Pirongia storm damage assessments continue

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  02 March 2026

Pirongia was struck by intense rainfall on 13 and 14 February and several DOC tracks and assets on the maunga were flooded or damaged. Waipā District, where the popular forest park is located, remained under a State of Emergency until 28 February.

DOC’s Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones says his staff have completed the majority of the post-storm assessments across the forest park, with only sections of the Tirohanga and Hihikiwi tracks still to be checked due to road restrictions around the maunga.

“Early findings show several tracks appear to be less affected by that weather event, with mainly surface flooding, debris, and treefall to address,” Niwha says.

“Once our safety checks are completed, minor remediation work is expected to enable us to reopen some routes to the Kaniwhaniwha Campsite and Pahautea Hut, including the Ruapane Track and sections of the Tirohanga Track.

“We’re hopeful we can reopen those to the public in the next few weeks.”

Niwha says other parts of the Pirongia track network have suffered substantial damage. The Bell Track, Mahaukura Track, Mangakara Nature Walk, and Tahuanui Track have all been severely impacted, with multiple slips, destroyed structures, and areas where the track has been washed away.

These sites will require a more detailed geotechnical assessment and careful logistical planning and are likely to remain closed for some time. Some of the repair work will be undertaken by DOC staff. Where tracks are assessed as viable to repair and needing more complex repairs, experts will be contracted and specialist machinery is likely to be brought in.

Updates will be provided as further assessments are completed and reopening timeframes become clearer.

In the meantime, Niwha asked for public patience and understanding while Waikato DOC staff continue their response and assess each site to gain the full Pirongia recovery picture and put robust plans in place.

“Public safety is the number one priority for DOC, and we want to make the right decisions and to include the whakaaro of our hapuu,” Niwha says.

“Where tracks are closed, we are urging the public to respect those closures and explore other locations around the district to enjoy naturing.”

People can visit the DOC website pages for individual tracks for the latest updates. Website pages carry alerts on closures, detours or other information people need to be aware of.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/pirongia-storm-damage-assessments-continue/

Appeal for information following damage to ambulances

Source: New Zealand Police

Counties Manukau Police investigating the wilful damage of a number of Hato Hone St John Ambulances are appealing for any information to assist in our enquiries.

Senior Sergeant Roelof Burger says Police believe the offenders have unlawfully entered the gated yard of St John’s Manukau Station on the corner of Plunket Avenue and Wiri Station Road on Saturday night.

“While in the yard the offenders have punctured five tyres on three vehicles using a sharp object, rendering them inoperable.”

Police are incredibly disappointed with the irresponsible behaviour shown by these individuals.

“These are destructive actions, and consequences of actions such as this can put people’s lives at risk.

“As the vehicles are inoperable for a period of time, this impacts St John’s ability to respond to those who are in need of medical attention within our community.”

Andy Everiss, Hato Hone St John, District Operations Manager – Auckland, says it’s disappointing individuals have vandalised the ambulances in an unwarranted attack.

“These ambulance vehicles are a vital part of how we continue to support and serve the local community.

“These actions show great disrespect to our people, who rely on these vehicles to do lifesaving work every day.

“Thankfully, this incident did not severely impact our emergency ambulance response, and we remain available to respond in an emergency.”

Police are conducting enquiries into the incident to identify and locate those responsible, and would like to hear from anyone who may have information in relation to the incident.

“We would also like to hear from anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage in the wider Plunket Avenue and Wiri Station Road areas,” Senior Sergeant Burger says.

Information can be provided to Police online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number P065611930.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Issued by Police Media Centre
 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/appeal-for-information-following-damage-to-ambulances/

PSA nurses vote to accept settlement

Source: New Zealand Government

Health Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed the successful ratification of two new collective agreements for members of the Public Service Association (PSA), covering Public Health Nurses and Mental Health Nurses in Auckland and the Rest of New Zealand.

“I am pleased for the approximately 3500 nurses employed by Health New Zealand who will benefit from these agreements. These nurses play a critical role in delivering public health services and supporting people with mental health needs in communities across the country,” Mr Brown says.

The 24-month agreements provide around 3500 nurses with a 2.5 per cent salary increase in year one and a 2 per cent increase in year two. Nurses will also receive a one-off lump sum payment of $800, and Enrolled Nurses will receive a $2,000 flat-rate increase on the top step of their pay scale.

The agreements include an increase to the professional development allowance for Nurse Practitioners, supporting ongoing training and career progression. There is also a commitment to recruit more than 550 additional nursing positions in this financial year to strengthen frontline services.

“Nurses are at the heart of our health system. They make a real difference for patients and families every day, often in complex and challenging environments. I want to thank them for the dedication and professionalism they bring to their work, and for always putting patients at the centre of what they do.”

This ratification follows the recent approval of collective agreements for APEX pharmacy members, APEX psychologists, PSA Allied Public Health, Scientific and Technical members, and APEX dietitians.

“I want to acknowledge Health New Zealand and the unions for their constructive engagement in reaching these agreements, which provide certainty for staff and help ensure New Zealanders can continue to receive the care they need.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/psa-nurses-vote-to-accept-settlement/

AI scribe now in every emergency department

Source: New Zealand Government

Every emergency department in the country now has access to an artificial intelligence scribe tool, marking a major milestone in reducing administrative burden and freeing up frontline clinicians to focus more on patient care, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“AI scribe technology is now live in all emergency departments across New Zealand, with the rapid rollout to 1250 ED doctors and frontline staff complete – 250 more than originally announced following a successful pilot last year,” Mr Brown says.

