 per cent, and CBD office vacancies have fallen for the first time since 2022 – a clear sign businesses are backing the city again.

The Mayor and Auckland Council would be wise to focus on keeping costs down for Aucklanders.”

Supporting a rates cap last week would have been a good first step, Simeon Brown added.

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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/2026/02/09/auckland-mayor-wayne-brown-says-government-unqualified-to-lead-citys-economic-recovery/

Media Council dismisses four complaints against RNZ

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The Media Council has found that four complaints against RNZ did not have sufficient grounds to proceed.

In the first, the chief executive of United Flower Growers, Pete Brown, complained about the article Auckland florists say industry ‘in shambles’, plagued by resentment, published on September 15, 2025. The story reported florists facing difficulties relating to the state of the economy and a raft of changes made by their key supplier, United Flower Growers.

The article was based on comment from five florists, and included responses from Brown on behalf of UFG.

The Council noted that a feature of this complaint was Brown’s concern about RNZ’s decision to grant anonymity to the florists. He challenged that on the basis that two florists spoken to by RNZ had told him they were prepared to be named. This was disputed by RNZ.

The Council said it was in no position to consider this issue as it had no information to establish with any certainty what the florists and reporter agreed to. “Besides, the granting of anonymity in these circumstances is a matter of editorial discretion. That is appropriate and not a matter for second guessing by the Media Council.”

Beyond that the Council was not convinced there was sufficient foundation for complaint about this article. The complainant cited Principles (1) Accuracy, Fairness and Balance but there was no evidence that the article was inaccurate. As for fairness and balance, Brown was given the opportunity to respond and key points made by him were reported, albeit at the tail of the article.

“This sort of investigative reporting is supported by the Council,” the judgment said.

***

In the second case, Martin Broadbent complained about a series of articles published between November 17 to November 22, 2025, on the problems caused by feral cats and the decision to allow them to be targeted as predators.

Broadbent complained that RNZ’s reporting on feral cats and Predator Free 2050 blurred the legal distinction between feral and stray cats, thereby misleading the public and undermining animal welfare protections under the law.

RNZ firmly rejected the suggestion that it was blurring the categories. The term feral was widely used and was included in Predator Free 2050’s list of species. It argued the first story in the series clearly explained the difference between companion, feral and stray cats.

The Council agreed the first article spelt out precisely how feral and stray cats were defined and two other stories in the series also defined the word feral to make it clear they are not referring to strays. On that basis it saw nothing to support a claim that this was of “an orchestrated blurring of categories that misleads the public into believing all unowned cats are “feral” and subject to lethal control.”

The Council ruled there was nothing to show the reporting breached Principle (1) Accuracy, Fairness and Balance.

***

In the third case, RNZ published an article on November 23, 2025, titled Israeli airstrikes kill at least 20 people in Gaza, local medics say. This was a Reuters news agency report and was based on information provided by medics and witnesses to the airstrikes. It also included comment from the Israeli military and Hamas, who accused each other of violating a truce which was agreed to six weeks earlier.

Eric Mattlin complained that the story breached Media Council Principles (1) Accuracy, Fairness and Balance; (4) Comment and Fact; and (7) Discrimination and Diversity. He argued: “The article demonstrates a pattern of asymmetrical attribution with uncritical adoption of Israeli military claims, and a lack of context that affected how readers understood the events being reported. This article concerns an ongoing and highly controversial international conflict involving profound power asymmetries. While balance does not require false equivalence, it does require that significant perspectives and relevant context be included.”

In response, RNZ rejected the complaint and sent Mr Mattlin its language guide to the Middle East Conflict, which explained why it used such terms as ‘militant’ and ‘hostage-prisoner’. It added that RNZ had broadcast and published hundreds of pieces over the past two years, providing a wide range of views and the historical context behind the conflict.

The Council noted that RNZ and all other major New Zealand news outlets rely on international news agencies for most of their world news. Agencies like Reuters report for a wide and diverse international audience which requires coverage to be even handed.

The Council considered this story to be a fairly typical news report from Gaza. In accordance with standard journalistic practice it identified where information was obtained, and comment about the alleged ceasefire breaches was attributed to the Israeli military and Hamas. It also provided brief background on how the Gaza war started two years earlier.

Dealing with the complaint about terminology, the Council refered back to its decision on Mr Mattlin’s earlier complaint (No.3725) which stated: “The Council notes RNZ and other New Zealand media outlets are reliant on overseas news agencies for their coverage of the conflict, and it would be risky or possibly even a breach of RNZ’s agreement with those agencies to change the terminology used.”

The Council noted the story cited in this latest complaint was one of many that have been published on the Gaza War. “This is a long and complex story which has been reported extensively, and it is impractical to expect every report to cover all the context and background. It is clear that balance has been provided over time.”

The Council saw no evidence of bias or that the coverage and terminology was unfair or asymmetrical.

***

In the fourth case, Radio New Zealand (RNZ) published an article on December 22, 2025, Winston Peters makes u-turn on Chorus debt sell-off. The story was about the NZ First leader Winston Peters reversing his previous opposition to the Chorus debt sell-off, which in turn would clear the way for the Government to proceed with a plan to sell about $650m in interest-free loans that Chorus owes the government.

Hector O’Brien complained that the comment – “The Government does not have an (equity) stake in Chorus” – was factually incorrect as the Government-owned holding company National Infrastructure Funding and Finance Ltd had around 61.6 percent of shares in Chorus.

RNZ said the article was correct. The Government did not have an equity stake in this privately owned company. However, it was owed debt by Chorus, more specifically Ultra-Fast Broadband securities. It said the word “stake” had been used in a previous report, but this was updated in this story to make it clear that the Government had no equity or ownership in Chorus.

The Council noted that the line was taken directly from the December 17 press statement in which Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop said: “It is important to note the government does not have an equity stake in Chorus and the securities involved are not ordinary shares.”

