Category: Transport

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EIT international students welcomed at Hawke’s Bay mayoral ceremony

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

12 minutes ago

International students at Eastern Institute of Technology were officially welcomed to Hawke’s Bay at the region’s annual Mayoral Welcome ceremony.

More than 40 EIT students attended the event at Toitoi in Hastings on February 27, part of a cohort of new international students enrolled at the Hawke’s Bay campus, alongside newly arrived international students from secondary schools across the region.

International students at EIT attended a Mayoral Welcome ceremony in Hastings.

EIT Master of Nursing Science student Anne Margarette Zausa Nacar, who is originally from the Philippines, was among the student speakers.

“Coming to New Zealand has been a dream of mine. Hawke’s Bay has given me opportunities not only to grow academically, but also personally and professionally.”

The 31-year-old moved to New Zealand in July last year with her husband, and says she has experienced supportive lecturers, diverse classmates and a learning environment that values both knowledge and compassion.

“As a current postgraduate student, I’ve personally experienced how supportive and encouraging our academic environment is.”

Cultural performances from EIT students and family members included Punjabi Bhangra by Jasmine Kaur and Muskanpreet Kaur, Tai Chi by Jack Wu, and Sri Lankan Kandyan Ves dance by Lakshitha Wijekoon and Imasha Kariyawasam.

Philippa Jones, EIT Executive Director International, says: “Ensuring our students feel warmly welcomed and supported is important as they embark on a new chapter in their lives.

“For many, this journey is more than a move to a new place of study – it’s an introduction to a new culture, a new environment, and a new way of living. Fostering meaningful engagement, building deeper connections, and creating a lasting sense of belonging can help ease the transition for new international students and positively impact communities throughout the region.”

Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum said having international students across Hawke’s Bay secondary schools and EIT is great for the region.

“International students bring outside perspectives that help us grow. It also benefits our local students and allows them to see the world without needing a passport.”

Napier City Councillor Sally Crown, who attended on behalf of Napier City Council, said it was a privilege to welcome the students.

“It is really humbling to think that so many people choose Hawke’s Bay. Having EIT here is crucial in attracting international students and then it is the community infrastructure that wraps around that as well. But it is so important economically, socially to have international students coming into our region.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/eit-international-students-welcomed-at-hawkes-bay-mayoral-ceremony/

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Burglary bust ends in cuffs

Source: New Zealand Police

A group of alleged burglars on the hunt for booze instead ended up in custody in Clarks Beach on Monday morning.

Senior Sergeant Jeremy Steedman, Counties Manukau South Response Manager, says at about 1.30am Police received a report of an attempted break in at a liquor store on Seaway Road.

“A group of four males tried to enter the store by kicking the front door and hitting the glass with a hammer,” he says.

“However they were unsuccessful in gaining entry and fled the area after drawing attention from neighbouring properties with all the noise.”

The group left in a vehicle and headed onto the motorway, passing a Police unit on the way.

“Due to the manner of driving Police did not follow the vehicle as it sped north towards Takanini,” Senior Sergeant Steedman says.

“Eagle was quickly in the air and was able to monitor from a distance.”

The vehicle exited at Takanini and one alleged offender got out, before the car sped off again back onto the motorway.

“The vehicle continued on to East Tāmaki where it was dumped at a bus stop in the Ōtara town centre,” Senior Sergeant Steedman says.

“Three occupants ran into the township where they were quickly located by the dog unit, Delta and taken into custody.”

Senior Sergeant Steedman says subsequent enquiries discovered the vehicle had been stolen from Flat Bush the night before.

“We are pleased we have apprehended these alleged offenders and that they will answer for their actions,” he says.

“Police have zero tolerance for this type of offending.”

Four males aged between 15 and 17 have been referred to Youth Aid.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/burglary-bust-ends-in-cuffs/

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Zero Waste – No support for disestablishing the Ministry for the Environment

Source:  Zero Waste Aotearoa (ZWA)

Zero Waste Aotearoa (ZWA) does not support disestablishing the Ministry for the Environment and bundling its environmental protection functions into the proposed MCERT Mega Ministry.

“This takes us back to an old 1970’s approach by embedding a fundamental conflict of interest into the new mega-Ministry. Environmental protection will be viewed as an internal obstacle to be managed, rather than a statutory goal to be upheld,” says Sue Coutts of Zero Waste Aotearoa.

“Clean and green is part of our national identity.  It underpins our trade and tourism industries. If we don’t have a strong champion to protect our environment we are putting our health, our economy and our future at risk.”

“Almost all of our major environmental indicators show we’re in serious trouble. Our lands, air and water are polluted, biodiversity is under extreme strain and climate goals have been abandoned.”

“Solving New Zealand’s waste, recycling, plastic and chemical pollution problems is already low on the government’s priority list, dismantling the Ministry for the Environment will cross these critical issues off the to-do list altogether.”

“Dismantling the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) is nothing less than vandalism of the public interest by a government that has shown it cares very little for the ecological systems that sustain us.”

“Climate, nature, environmental quality and health impacts need a dedicated, independent statutory voice. This helps to ensure any trade offs being made between development and production  and environmental quality and protection are rigorously analysed.”

“Decision making will be less open and transparent, because the new mega-Ministry Chief Executive will carry the responsibility for making trade offs between environmental and development objectives. This will happen at the management level, rather than these being debated and agreed in the public and political realm. There will be fewer opportunities for scrutiny of decision making with a public interest lens or by watchdogs like the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment.”

“MfE also plays an important role in managing the Crown’s relationship with iwi regarding natural resources. The current expertise and relationships could be buried or lost in the shift to the MCERT mega ministry.”

“As importantly, resource management law is undergoing a massive overhaul. There is a lot of work to be done setting up the national standards, environmental limits and policy direction that will shape decision making in the future.”

“It makes more sense to leave MfE as it is and properly resource it to do the background work outlined in the new Planning and Environment bills. Restructuring and merging MfE into MCERT will disrupt the team and waste time, energy and resources that could be put into this critical work.”

“As the submission period closes, ZWA encourages the public to understand the negative impacts on environmental protection this will have. ZWA recommends to the select committee that the Ministry for the Environment is not included in this amalgamation, and instead is empowered to actually do the work of caring for our environment.”

Notes

Submissions are open until 4:30 pm on March 11, 2026, for the Environment (Disestablishment of Ministry for the Environment) Amendment Bill.

The Government introduced legislation to establish a Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT)

MCERT would formally disestablish the Ministry for the Environment. The new ministry will be established on 1 April 2026 and become operational from 1 July 2026

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/zero-waste-no-support-for-disestablishing-the-ministry-for-the-environment/

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

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. RNZ / Mark Papalii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

That keeps National very much still in the game.

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

Labour leader Chris Hipkins RNZ / Marika Khabazi

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

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

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

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

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

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SH1 closes as truck and car crash near Milton

Source: Radio New Zealand

St John said an ambulance and a helicopter had been sent to the crash site RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson

A helicopter has been sent to a the scene of a collision between a truck and car blocking State Highway 1 near Milton.

The crash happened shortly before 9am near the intersection of Adams Flat Road and Milton Highway.

Police said it appeared people had been injured.

St John said an ambulance and a helicopter had been sent.

NZTA said SH1 near Milton was closed near the intersection with Adams Flat Road.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area where possible and expect delays.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/sh1-closes-as-truck-and-car-crash-near-milton/

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Obesity experts advise on new treatments

Source: PHARMAC

With high obesity rates in New Zealand and new medicines entering the market, public interest in weight‑loss treatments is understandably strong. 