“This places New Zealand among the fastest health systems in the world to move from pilot to nationwide frontline AI use in emergency departments, helping clinicians spend more time with patients and less time on paperwork.”

Results from the initial pilot highlighted the practical impact of the technology. Doctors using the AI tool were able to see, on average, one additional patient per shift as a result of time saved on documentation.

“That means faster care for patients and shorter waiting times in our emergency departments, while also reducing pressure and cognitive load on busy clinicians.”

Early feedback from the nationwide rollout has also been encouraging.

“After one month of use at Middlemore Emergency Department, 80 per cent of surveyed staff said the AI scribe improved productivity or efficiency, and 84 per cent said it had a positive impact on their overall experience and wellbeing during a shift.”

Following strong interest from clinicians, Health New Zealand is now progressing approval of more than 1000 additional licences, predominantly for use by mental health teams.

Mr Brown says delivering modern digital tools that make a real difference for patients and staff is a priority for the Government. 

“AI will never replace clinical skill or judgement, but it will play an increasingly important role in supporting frontline healthcare staff and helping patients access care faster and more efficiently, now and into the future.

“We will continue investing in digital technology that puts patients at the centre of the healthcare system, improving access to care, and delivering better health outcomes for New Zealanders,” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/ai-scribe-now-in-every-emergency-department/

Fatal crash – State Highway 1, Taihape

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died in a crash on State Highway 1, Taihape, to the north of Spooners Hill yesterday morning.

Police were advised at 7.25am that a car had gone off the road and into Hautapu River.

On arrival, the car was located submerged in the river, with significant damage from the crash.

The car was able to be removed from the river yesterday afternoon and Police have since confirmed the deceased driver was the sole occupant.

Our thoughts are with their family and loved ones.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are under way.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/fatal-crash-state-highway-1-taihape/

Mental Health Nurses & Assistants, and Public Health Nurses ratify new collective agreement – PSA

Source: PSA

More than 3,500 Mental Health Nurses, Public Health Nurses and Mental Health Assistants who are members of the PSA have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new collective agreement with Te Whatu Ora Health NZ.
The agreement was reached after eighteen months of bargaining involving 32 days of bargaining and mediation, said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The new collective is a testament to the resolve and resilience of members in the face of an unnecessarily protracted bargaining process and unrealistic initial offers,” Fitzsimons said.
“To break the impasse these workers went on strike during the Mega Strike on 23 October 2025 as well as a further strike in November. This settlement is a result of these workers standing together to take collective action.”
Workers will receive a pay increase of 2.5 per cent in year one from December 2025 and a further 2 per cent from December 2026. The agreement also includes an $800 lump sum payment for staff, in recognition of the length of time it took to conclude bargaining.
The new collective started to address workers’ concerns about safe staffing levels, staff shortages and slow recruitment for vacancies.
Mental Health Nurses, Public Health Nurses, and Mental Health Assistants deliver essential care to New Zealanders every day, working in highly stressful environments. This settlement recognises the value of their work and the role they play keeping a health system, which is under significant strain, functioning as well as it does.”
“This ratification result is a step forward but major problems remain in our health system caused by the Government imposing job losses on Health New Zealand and failing to fund our health system properly,” Fitzsimons said.
“All political parties must commit to a properly funded public health system that ensures safe staffing levels, and delivers quality care for all New Zealanders, as well as pay equity for under-valued health workers,” Fitzsimons said.
This is the second significant health collective agreement that was settled last week, after the Allied, Public Health, Scientific and Technical covering over 12,000 allied health workers was ratified on Tuesday (Feb 24).
Voting is shortly to be held on a third health Collective for policy, advisory, knowledge and specialist workers.
The PSA represents more than 26,000 workers employed by Health NZ.
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, public health and community groups.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/mental-health-nurses-assistants-and-public-health-nurses-ratify-new-collective-agreement-psa/