It further noted that NIFFCO is not listed as a major Chorus shareholder. Rather, it is shown through official documents and ministerial statements that the company was used to provide Government loan finance to Chorus.

In the circumstances no inaccuracy was shown, nor any unfairness.

All judgments can be found here: Media Council – Search

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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/2026/02/09/media-council-dismisses-four-complaints-against-rnz/

Government funds and delivers new school in 18 months

Source: New Zealand Government

The first new school announced by the Government is open from today in Flat Bush following a blessing this morning, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

“A new school is an exciting start for the school community and it was a pleasure to visit Te Kura Rau Iti this morning. Flat Bush is a fast-growing suburb and this school, with a capacity for 700 students, will provide for local families heading into the future,” Ms Stanford says.

The new school for Years 0 to 6 has come in on time and under budget, making use of the Government’s new approach which has reduced the cost of a classroom while still retaining high-quality specifications for the build.

“We have proven that we can provide repeatable designs for schools in a way that both ensures students are getting quality, and taxpayers’ money is used responsibly,” Ms Stanford says.

“The new school is also free from the unpopular, large barnyard-style classrooms that we promised to address. These weren’t working for students and they weren’t working for teachers.”

The new school has:

  • 30 teaching spaces with flexible art spaces
  • A library, hall, and administration spaces
  • Two hardcourts, and junior and senior playgrounds.
  • A school field, available in March.

The new school is a repeatable design, based on Ahutoetoe School, Brookfields School, and Te Pae School which is currently in construction. The school design also includes space for further roll growth when required. The total build is $41 million.

Ms Stanford says the school will also provide the Learning Support initiatives that are rolling out from Term One through the Government’s $746.7 million Learning Support investment. 

“We are supporting our children to get the support they need with their learning whether they’re needing to catch up, get more help, or have specific learning needs. As part of the next phase for the school in the future, there is also a planned learning support satellite unit.”

Local MP for Takanini, Rima Nakhle, says the school’s opening is fantastic progress that responds to Flat Bush’s growth, relieving pressure on nearby schools. 

“Locals have been seeing significant growth in Flat Bush, and Te Kura Rau Iti has been built to respond to that. The opening of the school today is another step in ensuring our community has high-quality learning spaces for our children heading into the future,” Ms Nakhle says.

“This is a great example of delivery in action. We are committed to fixing the basics and building for the future, and today is another step in delivering the funding and resources required to build a world-leading education system.”

“I wish the school team and the community the absolute very best in learning and success in their new school. This is an exciting start for everyone and I look forward to seeing the school’s progress,” Ms Stanford says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/government-funds-and-delivers-new-school-in-18-months/

Dedicated dialysis service opens in Invercargill

Source: New Zealand Government

Southland’s new dialysis unit has officially opened, improving access to life-saving treatment for patients across Invercargill and the wider Southland region, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. 

“The opening of this new unit at Southland Hospital is a significant step forward for renal care in the South,” Mr Brown says.

“Until now, many Southlanders have had to travel to Dunedin three times a week for dialysis – a 2.5-hour journey each way. This new facility means more people can receive the care they need closer to home.”

The purpose-built unit features five haemodialysis spaces to treat outpatients and eligible inpatients from across the hospital, along with a dedicated area for peritoneal dialysis training and follow-up care.

“In time, the unit will also support training for patients who wish to undertake home haemodialysis, giving people greater independence and flexibility in managing their treatment.”

Previously, dialysis services in Invercargill were delivered from a space originally intended as an ‘away-from-home’ facility for visitors, before growing demand saw it accommodate some regular dialysis patients. 

“With demand increasing, a fit-for-purpose dialysis service in Southland became essential. This new unit increases the number of dialysis chairs from two to five, improving access for patients.”

Initially, the expanded service is expected to support six to eight haemodialysis patients each week, with numbers projected to grow over the next six months.

“For patients and their families, dialysis isn’t just a treatment – it’s part of everyday life. Being able to receive that care locally reduces stress, keeps people connected to family and community, and supports better long-term health.

“This new facility is about making sure Southlanders can receive the care they need, closer to home,” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/dedicated-dialysis-service-opens-in-invercargill/

NZ-AU: Hinen Brings Next-Generation All-in-One Energy Storage to Solar & Storage Live UK 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom, Sept. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hinen, a global provider of smart residential energy storage solutions, will exhibit at Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, the UK’s leading renewable energy and storage exhibition. The event runs from 23–25 September 2025 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Visitors can find Hinen at Booth C24.

Backed by over 20 years of advanced manufacturing experience, Hinen is publicly listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 300787) and serves as a trusted OEM/ODM partner for more than 400 global brands. What sets Hinen apart is its vertically integrated supply chain, covering battery cell production, inverter R&D, and full system assembly — ensuring high quality, innovation, and cost efficiency.

With offices and service teams across Europe, the UK, Australia, and Africa, Hinen combines global technology with local support. The company is rapidly expanding in Europe after becoming a Top 5 residential storage brand in Australia. Its mission is simple: deliver reliable, intelligent, and affordable clean energy to households worldwide.

At Solar & Storage Live UK 2025, Hinen will debut three All-in-One residential energy storage systems designed to meet the UK’s fast-growing solar market. With over 1.5 million UK homes already fitted with rooftop PV and strong government targets for renewable adoption, demand for integrated solar-plus-storage is rising rapidly. Hinen’s new A Series products address these needs with flexible sizing, quick installation, and strong backup capabilities.

  • Hinen H5S (5kW Single-phase All-in-One System) – Compact and ideal for standard UK households. Features a stackable plug & play design, 200% oversized PV input (max. 10kW), ≤10ms transfer time, and intelligent load management. Perfect for homeowners seeking both efficiency and backup security.
  • Hinen H15S (15kW Single-Phase All-in-One System) — Designed for large households and high-energy consumption families. Equipped with 4 MPPTs and dual power inputs (grid + generator), it offers enhanced EPS overload capacity with 16.5kW peak power (10s) to safeguard appliances from unexpected power interruptions during load surges. It enables whole-home backup, meeting UK users’ needs for energy independence and reliability.
  • Hinen H25T (25kW Three-phase All-in-One System) – A small C&I solution for villas, farms, or light commercial sites. Features ultra-wide 120–600V battery range, 20kW charge/discharge, 100% three-phase unbalanced output, and flexible phase sequence installation. Provides robust backup and scalable clean energy supply for businesses.