In June 2025 Medsafe approved semaglutide (Wegovy) for use in New Zealand for weight loss. Medsafe approves medicines for use in New Zealand. They check that these products meet our standards for safety and quality, and that they work as well as we expect them to.  

Pharmac has received three applications to fund semaglutide(external link) for the following conditions: 

  • weight management for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or more with at least one weight-related health condition
  • insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes  
  • cardiovascular disease with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or more.

 To help us assess these medicines, a new Obesity Treatments Advisory Group (OTAG) was established and met for the first time in December last year. The group includes a range of clinical expertise and provides objective advice on new obesity treatments and future opportunities. 

 Pharmac’s Manager Expert Advisory, Caroline De Luca, says this is the first step in gathering advice to inform this complicated decision that could affect many New Zealanders lives.

 “When we make funding decisions, we need input from clinical experts in New Zealand so we can understand how the evidence relates in a local context.”

 The current members of the group are:

  • Dr Liza Lack – Clinical Director, National Hauora Coalition – Waikato (Chair – PTAC Member)
  • Dr Bruce King (Chair) – Specialist Internal Medicine and Nephrology (PTAC Member)
  • Dr Wing Cheuk Chan – Public Health Physician
  • Dr Jo McClintock – Clinical Psychologist
  • Dr Rawiri McKree Jansen – General Practitioner
  • Prof Rinki Murphy – Specialist Diabetes Physician
  • Dr James Shand – Endocrinologist
  • Dr Samuel Whittaker – General Practitioner 

 OTAG reviewed the application to fund semaglutide for weight loss in December 2025. The group’s provisional recommendation [PDF](external link) is that Pharmac fund it for chronic weight management in people with a high body mass index (BMI) and associated comorbidities, with a high priority. The full record of the meeting is expected to be available by March.

A recommendation from OTAG is not a guarantee that Pharmac will fund a medicine. It is a vital step in the process for considering this application, but it is not the only consideration.

The OTAG advice will contribute to Pharmac’s assessment of the role of these medicines in New Zealand and consider the impact on individuals, whānau, caregivers, and the wider health system. We will continue to seek input from the clinical and patient communities.

More about our advisory groups

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/obesity-experts-advise-on-new-treatments/

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Funding medicines for people with high health needs

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac is working to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders, including those with the highest health needs. This includes Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled people, women, and people living rurally. 


“Health equity ensures everyone has fair access to health care and the opportunity to live well, regardless of who they are or where they come from,” says Director Equity and Engagement, Dr Nicola Ngawati. 

Pharmac’s Equity Policy recognises that different people have different levels of advantage. Pharmac applies an equity lens when making funding decisions. 

Our role under the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 is to secure for eligible people in need of pharmaceuticals, the best health outcomes that are reasonably achievable from pharmaceutical treatment. 

Some of the medicines we’ve funded recently are making a real difference for these groups. Below are some specific medicines and their reach for high needs health groups (from 1 October 2024 to 31 January 2026). 

Palivizumab (RSV prevention)

Protects premature and high-risk infants from severe RSV illness. Māori and Pacific babies are more likely to need this treatment. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 34.3%
  • Pacific– 11.3%
  • Female – 44.6%
  • Rural – 15.7%

Triple inhaler (Budesonide + Glycopyrronium + Eformoterol)

Helps manage COPD, which impacts Māori up to 20 years earlier and causes death at five times the rate of non-Māori. Funded from 1 January 2025. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 28.4%
  • Pacific – 4.5%
  • Women – 57.3%
  • Rural – 24.1%

Insulin (Ryzodeg)

Diabetes prevalence among Māori and Pacific people is about three times higher than other population groups. Funded from May 2025. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 24.1%
  • Pacific – 19.3%
  • Women – 48.8%
  • Rural – 17.9%

Empagliflozen

This medicine helps reduce cardiovascular hospitalisation, slow kidney decline, and improve glycaemic control. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 21.8%
  • Pacific – 7.6%
  • Women – 33.8%
  • Rural – 25.7%

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

From 1 December 2025, Pharmac began funding silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for the treatment and prevention of tooth decay. Dental cavities disproportionately affect Māori, Pacific peoples and people in areas of higher depravation. 

Poor oral health can impact daily life and cause pain and embarrassment. Although SDF is in the early days of funding, its use is expected to reduce the need for hospital‑based dental treatment, remove cost barriers and improve wellbeing.

“We’re pleased that these statistics indicate our funded medicines are reaching those who need them most. We’ll continue to focus on increasing access to key medicines for these groups,” says Dr Ngawati.

“This work is extremely important. By reducing avoidable differences in health outcomes – we create a healthier New Zealand for everyone.”

Note: All figures are from the Pharmaceutical Collection dataset(external link) (as extracted and analysed by Pharmac).

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/funding-medicines-for-people-with-high-health-needs/

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Football: Auckland FC draw with Perth Glory

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sam Cosgrove heads in for what was subsequently ruled to be an own goal by Perth Glory in their A-League clash at Mount Smart Stadium, 8 March 2026. www.photosport.nz

Auckland FC’s run for the A-League men’s premiership has suffered a hiccup with a 2-all home draw with Perth Glory.

The Auckland side picked up a point for the draw, but trail leaders Newcastle Jets by four points. The two teams meet next weekend in a clash that Auckland must not lose if they are to stay in realistic contention.

It looked great for the Aucklanders when Sam Cosgrove who after a melee got the ball past Glory goalkeeper Matt Sutton in just the seventh minute.

Perth levelled in the 39th minute when Brian Kaltak found the back of the net with a diving header.

Stefan Colakovski gave Glory a 2-1 lead when he got one past Auckland goalkeeper Michael Woud in the 57th minute, but four minutes later Cosgrove got higher than the Perth players surrounding him to head one into the right post, with Sutton unable to contain the richochet and the ball falling just behind him into the goal.

The referee initially called a foul on Cosgrove, but after VAR intervention he changed the decision, with it ultimately decreed an own goal by Sutton.

There were six minutes of extra time, but neither team could break the deadlock.

The draw leaves Auckland FC three points ahead of Sydney FC who are in third place.

The Glory take on the Phoenix in Wellington next weekend.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/football-auckland-fc-draw-with-perth-glory/

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Police, helicopter rescue boaties, diver of Wellington’s southern coast

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police launch Lady Elizabeth IV found the boat about 6km off the coast.

Police and Westpac Rescue Helicopter have rescued a diver and boaties in windy and choppy conditions off Wellington’s south coast this week.

The police maritime unit responded to an emergency call from two people on a 5.4m runabout about 4pm Thursday, after they struck difficulties with 88km/h winds and two-metre waves, and were being blown out to seas.

The boat owner, who was the only occupant who knew how to drive the boat, had been scuba-diving and was still in the water closer to shore.

Police called in the rescue helicopter and volunteer coastguard to assist, and about 4.30pm, the police launch Lady Elizabeth IV found the boat about 6km off the coast.

Constable Stephanie Cox was able to board the boat in tricky conditions and drive it back to Owhiro Bay.

An hour later, the diver was located on a remote shore, after surfacing and realising his boat had gone. He was airlifted to Wellington Airport.

No-one was harmed, but all three were shaken by the experience.

“These two men can consider themselves lucky,” senior launch master Constable Nicko McGregor said. “These difficult weather conditions were no place for a small runabout to be.

