This policy outlines the commitment of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) to equal employment opportunity, diversity and inclusion and to eliminating the barriers that cause or perpetuate inequalities in employment.
OPC aims to provide equal employment opportunities to make the most of the talents of all our people and attract top talent to the organisation. This policy applies to all OPC employees, including those on secondment to us.
Policy Statement
OPC is committed to upholding its responsibilities as an Equal Employment Opportunities employer and creating a workplace that attracts, retains and values a diverse workforce.
2.2. To achieve this OPC seeks to:
a) provide equal opportunities for recruitment, retention, development, and promotion of all its current and prospective employees, regardless of gender, sex, marital status, religious/ethical belief, ethnic or national origins, disability, age, political opinion, employment status, family status, or sexual orientation
b) develop and maintain a workplace culture that values and supports diversity and inclusion
c) ensure that it provides a safe, supportive, and healthy environment for all employees that is conducive to quality service delivery
d) provide a workplace that welcomes, respects, and includes rainbow and takatāpui communities
e) identify and seek to eliminate all aspects of policies and procedures or other institutional barriers that cause or perpetuate inequality in respect of the employment of any person or group of persons
f) ensure all staff appointments are made solely on the basis of merit, and that all promotions, advancements, salary reviews and professional/career development opportunities are based solely on merit
g) seek to improve employment opportunities for groups who are traditionally under-represented in either occupational groups or levels of seniority, in particular women, Māori and Pacific people
h) not tolerate any form of unfair discrimination in the workplace on any ground, including gender, sex, marital status, religious/ethical belief, ethnic or national origins, disability, age, political opinion, employment status, family status, or sexual orientation
i) promote equal employment opportunities as an integral part of OPC workplace policies and practices
j) monitor, review and evaluate progress towards achieving equal employment opportunities. This includes assessing and, if required, reducing identified gaps at all levels of the organisation.
Responsibilities
General Manager
Framework development, implementation and compliance monitoring. Progression against OPC’s Kia Toipoto and DEI Action Plans.Supporting and training for OPC leaders and teams.
Managers
Creating an environment that promotes EEO/diversity. Understanding their obligations under applicable legislation and processes and ensuring compliance.Ensuring that all practices and procedures that apply to the staff for whom they are responsible are consistent with this policy.
All employees
Accountability for themselves and their activities to act in accordance with our EEO principles and OPC values.
Pets are not permitted in New Zealand’s national parks or on DOC land where dogs are prohibited – even if the hounds are inside vehicles – and owners could face a $400 infringement fee.
DOC Principal Investigations Officer Marlous Heijs says staff at Aoraki/Mount Cook are seeing more canines in cars because they’re monitoring vehicles during the paid parking pilot running at Whitehorse Hill.
Staff have issued seven infringement notices in less than two months.
“We know this is an issue right around the country, but over the past couple of months our staff have seen it first hand at Aoraki, where they’ve spoken to people and gathered information and evidence,” she says.
“Some of the photos are quite classic. The dogs are clearly enjoying hanging out the windows and taking in the mountain air – but the issue of dogs in national parks is serious.”
“The rules are there to protect our precious native species. Dogs are loveable and popular pets, but they can have a massive impact on protected birds, plants and animals – and any pet can make a mistake and attack wildlife, defecate or dig something up,” she says.
A report compiled and released by DOC’s National Compliance Team in October 2025 revealed 75 recorded incidents of dogs attacking, killing, or harassing wildlife between 9 September 2020 and 12 August 2025.
“People sometimes plead ignorance of the rules or try and argue their pets staying in the vehicle don’t present an issue, but we’ve seen dogs being let out to have a run around and to toilet,” Marlous says.
“There is also an animal welfare issue, given how long it takes to drive to Aoraki and the amount of time people spend there,” she says.
Last December the SPCA issued a media release asking people to be more aware over summer about the risk of leaving their pets in cars during the hot December/January months.
SPCA receives hundreds of calls every summer about dogs left in hot cars – a preventable and heartbreaking welfare issue.
“You wouldn’t leave a child in a hot car,” says SPCA CEO Todd Westwood. “Please do the same for your furry family members.”
Todd says SPCA is reminding the public even on mild days, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly. On a 21°C day, a car parked in the shade with windows down can still reach more than 31°C in just 10 minutes, and more than 40°C in 30 minutes.
“Dogs cannot cool themselves effectively in enclosed spaces. Panting alone is not enough. Parking in the shade or lowering windows does little to reduce the risk.”
Marlous says she’s surprised at what some pet owners do and it’s not just dogs. People have brought in cats and even goats into various national parks around the country wanting to walk the tracks.
She says it’s a pet owners’ responsibility to do research before taking pets onto public conservation land.
Roads running through some national parks in New Zealand are administered by Waka Kotahi/NZTA and as public roads, you are permitted to drive through them with a pet in your car. Aoraki/Mount Cook is not one of them.
“Many of the roads within Aoraki Mount Cook National Park are administered by DOC and are known as a ‘park road’. This includes most of the roads within Mount Cook Village and the road to White Horse Hill Carpark where many short walks start. These roads are part of the National Park therefore the same rules apply (no dogs in vehicles). These are all well signposted, and there is plenty of information online about where you can (and can’t) take your dog.”