Tech – Not all experiences equal when it comes to the Internet

Source: InternetNZ

Most of us are online, a lot – but not all of us are having the same experience, new research from InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa shows.
Internet Insights is an annual survey commissioned by InternetNZ that acts as a pulse check on Aotearoa New Zealand’s Internet use and community.
The 2025 survey showed Māori, Pacific peoples and people with disabilities have different perceptions of and experiences of online life.
Respondents with a disability or an impairment were significantly more likely to have experienced online harm or harassment – 27 percent compared to the average of 15 percent. Māori were also more likely than average to have experienced online harm or harassment, at 20 percent.
Pacific peoples answering the survey were significantly more concerned than other ethnicities about online harm issues, including cyberbullying, the Internet being used to share dangerous or discriminatory messages and as a forum for hate speech.
InternetNZ chief executive Vivien Maidaborn said whether it’s online or offline, people’s experiences of the online world vary hugely.
“This is just a snapshot of Internet experiences in Aotearoa, but it very likely reflects the lived experiences of Māori, Pacific peoples and people with a disability. The Internet often mirrors society, which unfortunately means discrimination is as present online as it is offline.”
Pacific peoples and people with disabilities were also more likely to hold concerns about limited Internet access for those in low socio-economic groups, the cost of the Internet and access in remote areas.
“This concern bears out in other data too,” says Maidaborn. “We know around 400,000 households lack meaningful digital access, and the barrier is often the cost of devices and connections. There’s still quite significant digital inequity in this country, despite the ever-growing influence the digital world has on our lives.”
Forty-four percent of those surveyed felt they had some awareness and understanding of the digital divide. One in four New Zealanders believe that central government should have primary responsibility for ensuring everyone in Aotearoa can participate fully online, though one in five believe it’s a shared responsibility between government and community.
“Our vision at InternetNZ is for an Internet that benefits all New Zealanders. This report shows again that we still have some way to go and that it will take multiple stakeholders across government and community to achieve this.”
Key findings from Internet Insights 2025:
  • 15 percent say they have experienced online harm or harassment – New Zealanders with a disability or impairment (27 percent compared to the average of 15 percent) and Māori (20 percent) are more likely to have experienced online harm or harassment.
  • Māori (64%) and Pacific peoples (80%) are extremely or very concerned about the Internet being used to share dangerous or discriminatory messaging. The average across all ethnicities was 61 percent.
  • 44 percent of respondents had some awareness and understanding of the digital divide. The perceived barriers to digital participation were primarily the cost of Internet connections and data, and the costs of devices.
  • One in four New Zealanders believes the central government should have primary responsibility for ensuring everyone in Aotearoa can participate fully online. One in five say it’s a shared responsibility across multiple groups.
  • 21 percent are not confident they could get support for a digital task.
Additional data about the digital divide can be found on the Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa website. InternetNZ is proud to be a member of the coalition.
About the research
Internet Insights is an annual research report commissioned by InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa. The 2025 research was carried out by Verian, with interviews conducted between November 25 and December 8, 2025.
The sample size was 1003 and consisted of New Zealanders over the age of 18 sourced using online consumer panels. Results have a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent.
The research covers a range of topics, including Internet use, social media use, and Internet-related concerns.
Previous research reports can be found on the InternetNZ website.
About InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa
InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa is the home and guardian of the .nz domain. We’re not government-funded – we’re an independent, not-for-profit organisation that operates .nz for the benefit of all New Zealanders, reinvesting domain revenue back into the community. We provide grants, help to fund other organisations, and advocate for an accessible and safe Internet that benefits everyone in Aotearoa.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/tech-not-all-experiences-equal-when-it-comes-to-the-internet/

Tech – New Zealanders online as much as ever – but not loving it

Source: InternetNZ

New Zealanders are still spending hours of their personal time online each day, despite a steady decline in positive sentiment about the Internet, new research shows.
The latest Internet Insights, annual research commissioned by InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa, reveals that nearly half (47 percent) of New Zealanders spend four or more hours a day on the Internet.
Less than three-quarters (72 percent) of Internet users feel the positives of the Internet outweigh its negatives. This figure has been in steady decline since 2019, when 90 percent felt there were more positives than negatives.
Fewer people think the Internet has a positive impact on cultural beliefs and values now too – 32 percent think it has a positive impact, down five percentage points in two years.
InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa chief executive Vivien Maidaborn says the research shows the increasingly complex relationship people have with the Internet.
“Love it or hate it, we’re all using the Internet a great deal in our work and personal lives. It’s become so integral to our day-to-day, I think most of us would struggle to get by without it. But that doesn’t mean it’s something we enjoy engaging with, and this complexity is increasing year on year.”
New Zealanders are concerned about a broad range of Internet issues, the research shows.
Seventy-one percent are extremely or very concerned about young children being able to access inappropriate content, 65 percent are concerned about the security of their personal data, and 64 percent are concerned about misinformation.
“This is the first time we have seen misinformation in the top three concerns,” says Maidaborn. “It shows increasing awareness of the critical eye and media literacy needed as an Internet user, which is a good thing, but it likely also reflects the increasing amount of misinformation online, including this new wave of unidentifiable AI-generated misinformation.”
Key Internet Insights 2025 findings:
  • 47 percent of respondents spend four or more hours of their personal time a day on the Internet.
  • Internet users primarily spend this time on social media, emails and streaming TV & music.
  • Key concerns for Internet users are:
    • 71 percent are concerned about young children being able to access inappropriate content.
    • 65 percent are concerned about the security of their personal data.
    • 64 percent are concerned about misinformation.
  • Some groups are more concerned about specific aspects of the Internet:
    • 70% of Maori are extremely or very concerned about identity theft
    • 87% of Pacific peoples are extremely or very concerned about young children accessing inappropriate content online.
    • Māori (64%) and Pacific peoples (80%) are extremely or very concerned about the Internet being used to share dangerous or discriminatory messaging.
    • 48% of people aged 30-49 are extremely or very concerned about the Internet being distracting or a waste of time.
    • 76% of people aged 70+ are extremely or very concerned about the security of personal data.
  • Less than a third of respondents say they know where to report concerning, harmful or dangerous content.
About the research
Internet Insights is an annual research report commissioned by InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa. The 2025 research was carried out by Verian, with interviews conducted between November 25 and December 8, 2025.
The sample size was 1003 and consisted of New Zealanders over the age of 18 sourced using online consumer panels. Results have a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percent.
The research covers a range of topics, including Internet use, social media use, and Internet-related concerns.
Previous research reports can be found on the InternetNZ website.
About InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa
InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa is the home and guardian of the .nz domain. We’re not government-funded – we’re an independent, not-for-profit organisation that operates .nz for the benefit of all New Zealanders, reinvesting domain revenue back into the community. We provide grants, help to fund other organisations, and advocate for an accessible and safe Internet that benefits everyone in Aotearoa.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/tech-new-zealanders-online-as-much-as-ever-but-not-loving-it/