“This is a reminder of how quickly situations at sea can change. Good preparation and formal training make a real difference, when things don’t go to plan on the water.”

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/police-helicopter-rescue-boaties-diver-of-wellingtons-southern-coast/

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Five die during treacherous weekend on North Island roads

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / REECE BAKER

One person has died after a crash on State Highway 1, just north of Tūrangi, near Rawhira Road.

The road remained closed and diversions were in place around the western side of Lake Taupō.

Motorists were advised to continue avoiding the area.

The past 24 hours have been treacherous on the roads, with four other people dead in separate crashes.

One was killed on Coast Road in Karitane on Sunday morning and a motorcyclist died in a crash on Foxton Shannon Road in the Manawatū soon after.

At about 12.30am, an occupant was killed in a single-vehicle crash at Paparoa.

On Sunday afternoon, police also confirmed the driver of a vehicle involved a Dome Valley crash on Saturday evening died at the scene.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/five-die-during-treacherous-weekend-on-north-island-roads/

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Palestine Forum of New Zealand Marks International Women’s Day

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

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

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

The Untold Stories of Palestinian Women

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

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

Palestine Forum of New Zealand’s Call to Action

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

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

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

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

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

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

– Palestine Forum of New Zealand

MIL OSI

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

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Women shaping the future of Aotearoa recognised in inaugural Women of Impact in Property list

Source: Property Council of New Zealand

Thirty wāhine whose leadership is shaping the future of New Zealand’s built environment have been recognised in the inaugural Women of Impact in Property list, unveiled by Property Council New Zealand this International Women’s Day.

Spanning developers, designers, engineers, strategists, policy leaders and project specialists, the list – selected from over 90 nominees – celebrates the breadth of talent driving progress across the property ecosystem.

Importantly, Women of Impact in Property is not a competition. Every honouree is recognised equally for the influence and impact they have delivered across the sector.

Property Council Chief Executive Leonie Freeman says the programme shines a light on the people whose leadership is helping shape stronger, more inclusive communities.

“Our cities are built by people, and behind every great place are women creating change: leading teams, mentoring others, challenging thinking and delivering outcomes that benefit us all.”

“Women of Impact is about visibility, recognition and inspiration. We want the sector – and the public – to see what leadership looks like in all its forms.”

The initiative reflects Property Council’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and will become an annual International Women’s Day tradition.

Women of Impact in Property is proudly supported by MinterEllisonRuddWatts.

A sector-wide celebration

Honourees were selected from nominations received across Aotearoa and represent a diverse range of disciplines, regions and career stages.

From large-scale urban development to community-led initiatives, governance leadership to technical excellence, each woman has demonstrated meaningful influence within the industry over the past 12 months.

Why it matters

Property is one of New Zealand’s largest industries, shaping the places where people live, work, play and connect. Recognising the contribution of women across the sector is essential to building a more inclusive, innovative and future-focused industry.

What’s next

The honourees will be celebrated at a dedicated event hosted by programme partner MinterEllisonRuddWatts in May.

NOTES

  • Women of Impact in Property is run by Property Council New Zealand.
  • The programme recognises influence, leadership, inspiration and commitment to advancing positive outcomes in the built environment.
  • The list is non-ranked, celebrating impact rather than competition.

About Women of Impact in Property

The Women of Impact in Property list celebrates the wāhine shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand’s built environment. Recognising leaders from across the property ecosystem – from architects and engineers to developers, investors and advisors – the initiative shines a light on the women creating meaningful impact in our industry and communities. The list is intentionally non-ranked, celebrating influence, leadership and contribution rather than competition, and highlighting the people helping build a more inclusive and dynamic property sector.

Honourees 2026

Note: This list is non-ranked and is ordered alphabetically.

Abi Richards

Project Manager, Antarctica New Zealand

Abi Richards leads complex, high-stakes infrastructure projects with calm authority, precision and deep care for the people involved. In the past year, she has progressed Antarctica New Zealand’s Wind Farm programme and Scott Base Redevelopment, providing on-ice leadership and cross-agency coordination to support globally significant climate and science research. Her briefings during the Governor-General’s official visit underscored the redevelopment’s strategic importance and international collaboration. Abi’s leadership is defined by empathy, inclusion and decisive action — whether aligning stakeholders, navigating remote logistics or mentoring peers. Operating at pace without compromising safety or integrity, she is shaping resilient infrastructure that enables communities, patients and scientists to thrive.

Alexandra Isherwood

Partner, Tavendale and Partners

Over the past year, Alexandra (Alex) Isherwood has played a pivotal role in advancing Nelson’s post-disaster recovery through strategic property development leadership. As legal advisor on four of the region’s five most significant developments – including The Meadows, Berryfields, Maitahi Village and a 320-lot residential project in Māpua – she has helped unlock critical housing supply and economic investment. Notably, she led the Fast-track Approvals process for two landmark projects, securing rare national approvals and enabling an estimated $450 million injection into the regional economy. Combining legal excellence with community stewardship, she is shaping resilient, future-focused neighbourhoods across Te Tauihu.

Ana Moriarty

Senior Investment Manager, Kiwi Property Group

Operating at the heart of Kiwi Property’s investment strategy, Ana Moriarty has played a critical role in delivering complex transactions that are strengthening investor partnerships and positioning the business for its next phase of growth. Over the past year, she led several strategically significant initiatives, including the equity investment in Mackersy, the sale of Plaza Shopping Centre, and the formation of the Mackersy Large Format Retail Fund. Her ability to navigate technical complexity, align diverse stakeholders and execute with clarity has delivered strong commercial outcomes. Through disciplined leadership and a collaborative approach, she is helping shape the future of New Zealand’s property sector.

Anna Kennedy

Director Valuation Services, FordBaker Valuation

Anna Kennedy is rapidly establishing herself as one of Ōtautahi Christchurch’s most trusted property valuation professionals. As Director of Valuation Services at FordBaker Valuation, she advises on major property portfolios, earning a reputation for technical excellence, sound judgement and professionalism well beyond her years. Alongside her professional work, Anna is strengthening the sector’s future through leadership and connection. In 2023 she co-founded the Wāhine in Property Collective, which in 2025 hosted ten sold-out events supporting women across the industry. Through both her professional expertise and community leadership, Anna is helping build a more connected and inclusive property sector.

Bernie Pitt

Quantity Surveyor, Hampton Jones Property Consultancy

Bernie Pitt has strengthened her influence in the property and construction sector through exceptional project delivery and committed industry leadership. Over the past year, she successfully led the TSB Bank flagship branch and office fit-out, navigating accelerated design, procurement pressures and tight deadlines to deliver on time and under budget – earning outstanding client feedback. As Chair of the NZIQS Wellington Committee, she delivered 28 industry events, advanced succession planning and expanded opportunities for emerging professionals. Balancing consultancy leadership, mentoring and further tertiary study focused on women’s representation in construction, Bernie is actively shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for the profession.

Chagalle Ellis

Partner, Real Estate, PwC

Chagalle Ellis is redefining what modern leadership in commercial property looks like — blending technical excellence with deeply human leadership. In 2025, she has continued to asset manage a significant $300m commercial portfolio for a charitable trust, shaping long-term strategy and driving sustained value creation. As a Partner in PwC’s Real Estate team, she delivers across advisory, structured transactions and valuation, translating complexity into clear, confident decisions. Just as importantly, she champions equity and inclusion, helping build a senior team where female leadership is the norm. Her influence strengthens portfolios, teams and the wider property sector alike.