Marlous Heijs says the clear message for everyone is pet owners have a key role to play in looking after nature.
“Our message is ‘leave your dog at home if you’re going naturing in a national park’. There are plenty of other places to go with your dog, but this isn’t one of them.”
NATURE LOOKS DIFFERENT FROM HERE
Nature isn’t scenery. Nature is a society that we rely on for everything, every day. It’s behind our identity and our way of life.
I buy myself a really expensive prosciutto that is cured only with salt. My kids, on the other hand, are fed ham and salami with ingredients that have a long list of weird chemical-sounding additives like pyrophosphates and polyphosphates hidden behind the numbers like E451 and E452. My prosciutto is merely considered processed, whereas what I feed my kids reaches the level of ultra-processed.
Look here, people, my prosciutto is more than $100 a kilo, and I buy the tiniest amount each week. Grocery store ham or salami costs a little over $30 a kilo.
A sandwich with layers of ham and mayonnaise.
victor_16605
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
The PSA is calling on the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to pause a proposal to cut security guards from three to two at 20 offices around the country until the union is satisfied that proper risk assessments have been carried out.
MSD is planning to introduce the two-guard model at smaller centres across the country from Waiuku through to Gore (see note below).
“Every worker deserves to be safe at work, and this decision risks repeating the mistakes of the past,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The PSA formally asked for site specific risk assessments to be undertaken in a letter to MSD on 3 February 2025.
“The PSA met with MSD this week to discuss concerns that the proposal to reduce security guards was developed without consultation with workers who would be most impacted.
“MSD claims to have undertaken a site assessment, but this has not yet included consultation with workers on the sites or the union. The voice of workers and the union is critical for risks to be properly considered.
“We have asked for a copy of the so-called site assessments so we can determine if they adequately assess risk facing our members. MSD has not agreed to provide the assessments but has agreed to discuss them further with the PSA.”
MSD has now committed to engaging with PSA members at each site which is a welcome development, but we have no commitment that decisions to reduce security guard numbers will be re-visited.
“We remain concerned that the approach from MSD disrespects the vital role security guards play in keeping both MSD workers and members of the public safe. They can de-escalate tense situations before they spiral out of control.
“People often come to MSD offices at the most stressful times of their lives – dealing with unemployment, housing insecurity, or financial hardship. Sometimes they take their frustrations out on frontline staff.
“In an environment of increased unemployment and lack of housing, this is exactly the wrong time to be reducing security.”
The PSA will continue to press MSD for specific risk assessments that reflect the concerns of workers for each of the 20 impacted sites before the proposal can be finalised.
Note: the impacted offices are in Alexandra, Balclutha, Cambridge, Dannevirke, Feilding, Foxton, Gore, Greymouth, Marton, Matamata, Ngāruawāhia, Ōtaki, Queenstown, Stratford, Taihape, Te Kūiti, Wainuiomata, Waitara, Waiuku and Westport
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahiis Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.
Kiwis prepared to pay almost 50% more for a three-bedroom home Getting the bedroom/bathroom combo right can add up to half a million to a home’s price Renovations can pay dividends, but not all are created equal
Latest data from realestate.co.nz shows an extra bedroom can add anywhere from $150,000 to more than $450,000 to a home’s asking price.
In 2025, the national average asking price for a two-bedroom home was $640,794. This increased to $844,009 for a three-bedroom home, an increase of 31.7%. But the real gains come with the addition of a fourth bedroom, with the average asking price increasing 44.1% to $1,216,635.
Vanessa Williams, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says the price increases highlight how additional space remains a key driver for property value.
“Kiwis are still attracted to more space and see value in that, whether it’s to accommodate a growing family, work-from-home flexibility, or future-proofing an investment.”
However, it is the combination of bedrooms and bathrooms where the biggest gains can be seen.
In 2025, the average asking price of a 3-bed 2-bath home was $987,609. This increased by almost 40% to $1,376,229 for a 3-bed, 3-bath home, a difference of $388,620.
For a bigger home, the average asking price of a 4-bed, 2-bath home was $1,173,682 but increased 44% to $1,690,982 with a third bathroom, a difference of more than half a million dollars.
Within every bedroom category, adding bathrooms pushes prices significantly higher – showing that bathrooms are a major price driver across all home sizes.
Not all upgrades are equal: know your market
Williams says for those homeowners considering a renovation, look at the bigger picture before picking up a hammer, because a reno isn’t always a sure-fire way to increase their sale price.
” We know bedrooms and bathrooms affect average asking prices but before homeowners embark on a renovation, liveability needs to be factored in. An odd layout that adds a bedroom or bathroom but reduces living, dining, or entertaining space, or negatively impacts the flow within a home, is less likely to bring the gains owners are hoping for.”
“Not all renovations are created equal, as buyers are drawn to homes that suit their lifestyle. We always encourage homeowners to think about who they’re renovating for – themselves or future buyers.”
About realestate.co.nz | New Zealand’s Best Small Workplace (2025)
We’ve been helping people buy, sell, or rent property since 1996. Established before Google, realestate.co.nz is New Zealand’s longest-standing property website and the official website of the real estate industry. We are certified carbon neutral (2024 & 2025) and in 2025, realestate.co.nz was crowned Best Small/Micro Workplace in New Zealand by Great Place to Work.