Beyond the A Series, Hinen will also showcase:

  • H6000-EU Hybrid Inverter + B5000/BP5000 Low-voltage Batteries, a popular residential pairing in the UK.
  • S1-100 Smart Box, supporting up to 23kW whole-home backup, 100A rated current,
  • E Series H2.4S (Balcony Energy System), compact plug-and-play design, ideal for UK flats and small homes. Scalable up to 15.36kWh for flexible household needs. IP65 weatherproof with safe LiFePO₄ battery (10-year warranty).

Visitors to Booth C24 will see how Hinen’s solutions empower UK homeowners and businesses to maximize solar generation, ensure reliable backup, and lower energy bills — making the transition to clean energy both practical and future-ready.

Contact:
nikita@hinen.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d28921e-96d2-41f0-bb0f-51e2658ef688

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-hinen-brings-next-generation-all-in-one-energy-storage-to-solar-storage-live-uk-2025-2/

NZ-AU: IperionX Receives Prototype Purchase Order for U.S. Army Heavy Ground Combat Systems

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 22, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IperionX Limited (IperionX) (NASDAQ: IPX, ASX: IPX) has received a US$0.3 million prototype purchase order from American Rheinmetall for the production of 700 lightweight titanium components for U.S. Army heavy ground combat systems. This initial purchase order has the potential to lead to a significantly larger agreement upon successful delivery of this initial scope of work.

The components will be manufactured in the United States using 100% recycled titanium feedstock, produced through IperionX’s patented Hydrogen Assisted Metallothermic Reduction (HAMR ) and Hydrogen Sintering and Phase Transformation (HSPT ) technologies. These technologies enable the domestic production of high-performance titanium components at materially lower cost relative to conventional titanium production routes.

Replacing steel components with titanium is expected to deliver measurable operational benefits, including a weight reduction of approximately 40–45% per component, translating to a reduction of several hundred kilograms per vehicle depending on final configuration.

Lightweighting is an increasingly critical design consideration for U.S. Army heavy ground combat platforms as the vehicles continues to gain mass through successive survivability and lethality upgrades, including enhanced armor systems and emerging counter-UAS and drone-protection solutions.

Specific benefits also include improved performance through reduced weight, enabling faster acceleration and better agility, increased operational range and survivability, and reduced ground pressure improving traction and flotation on soft or uneven terrain.

IperionX is the only domestic U.S. producer of commercial-scale primary titanium metal, a material that is designated as strategic and critical by the U.S. Government. Historically, the U.S. has relied heavily on foreign-sourced titanium sponge and upstream processing, creating vulnerabilities within defense and aerospace supply chains.

This purchase order directly supports U.S. Government priorities to reshore and secure critical materials supply chains, reduce reliance on foreign titanium sources, and expand domestic manufacturing capacity using recycled feedstocks.

IperionX CEO Taso Arima said:

“This purchase order demonstrates the practical application of IperionX’s recycled titanium technologies on important U.S. ground combat platforms. As the only domestic producer of commercial primary titanium, IperionX is uniquely positioned to support domestic defense priorities with secure, low-carbon, and cost-competitive titanium products manufactured entirely in the United States.”

The full release can be found here.

About IperionX

IperionX is a leading American titanium metal and critical materials company – using patented metal technologies to produce high performance titanium alloys, from titanium minerals or scrap titanium, at lower energy, cost and carbon emissions.

Our Titan critical minerals project is the largest JORC-compliant mineral resource of titanium, rare earth and zircon minerals sands in the United States.

IperionX’s titanium metal and critical minerals are essential for advanced U.S. industries including space, aerospace, defense, consumer electronics, fasteners, automotive and additive manufacturing.

Forward Looking Statements

Information included in this release constitutes forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “continue”, and “guidance”, or other similar words and may include, without limitation, statements regarding plans, strategies and objectives of management, anticipated production or construction commencement dates and expected costs or production outputs.

Forward looking statements inherently involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results, performance, and achievements to differ materially from any future results, performance, or achievements. Relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, changes in commodity prices, foreign exchange fluctuations and general economic conditions, increased costs and demand for production inputs, the speculative nature of exploration and project development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits and diminishing quantities or grades of reserves, the Company’s ability to comply with the relevant contractual terms to access the technologies, commercially scale its closed-loop titanium production processes, or protect its intellectual property rights, political and social risks, changes to the regulatory framework within which the Company operates or may in the future operate, environmental conditions including extreme weather conditions, recruitment and retention of personnel, industrial relations issues and litigation.

Forward looking statements are based on the Company and its management’s good faith assumptions relating to the financial, market, regulatory and other relevant environments that will exist and affect the Company’s business and operations in the future. The Company does not give any assurance that the assumptions on which forward looking statements are based will prove to be correct, or that the Company’s business or operations will not be affected in any material manner by these or other factors not foreseen or foreseeable by the Company or management or beyond the Company’s control.