Claire McLellan

Director, Quality and Risk Management, CBRE

Few professionals influence a sector as quietly and profoundly as Claire McLellan. In 2025, following her promotion to Director of Quality & Risk Management for CBRE’s VAS New Zealand, she has led a nationwide uplift in valuation standards, guiding more than 170 valuers through complex, high-risk decisions with clarity and integrity. She shapes national practice guidelines, champions ethical and AI-informed innovation, and strengthens capability across the business. Beyond CBRE, as NZIV President and Chairperson, she is steering the profession through structural change and raising its public profile. Through steady, principled leadership, Claire is elevating valuation practice across Aotearoa.

Davina Henderson

National Director – Strategic Business Development, Bayleys Real Estate

Davina Henderson has led one of the largest and most complex property programmes undertaken in Aotearoa in recent years. As a key architect of Bayleys’ appointment as master agent to Kāinga Ora, she helped secure and operationalise a nationwide divestment mandate covering at least 1,000 properties annually across multiple asset classes. Over the past year, she has overseen the creation of a bespoke, end-to-end delivery model ensuring governance rigour, transparency and consistent execution at scale. Alongside this national impact, Davina mentors emerging leaders and champions women in commercial real estate, strengthening capability across the sector.

Elisapeta Heta

Principal & Kaihautū Whaihanga – Māori Design Leader, Jasmax

Elisapeta Heta is reshaping architectural practice in Aotearoa and beyond by embedding Indigenous knowledge at the heart of design. As Principal and Kaihautū Whaihanga at Jasmax, she leads Waka Māia, advancing authentic co-design with Māori and Pasifika communities. Her influence spans landmark projects including the City Rail Link and Wellington’s Fale Malae, ensuring Mana Whenua narratives are integral to civic spaces. In 2025, her global impact expanded as inaugural Co-Director of the International Union of Architects’ Indigenous Peoples Work Programme — a historic first. Through cultural leadership, advocacy and mentorship, Elisapeta is redefining how architecture honours people, place and future generations.

Jane Holland

Partner, Bell Gully

Industry legend Jane Holland continues to shape New Zealand’s commercial property landscape through her leadership on complex, high-value developments. Over the past year, she has advised on a major telecommunications headquarters at Wynyard Quarter – a flagship 6-star Green Star project – and supported Vital Healthcare on significant hospital redevelopments nationwide. Beyond her legal practice, Jane chairs the Property Council’s Property Conference Committee, helping steer industry dialogue and sector capability. A trusted advisor to leading developers, owners and retailers, she also contributes as a thought leader, recently peer reviewing key industry lease documents and sharing insight across the profession.

Jane Kelly

Director / Architect, TEAM Architects

Jane Kelly’s leadership in 2025 reflects the power of architecture grounded in care, stewardship and collaboration. As Project Architect for the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart restoration, she guided a nationally significant heritage project to award-winning success, balancing cultural integrity with future relevance. Her aged care work, including Woburn Masonic Care, champions dignity and wellbeing through thoughtful design. Beyond projects, Jane strengthens the profession through governance leadership, mentoring and advancing diversity within TEAM Architects nationally. Generous with her expertise and steadfast in her advocacy, she is shaping enduring places, and a more inclusive future for architecture in Aotearoa.

Jenna Adamson

CEO / Director, Private Family Office / Southern Infrastructure

Jenna Adamson is advancing a new model of infrastructure and property leadership; one grounded in partnership, stewardship and long-term community value. As CEO of Rod Drury’s Family Office, she oversees property strategy and asset management across a diversified portfolio focused on strengthening enduring community assets. As Director of Southern Infrastructure, she is helping progress critical projects, including the Queenstown Cable Car and Southern Lakes Hospital, mobilising capital and expertise to de-risk delivery in fast-growing regions. Combining governance rigour with innovative thinking, Jenna is enabling infrastructure that expands access, resilience and opportunity for communities across Aotearoa.

Jennifer Andrews

Asset Manager – Retail Portfolio, Oyster Property 

Jennifer Andrews is strengthening the future of retail property through consistent investment in people and capability. Over the past year, she has contributed significantly to sector education as a presenter for the Property Council’s Retail Property Fundamentals programme, equipping emerging professionals with practical insight into investment, valuation and leasing. She mentors across multiple platforms, including the University of Auckland’s He Ira Wāhine programme, supporting women entering the industry. Alongside this, she leads a high-performing national team at Oyster Property, delivering strong financial outcomes while fostering inclusive leadership. Jennifer’s impact is defined by expertise shared generously and a clear commitment to building tomorrow’s talent.

Jenny Zhang

Shop Drawing Manager, Summerset Group 

Jenny Zhang is delivering precision and performance at the highest level of large-scale residential development. As Structural Coordinator and Shop Drawing Manager for Summerset’s $500M St Johns and Half Moon Bay projects, she has reviewed more than 3,000 shop drawings and managed over 800 RFIs — identifying buildability and coordination risks before they reach site. Her meticulous oversight of complex high-rise structures has reduced rework, improved contractor performance and safeguarded delivery timelines. Beyond project execution, Jenny mentors emerging professionals and leads diversity initiatives through NZCBIA, championing greater female participation across property and construction. Her impact is technical, cultural and enduring.

Jo Hatchman

Director – Quantity Surveyor, Hatch Consulting

Jo Hatchman is redefining the role of the quantity surveyor in Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction and property sectors. As founder of Hatch Consulting, she has grown a female-led, values-driven practice that brings contractor-side experience into strategic project advisory, helping clients make smarter delivery decisions. In 2025, her team expanded while continuing to deliver practical, commercially grounded guidance on complex developments. Jo is equally committed to strengthening the profession, delivering industry training and fostering emerging talent — reflected in multiple team award wins. Through entrepreneurial leadership and a people-first culture, she is elevating the influence and capability of quantity surveying nationwide.

Karin Speight

Sector Lead – Land Development, Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Tonkin + Taylor

Karin Speight is advancing smarter, more resilient land development across Aotearoa through engineering leadership and digital innovation. As Principal Geotechnical Engineer and Sector Lead for Land Development at Tonkin + Taylor, she guides complex projects across housing, health, education and infrastructure. Her leadership on the award-winning Whenuapai Senior Campus reflects her ability to balance technical precision with practical delivery. Beyond project work, Karin is driving innovation through digital tools that improve site selection, risk assessment and project planning, while contributing to national research on landslides and expansive soils. Through mentorship and forward-thinking engineering, she is helping shape safer and more sustainable communities.

Kerry O’Donnell

Partner, Property and Private Client, Anderson Lloyd

Kerry O’Donnell is helping guide Queenstown’s growth with foresight, integrity and deep community commitment. As a senior property lawyer at Anderson Lloyd, she has supported major residential developments in 2025, including the 750-section Kingston Village project, providing the legal framework for staged, sustainable expansion in a high-growth region. Her work across acquisitions, joint ventures and financing has strengthened development certainty while balancing environmental and community considerations. Beyond commercial practice, Kerry leads as Chair of the Queenstown Heritage Trust and serves as a trustee supporting local students, exemplifying leadership grounded in stewardship and long-term regional wellbeing.

Laura Johns

Director, RDT Pacific

Driving both project delivery and professional excellence, Laura Johns is making a significant contribution to New Zealand’s built environment. As Director and Auckland Lead at RDT Pacific, she has guided major programmes in 2025 including BNZ’s 80 Queen Street refurbishment and key public sector projects across justice, health and education. Her leadership has delivered strong outcomes for clients while supporting the continued growth of RDT Pacific’s Auckland practice. Beyond project work, Laura plays an active role in strengthening the profession through RICS chartership assessments and NZIQS interviews. Recognised as RICS New Zealand Woman of the Built Environment, she champions both industry capability and people-first leadership.