Dedicated only to property, our mission is to empower people with a property search tool they can use to find the life they want to live. With residential, lifestyle, rural and commercial property listings, realestate.co.nz is the place to start for those looking to buy or sell property.
Whatever life you’re searching for, it all starts here.
Want more property insights?
Market insights: Search by suburb to see median sale prices, popular property types and trends over time.
Glossary of terms:
Average asking price (AAP) is neither a valuation nor the sale price. It is an indication of current market sentiment. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with the sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold. As it looks at different data, average asking prices may differ from recorded sales data released simultaneously.
Price drop reflects the difference between a property’s original asking price when listed on realestate.co.nz and its price at the point of sale or withdrawal. While it doesn’t show the final sale price, it provides a strong signal of how much sellers are adjusting to meet buyer demand.
Consumer NZ expects power prices to increase by about 5% in 2026 – a blow to households already hit with a 12% increase to power bills last year.
Households should brace for another big bump in power prices in the year ahead. The price predictions from Consumer NZ come at a time when nearly half of all New Zealanders are concerned about the cost of their household energy.¹
“Power bills are hiking up because of an increase in lines charges’ costs – that’s the cost of delivering power to your house, and it’s the amount on your bill that stays the same regardless of how much power you use,” said Paul Fuge, Powerswitch manager.
The lines charge makes up just over one-third of the power bill, and a small hike to that fixed cost makes a big difference to monthly bills.
Consumer recommends budgeting for an increase to power bills from the end of April. Customers can expect line charges alone to climb by an average of $5 per month through to 2029.
“The lines charge will add an average of $5 per month to your bill, but this figure will vary depending on where you live and who your retailer is. As well as the fixed costs, we expect consumers will face increases to the cost of the electricity they use too,” said Fuge.
Why power prices keep going up
The cost of running and maintaining the electricity networks has increased, and this cost flows through to people’s power bills.
“It’s an unfortunate reality that households are being asked to shoulder higher charges to have electricity delivered to their homes. But at the same time, heavy rainfall over summer – so extensive that major hydro lakes are spilling water –has driven down wholesale electricity prices. Those lower generation costs should be easing the pressure on consumers by offsetting these rising lines charges. That doesn’t seem to be happening. And that’s deeply unfair.”
The impact of ever-increasing power bills
Consumer’s research found that, last winter, one in five New Zealanders went to bed early to stay warm, one-quarter of people went without heating when it was cold and nearly one in five people cut back on food or other essentials to pay a power bill.²
“These drastic measures to manage power bills are not limited to one age group – young adults, older New Zealanders and everyone in between are being forced into uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe choices.
“Based on our price predictions for 2026, we think the situation will only get worse,” says Fuge.
Consumer’s tips for managing power price surges
Check you’re on the cheapest plan – Power retailers are constantly changing their offers. Just because you picked the cheapest plan last year, it doesn’t mean it’s the best plan available now. You can find if there’s a plan that’s better for you through the free and independent power comparison website Powerswitch.
Keep your eye out for April price rises – Power retailers typically increase their prices from April. Mark a date in your diary for after 1 April to check in with Powerswitch to see if there are further savings you could make by switching then.
Understand your power usage – If you can do most of your power-hungry activities, like running your washing machine and dryer, in off-peak periods, you could make big savings. Off-peak periods are usually late at night, the middle of the day and weekends. You need to be on a time-of-use plan to save the most from your off-peak power usage. Being careful with when you use your power could potentially help you offset the price rises that we are predicting.
Notes
¹ Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker January 2026 ² Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker October 2025
Consumer NZ’s Sentiment Tracker is an online survey based on a nationally representative sample of the New Zealand population. Results are weighted by age, gender and region based on Stats NZ 2018 Census data. Respondents are sourced from Dynata, an external panel provider. Surveys are conducted quarterly with at least 1000 respondents, with a margin of error of +/-3.1%.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has welcomed the official opening of the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), the country’s largest conference, exhibition and entertainment venue, describing it as a significant milestone.
“Today’s grand opening of this multi-purpose convention space is a game changer for New Zealand’s capacity to host world‑class events,” Louise Upston says.
“The opportunities this venue creates for New Zealand’s tourism and hospitality sector are enormous, whether it be hosting large international conferences, national ceremonies or local events.
“The NZICC strengthens our ability to attract major conventions and events, showcasing the very best of New Zealand to the world. With capacity for more than 4,000 attendees, the NZICC is an incredible space designed not only for business, but for a wide range of cultural events and activities.
“This is a huge moment for New Zealand, helping attract more international visitors to our shores and giving a significant boost to our economy.”
Located in the heart of Auckland, the NZICC has been designed to support large‑scale conventions and events, incorporating state‑of‑the‑art technology, flexible meeting spaces, and sustainable design features intended to serve both domestic and global audiences.
To date, more than 120 events have been confirmed for 2026, including two of Australasia’s largest association conferences – The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).
“The strong pipeline of events NZICC already has confirmed means more job opportunities for our people in the tourism and hospitality sector,” Louise Upston says.
“I can’t wait to see the first conferences and concerts filling these spaces, putting New Zealand firmly on the map as a go-to-destination.
“New Zealand is open for business – and we’re ready to welcome many more visitors in 2026 and beyond.”