Huawei will release the Agentic Core solution to accelerate the commercial use of agent networks

Source: Media Outreach

BARCELONA, SPAIN – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 March 2026 – Huawei will release the Agentic Core solution at MWC2026 Barcelona. This solution will leverage three engines—NE intelligence, network intelligence, and service intelligence—to address key challenges in the AI era, such as the sharp increase in traffic, differentiated network requirements, and new service monetization for operators, and promote the large-scale commercial use of intelligent network.

NE intelligence: As AI agents become a core capability of next-generation AI phones, the number of connected entities will increase tenfold, with connections extending from “humans” to physical AI (such as embodied robots and autonomous driving). This will require the introduction of key capabilities such as digital identity, agent registration and discovery, and A2A session management to build a low-latency, highly reliable network foundation, supporting the large-scale commercial deployment of physical AI.

Network intelligence: As service AI agents become more prevalent, they will generate diverse network experience requirements. For example, AI robots may require 100 Mbit/s bandwidth and 20 ms latency. Therefore, it is necessary to evolve from predefined rule networks to intent-driven networks, where network AI agents will understand the needs of different organizations, dynamically match resources, and implement a closed-loop process for policy generation, configuration, and delivery.

Service intelligence: Compared to OTT players, operators have more opportunities to provide inclusive intelligent services. Huawei supports operators’ service innovation through three key services, going beyond connectivity. AISF (Service Intelligence) will evolve from an interactive entry point to a full-featured personal assistant, integrating communication, content, and services. Communication experiences will shift toward immersive interactions, breaking through the boundaries of voice. The integration of computing and networks will continue to be commercialized, providing sustainable computing power support for AI inference and content generation.

Looking ahead, Huawei will continue to deepen the three-layer intelligent collaboration practice with operators, aiming to provide 7×24-hour inclusive intelligent connectivity, and work together to bring users a more efficient, convenient, and intelligent digital life, and create new value in the intelligent Internet era.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/02/huawei-will-release-the-agentic-core-solution-to-accelerate-the-commercial-use-of-agent-networks/

Co-presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust The 8th No Limits Opens with Performance by World’s 1st Professional Inclusive Orchestra of The Nature of Why

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 March 2026 – The eighth edition of “No Limits”, jointly presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, officially opened on 28 February evening at the Auditorium of Kwai Tsing Theatre. The opening programme, The Nature of Why, is performed by Paraorchestra—the world’s first professional inclusive orchestra—offering audiences an immersive arts experience inspired by Nobel Prize–winning physicist Richard Feynman. Fusing live orchestral music, contemporary dance and audience interaction, the work redefines the boundaries of inclusive art.

Under the theme “All of Us, All Ways”, the eighth edition of “No Limits” is committed to revealing the richness of diverse values and connecting people through the arts. For the first time, “No Limits” has collaborated with two of Hong Kong’s flagship performing arts companies—the Hong Kong Dance Company and the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra—to produce multidisciplinary inclusive programmes. These collaborations aim to inspire new perspectives, demonstrate how inclusive arts are being further integrated into Hong Kong’s cultural mainstream, and open up the limitless imagination that diversity brings.

“No Limits” 2026 presents 11 boundary-breaking programmes across music, theatre, dance and film, in a total of 29 performances. In addition to Paraorchestra’s immersive orchestral-dance production The Nature of Why, highlights include: Wayfaring Beyond, a brand-new large-scale outdoor dance work co-produced by “No Limits” and the Hong Kong Dance Company, and co-choreographed and performed with the award-winning China Hong Kong Para Dance Sport Association; Light and Shadow on Strings, co-produced by “No Limits” and the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, featuring visually impaired rising star erhu player Yang Enhua in a concert blending traditional and contemporary Chinese music; the Asia premiere of award-winning contemporary dance work Harmonia by Theatre Bremen and Hungarian choreographer Adrienn Hód, challenging established notions of bodily value in dance; the Asia premiere of Precarious Moves, a semi-autobiographical solo performance by Vienna-based artist Michael Turinsky that confronts social expectations and established frameworks surrounding disabled bodies; “No Limits” Asia newly commissioned theatre work Two Blind Women in the Snowy Tokugawa Nights – Sleeping Fires with renowned director Kuro Tanino; and the Asia premiere of Zer-Brech-Lich, an original playful and sensorial musical dance theatre work by Swiss-based choreographer Alessandro Schiattarella, created and performed with three disabled performers. This year, “No Limits” launches the “Local Creative Research and Development Scheme”, pairing local artists with individuals of diverse abilities to co-create new works exploring inclusive practices. The initiative injects fresh vitality into Hong Kong’s inclusive arts landscape, while research outcomes will be presented during “No Limits” 2026 to showcase the potential of inclusive arts.