Lauren Joyce

Head of Auckland Office Portfolio, Precinct Properties

Lauren Joyce is helping shape the next generation of commercial property leadership in Aotearoa. Through her work at Precinct Properties, she contributes to complex mixed-use developments that prioritise design excellence, tenant experience and long-term community value. Known for her calm, collaborative approach, she brings investors, tenants and stakeholders together to deliver confident outcomes in high-pressure environments. Beyond project delivery, Lauren has been a driving force in advancing diversity and inclusion across the sector, chairing Property Council’s DEI Committee and helping establish the Inclusion Alliance. Blending commercial rigour with genuine care for people, she is strengthening both places and the profession.

Louise Martin

Head of Legal & Company Secretary, Auckland Airport

Louise Martin is shaping one of Aotearoa’s most significant infrastructure precincts with clarity, conviction and care. At Auckland Airport, she plays a central role in complex development, precinct planning and asset optimisation, balancing commercial performance with long-term community and cultural outcomes. Her ability to navigate competing priorities — from airlines and tenants to mana whenua and regulators — ensures projects are both visionary and deliverable. Known for her integrity and high standards, Louise champions inclusive design and authentic engagement while mentoring emerging leaders across the sector. Through strategic leadership grounded in humanity, she is influencing the future of New Zealand’s built environment.

Marilyn Storey

Head of Development, Argosy Property Limited

Marilyn Storey continues to set the benchmark for commercial property leadership in Aotearoa. As Head of Development at Argosy, she has led a pipeline of major industrial projects over the past year, targeting six Green Star Built-rated developments and embedding sustainability at scale. Operating in a complex market environment, she brings sharp commercial judgement, technical depth and decisive execution to every project, strengthening portfolio performance and long-term value. Widely recognised for her mentorship and high standards, Marilyn also shapes sector practice through her Urban Design Panel involvement. Her influence is evident in stronger assets, stronger teams and a more resilient built environment.

Mitika Chaturvedi

Sustainability Lead, Fosters Construction Group

Mitika Chaturvedi is driving measurable climate action across New Zealand’s construction sector. As Sustainability Lead at Fosters Construction Group, her leadership has contributed to a 38% absolute emissions reduction and a 90% drop in waste-to-landfill emissions since 2019–20. In 2025, she delivered a Green Star v1.1 Design Rating for the Air Liquide project within an accelerated programme, building new sustainability capability across consultants and contractors. Beyond project delivery, she champions industry-wide change — mentoring other firms on Toitū and Green Star pathways and leading New Zealand’s only construction sustainability work experience programme. Her influence is practical, scalable and transformative.

Nikki Mazur

Head of Property – New Zealand & Pacific, ANZ Bank New Zealand

Nikki Mazur is redefining how corporate property portfolios can reflect identity, culture and long-term responsibility. As lead of Tākiri Ā Nuku, ANZ’s New Zealand Property Strategy, she has embedded Te Ao Māori principles into spatial design, investment decisions and partnership models across one of the country’s largest portfolios. In the past year, she has advanced culturally grounded, accessible and future-focused property environments that prioritise people and place. Building on her previous leadership delivering inclusive national infrastructure at Waka Kotahi, Nikki brings cultural fluency and strategic foresight to every project — shaping workplaces that honour whenua and support intergenerational prosperity.

Rachel Morgan

Director, Barker & Associates

Rachel Morgan is shaping the planning frameworks that guide growth across Aotearoa. As a Director at Barker & Associates, she has led complex district plan reviews, structure plans and strategic planning projects that influence how communities accommodate development while building resilience for the future. In the past year, her leadership has helped align public policy and private sector delivery, creating clearer pathways for sustainable growth. Beyond project work, she advances wellbeing, cultural capability and technical excellence within her firm and the wider industry. Through principled leadership and sector advocacy, Rachel is strengthening both planning practice and property outcomes nationwide.

Rebecca Ryder

Partner | Landscape Architect, Boffa Miskell

Rebecca Ryder has spent more than two decades shaping property outcomes that balance growth with environmental and cultural integrity. As a Shareholder Director and Partner at Boffa Miskell, she provides landscape planning and visual assessment expertise on major developments across Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, guiding projects that integrate mana whenua values and long-term community benefit. In the past year, her leadership has continued to influence high-profile urban regeneration, industrial expansion and waterfront transformation initiatives. Through governance, mentorship and sector advocacy, Rebecca is embedding sustainability, cultural responsiveness and design excellence into New Zealand’s evolving property landscape.

Renée Young

Associate Director | New Zealand Mechanical Lead, Norman Disney & Young

Renée Young is shaping some of Aotearoa’s most high-profile developments while championing a more inclusive and culturally responsive industry. As Mechanical Lead at Norman Disney & Young, she has led building services delivery for landmark projects including New Zealand’s first IKEA store at Sylvia Park and multiple developments across the Britomart Precinct. Her leadership combines technical excellence with strong people development, guiding multidisciplinary teams through complex, high-performance projects. Beyond delivery, Renée actively mentors women in engineering, establishes supportive professional networks, and promotes cultural awareness across the sector. Through both project leadership and advocacy, she is helping redefine the future of engineering in the built environment.

Renee Smith-Apanui

Pou Tāhū | Managing Director, ŌRUA

Renee Smith-Apanui is driving structural change across Aotearoa New Zealand’s architecture and built environment sectors. As Co-founder and Pou Tāhū of ŌRUA, she champions kaupapa Māori leadership that uplifts whānau, hapū and iwi through design and governance. In 2025, she spearheaded the inaugural Puritia Te Aka Matua industry reports, establishing a new benchmark for accountability and improved outcomes for Māori architects and tauira. With an Accountability Framework set to follow, her work is shifting industry standards from aspiration to measurable change. Through governance roles, mentorship and advocacy, Renee is strengthening representation and embedding equity across the profession.

Sarah Toase

Chief Executive, Crane Association of New Zealand

Sarah Toase is strengthening the foundations of New Zealand’s construction and property sectors by tackling workforce and safety challenges head-on. In 2025, she led the establishment of a new industry-led Private Training Establishment for the crane and port sectors, securing TEC funding to address critical skills shortages impacting nationwide development. She also progressed a government-approved rewrite of the Approved Code of Practice for Cranes, modernising safety standards that underpin construction delivery. Beyond policy, Sarah champions equity initiatives and public engagement programmes that expand career pathways. Her leadership is practical, future-focused and vital to keeping Aotearoa building safely and sustainably.

Tamba Carleton

New Zealand Research Director, CBRE

Tamba Carleton is shaping how the property sector understands markets, risk and opportunity. As New Zealand Research Director at CBRE, her analysis informs major development decisions and national policy conversations. In 2025, she co-authored the nationwide Residential Valuer Insights Survey and produced influential research on effective housing demand, helping fill critical knowledge gaps in Auckland’s planning debate. Her insights regularly reach industry audiences through national media, conferences and CBRE’s annual Residential Symposium. Alongside her research leadership, Tamba mentors emerging professionals and contributes to wider community initiatives. Through rigorous analysis and sector engagement, she is elevating the quality of property market intelligence across Aotearoa.