The New Zealand International Convention Centre is owned by SkyCity Entertainment Group, operating in partnership with the New Zealand Government.
Notes to Editor:
The NZICC is the largest conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue in New Zealand, with capacity for more than 4,000 attendees. The NZICC theatre is the largest seated theatre in the country, seating 2,850 people, while the hall will be able to host 3,300 people for a banquet.
In 2013, the Government and SkyCity agreed to build a new international convention centre for Auckland, including a 300-room hotel and 1,300 car parks. The Agreement was codified in law under the New Zealand International Convention Centre Act 2013 (the Act).
Silver medallist New Zealand’s Zoi Sadowski Synnott poses on the podium after the snowboard women’s big air final during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games.AFP/KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV
New Zealand snowboarder Zoi Sadowski-Synnott has joined an elite club of Olympians – those who will be bringing home broken medals.
After a rough start, Sadowski-Synnott earned her second consecutive silver medal in the Big Air event at the Winter Olympics in Italy, matching her result from four years ago.
“You set goals and you dream about it, and when it actually happens, you still can’t really believe it,” the 24-year-old told Morning Report.
“But yeah, I’m really grateful that I was able to put it down when it mattered and just thankful for all the support from back home and grateful to have my family out here too.”
There have been reports of medals from this year’s Games breaking easily – including from American downhill skiing champion Breezy Johnson, Swedish cross-country skier Ebba Andersson and United States figure skater Alysa Liu.
Asked if she had kept hers safe, Sadowski-Synnott admitted “not exactly”.
“Mine actually broke. But it’s chill. It whacked my snowboard and fell off the thing, but it goes right back in. It’s all good.”
It was suspected the fault stemmed from the medal’s clasp and ribbon, which are designed to split if pulled with force to prevent strangulation.
Organisers on Thursday (local time) said they had found a fix.
Sadowski-Synnott, who has won five Olympic medals in her career, was going to cherish her latest prize regardless.
“It’s pretty sick. It’s pretty special, so beautiful and can’t really believe that I’m holding another Olympic medal.”
She next competes in slopestyle, where she will be defending the gold she won in Beijing in 2022.
I’ll admit it: I’m addicted. Not to coffee (well, that too), but to naturing. It started small, a quick stroll outside, a sneaky breath of fresh air. Next thing I know, I’m knee-deep in bush tracks, whispering encouragement to kererū, and declaring “this counts as exercise” while holding a pie.
Let’s zoom in on a classic naturing move: the walk.
Walking might sound simple, but with these tips, you’ll be naturing like a pro.
Step 1: Dress the Part
The best thing about naturing is there’s no dress code. Depending on what you’re doing, you’ll see it all: people in activewear that look straight out of an ad campaign, gumboots from the farm, jandals and a sunhat at the beach. Basically, whatever you wear instantly becomes “naturing gear”. As long as it’s right for the activity and the conditions, you’re good to go.
Pro tip: pack an extra layer, because naturing weather loves a surprise.
Step 2: Embrace the Awkward Moments
Naturing isn’t all poetic bird song and Instagram sunsets. Sometimes it’s tripping over a tree root like you’re in a slapstick comedy. Sometimes it’s noticing a harmless-but-scary-looking insect crawling across your sleeve and giving you a mini heart attack. These moments? That’s peak naturing. Own it.
Step 3: Snack Like a Pro
Half the joy of naturing is snacks. The rule is simple: whatever food you bring outdoors instantly becomes gourmet. Warm squashed muesli bar at the bottom of your bag? Five-star cuisine. Banana bruised to oblivion? Still a delicacy.
Remember: calories consumed while naturing don’t count. (Probably.)
Step 4: Know When to Say “I’m Naturing”
Next time someone asks what you’re doing this weekend, skip the boring “oh, just going for a walk.” Look them straight in the eye and declare, “I’ll be naturing.” Watch as they nod respectfully, unsure what it means but too embarrassed to ask. That’s power.
Step 5: Keep Calm and Keep Naturing
Naturing isn’t a hobby. It’s a lifestyle. A calling. A spiritual obligation to trip over logs, get sand in weird places, and develop a deep appreciation for tui singing louder than your morning alarm. Once you start, you’ll never stop.
The best part? There are heaps of great spots for naturing all over Aotearoa, and the DOC website is your ultimate guide. From hidden walking tracks to iconic national parks, you can plan adventures, keep up to date on safety and weather advice, discover tips, and even learn about the native plants and wildlife you might meet along the way.
So grab your boots, pack your snacks, and keep embracing the art of naturing, whether it’s around the corner from your house or in the heart of a forest. Because life is just better when you’re always naturing.
BRP‑Rotax unveils its latest milestone in aviation with Aircraft Meets Racetrack. In an unprecedented accomplishment for the Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull athlete and Rotax Ambassador Luke Czepiela became the first pilot to fly this Grand Prix track’s complete racing line from the air, showcasing the capabilities of Rotax powered aviation in a dramatic low‑level performance.
Gunskirchen, Austria – Newsaktuell – 10 February 2026 – In a demonstration of precision aviation, Luke Czepiela traced the full ideal line of the Bahrain International Circuit at low level, including short takeoffs and landings (STOL) on the start/finish straight. The achievement is documented in the short film Aircraft Meets Racetrack, the first project to emerge from BRP-Rotax’s Brand Ambassador partnership with Luke Czepiela, launched in 2025. The short film premiered during the Bahrain International Circuit’s official F1 pre‑season press conference today.