Although the Company attempts and has attempted to identify factors that would cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those disclosed in forward looking statements, there may be other factors that could cause actual results, performance, achievements, or events not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and many events are beyond the reasonable control of the Company. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements. Forward looking statements in these materials speak only at the date of issue. Subject to any continuing obligations under applicable law or any relevant stock exchange listing rules, in providing this information the Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any of the forward-looking statements or to advise of any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Contacts

Anastasios (Taso) Arima, Founder and CEO
Toby Symonds, President
Dominic Allen, Chief Commercial Officer

Investors: investorrelations@iperionx.com
Media: media@iperionx.com
+1 980 237 8900
www.iperionx.com

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-iperionx-receives-prototype-purchase-order-for-u-s-army-heavy-ground-combat-systems/

NZ-AU: IperionX – December 2025 Quarterly Report

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Jan. 30, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IperionX Limited (IperionX) (NASDAQ: IPX, ASX: IPX) is pleased to present its quarterly report for the period ending December 31, 2025. Highlights during and subsequent to the end of the quarter include:

Commercial operations

  • Commissioning Complete: Equipment and systems for both titanium powder production and component manufacturing have been fully commissioned at the Titanium Manufacturing Campus in Virginia.
  • Manufacturing Capacity Expansion: Advanced manufacturing capabilities continue to expand. The 100-ton uniaxial press (producing titanium nuts, bolts, and washers) and dry bag cold isostatic press (large titanium fasteners) are now operational. Additionally, a new 300-ton hydraulic press – designed for complex tiered shapes for consumer electronics enclosures or humanoid robotics components – will commence commissioning.
  • Path to Scale: Manufacturing capabilities are projected to grow significantly as IperionX prepares for a production capacity of 1,400 tons per annum (tpa) in 2027, supported by the installation of additional powder metallurgy presses and HSPT sintering furnaces.
  • Commercial Progress: Sales agreements are advancing, with a range of advanced prototyping activities underway across defense, consumer electronics, automotive, oil & gas, sporting goods, and industrial manufacturing.
  • New Agreements: Major milestones include an initial sales order from Carver Pump for titanium naval shipbuilding components, and an order from American Rheinmetall for lightweight titanium components destined for U.S. Army heavy ground combat systems.
  • Inventory Build: In parallel with custom prototyping, IperionX is building inventory for mass distribution channels. This includes a range of standard titanium fasteners, nuts, and washers, alongside dedicated fastener production for the U.S. military.
  • Quality Assurance: Manufacturing operations have achieved ISO 9001 certification, validating the integrity of IperionX’s quality management processes as production scales.

2027 U.S. Department of War (DoW) backed expansion to 1,400 tpa

  • IperionX is advancing its expansion to scale titanium production capacity to 1,400 tpa. This milestone will position IperionX as the largest and lowest-cost titanium powder producer in the United States.
  • The expansion is estimated to cost ~US$75 million. The majority of this capital is secured via the U.S. DoW Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) program, with the full US$47.1 million award now obligated.

Accelerated Growth Roadmap: Market Leadership in High-Performance Titanium

  • Next-Generation Development: IperionX is advancing the development of a new facility in Halifax County, Virginia. This site is designed to host the next generation of HAMR and HSPT technologies, targeting a step-change reduction in the titanium cost curve.
  • Continuous Production Breakthrough: These next-generation technologies utilize a new, patent-pending continuous production process that have been tested and proven at R&D level by IperionX. This titanium production innovation has the potential to deliver superior unit economics compared to the current batch processes.
  • Validation Timeline: Pilot-scale work is currently underway to validate this continuous production method at higher throughputs, with completion targeted in 2026.

U.S. Government Funding

  • Final IBAS Funding Obligated: IperionX has been obligated the final US$4.6 million under the U.S. Department of Defense’s US$47.1 million IBAS award. All funds allocated under this program have now been fully obligated, and a balance of US$43.1 million remains available for future reimbursement.
  • Production Expansion Capital: This final tranche of funding will be deployed to support IperionX’s scale-up to a production capacity of 1,400 metric tons per annum (tpa).
  • Feedstock Secured: The U.S. Government transferred ~290 metric tons (320 short tons) of high-quality titanium scrap metal to IperionX at no cost. This provides approximately 1.5 years of feedstock at current operating capacity.
  • Government Commitment: The full obligation of IBAS funding and the provision of zero-cost titanium scrap reaffirm the U.S. Government’s commitment to establishing a resilient, fully integrated, and low-cost titanium supply chain for the defense industrial base.

Titan Project Development

  • Critical Minerals Supply Chain Asset: The Titan Critical Minerals Project is a vital link in the U.S. critical mineral supply chain. It remains one of the largest permitted U.S. sources of titanium, zircon, and rare earth minerals.
  • Closing the Heavy Rare Earth Supply Deficit: With limited domestic production of DyTb and Y, the U.S. faces critical heavy rare earth supply gap. Titan’s rare earth concentrate contains high proportions of DyTb and Y, and is uniquely positioned to supply these essential elements, which are required for high-performance permanent magnets in defense and energy sectors.
  • Project Readiness: As a fully permitted project, Titan offers a fast-track solution for domestic DyTb+Y, titanium, and zircon supply. The Department of War funded Definitive Feasibility Study is on schedule for delivery in mid-2026.

Strong financial position

  • As of December 31, 2025, IperionX held a cash balance of US$65.8 million.
  • IperionX has been awarded a total of US$59.8 million in U.S. Government grants via the DoW’s DPA Title III and IBAS/ICAM programs. All funds under these awards have been fully obligated, legally committing the capital to IperionX within the federal accounting system.
  • These funds are accessed via a reimbursement model. IperionX incurs costs for approved activities and subsequently invoices the U.S. Government for repayment.
  • To date, US$13.3 million has been reimbursed to IperionX. A balance of US$46.5 million remains available for future reimbursement to support ongoing operations and expansion.
Program Obligated Reimbursed to date Remaining Balance
DPA Title III $12.7 ($10.3) $2.4
IBAS / ICAM $47.1 ($3.0) $44.1
Total $59.8 ($13.3) $46.5

A link to the full release can be found here.

Contacts

Anastasios (Taso) Arima, Founder and CEO
Toby Symonds, President
Dominic Allen, Chief Commercial Officer

Investors: investorrelations@iperionx.com
Media: media@iperionx.com

+1 980 237 8900
www.iperionx.com

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-iperionx-december-2025-quarterly-report/

NZ-AU: IREN Reports Q2 FY26 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

$3.6bn GPU Financing Secured for Microsoft Contract1

Targeted 140k GPU Expansion on Track to Deliver $3.4bn ARR by End of CY262

New 1.6GW Data Center Campus in Oklahoma

NEW YORK, Feb. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IREN Limited (NASDAQ: IREN) (“IREN” or “the Company”) today reported its financial results for the three months ended December 31, 2025.