Tessa Beetham

Wellington Buildings Structures Lead, Aurecon

In a city defined by seismic complexity, Tessa Beetham is helping redefine what resilient infrastructure looks like. As Wellington Buildings Structures Lead at Aurecon, she has guided technically demanding projects including the National Archives redevelopment and the Te Ngākau Civic Precinct upgrades, restoring vital public spaces with precision and long-term foresight. Her leadership extends beyond delivery — influencing seismic policy reform and advancing diversity as Vice President of SESOC. By bringing engineers, policymakers and communities together, Tessa is ensuring Wellington’s most important buildings are not only stronger, but smarter, more inclusive and built to endure.

About Property Council New Zealand

Property Council is the leading advocate for Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest industry – property.

Property Council New Zealand is the one organisation that collectively champions property. We bring together members from all corners of the property ecosystem to advocate for reduced red tape that enables development, encourages investment, and supports our communities to thrive.

Property is New Zealand’s largest industry, making up 15% of economic activity. As a sector, we employ 10% of New Zealand’s workforce and contribute over $50.2 billion to GDP.

A not-for-profit organisation, the Property Council connects over 10,000 property professionals, championing the interests of over 600 member companies.

Our membership is broad and includes some of the largest commercial and residential property owners and developers in New Zealand. The property industry comes together at our local, national and online events, which offer professional development, exceptional networking and access to industry-leading research. 

Our members shape the cities and spaces where New Zealanders live, work, play and shop.

www.propertynz.co.nz 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/women-shaping-the-future-of-aotearoa-recognised-in-inaugural-women-of-impact-in-property-list/

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CGTN: How China builds consensus, boosts development through consultative democracy

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 March 2026 – CGTN published an article on the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee. Reviewing the work of the CPPCC National Committee in 2025 in areas like its consultative and deliberative work and assisting in the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan, the article highlights the CPPCC’s role as a dedicated consultative body through which people’s democracy is practiced.

Committed to addressing the difficulties regarding people’s livelihood through the rule of law, Pi Jianlong, a lawyer and a national political advisor, has spent years going deep into factories, workshops, law firms and juvenile probation and rehabilitation centers, making sure that his proposals, grounded in rigorous field research, are precise, practical and responsive to real needs.

Noting the predicament faced by food delivery riders, including the lack of contracts, social security and basic protection, he proposed targeted suggestions such as innovating social security models and strengthening platform responsibilities. In 2025, platforms such as JD.com and Meituan successively introduced social security plans, providing full social insurance coverage for full-time riders and accident and medical insurance for part-time riders.

Awarded for his outstanding performance in 2025 by the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee recently, Pi exemplifies the commitment of thousands of CPPCC members to serving the people through high-quality duty fulfillment, underscoring the CPPCC’s role as a major vehicle through which people’s democracy is practiced.

On Wednesday afternoon, China’s top political advisory body, the CPPCC National Committee, kicked off its annual session in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping, together with other leaders, attended the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee.

99.9% proposals handled

Acting as a dedicated consultative body, the CPPCC has pooled extensive consensus and strength to support the successful conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and a solid start to the 15th Five-Year Plan over the past year, injecting strong vitality into the practice of whole-process people’s democracy – a key concept put forward by Xi himself to advance China’s political landscape.

Over the years, China has made all-around progress in improving the institutions, standards and procedures of socialist democracy and advanced socialist consultative democracy by way of extensive participation.

According to a work report delivered at the opening meeting, in 2025, the CPPCC National Committee received 5,992 proposals from its members, of which 5,061 were accepted for processing. The response rate for the accepted proposals stood at 99.9%.

The CPPCC National Committee members carried out 6,778 activities to serve the people, along with 11,115 outreach activities engaging people from relevant sectors. These efforts benefited more than 4 million people.

By innovating consultative and deliberative methods, improving consultative democracy institutions, and fostering a culture of consultation, the CPPCC has further strengthened its role in promoting democracy and offering policy advice while building consensus.

Over the past year, the CPPCC National Committee held 98 consultative and deliberative events, ranging from promoting the country’s green and low-carbon transition for the 15th Five-Year Plan and developing the silver economy to improving and innovating social governance. These efforts demonstrate that consultative democracy is grounded in reality and responsive to public needs, pooling support, consensus, wisdom and strength to advance Chinese modernization.

Securing a strong start to the 15th Five-Year Plan

Supporting the formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan serves as a key task of the CPPCC in 2025, representing a vivid practice of whole-process people’s democracy.

From May 20 to June 20 last year, China launched an online public consultation to gather opinions for its next five-year plan. The initiative drew over 3.11 million valid submissions, yielding more than 1,500 constructive suggestions across 27 topics.

A summary of these findings was submitted to the Party leadership, ensuring that the people’s voices were heard at the highest level. By September, a total of 2,112 suggestions had been collected from various regions, departments and sectors, resulting in 218 revisions to the document.

To contribute to the 15th Five-Year Plan, the CPPCC, over the past year, held a special standing committee meeting and carried out 54 special studies, yielding a series of high-quality outcomes. Meanwhile, it launched a special research column, publishing 55 issues to provide evidence-based references for policy-making.

This broad-based participation highlights that national development strategies are rooted in public will, gathering strong momentum for Chinese modernization.

According to the work report, in 2026, the CPPCC will conduct in-depth research and thorough consultations on major tasks and strategic measures of the 15th Five-Year Plan and carry out cross-committee, cross-sector and cross-disciplinary studies, aiming to put forward forward-looking, targeted and operable policy suggestions, according to the report.

Focusing on key issues in areas such as economic development, technological innovation, reform and opening up, social development, and people’s livelihood, the CPPCC will truthfully reflect public opinions based on facts and implement the CPPCC National Committee’s democratic oversight work plan during the 15th Five-Year Plan period.

For more information, please click:
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-03-04/How-China-builds-consensus-boosts-growth-via-consultative-democracy-1LeSOfZLbk4/p.html

Hashtag: #CGTN

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/08/cgtn-how-china-builds-consensus-boosts-development-through-consultative-democracy/

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Iranian diaspora form human chain on Wellington waterfront

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dr Reza Farhour RNZ/ Penny Smith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Foxton Shannon Road closed after crash

Source: Radio New Zealand

Foxton Shannon Road. Google Maps

The road linking Manawatū towns Foxton and Shannon has been closed after a serious crash.

Police said the single-vehicle accident happened between Himatangi Block Road and Poplar Road at around 9.40am on Saturday.

Early indications were that someone suffered a serious injury.

“The Serious Crash Unit has been advised, and motorists are advised to take diversions,” police said in a statement.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/foxton-shannon-road-closed-after-crash/

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Acid rain falls on Vanuatu islands as volcano belches ash

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Manaro Voui volcano is spewing ash and smoke as high as four kilometres above sea level. The alert level remains at three on a scale of five and a 3km danger zone has been declared around the crater. 24 February 2026 Supplied/Sergei Kriukov – Unity Airlines

The Vanuatu government has decided not to order a mass evacuation of communities on Ambae island affected by acid rain from the Manaro Voui volcano.

On Friday the Council of Ministers (cabinet) endorsed the recommendations of the National Disaster Committee for a plan of action.

This included approving a budget of 20 million vatu (US$170,000) for a team from the National Disaster Management Office to go to Ambae on Saturday.

Once there they will assess the most affected parts of the island and have them declared disaster zones.

Climate change minister Ralph Regenvanu said there is no mandatory evacuation at this stage but people in the worst affected areas are encouraged to move to less affected parts of the island if they do not feel safe.