When Racing Meets Aviation
The project transfers what racing drivers follow on the ground with high precision accuracy into the sky. The circuit’s racing line becomes an aerial flight path, demanding exceptionally tight tolerances, high and low speeds, and uncompromising line discipline. Conducting the maneuver required extreme precision. Low altitude, shifting wind conditions, more than 495 light poles, and the narrow, enclosed layout of the Grand Prix track created an environment with virtually no margin for error.
“Flying a racing line from the air demands absolute control at low altitude and instant reaction in every phase,” said Czepiela, Rotax Brand Ambassador. “It is precision flying in its purest form.”
The flight was performed in a CubCrafters Carbon Cub UL equipped with the 160‑hp Rotax 916 iS engine. The aircraft’s lightweight STOL design, immediate throttle response, and exceptional power‑to‑weight ratio made the aerial replication of the racing line possible.
Production took place during the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain – marking the first time all project partners collaborated on‑site. Working closely with the Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull Bahrain, and local authorities, the team implemented a comprehensive safety and operations plan. The track and airspace were fully closed to ensure uninterrupted filming, supported by constant air traffic coordination and emergency services on-site.
“With Luke Czepiela, we aimed to create something that authentically unites our two passions: racing and aviation,” said Peter Ölsinger, General Manager of BRP‑Rotax and Vice-President Sales, Marketing RPS‑Business & Communications. “This project represents technical precision, long‑standing partnerships, and the courage to pursue new creative paths.”
The film not only showcases a great achievement it underscores Rotax’s mission to connect disciplines, push boundaries, and deliver high‑performance experiences on the ground and in the air.
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – Capella at Galaxy Macau has officially opened, marking the arrival of the serene enclave within the celebrated world of Galaxy Macau. This exceptional property represents a rarefied expression of hospitality within Galaxy Macau, Asia’s highly awarded luxury resort.
Mr Francis Lui, Chairman (centre); Mr Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer – Macau (2nd from right); and Mr Troy Hickox, Head of Hotels & Lifestyle Development (1st from right), of Galaxy Entertainment Group and Mr Samuel Ding, Senior Vice President of Design and Technical Services (2nd from left); Ms Mei Ping, Head of China and Chairman Assistant (1st from left), of Capella Hotel Group officiate at the Opening Ceremony of Capella at Galaxy Macau.
Capella at Galaxy Macau represents the pinnacle of the luxury resort’s experiential offering. Designed for the most discerning of premium guests, the property occupies a privileged position within Galaxy Macau’s constellation of lauded luxury hotels. An ultra-residential retreat designed for the most discerning traveller; it offers privacy, expansive space, and superlative service.
The golden hued architectural landmark comprises just 95 suites and penthouses, while maintaining an exceptionally low key-count and a welcoming sense of intimacy and seclusion.
The opening of Capella at Galaxy Macau further strengthens Galaxy Macau’s status as the region’s premier experiential destination, offering guests a highly curated way to experience the dynamism of the luxury resort, and all that UNESCO World Heritage–recognised Macau has to offer.
Mr Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer – Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group delivers his welcome remarks at the Opening Ceremony of Capella at Galaxy Macau.
Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer – Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group, states: “Galaxy Macau was created as a destination where the world’s finest hospitality and ultra-luxury experiences come together. We are delighted to reveal Capella at Galaxy Macau to our treasured guests from around the world; which showcases a new expression of our signature and ever-evolving ‘World Class Asian Heart’ service – that is not just personalised but anticipated; promising that true exclusivity is no longer about spectacle – but about scarcity.”
Clive Edwards, Senior Vice President, Operations, of Capella Hotel Group adds: “This strategic partnership positions Capella at Galaxy Macau as a distinctive expression of our brand vision: an intimate, residential retreat within an integrated resort context. Our guests enjoy seamless access to Galaxy’s world-class amenities while experiencing the culturally immersive hospitality that defines Capella—from our Capella Culturists to curated experiences celebrating Macau’s rich heritage.”
Mr Samuel Ding, Senior Vice President of Design and Technical Services, Capella Hotel Group, delivers a speech at the Opening Ceremony of Capella at Galaxy Macau.
A contemporary retreat where The Gilded Jungle meets the runway
Conceived with renowned Paris-based design studio Moinard Bétaille, Capella at Galaxy Macau introduces a distinct design sensibility to the city, influenced by the jungle-inspired motifs found throughout the world of fashion, defined by craftsmanship, sophistication, and vintage luxury accents.
Imagined as a gilded jungle, the undulating exteriors draw from the formations of Macau’s tropical landscape while offering a sleek, residential interpretation of ultra-luxury. Rather than enclosed opulence, the architecture and interiors emphasise soft curves and undulating fluid forms, mirroring meandering waterways, light, airflow, the organic forms of the rainforest canopy – all brought to life with tactile materiality; creating a deeply immersive and energetically aligned experience.