Highlights

  • $3.6bn GPU financing secured for Microsoft contract1
    • Interest rate of
    • Together with Microsoft prepayment ($1.9bn) covers 95% of GPU-related capex
  • Targeted 140k GPU expansion on track to deliver $3.4bn ARR by end of CY262
    • Horizon 1-4 construction progressing to schedule
    • British Columbia AI Cloud expansion ongoing, with ~$0.4bn ARR now under contract for Prince George and remaining contract negotiations supporting >$0.5bn ARR3
  • New 1.6GW data center campus in Oklahoma
    • Increases secured grid-connected power to >4.5GW
    • Grid-studies complete, with power scheduled to ramp from 2028
    • Large scale site (2,000 acres) with low latency network connectivity

Financing

  • IREN continues to strengthen its capital structure and fund growth through diversified sources:
    • Cash and cash equivalents were $2.8bn as of January 31, 20264
    • >$9.2bn funding secured financial year to date across customer prepayments, convertible notes, GPU leasing and GPU financing
  • Ongoing financing workstreams include:
    • GPU financing
    • Data center financing
    • Select corporate level initiatives

Q2 FY26 Financial Results

  • Results reflected continued progress in the transition from Bitcoin mining to AI Cloud, with capacity increasingly allocated to higher-value AI workloads and AI Cloud revenues accelerating as deployments ramped:
    • Total revenue decreased to $184.7m (vs. Q1 FY26 $240.3m)
    • Net income (loss) of $(155.4)m (vs. Q1 FY26 $384.6m)
    • Adj. EBITDA decreased to $75.3m (vs. Q1 FY26 $91.7m)5
    • EBITDA of $(243.9)m (vs. Q1 FY26 $662.7m)5
  • Net income (loss) and EBITDA were impacted by significant non-cash and non-recurring items, primarily:
    • Unrealized losses related to prepaid forwards and capped calls associated with convertible notes (vs. significant unrealized gains on such positions in Q1 FY26), together with a one-time debt conversion inducement expense, totaling $(219.2)m
    • Mining hardware impairments of $(31.8)m related to the ongoing ASIC-to-GPU transition across British Columbia
    • Stock-based compensation expense of $(58.2)m, including $(22.3)m of accelerated amortization on performance-based restricted stock units and stock options, driven by materially higher share prices exceeding defined performance thresholds
    • Partially offset by an income tax benefit primarily on the release of previously recognized deferred tax liabilities relating to the unrealized gain on financial instruments of $182.5m

Management Commentary

“Last quarter marked meaningful progress across capacity expansion, customer engagement, and capital formation, reflecting IREN’s progress as a scaled AI Cloud platform,” said Daniel Roberts, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of IREN.

“We are seeing the strongest demand environment to date, and importantly, that demand is being met by a proven execution capability. Over several years, we have consistently delivered data center capacity on time and at scale, and that delivery track record continues to resonate with customers who value reliability alongside performance.

“With more than 4.5GW of secured power, we are able to advance a broad set of opportunities in our pipeline and support the next phase of growth. Our $3.4bn ARR target represents an early stage of monetization relative to the size of our secured power portfolio, highlighting the scale of the platform we are building.”

Q2 FY26 Results Webcast & Conference Call

IREN will host its Q2 FY26 results webcast and conference call at the following time:

Time & Date: 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Thursday, February 5, 2026
  Participant Registration Link
  Live Webcast Use this link
  Phone Dial-In with Live Q&A Use this link
     

The webcast will be recorded, and the replay will be accessible shortly after the event at https://iren.com/investor/events-and-presentations

About IREN

IREN is a leading AI Cloud Service Provider, delivering large-scale GPU clusters for AI training and inference. IREN’s vertically integrated platform is underpinned by its expansive portfolio of grid-connected land and data centers in renewable-rich regions across the U.S. and Canada.

Contacts

Investors
ir@iren.com

Media
media@iren.com

Assumptions and Notes

  1. GPU financing and applicable interest rate is subject to agreed pricing parameters, level of base interest rates, execution of definitive long form documentation and customary conditions precedent.
  2. ARR of $3.4bn represents expected $1.94bn average annual revenue under Microsoft contract plus estimated $1.5bn ARR from ~63k GPU deployment at British Columbia sites, based on internal company assumptions regarding GPU models, utilization and pricing. It is not fully contracted, there can be no assurance that it will be achieved, and actual revenue may differ materially. Assumes on time delivery and commissioning of GPUs.
  3. ARR under contract of $0.4bn at Prince George is calculated as GPU/hour pricing for contracted GPUs as of February 5, 2026 multiplied by 8,760 hours per year and includes annualized revenue for storage and ancillaries. ARR under contract includes amounts that are not yet revenue-generating until the relevant GPUs are delivered, commissioned, and in service. There can be no assurance that contracted GPUs will result in such hours or pricing, and actual revenue may vary materially.
  4. Reflects USD equivalent, unaudited preliminary cash and cash equivalents as of January 31, 2026.
  5. EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures. Refer to page 12 for a reconciliation to the nearest comparable GAAP financial measure.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Securities Act”), and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include information concerning possible or assumed future results of operations, including descriptions of our business plan and strategies and trends we expect to affect our business. These statements often include words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “suggest,” “plan,” “believe,” “intend,” “estimate,” “target,” “project,” “should,” “potential,” “could,” “would,” “may,” “will,” “forecast,” and other similar expressions Forward-looking statements may also be made, verbally or in writing, by members of our Board or management team. Such statements are subject to the same limitations, uncertainties, assumptions and disclaimers set out in this press release.