“Even though on Ambae we are hearing the activity of the volcano is changing, sometimes it is increasing and sometimes it is going down, it is still only at alert level three,” Regenvanu said speaking in Bislama.

Regenvanu said plans are in place should the volcanic activity increase even further.

“The council has also approved that if we go to alert level four, which is the worst case scenario, and will require the whole island to be declared a disaster zone and for us to start evacuations, an emergency plan is already in place.”

Acid rain impacts

Acid rain from the volcano on Ambae – 310km north west of the capital of Port Vila – is reportedly effecting water and food supplies.

Authorities say the volcano is spewing toxic burning ash which is now covering the entire island due to wind changes.

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazard department (VMGD) says acid rain has now reached Santo, Malakula, Pentecost and Ambrym islands.

Its director, Levu Antfalo described its effects.

“It burns, right because it contains sulphuric oxide, it rains down and becomes acid rain. It burns their crops, pretty much anything that it gets in contact with, water as well. Usually those who use wells, drums, tanks that are not covered could be affected, but bore hold water seems to be okay,” he said.

Antfalo said the heavy ash fall also alters the PH levels in water, making it more acidic.

“I mean it burns their protein source, like vegetables.. We were told as well it increases the PH of water as well as prawns and fish that are there (in rivers).”

Vanuatu’s cabinet is convening an emergency meeting Friday to discuss the escalating situation on Ambae Island following increased volcanic activity at the Manaro volcano. Facebook / Ministry of the Prime Minister – Vanuatu

Edwin Tarai and his family were evacuated after Ambae erupted in 2018, and have never returned.

The 74-year-old, who lives in Santo, said people on Ambae were complaining about government inaction.

“There is no plan of moving out at the moment but there is a concern. People are complaining and wondering what is the government’s next move,” Tarai said.

The former nurse practitioner said that the noise is increasing and can be heard in east Santo, Pentecost and Ambrym islands.

Nixon Garae, a tug boat captain in Luganville, Santo has relatives in East Ambae, who described the noise.

“They said the noise is very loud because when people are talking you can’t hear the other person talking. It is causing ear pain because it’s very loud and heavy,” he said.

“Last Saturday when they were in church, when the preacher stood up at the front, they could hardly hear him because the noise was too loud.”

Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department

Active shield volcano

A volcano duty officer with New Zealand’s GNS Science, Yannick Behr said Ambae is a typical shield volcano and a very active one at that.

“It’s part of a chain of volcanoes in Vanuatu, they’re sitting on a rifting zone that is caused by the eastward subduction of the Australian plate. That tectonic process keeps that volcanism alive so all volcanoes on this rifting zone, they erupt quite regularly,” Beer said.

The latest plumes are about four kilometres above sea level, he said.

“It can twice as high, but again these are explosive eruptions but because of the consistency of the magma they tend to be not quite as catastrophic as you can see them (sic) from other types of volcanoes,” Beer said.

The geohazards department has issued a reminder to Ambae residents to stay out of the danger zone.

This comes after an aviation warning was issued on Thursday for volcanic ash cover over the island.

In a public address overnight director Levu Antfalo warned residents to take precautions.

“Just a reminder that the danger zone is a three kilometres radius around the crater. So do not go close to it,” Antfalo said.

“Things to take care of include water, protect your water supply. It will also affect food gardens. And also those with respiratory illnesses…this can affect the health of families that live close to or in the surrounding areas of Ambae,” he said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/acid-rain-falls-on-vanuatu-islands-as-volcano-belches-ash/

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

Source: Media Outreach

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

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

A Multi-Sector Coalition at Unprecedented Scale

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

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

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

From Healthcare Provider to National Orchestrator

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Proof of Concept: “The Journey Within”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Huawei, Meralco, and SANXING Ningbo Launch Intelligent Distribution Solution and Lighthouse Initiative

Source: Media Outreach

BARCELONA, SPAIN – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 March 2026 – During MWC2026, Huawei hosted a forum themed “Advancing All Intelligence, Empowering the Future Power System.” Together with Meralco (Philippines) and SANXING Ningbo, Huawei launched the Intelligent Distribution Solution (IDS) and announced a joint lighthouse initiative to advance power system development.

From left: Simon Zhou (General Manager of Overseas Marketing, SANXING Ningbo), David Sun (CEO, Huawei Electric Power Digitalization BU), Roque D. Bacani (Chief Information Officer, Meralco), and Perry Yang (Vice President, Huawei Optical Business Product Line) launching Huawei IDS

Communication, digitalization, and AI: Emerging cornerstones of future power systems that will accelerate the intelligent evolution of distribution networks

David Sun, CEO of Huawei’s Electric Power Digitalization BU, highlighted four drivers for energy transition: green energy and diversity, resilient grids, transparent distribution, and load electrification. He called for policy changes toward dispatch-market coordination. He also emphasized that communication, digitalization, and AI are becoming core production systems, requiring stronger capabilities in digital transformation, cybersecurity, and sustainable development.

At the forum, Mr. Sun unveiled the White Paper on Communication Target Networks for the Future Power System, introducing a pioneering architecture that features an intelligent and robust main network, integrated medium-voltage and transparent low-voltage networks, high-speed secure connectivity, and space-ground integration. The paper also outlines key tech trends, from optical and wireless to carrier and satellite communications, and underscores their transformative value.

Huawei highlighted its focus on intelligence and digitalization, working with industry players to drive power transformation. Global industry leaders also shared their insights: Al’Louise van Deventer (Technology and Engineering General Manager, Eskom) on future-ready digital practices; Momar Awa Sall (Transmission Grid Director, Senelec) on private wireless networks accelerating power modernization; Deniz COSKUN (Deputy General Manager, TEİAŞ) on restructuring communication networks for grid resilience; and Andy Liu (Overseas Solutions and Marketing Director, SANXING Ningbo) on the application of Huawei IDS.

Global industry leaders and partners join to explore the future of power systems

Power distribution networks are evolving from mechanized to automated and intelligent systems, driving technological and business model innovation. Despite creating new challenges for O&M, they have unlocked further opportunities for improving grid reliability and resource allocation.

At the forum, Huawei, Meralco, and SANXING Ningbo, unveiled the IDS that delivers four core capabilities—reliable communication, edge computing, cloud-edge collaboration, and low-voltage transparency—based on a cloud-pipe-edge-pipe-device architecture. It enables an intelligent low-voltage (400 V) distribution network with controllable line loss, visualized distribution rooms, and manageable renewables, transforming fragmented digital silos into open, integrated digital systems. The three companies also announced a lighthouse showcase initiative, sharing replicable and scalable digital transformation best practices.

Advancing digital and intelligent integration for a greener, more reliable grid

Communication, digitalization, and AI are at the heart of future power systems. Huawei will deepen R&D in digital, intelligent technologies, integrating advanced intelligence into power production. Together with global partners, Huawei is committed to developing with the power industry toward greater reliability, stronger security, and a low-carbon future.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/huawei-meralco-and-sanxing-ningbo-launch-intelligent-distribution-solution-and-lighthouse-initiative/

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Hong Kong Tech “Proposed with a Ring” and Won Third Place at MedTech Innovation World Cup 2026

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 March 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) congratulates the win of United Sensing & MediTech in third place at the MedTech Innovation World Cup (IWC), with hypertension management handed by a smart ring with AI embedded for personalised and continuous analysis.

Hong Kong wearable tech startup United Sensing & MediTech, with a smart ring for hypertension management on the go, won in third place at the MedTech Innovation World Cup 2026.