Interior design studio Moinard Bétaille was tasked with creating a ‘residential sanctuary in Macau.’ From the forest-like canopy at the Ground Floor Lobby arrival and the Tree of Life, to the multi-sensory digital artwork by Laura Cheung – whose hand-finished jungle inspired walls grace every suite, Bruno Moinard has composed an environment of serenity, luxury and quiet confidence. For Capella at Galaxy Macau – a collaboration with Bruno Moinard’s creative partner, Claire Bétaille – the design duo have built on their collective commitment to bespoke luxury; creating a signature new language that builds upon culture, community, tradition, and heritage craftsmanship in a way that is both distinctive and unique. Moinard states: “Our vision was to create a sense of calm, crafted elegance, a residential sanctuary that feels both intimate and timeless, set within the extraordinary environs of Galaxy Macau.”
Gentle curves, softened edges, and dappled light that mimics sunlight filtering through a rainforest canopy guides guests from the moment they enter the driveway.
Gentle curves, softened edges, and dappled light that mimics sunlight filtering through a rainforest canopy guides guests from the moment they enter the driveway, a protected space that transitions from the pulsing energy of Macau, surrounded by lush foliage that fosters a sense of calm and privacy. In an ecosystem of light, art and nature, as one steps into the Lobby, a chamber of light and running water frame the Tree of Life – the beating heart of the Lobby that pulsates in coloured light. Round pools, lush foliage, and a mustering of carved wooden storks alight, finding their place in front of the spellbinding three-metre immersive multi-sensory LED artwork by Hong Kong artist Laura Cheung, founder of artisanal luxury homeware brand LaLa Curio. Evoking the natural rhythm of a tropical jungle, the sculptural natural forms, rocks and fire pits enable the kinetic artwork to subtly transform from dawn to dusk; connecting the interior to the passage of time outside. This digital grove “breathes” with the time of day; featuring a cacophony of ambient sounds that culminate in a nightly bloom of glowing fireflies and shooting stars. A custom-handmade tumbled glass sculpture by Czech glass masters Lasvit – ‘Splash’ – cascades over the illuminated water pools.
The arrival experience unfolds on the first floor, where guests discover the gilded Lobby layered with specially commissioned artworks. Highlights include contemporary abstract gouache and oil artworks by Bruno Moinard, alongside ceramic scholar’s rocks on Amazonite marble plinths by American ceramic artist Jason Messinger, that blend the softly-hued neutral interiors with statement pieces.
Guests are welcomed by their Capella Culturist in the Capella Living Room, a brand signature reimagined here as a cocooning social salon, before being escorted to their private residences for in-suite check-in by their personal butler. “Jungle Blue” – a Bruno Moinard abstract oil painting anchors the space in Moinard’s signature Macau Blue, a nuanced hue that echoes his interior inspiration, where water meets the jungle. Here, the Capella Culturists host daily rituals such as tea ceremonies, baijiu tastings, and cultural introductions.
The ultimate exemplar of penthouse living
Capella at Galaxy Macau delivers a rare combination of grandeur, serenity and exclusivity.
Capella at Galaxy Macau delivers a rare combination of grandeur, serenity and exclusivity. Offering the largest rooms in Southern China, the Capella Penthouses are among the most remarkable accommodations ever introduced in the territory. Two- and four-bedroom penthouses offer expansive indoor-outdoor living, with sliding glass doors opening onto breezy, light-filled terraces, sun rooms and glass-walled outdoor private infinity pools overlooking futuristic Hengqin island – where visionary engineering meets architectural finesse – achievements previously unseen in the region. Artisanship is apparent in the details, such as the penthouse entrance doors featuring bespoke woven horsehair panelling lining, offering superior acoustic protection and a refined, luxurious patina. Four-bedroom penthouses, spanning close to 700 square metres, include a private Winter Garden with its diamond-stitched leather upholstery inspired by vintage automotive seats; wellness room with state-of-the-art massage chair and TechnoGym personal training equipment, games room with foosball table, and butler pantry. A den-like, soundproofed media and entertainment room houses a state-of-the-art home theatre and karaoke system, while airy, spa-like marble bathrooms feature generous soaking tubs and ultra-spacious his and hers showers. Two-bedroom penthouses include many of the same bespoke amenities, along with a dedicated VIK (Very Important Kids) room for family travellers.
The Capella Penthouses are among the most remarkable accommodations ever introduced in the territory, each equipped with private swimming pool for the utmost sense of leisure.
One- and two-bedroom suites begin at 128 square metres and feature indoor relaxation pools, sunbeds, Amazonite marble bathrooms with mosaic floors, and polished finishes. Bedrooms are accentuated with jungle-inspired, hand-finished wall coverings by LaLa Curio, extending into canopy-like ceilings.
A heightened and singular service philosophy
Capella at Galaxy Macau brings together a union of award-winning hospitality for exceptional personalization. With Capella Hotels and Resorts voted the “No.1 Hotel Brand in the World” in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for the third consecutive year, Capella’s globally recognised service philosophy finds a new home in the most accentuated expression of Galaxy Macau’s signature and ever-evolving World Class Asian Heart service.
Every guest enjoys 24-hour butler service, packing and unpacking of luggage, a complimentary minibar, premium Chinese tea sets, Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica Santa Maria Novella bath amenities, locally-sourced pre-batched cocktails and a Bugatti kettle and Illy IperEspresso Professional Machine for the ultimate precision-brewed coffee experience. Dedicated Capella butlers – unique to this hotel – and Capella Culturists work seamlessly together to intuitively shape each stay around individual preferences; promising that true exclusivity is no longer about spectacle – but about rarity and experience.