We base these forward-looking statements or projections on our current expectations, plans and assumptions that we have made in light of our experience in the industry, as well as our perceptions of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe are appropriate under the circumstances and at such time. The forward-looking statements are subject to and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions at the time they are made, you should be aware that many factors could affect our actual financial results or results of operations, and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. Factors that may materially affect such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: Bitcoin price and foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations; our ability to obtain additional capital on commercially reasonable terms and in a timely manner to meet our capital needs and facilitate our expansion plans; the terms of any future financing or any refinancing, restructuring or modification to the terms of any existing or future financing, which could require us to comply with onerous covenants, restrictions or guarantees, and our ability to service our debt obligations; our ability to successfully execute on our growth strategies and operating plans, including our ability to continue to develop our existing data center sites, design and deploy direct-to-chip liquid cooling systems, and diversify and expand into the market for high-performance computing (“HPC”) solutions (including the market for AI Cloud Services and potential colocation services such as powered shell, build-to-suit and turnkey data centers (collectively “HPC and AI services”)); our limited experience with respect to new markets we have entered or may seek to enter, including the market for HPC and AI services; our ability to remain competitive in dynamic and rapidly evolving industries; expectations with respect to the ongoing profitability, viability, operability, security, popularity and public perceptions of the Bitcoin network; expectations with respect to the useful life and obsolescence of hardware (including GPUs, hardware for Bitcoin mining and any current or future HPC and AI services we offer); delays, increases in costs or reductions in the supply of equipment used in our operations including as a result of tariffs and duties, and certain equipment (including GPUs, hardware for Bitcoin mining and any other hardware for any current or future HPC and AI services we offer) being in high demand due to global supply chain constraints, and our ability to secure additional hardware (including GPUs, hardware for Bitcoin mining and any other hardware for any current or future HPC and AI services we offer), on commercially reasonable terms or at all; expectations with respect to the profitability, viability, operability, security, popularity and public perceptions of any current and future HPC and AI services we offer; our ability to secure and retain customers on commercially reasonable terms or at all, particularly as it relates to our strategy to expand into markets for HPC and AI services; our ability to establish and maintain a customer base for our HPC and AI services business and customer concentration; our ability to manage counterparty risk (including credit risk) associated with any current or future customers, including customers of our HPC and AI services and other counterparties; the risk that any current or future customers, including customers of our HPC and AI services or other counterparties, may terminate, default on or underperform their contractual obligations; our ability to perform under, and observe our obligations pursuant to, contractual obligations with counterparties, including customers of our HPC and AI services; changing political and geopolitical conditions, including changing international trade policies and the implementation of wide-ranging, reciprocal and retaliatory tariffs, surtaxes and other similar import or export duties, or trade restrictions; Bitcoin global hashrate fluctuations; our ability to secure renewable energy, renewable energy certificates, power capacity, timely grid connections, facilities and sites on commercially reasonable terms or at all; delays and costs associated with, or failure to obtain or complete, permitting approvals, grid connections and other development activities customary for greenfield or brownfield infrastructure projects, including as a result of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas’s (“ERCOT”) announced amendments to the approval process for large load interconnection requests; our reliance on power, network and utilities providers, third party mining pools, exchanges, banks, insurance providers and our ability to maintain relationships with such parties; expectations regarding availability and pricing of electricity; our participation and ability to successfully participate in demand response products and services and other load management programs run, operated or offered by electricity network operators, regulators or electricity market operators; the availability, reliability and/or cost of electricity supply, hardware and electrical and data center infrastructure, including with respect to any electricity outages and any laws and regulations that may restrict the electricity supply available to us; any variance between the actual operating performance of our miner hardware achieved compared to the nameplate performance including hashrate; electricity market risks relating to changes in laws, regulations and requirements of market operators, network operators and/or regulatory bodies, including with respect to interconnection of facilities of large electrical loads to the ERCOT grid (for example, via a process that may batch multiple large load interconnection requests), grid stability, voltage ride-through, frequency ride-through and curtailment obligations; heightened complexity and additional constraints in energy markets including load ramp requirements by utilities or grid operators which may not align with our planned data center development and commissioning timelines; our ability to curtail our electricity consumption and/or monetize electricity depending on market conditions, including changes in Bitcoin mining economics and prevailing electricity prices; actions undertaken or inaction by electricity network and market operators, regulators, governments or communities in the regions in which we operate, including such actions that could result in the estimated power availability at secured sites being materially less than initially expected, available too late, delayed, conditioned upon technical or operational requirements or not available in each case whether at sustainable cost or at all; the availability, suitability, reliability and cost of internet connections at our facilities; our ability to operate in an evolving regulatory environment; our ability to successfully operate and maintain our property and infrastructure; reliability and performance of our infrastructure compared to expectations; malicious attacks on our property, infrastructure or IT systems; our ability to secure connection agreements to access power sources and permits or to maintain in good standing the operating and other permits, approvals and/or licenses required for our operations, construction activities and business which could be delayed by regulatory approval processes, may not be successful or may be cost prohibitive; our ability to obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property rights and confidential information; any intellectual property infringement and product liability claims; whether the secular trends we expect to drive growth in our business materialize to the degree we expect them to, or at all; any pending or future acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures or other strategic transactions, including our ability to consummate any such transactions on terms favorable to the Group or at all; the occurrence of any environmental, health and safety incidents at our sites, and any material costs relating to environmental, health and safety requirements or liabilities; damage to our property and infrastructure and the risk that any insurance we maintain may not fully cover all potential exposures; settlement and termination of proceedings relating to the default under certain equipment financing facilities, ongoing securities litigation, and any future litigation, claims and/or regulatory investigations, and the costs, expenses, use of resources, diversion of management time and efforts, liability and damages that may result therefrom; our failure to comply with any laws including the anti-corruption laws of the United States and various international jurisdictions; any failure of our compliance and risk management methods; any laws, regulations and ethical standards that may relate to our business, including those that relate to data centers, HPC and AI services, Bitcoin and the Bitcoin mining industry and those that relate to any other services we offer, including laws and regulations related to data privacy, cybersecurity and the storage, use or processing of information and consumer laws; our ability to attract, motivate and retain senior management and qualified employees; increased risks to our global operations including, but not limited to, political instability, acts of terrorism, theft and vandalism, cyberattacks and other cybersecurity incidents and unexpected regulatory and economic sanctions changes, among other things; climate change, severe weather conditions and natural and man-made disasters that may materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations; public health crises, including an outbreak of an infectious disease and any governmental or industry measures taken in response; damage to our brand and reputation; evolving stakeholder expectations and requirements relating to environmental, social or governance (“ESG”) issues or reporting, including actual or perceived failure to comply with such expectations and requirements; volatility with respect to the market price of our ordinary shares (“Ordinary shares”); that we do not currently pay any cash dividends on our Ordinary shares, and may not in the foreseeable future and, accordingly, your ability to achieve a return on your investment in our Ordinary shares will depend on appreciation, if any, in the price of our Ordinary shares; and other important factors discussed under “Part 1. Item 1.A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2025 and “Part II. Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2025, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the SEC, accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and the Investor Relations section of IREN’s website at https:// investors.iren.com.