Ms Sum Fong-kwang, Vivian, JP, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, said: “‘No Limits’ provides a stage for artists with different abilities to showcase their creativity and talents, fostering an inclusive community. It bridges people with different origins, backgrounds and abilities, which on the one hand enriches our arts and cultural offerings, and on the other, showcases the role of creativity as a continuous driver of societal development. I wish this year’s ‘No Limits’ resounding success, and every audience find inspiration and enlightenment through the programmes.”

At the opening ceremony, Mr Sebastian Man, Vice Chairman of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Society, said: “Since its inception in 2019, ‘No Limits’ has promoted inclusion through local and international inclusive arts performances, as well as the Jockey Club ‘No Limits’ Education and Community Outreach Programme, showcasing the remarkable talents of artists with diverse abilities. As we enter the eighth edition, we are delighted to collaborate for the first time with Hong Kong’s flagship arts companies to present two locally produced programmes that embody the spirit of diversity and inclusion. We sincerely thank The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, co-presenter of ‘No Limits’, for its long-standing support. We also thank our Strategic Supporting Partner, Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong, for providing comprehensive accessibility services to ensure that everyone can experience the power of the arts. Above all, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every participating artist for their tremendous dedication.”

Mr Nicholas D Hunsworth, Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said: “In keeping with No Limits’ theme this year “All of Us, All Ways” – a series of community programmes will be presented by artists with varying abilities to promote inclusion. It reminds us that differently abled people are not different at all, but an integral part of a diverse society. The Hong Kong Jockey Club has long supported arts and cultural projects to enrich lives and build a culturally vibrant city – as evidenced by over 50 years’ funding for the Hong Kong Arts Festival. The Hong Kong Jockey Charities Trust – in partnership with the Hong Kong Arts Festival – has co-presented No Limits since its inauguration in 2019.”

Photo Caption: (From left) Ms Ida Lam, Chairperson of the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong; Mr Sebastian Man Shiu-wai, Vice Chairman, Hong Kong Arts Festival Society; Ms Vivian Sum, Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism; Mr Nicholas D Hunsworth, Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; and Ms Flora Yu, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Arts Festival, jointly served as officiating guests for the No Limits 2026 opening ceremony.

Building on its established practices, “No Limits” 2026 continues to advance social inclusion and talent development through a wide range of initiatives under the Jockey Club “No Limits” Education and Community Outreach Programme. These initiatives promote inclusivity and creativity, strengthen networks across the education and community sectors, and lay the foundation for a more empathetic and inclusive society. Programmes include the inclusive dance project VISION, International Symposium The Way Forward: A Humanistic–Tech Framework for Inclusive Innovation, school touring concert The Ways We Move, as well as the “No Limits” Creative Training Programme and Community Showcases.

In addition to live performances, online screening programmes include the documentary A Space in Time by Riccardo Servini and Nick Taussig, which follows a couple and their two sons born with Duchenne muscular dystrophy as they journey forward together; Sarah Polley’s Away from Her, portraying a couple of over 40 years facing early-onset Alzheimer’s disease; Taku Aoyagi’s documentary Fujiyama Cottonton, set at Mirai Farm, which serves people with disabilities, and exploring the beauty of everyday life, creativity and community; and Caroline Cavalcanti’s Lapse, a heart-warming story of two teenagers—a deaf skateboarder and a rap enthusiast—who form a bond through sign language and shared struggles.

Tickets for live performances are now available via URBTIX. Half-price concessionary tickets are offered to full-time students, people with disabilities and one companion, and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) recipients. (www.urbtix.hk/series/124?bannerCode=NL2026)
Community programmes are free and open to the public without prior registration. Programmes screened online will be available free of charge on the official website www.nolimits.hk from 30 March to 25 May 2026.

Extending the spirit of inclusion beyond the stage, “No Limits” has also launched a brand-new accessibility-themed plush toys collection. Purchase “No Limits” programme tickets worth HK$500 or more in a single transaction via URBTIX to receive one No Limits Inclusive Plush Toy Redemption Coupon upon ticket collection. Available while stocks last.

Arts Accessibility Services
“No Limits” collaborates with the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong to enhance high-quality art projects with accessibility services and ensure that audiences with varying needs can enjoy performances without barriers. Accessibility services differ from programme to programme, and include audio description, accessible captions, sign language interpretation, theatrical interpretation, braille booklets, audio booklets, easy-to-read booklets and relaxed performances. Extra wheelchair seats may be available at the venues, and guide dogs are welcome.

For more event details, please visit the “No Limits” website: www.nolimits.hk
Click here for programme details: www.nolimits.hk/programme
Urbtix: https://www.urbtix.hk/series/124?bannerCode=NL2026

Appendix

Programme

Date Programme Performer/ Director Venue
Highlights
27 Feb – 1 Mar 2026 The Nature of Why Paraorchestra Auditorium,

Kwai Tsing Theatre

28 Feb – 1 Mar 2026 Wayfaring Beyond Hong Kong Dance Company & China Hong Kong Para Dance Sport Association Parade Ground,

Tai Kwun

13-15 Mar 2026 Zer-Brech-Lich Alessandro Schiattarella and Ensemble Black Box Theatre,

Kwai Tsing Theatre

17-18 Mar 2026 Precarious Moves Michael Turinsky The Box,

Freespace, WestK

21-22 Mar 2026 Harmonia Unusual Symptoms / Theatre Bremen / Adrienn Hód The Box,

Freespace, WestK

27-29 Mar 2026 Two Blind Women in the Snowy Tokugawa Nights – Sleeping Fires Kuro Tanino Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
28 Mar 2026 Light and Shadow on Strings Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (Chamber Ensemble)