Held on 4–5 March 2026 at Science Park, the Wearable Technologies (WT) Conference 2026 was making a return appearance in Hong Kong after a decade, while the Innovation World Cup came for the first time, spotlighting 32 global innovators out of over 300 entries, in which 8 were Hong Kong-based life & health tech companies, vying for opportunities by connecting with research professionals, industry leaders, and investment representatives, including fast track to “HKSTP Soft Landing Programme” where up to HK$100,000 cash funding and access to an extensive network to accelerate market entries is up for grabs.

Emerged 1st and 2nd from the finals were FluoretiQ from the United Kingdom, introducing an on-the-spot diagnostic solution ‘Veri-5’ that identifies the bacteria and antibiotics in 30 minutes, and Light House from Switzerland, introducing assistive mobility eyewear ‘TAMI’ that look after the visually impaired regardless of hazardous environments, had also won the Audience’s Favourite. 3rd place came United Sensing & MediTech, filling the gaps in monitoring chronic, yet not necessarily lethal cardiovascular diseases, in particular, hypertension, where one-third of the adult population in Hong Kong endures, with a smart ring that presents an alternative that tracks for indicators and tells when possibilities of worsening the condition occurred with ease and efficiency.

With the city recognised as a global financial centre, and ranked in 2025 the first worldwide for biotechnology IPOs, Prof. Dong Sun, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Government of HKSAR said, “Initiatives were rolled out to support the local development of life & health tech that are seeing massive success, including the InnoHK clusters, the RAISe+ scheme, and more. Besides from technological advancements, traction for talent and capital have also been witnessed and welcomed.”

Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP said, “The Conference demonstrated that Hong Kong’s playing a pivotal role as a platform gluing aspects of I&T together—connecting industry and academia for research and development; innovation with investment for commercialisation; and between cities and cultures and compliance practices for adoption—essential in transforming ideas into impact.”

The notion was in echo as Park company founders joined university professors and industry gurus from around the world in sharing the latest developments in the spectrum of medicine; and for AiQuanMed Engineering & Innovation Council (AEIC) from Singapore, and Organization for Medical, Engineering and Commerce Collaboration (OMECC) from Japan to join as strategic partners to the ‘Global Connect’ initiative for a tighter bond among I&T enablers.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/hong-kong-tech-proposed-with-a-ring-and-won-third-place-at-medtech-innovation-world-cup-2026/

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China Telecom Honored with Multiple GLOMO Awards, Gaining Wide Recognition for Its Tech Innovation Achievements

Source: Media Outreach

BARCELONA, SPAIN – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 March 2026 – During the 2026 Mobile World Congress (MWC26) at 17:00 local time, multiple projects from China Telecom stood out among thousands of global entries to win several prestigious The Global Mobile Awards (commonly known as the “GLOMO Awards”), widely regarded as the “Oscars of the mobile communications industry.” This breakthrough achievement underscores China Telecom’s exceptional technological innovation capabilities and excellence in the global mobile communications sector, earning widespread recognition from the international telecommunications industry.

Best Private Network Solution Award

China Telecom, ZTE, AGIBOT and DroidUp for EasyOn 5G-A-RobotNet: Intelligent Backbone for Humanoids, has been honored with the GLOMO “Best Private Network Solution Award.” This solution deeply integrates 5G-Advanced with embodied intelligence to create an end-edge collaborative “communication + computing” integrated platform. Through close collaboration with leading robotics companies such as AGIBOT and DroidUp, it has demonstrated diverse and flexible application scenarios. This recognition not only reflects the industry’s high acclaim for the innovative integration of 5G-A and embodied robotics but also highlights the leadership of Chinese enterprises in the global embodied intelligence field. It sets a new milestone for accelerating the large-scale, low-cost commercialization of humanoid robots.

Best NTN Solution Award

China Telecom and Huawei for System Design, Key Technologies, and Scale Application of the Smartphone Direct Connection to GEO Satellite, has been honored with the GLOMO ” Best NTN Solution Award.”Targeting vast terrestrial and oceanic areas lacking ground network coverage, this pioneering solution enables direct satellite connectivity for standard smartphones, effectively addressing communication needs in regions without terrestrial network infrastructure worldwide.

The project overcomes critical bottlenecks in high-orbit satellite communication, including significant signal attenuation and extended latency over ultra-long distances, by establishing a comprehensive end-to-end technical architecture and leveraging proprietary technologies to enhance channel gain. Through close collaboration with partners, it has also resolved chipset challenges, resulting in the world’s smallest and most cost-effective high-orbit satellite communication chip for smartphones. A dedicated interworking gateway enables seamless integration with mobile networks, allowing ordinary smartphones to connect directly with geostationary satellites orbiting 36,000 kilometers away—enabling users to access satellite calls and messaging services without changing their SIM cards or phone numbers.

The service currently covers Mainland China and is gradually expanding to Southeast Asia. It has been widely deployed in emergency response, maritime and fishing industries, scientific research, and exploration. To date, the solution has been integrated into over 40 smartphone models and more than 10 vehicle models, extending its applications to automotive and smart wearable scenarios, continuously strengthening and expanding the industrial ecosystem.

Best Mobile Innovation for Enhancing the Lives of Children and Young People

China Telecom, CSEF and Huawei for Qingjiao Plan in Lancang County, Pu’er, has been honored with the GLOMO ” Best Mobile Innovation for Enhancing the Lives of Children and Young People” Award. Leveraging China Telecom’s 5G rural coverage and optical broadband campus networks, the program provides young teachers across all primary and secondary schools in Lancang County with advanced and diverse digital teaching resources. It supports these educators in accumulating teaching experience and planning their professional development, opening a digital “window” for the growth of rural teachers.

The initiative also creates a bridge across geographical boundaries, connecting young teachers and students into a shared virtual community that brings together classrooms in Lancang and Shanghai. In terms of network capabilities, China Telecom fully utilizes its advantages in 5G and optical networks to provide nationwide connectivity services for rural campuses. It enables seamless integration between 5G and WiFi networks within schools, supporting uninterrupted roaming and secure management across mobile and fixed networks for various terminal devices.

Best Event Activation

China Telecom, in collaboration with ZTE and other industry partners, has been honored with the GLOMO “Best Event Activation” for the “5G-A powered concert live streaming” project. This accolade signifies a major step forward in the high-quality evolution of the entertainment industry, demonstrating the successful large-scale digital commercial deployment of 5G-Advanced in the concert live streaming sector. It injects robust momentum into the intelligent transformation of live streaming scenarios across emerging media-integrated fields, including sports events and performances, entertainment activities, and educational instruction.

The solution was first implemented at the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center in Zhejiang Province, where its exceptional performance in supporting concert live streaming has set a replicable benchmark for innovation and large-scale adoption of wireless live streaming models across the industry.

The Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO Awards), established in 1996 by the GSMA, the authoritative industry organization for mobile communications, bring together more than 200 independent judges to recognize individuals and companies that drive innovation and demonstrate outstanding achievement in the rapidly growing mobile industry. Widely regarded as the most prestigious awards in the communications sector, the GLOMOs celebrate excellence and ingenuity on a global stage. Leveraging its core strengths and collaborating with distinguished partners, China Telecom has achieved fruitful results across multiple domains.

Hashtag: #ChinaTelecom

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/china-telecom-honored-with-multiple-glomo-awards-gaining-wide-recognition-for-its-tech-innovation-achievements/