The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive and does not necessarily include all of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any of our forward-looking statements.

These and other important factors could cause actual results to differ materially by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Any forward-looking statement that IREN makes in this press release speaks only as of the date of such statement. Except as required by law, IREN disclaims any obligation to update or revise, or to publicly announce any update or revision to, any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

This press release refers to certain measures that are not recognized under GAAP and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP. IREN uses non-GAAP measures including “EBITDA” and “Adjusted EBITDA,” and “Adjusted EBITDA margin,” (each as defined below) as additional information to complement GAAP measures by providing further understanding of the Company’s operations from management’s perspective.

EBITDA is defined as net income (loss), excluding income tax (expense) benefit, finance expense, interest income and depreciation and amortization, which are important components of our net income (loss). Further, “Adjusted EBITDA” also excludes stock based compensation, foreign exchange gain (loss), impairment of assets, certain other non-recurring income, gain (loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment, unrealized fair value gain (loss) on financial instruments, debt conversion inducement expense, gain (loss) on partial extinguishment of financial liabilities, increase (decrease) in fair value of assets held for sale and certain other expense items. “Adjusted EBITDA margin” is defined as Adjusted EBITDA divided by revenue.

Beginning in the fiscal year ended June 30, 2026, the Company has changed its definition of Adjusted EBITDA to exclude debt conversion inducement expense. This is a change from the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA in prior periods, and these adjustments did not have any impact on the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA in prior periods.

The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures are shown in the Appendix hereto.

     
Consolidated Balance Sheet
US$m As of December 31, 20251 As of September 30, 2025
Assets    
Cash and cash equivalents 3,260.6 1,032.3
Accounts receivable, net 9.6 24.1
Deposits and prepaid expenses 55.3 53.3
Derivative assets 2.9
Income taxes receivable
Assets held for sale 20.1
Other assets and other receivables 37.8 11.4
Total current assets 3,383.4 1,124.0
Property, plant and equipment, net 3,170.5 2,115.4
Intangible assets, net 107.6
Operating lease right-of-use asset, net 1.3 1.4
Deposits and prepaid expenses 148.8 30.5
Financial assets 681.4
Derivative assets 215.7 314.4
Other non-current assets 0.3 0.3
Total non-current assets 3,644.2 3,143.4
Total assets 7,027.6 4,267.4
Liabilities    
Accounts payable and accrued expenses 576.3 151.9
Operating lease liability, current portion 0.4 0.4
Finance lease liability, current portion 61.9
Deferred revenue 6.8 1.1
Income taxes payable 0.8 0.1
Other liabilities, current portion 36.1 50.2
Total current liabilities 682.1 203.7
Operating lease liability, less current portion 0.9 1.0
Finance lease liability, less current portion 94.1
Convertible notes payable 3,685.3 964.2
Deferred revenue, less current portion 39.8 22.2
Deferred tax liabilities 8.1 195.4
Income taxes payable, less current portion 2.3 2.0
Other liabilities, less current portion 3.8 2.7
Total non-current liabilities 3,834.3 1,187.5
Total liabilities 4,516.4 1,391.2
Stockholders’ equity 2,511.2 2,876.2
Total stockholders’ equity 2,511.2 2,876.2
     
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 7,027.6 4,267.4

1) For further detail, see our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended December 31, 2025, included in our Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on February 5, 2026.

     
Consolidated Statement of Operations
US$m Quarter ended Quarter ended
December 31, 20251 September 30, 2025
Revenue    
Bitcoin Mining Revenue 167.4 233.0
AI Cloud Services Revenue 17.3 7.3
Total Revenue 184.7 240.3
Cost of revenue (exclusive of depreciation and amortization)    
Bitcoin Mining (63.4) (80.0)
AI Cloud Services (2.4) (0.7)
Total cost of revenue (65.8) (80.7)
Operating (expenses) income    
Selling, general and administrative expenses (100.8) (138.4)
Depreciation and amortization (99.2) (85.2)
Impairment of assets (31.8) (16.3)
Gain (loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment 0.0 (0.0)
Other operating expenses (5.5)
Other operating income 1.8 3.8
Total operating (expenses) income (235.3) (236.0)
Operating (loss) income (116.4) (76.4)
Other (expense) income:    
Finance expense (10.7) (9.3)
Interest income 15.8 7.1
Increase (decrease) in fair value of assets held for sale (6.4)
Realized gain (loss) on financial instruments (2.9) (5.8)
Unrealized gain (loss) on financial instruments (107.4) 665.0
Debt conversion inducement expense (111.8)
Foreign exchange gain (loss) 1.9 (5.4)
Other non-operating income
Total other (expense) income (221.5) 651.7
Income (loss) before taxes (337.9) 575.3
Income tax (expense) benefit 182.5 (190.7)
Net income (loss) (155.4) 384.6

1)  For further detail, see our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended December 31, 2025, included in our Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on February 5, 2026.