Yang Enhua (Solo and Ensemble)

Auditorium,

Tsuen Wan Town Hall

“No Limits” International Symposium
8 Mar 2026 The Way Forward: A Humanistic–Tech Framework for Inclusive Innovation JC Cube, Tai Kwun

Online Programmes

Free screening available on “No Limits” website Programme Director
30 Mar – 25 May 2026 A Space in Time Riccardo Servini & Nick Taussig
30 Mar – 25 May 2026 Away From Her Sarah Polley
30 Mar – 25 May 2026 Lapse Caroline Cavalcanti
30 Mar – 25 May 2026 Fujiyama Cottonton Taku Aoyagi

Hashtag: #NoLimits

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/2026/03/02/co-presented-by-the-hong-kong-arts-festival-and-the-hong-kong-jockey-club-charities-trust-the-8th-no-limits-opens-with-performance-by-worlds-1st-professional-inclusive-orchestra-of-the-nature/

Huawei Launches Comprehensive U6GHz Portfolio to Unlock 5G-A Potential and Pave the Way for 6G

Source: Media Outreach

BARCELONA, SPAIN – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 March 2026 – At MWC Barcelona 2026, Huawei unveiled a full suite of U6GHz products and solutions designed to fully unleash the potential of 5G-A and enable a smooth evolution towards 6G. This suite provides the large capacity, low latency, and premium user experience required for the emerging mobile AI era.

AI is rapidly emerging as the core engine of the intelligent world. According to IDC, AI applications and devices have seen explosive growth over the past year: global monthly active users surpassed 1 billion, AI-powered smartphones accounted for over 50% of new shipments, AI glasses and other emerging devices saw an annual growth rate of over 50%, and token consumption surged by hundreds of times. This brings great opportunities for the mobile industry but also raises multi-dimensional requirements on the network. For example, AI multimodal interactions increase uplink traffic demand by three to five times; real-time decision-making requires low latency and deterministic assurance; ubiquitous AI agents demand more secure and reliable wide-area connectivity.

Currently, 5G-A has become the mainstream commercial technology for global operators, and is also the focus of service innovation and future evolution. The U6GHz band, with its large bandwidth and superior coverage, is becoming a key band for 5G-A evolution and commercial use. Following WRC‑23, U6GHz has been designated as a key mobile communications band. China, the UAE, Brazil, and several European countries are actively promoting spectrum identification, allocation, and testing. In terms of the industry chain, mainstream CPEs and smartphones are expected to be commercially available in 2026, paving the way for large-scale commercial use of U6GHz.

Huawei’s full U6GHz product suite covers a complete matrix of macro sites, micro sites, and microwave equipment, maximizing the advantages of ultra-large bandwidth in U6GHz. It precisely meets the core requirements of mobile AI applications for high capacity, low latency, and superior experience, providing a systematic solution for both the performance leap of 5G-A networks and the seamless evolution towards 6G.

To address outdoor coverage and capacity needs, Huawei has launched a series of AAU products. The U6GHz 256 TRX AAU adopts the extremely large antenna array (ELAA) design and digital-analog hybrid intelligent beamforming algorithms to deliver coverage capabilities comparable to C-band. Meanwhile, with the hyper-resolution MU-MIMO algorithm and 400 MHz ultra-large bandwidth, the product can achieve ultra-large capacity of 100 Gbps in the downlink and over 10 Gbps in the uplink, as well as optimal experience of 10 Gbps in the downlink and 1 Gbps in the uplink, to cope with the connection pressure brought by massive AI terminals and applications. To meet the network performance and deployment requirements in different scenarios, Huawei will also launch U6GHz AAUs with flexible combinations of channels and arrays, helping operators deploy 5G-A networks on a large scale in U6GHz and fully meet service requirements in the mobile AI era.

To meet the high concurrency and large capacity requirements of indoor AI applications, Huawei has launched U6GHz small cell products. They support the ultra-large bandwidth of 400 MHz in U6GHz and integrate and coordinate the U6GHz band with all sub-6 GHz bands. With simplified design and deployment, the products can help operators ensure consistent multi-dimensional experience of AI applications in both indoor and outdoor scenarios, allowing users to enjoy high-quality connections anytime and anywhere.

In terms of transmission, Huawei has launched new microwave products to meet the high‑bandwidth transmission requirements of U6GHz base stations. With industry-unique full-duplex technology, they can significantly improve the bandwidth and capacity of transport networks, meeting the peak traffic requirements of 5G-A and laying a solid foundation for evolution to 6G.

As AI adoption accelerates, U6GHz has become the key to exploring the present and unlocking the future. Huawei’s full U6GHz product suite is now commercially available. It can not only address the capacity challenges of 5G-A, but also support smooth evolution to 6G. This will open up new commercial opportunities for operators and lay a robust connectivity foundation for the intelligent world.

Hashtag: #Huawei

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/huawei-launches-comprehensive-u6ghz-portfolio-to-unlock-5g-a-potential-and-pave-the-way-for-6g/

Operation Chrome takes the shine off dangerous driving

Source: New Zealand Police

Canterbury Police arrested drivers, impounded vehicles and issued infringement notices over the weekend as they moved to detect, deter and disrupt anti‑social road user activity.