Culturists curate bespoke experiences connecting guests to Macau’s heritage and contemporary culture, from art tours and baijiu tastings to culinary masterclasses with Stephen Hsu, the executive chef of Capella at Galaxy Macau’s signature restaurant Botanica, or private helicopter and walking tours arranged with insider access.
A dining destination for connoisseurs
As part of Galaxy Macau’s reputation as one of Asia’s most celebrated gastronomic destinations, Capella at Galaxy Macau introduces three highly anticipated dining and bar concepts.
Pony & Plume, a whisky and cocktail bar and divan designed by Moinard Bẽtaille, reveals a haven of hidden delights and secret spaces, waiting to be revealed. Set to become a vibrant Macau destination hotspot in its own right, the bar’s name is its creed: the “pony” – a precise measure of spirit – represents intention in every pour, while the “plume” is the bar’s calling card, introduced as an aromatic cloud of smoke that infuses its signature cocktails, bar snacks and the divan experience. Home to more than 650 whiskies curated across eight flavour profiles, the venue celebrates precision, ritual, and the aroma, from rare and limited-edition bottles to guided tastings and signature smoke-infused cocktails inspired by Macau’s cultural eclecticism and morsels designed to appeal to connoisseurs and the curious alike. Featuring a cabinet of the world’s rarest unicorn whiskies, even the private reserve of whisky casks of provenance might be sighted by those in-the-know.
Botanica, a 48-seat restaurant led by Executive Chef Stephen Hsu, serves international comfort classics reimagined with Asian influences for the global palate. Light floods the tropical interiors by Moinard Bétaille, where indoor water reflections feature beneath imaginary jungle vines and a cluster of soft, pillow-like fungi stretch across the high ceilings. Ornamental glass screens and trellises add to an ambient space punctuated by climbing botanicals and sculptural works by Mexican artist Joel Escalona, creating a casual yet refined atmosphere.
Further elevating Galaxy Macau’s culinary stature, acclaimed Hong Kong chef Vicky Cheng will open an independent fine-dining restaurant within Capella at Galaxy Macau in 2026. The Michelin-starred chef and Krug Ambassador, whose Wing restaurant is ranked number three on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2025 list, is set to present modern French cuisine shaped by his distinctive and adventurous culinary vision.
Francis Lui, Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, concludes: “Capella at Galaxy Macau’s architecture, service, gastronomy, and residential privacy create a singular experience for our top percentile of VIP guests, one that sets a new reference point for hospitality in Macau and globally. Our design and operations teams have worked tirelessly to bring the vision for Capella at Galaxy Macau to life in close partnership with Capella Hotel Group. Together, we have crafted the most intimate, elevated, and personalised way to experience our global entertainment and leisure resort offering; creating a true sanctuary, where every stay unfolds as a bespoke retreat, shaped by design, culture, and service at the highest level.”
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – VinFast and Exposure SARL announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the potential supply of electric vehicles for green taxi services in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo. The agreement marks an important milestone in the Vietnamese EV maker’s international expansion strategy and a major step forward in promoting the transition to green transportation in the capital of the DRC.
Ms. Le Thi Thu Thuy – Vice Chairwoman of Vingroup and Chairwoman of VinFast, and Mr. Fely Samuna Lukwaka – CEO of Exposure SARL, together with representatives of both parties at the signing ceremony.
Under the MOU, the two parties will discuss and coordinate to develop a plan to supply the first batch of VinFast electric vehicles for Exposure to operate electric taxi services in Kinshasa. This batch is expected to include the commercial-oriented Limo Green and Herio Green models, regarded as an initial foundation for an all-electric taxi model, contributing to the formation of zero-emission transport habits in urban passenger transportation in Congo.
At the same time, Exposure has expressed its intention to become a distributor of VinFast vehicles in the Congolese market and will jointly study a business plan suited to local conditions. Both parties commit to continued cooperation in good faith, laying the groundwork for deeper collaboration in the future.
The MOU between VinFast and Exposure SARL initiates the implementation of the strategic cooperation framework established by Vingroup and the City of Kinshasa in 2025. At that time, the parties agreed to study and promote the procurement and deployment of VinFast’s electric mobility solutions, including electric buses, cars, and scooters, to serve the city’s and residents’ transportation needs.
Earlier, the Kinshasa municipal authorities and Vingroup also signed an MOU to study and develop a riverside mega urban project covering approximately 6,300 hectares. Featuring housing, villas, hospitals, schools, shopping centers, hotels, and entertainment facilities, the project is expected to become a new tourism destination and a symbol of Kinshasa’s future development.
The partnerships align with the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s long-term vision for sustainable urban development and green transition, particularly in rapidly urbanizing cities such as Kinshasa, where demand for clean, smart and efficient mobility is rising. Building on the country’s renewable energy potential and commitment to low-emission growth, the initiative supports Kinshasa’s ambition to develop an integrated green infrastructure and electric mobility ecosystem.