     
Consolidated Statement of Cashflows
 US$m Quarter ended Quarter ended
December 31, 20251 September 30, 2025
Cash flow from operating activities    
Net income (loss) (155.4) 384.6
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash from (used in) operating activities:    
Depreciation and amortization 99.2 85.2
Impairment of assets 31.8 16.3
Increase (decrease) in fair value of assets held for sale 6.4
Realised (gain) loss on financial instruments 2.9 5.8
Unrealised (gain) loss on financial instruments 107.4 (665.0)
Debt conversion inducement expense 111.8
(Gain) loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment (0.0) 0.0
Foreign exchange loss (gain) 5.5 2.2
Stock-based compensation expense 58.2 72.4
Amortization of debt issuance costs 2.0 1.3
Changes in assets and liabilities:    
Accounts receivable and other receivables (11.9) (13.1)
Other assets 0.0 0.2
Tax related receivables (2.6) 2.6
Tax related liabilities (180.3) 187.9
Accounts payable and accrued expenses (12.5) 3.5
Other liabilities (13.0) 48.7
Deferred revenue 23.3 22.5
Prepayments and deposits (1.1) (12.6)
Operating lease liabilities (0.1) (0.0)
Net cash from (used in) operating activities 71.6 142.4
Investing activities    
Payments for property, plant and equipment net of hardware (539.7) (180.3)
Payments for computer hardware (179.4) (100.3)
Payments for Intangible Assets (107.6)
Payments for prepayments and deposits (14.1) (0.3)
Deposits paid for right of use assets (10.1)
Net cash from (used in) investing activities (850.9) (280.9)
Financing activities    
Proceeds from the issuance of Ordinary shares 1,632.4 618.4
Payment for induced conversion of convertible notes (1623.5)
Payment of offering costs for the issuance of Ordinary shares (18.5)
Proceeds from loan funded shares 0.1 0.6
Proceeds from exercise of options 6.6
Proceeds from convertible notes 3,299.6
Payment of capped call transactions (252.3)
Payment of borrowing transaction costs (48.8) (0.9)
Repayment of lease liabilities
Net cash from (used in) financing activities 3,007.5 606.1
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 2,228.2 467.6
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year 1,032.3 564.5
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 0.1 0.1
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the financial year 3,260.6 1,032.3

1)  For further detail, see our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended December 31, 2025, included in our Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on February 5, 2026.

     
Non-GAAP Metric Reconciliation
Adjusted EBITDA Reconciliation
(US$m)
Quarter ended
December 31, 2025
Quarter ended
September 30, 2025
Net income (loss) (155.4) 384.6
Net income (loss) Margin1 (84)% 160%
Income tax expense (benefit) (182.5) 190.7
Income (loss) before tax (337.9) 575.3
Finance expense 10.7 9.3
Interest income (15.8) (7.1)
Depreciation and amortization 99.2 85.2
EBITDA (243.9) 662.7
     
Reconciliation to consolidated statement of operations    
Add/(deduct):    
Unrealized (gain) loss on financial instruments 107.4 (665.0)
Stock-based compensation expense 58.2 72.4
Impairment of assets 31.8 16.3
(Gain) loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment (0.0) 0.0
(Increase) decrease in fair value of assets held for sale 6.4
Debt conversion inducement expense2 111.8
Foreign exchange (gain) loss (1.9) 5.4
Other expense items3 5.5
Adjusted EBITDA 75.3 91.7
Adjusted EBITDA Margin4 41% 38%

1)  Net Income Margin is calculated as Net Income divided by Total Revenue.
2)  Debt conversion inducement expense relating to the induced conversion of a portion of the 2030 Convertible Notes and 2029 Convertible Notes.
3)  Other expenses include a one-time liquidation payment incurred in August 2024 resulting from the transition to spot pricing at the Group’s site at Childress, the reversal of the unrealized loss recorded on fixed price contracted amounts outstanding at June 30, 2024, a litigation related settlement provision, loss on theft of mining hardware in transit, one-off professional fees incurred in relation to litigation matters, and transaction costs incurred on entering the capped call transactions in conjunction with the issuance of the convertible notes.
4)  Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by Total Revenue.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/nz-au-iren-reports-q2-fy26-results/

GMA Capital Partners Joins Hong Kong’s Business Environment Council

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 February 2026 – GMA Capital Partners has joined the Business Environment Council (BEC), reflecting the firm’s engagement with Hong Kong’s business and sustainability ecosystem and its interest in constructive dialogue on environmental and policy developments affecting the real economy.

Headquartered in Singapore, GMA Capital Partners is a principal investment firm focused on long-term investments, structured capital solutions, and cross-border partnerships across real-economy sectors, including infrastructure, energy transition, logistics, and strategic industrial markets. Membership in BEC provides a platform for engagement with corporates, policymakers, and industry participants on environmental considerations relevant to business operations and long-term asset resilience in Hong Kong and the region.

Established in 1992, BEC is an independent, business-led organisation that promotes environmental excellence through policy advocacy, thought leadership, and knowledge sharing. Its membership comprises multinational companies, listed entities, SMEs, startups, and non-governmental organisations across a broad range of industries.

Chasen Nevett, Managing Partner of GMA Capital Partners, said:

“Joining the Business Environment Council provides a constructive platform to engage with Hong Kong’s business community on practical environmental and sustainability considerations. Our focus remains on disciplined capital allocation into real-economy assets, where regulatory context, governance, and long-term environmental factors increasingly shape commercial outcomes.”

GMA Capital Partners’ approach to sustainability emphasises commercial discipline, transparency, and the consideration of transition-related risks and opportunities relevant to long-term asset performance. The firm looks forward to engaging with BEC initiatives and contributing to dialogue on environmental policy and sustainable business practices in Hong Kong and across the region.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/09/gma-capital-partners-joins-hong-kongs-business-environment-council/