With several large events drawing crowds to Christchurch, including Electric Avenue and a popular motorsport Chrome Expression Session for car enthusiasts, Police were prepared for the influx of visitors and acted early to keep roads and people safe.

Sergeant Ben Rutherford said the Operation Chrome team included bailiffs and was deliberately proactive. Broadly speaking his team was pleased with the weekend.

“We know unroadworthy vehicles and risky behaviour often go hand in hand with potential disruption and harm,” he said. “By taking illegally modified vehicles and dangerous behaviour off the road early we reduced the chance of trouble.” 

He said the significant number of people leaving Hagley Park after the music festival added to the road policing workload. 

“With more than forty thousand people spilling onto the streets, we worked hard to keep the city safe. 

“One example from Friday night was a guy who did a wheelie off a red light past a crowd of people. 

“Stunts can go badly wrong with disastrous consequences, especially right in the middle of a crowd. 

“That motorbike was taken off the road immediately.” 

Over the weekend Police monitored traffic circulating throughout Christchurch and ran multiple checkpoints targeting unsafe vehicles, licence breaches and alcohol‑related offending. 

On Saturday night, more than 300 cars gathered in Northwood for a pre‑planned ‘cruise’ planned by Chrome Event organisers. 

“Despite slowing traffic flow the drivers were generally well behaved and it was great to see the vehicles on display,” Sergeant Rutherford said. 

The convoy travelled to Halswell with a brief stop in Ferrymead. 

“The organisers were excellent. Their communication helped ensure everything stayed lawful and disruption was kept to a minimum.” 

However, Sergeant Rutherford said Police still had to step in at times. 

“As the weekend wore on, there were groups who needed reminding that dangerous vehicles and behaviour won’t be tolerated. We broke up gatherings, removed unsafe vehicles, issued infringements and intervened early. 

“Police frequently see how tragedies can play out so we’re equipped and trained to manage safety risks, and we try to prevent something terrible happening. 

“We don’t tolerate excessive noise, disruption, intimidation, street racing or unnecessary speed on our roads. 

“It’s simple, we just want a fun and safe weekend for Christchurch visitors and residents.”

Provisional summary from the operation: 

  • Twelve vehicles taken off our roads.
  • Six drivers gave excess breath‑alcohol readings. 
  • Vehicle compliance: eight vehicles were green‑stickered as unsafe.
  • Issued over 200 infringement notices.

Police thank all those who reported concerns and encourage anyone with information on illegal or unsafe activity to make a report through the 105 service.

If you have information you’d like to share anonymously, call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

Note for media:

Additional B-roll footage is available below.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Team

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/operation-chrome-takes-the-shine-off-dangerous-driving/

Police pleased with safe and fun Electric Avenue crowd

Source: New Zealand Police

Christchurch Police on safety patrol around the Electric Avenue concerts on Friday and Saturday are pleased with the behaviour of the event attendees.

An estimated 43,000 strong crowd headed to the concert each night, many coming from out-of-town.

Operational Commander Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons and her large team worked alongside 440 security personnel to ensure the safety of the public at the two-night concert.

“We did have some issues on Friday with individuals preloading on alcohol and arriving intoxicated to the venue.

“Drunk and disorderly behaviour in Riccarton and the suburbs around the university were problematic and took valuable staffing resources away from where they were most required.

“It was a much better result on Saturday and the crowd overall was well behaved. My team enjoyed the positive interactions with the partying public who were in great spirits.

“A small number of arrests were made, and minor disorder was reported.

“Team Events and Live Nation have run another successful festival this year that was much bigger than previous years. We are lucky to have this very cool event in Christchurch,” said Senior Sergeant Simmons.

Police encourage everyone to plan ahead when to heading out to enjoy events. Drink responsibly, look after one another, and have a sober ride home sorted.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/01/police-pleased-with-safe-and-fun-electric-avenue-crowd/

Expanded NICU to support more babies in Christchurch

Source: New Zealand Government

A $13.9 million investment to upgrade and expand the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Christchurch Women’s Hospital will provide a significant boost to neonatal care services for families across Canterbury and the wider region, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Every New Zealander deserves access to timely, quality healthcare, and that starts with supporting our most vulnerable patients – our newborns,” Mr Brown says.

“Christchurch’s NICU services have been under increasing pressure in recent years, with demand for care often exceeding available capacity. 

“This investment will reconfigure the existing space to increase the number of neonatal cots from 44 to 54, meaning more babies will be able to receive the specialised care they need close to home.

“In addition to increasing capacity, the upgrade will enhance infection prevention measures, a vital part of protecting newborns and giving families peace of mind. The redesign will also ensure the facility meets the latest fire and safety standards, creating a safer, more modern environment for both patients and staff.”

Preparations for the upgrade are already underway, with careful planning to ensure all NICU services continue operating safely on the hospital campus during construction. Work is scheduled to begin next year and is expected to take around nine months, with the upgraded unit expected to be fully operational in early 2027.

“Improving New Zealand’s health infrastructure is a top priority for the Government, and this investment will make a real difference for families across Canterbury. More cots, better facilities, and stronger infection control measures mean that newborns get the care they need when they need it most.

“Our health system must keep pace with the growing needs of our communities, and projects like this show our commitment to supporting families and delivering timely, quality care for all New Zealanders” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/expanded-nicu-to-support-more-babies-in-christchurch/

CUKTECH Officially Launches Its Online Store in Indonesia, Expanding Charging Technology Presence in Southeast Asia

Source: Media Outreach

JARKATA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 February 2026 – CUKTECH, a consumer electronics brand specializing in charging technologies, has officially launched its online store in Indonesia, further advancing its expansion strategy across Southeast Asia. The launch provides Indonesian consumers with a dedicated official channel to access CUKTECH’s charging products and related technical information.

CUKTECH focuses on the development of power and charging solutions, with a product portfolio that includes power banks, charging cables, wall chargers, and car chargers. Product development emphasizes charging efficiency, safety standards, and long-term reliability, addressing everyday usage scenarios involving smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other connected devices. The brand’s solutions are designed to support increasingly common multi-device lifestyles, including mobile work and frequent travel.

Prior to the launch of the official online store, CUKTECH operated in Indonesia mainly through third-party distribution channels, resulting in limited product availability. With the establishment of an official channel, the company is gradually introducing a more complete product lineup to the Indonesian market, aligning local availability with that of other Southeast Asian markets such as Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

According to the company, the official online store serves as a centralized platform for presenting product specifications, technical features, and launch updates in a consistent manner. This approach is intended to improve transparency and accessibility for consumers while supporting a more structured, long-term market strategy in Indonesia.

Looking ahead, CUKTECH plans to continue expanding its product portfolio in Indonesia, introducing additional products to address evolving local usage needs. Future launches will focus on scenarios such as multi-device charging, mobile productivity, and daily commuting, reflecting changing consumer behavior.

This market-oriented approach aligns with CUKTECH’s brand philosophy, “In somewhere, For somewhere,” which emphasizes adapting products and solutions to the specific needs of each market rather than applying a uniform global model.

Updates on product launches, brand developments, and the official online store can be found through CUKTECH’s official social media channels on Instagram and TikTok:cuktech_id

https://www.tokopedia.com/cuktech-official-store

https://shopee.co.id/shop/1748675224

Hashtag: #CUKTECH

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/cuktech-officially-launches-its-online-store-in-indonesia-expanding-charging-technology-presence-in-southeast-asia/

Serious assault, Lorne Street

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Ash Matthews:

One person has been arrested, and two people injured, after a serious assault on Lorne Street late last night.

Emergency services were called to the scene about 10.20pm.

One person reportedly sustained critical injuries, and is now stable. Another person received serious injuries. A knife was recovered at the scene.

A 65-year-old man was arrested at the scene by responding staff. He is due to appear in Auckland District Court today on two counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Cordons remain in place today, and a scene examination will be carried out.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/serious-assault-lorne-street/

Harwoods roundabout completed

Source: New Zealand Government

Transport Minister Chris Bishop says a newly completed roundabout at the intersection of State Highway 5 (SH5) and State Highway 28–Harwoods Road east of Tīrau will significantly improve safety on a key regional route.

“The SH5/SH28 Harwoods Road intersection had a poor safety record and is part of a corridor that has seen far too many serious crashes. Completing this new three-leg roundabout is an important step in making this stretch of highway safer for everyone who uses it,” Mr Bishop says.

“SH5 is a critical route for locals, tourists, freight, and agricultural vehicles travelling between Waikato and the Bay of Plenty. Improving safety and efficiency on this corridor is essential, and I am pleased to see another project delivered that helps achieve that.

““Between 2014 and 2024, 18 people died and 64 were seriously injured on this stretch of highway.

“Construction of the $6 million roundabout began in August last year, and I am pleased to see it completed on budget and several weeks ahead of schedule. Traffic was flowing through the site today, with temporary speed restrictions lifted as works were cleared.

“This roundabout is one of several safety improvements being delivered along SH5 between Tīrau and Tārukenga Marae Road on the Rotorua side of the Mamaku Range. NZTA has also built a right‑turn bay at nearby Waimakariri Road, and funding has been allocated to complete the design for a similar roundabout at the SH5/SH28–Whites Road intersection. While construction funding for that project has not yet been confirmed, design work ensures it is ready to progress when funding allows.

“We are also making SH5 safer by widening sections of the road to allow the use of wide centrelines, which have proven to be very effective in reducing crashes. The first section east of Whites Road was completed this summer and will be extended to Harwoods Road as funding allows.

“In addition, a section of SH28–Whites Road south of the SH5 intersection is currently being rebuilt, and the intersection itself will receive a new asphalt surface.

“I also want to thank the local MP Tim van de Molen, and other community leaders for their continued strong advocacy for this important project.  

“Delivering practical safety improvements like this roundabout helps save lives and ensures the state highway network continues to support regional growth, tourism, and reliable freight connections. I am pleased to see this project completed and making a difference for road users.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/harwoods-roundabout-completed/

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

Source: Media Outreach

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hashtag: #GreenSM

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

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

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

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

Source: Media Outreach

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

Kunqu Performing Art in the Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: Media Outreach

Solid Fundamentals and Prudent Financial Management Positioned to Capture Opportunities

Summary of 2025/2026Interim Results

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

Financial Highlights

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

Results and Business Highlights

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

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

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

Property Sales – Accelerated sales momentum drives strong segment performance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Operations – Continuous improvement in occupancy rates

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please download photos from here.

Hashtag: #SinoLand

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

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

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