Ms. Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Sales, VinFast, stated: “The cooperation with Exposure SARL reflects VinFast’s confidence in the potential for green transportation in Africa and reaffirms our commitment to delivering modern, accessible green mobility solutions tailored to each market. We believe that VinFast’s electric vehicle products, proven across multiple markets, combined with Exposure’s local expertise, will help accelerate the transition to green transportation in Congo.”
Mr. Fely Samuna Lukwaka, Chief Executive Officer of Exposure SARL, said: “We are very pleased to cooperate with VinFast toward a low emission mobility future for the Democratic Republic of the Congo in general and the capital Kinshasa in particular. With a population of more than 120 million and a strategic location bordering nine countries, forming a regional market of over 200 million people, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has strong potential to become a gateway for electric vehicle development in Central Africa. We have full confidence in VinFast’s technological capabilities and product ecosystem, and we expect this cooperation to establish a foundation for the next stages of development of the electric vehicle market not only in the DRC but across the wider region.”
VinFast is a pure-play electric vehicle automaker under Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate, with a vision to drive the movement of the global smart electric vehicle revolution. Over the past years, the EV maker has expanded strongly into new and promising markets such as India, the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Middle East, while continuing to strengthen its presence in key markets in Europe and North America. Strategic moves in 2025 are expected to provide strong momentum and a solid launchpad for further breakthroughs in 2026.
Hashtag: #VinFast
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – MSIG Singapore has been named Digital Insurer of the Year at The Asset Triple A Digital Finance Awards 2026.
The Asset Triple A Digital Finance Awards stand as a prestigious benchmark in the industry, celebrating trailblazing innovation and outstanding digital experiences that redefine customer engagement.
Over the past year, MSIG Singapore has delivered strong financial results that has seen a double-digit increase in retail customers and policy count from online channels.
The company has also strengthened its digital proposition by broadening its suite of personal lines products, designing solutions guided by deep customer insights and data‑driven analytics. Strategic partnerships and tie-ups have also further boosted insurance accessibility and value proposition to its customers.
Through the adoption of Generative AI and RPA-driven straight-through processing, the company has elevated both service quality and operational excellence. These advancements have delivered substantial productivity gains, saving over 31,000 hours annually and have enabled twenty percent of travel claims to be automatically approved and paid within 48 hours.
Commenting on the award, Steven Leong, Head of Retail Distribution, MSIG Singapore, said “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our people, and we are grateful to our business partners whose support has enabled us to scale new heights once again. This award not only celebrates how far we have come but also strengthens our ambition to advance MSIG’s leadership as a digital‑first insurer in Singapore.”
Hashtag: #MSIGSingapore
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SINGAPORE / KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA / HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – Coca‑Cola® is celebrating Lunar New Year and Tết 2026 by refreshing time-honoured traditions through the creativity of a new generation, inviting families across Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia to preserve what they love about the festival while shaping it in ways that feel personal and relevant today.
This year’s Lunar New Year/ Tết campaign focuses on re-engaging Gen Z as the new torchbearers of tradition, encouraging them to carry the New Year celebration forward by honouring its meaning while expressing it in their own creative ways — side by side with parents, grandparents, and extended family.
The campaign was built from ground up with local teams, allowing each country to lead with its own cultural stories, symbols, and rituals while being quietly connected by a shared idea of co-creation and togetherness.
“Our ambition with Lunar New Year/Têt was to help keep our beautiful traditions alive by inviting younger generations to take part in shaping them,” says Tin Le Trung, Coca-Cola Trademark Category Lead in ASEAN & South Pacific. “Across our markets, we worked closely with local teams to reimagine familiar rituals, not replace them but to refresh them. Whether it’s re-interpreting Tết symbols in Vietnam or bridging generations together through music in Singapore and Malaysia, the goal was to create celebrations that feel meaningful, joyful, and shared.”
A Shared Festive Look, Brought to Life Through Local Craft
At the heart of the campaign is a festive visual identity inspired by Asian craftsmanship, created in partnership with global brand and design consultancy Elmwood. Seen on cans, packaging, retail displays, and digital touchpoints, the system unifies the shared festive foundation, while giving each market the freedom to express its own cultural character.
Across markets, the idea of bringing generations together, like threads woven into a single celebration, shapes how the campaign comes to life. From storytelling and social content to live experiences and festive packaging, each activation invites people not just to enjoy Lunar New Year, but to take part in creating it together.
Celebration in Every Detail: Fireworks – universal symbols of joy and new beginnings – are reimagined through the lens of Asian craftsmanship. The design incorporates textural details developed with cultural inspiration from Asia’s intricate embroidery, Vietnamese brocade, and Peranakan beadwork, creating a modern, inclusive style that reflects regional diversity and artistry.
Standout Shelf Presence: Anchored by the auspicious Golden Swallows in flight alongside peach/apricot blossoms and lucky red money envelopes to symbolize and encourage family connection (in Vietnam), and limited-edition can designs featuring bold, spirit horses charging alongside flowers, ingots, oriental fans, and bamboo – each a symbol of fortune, longevity, and success (in Singapore Malaysia) – the designs make every Coca-Cola pack a collectible festive keepsake and a meaningful gift for family and loved ones.
“Our ambition was to create an identity that feels universally festive yet deeply local. For example, brocade isn’t just textile, it’s storytelling that celebrates and unites the 54 diverse ethnic groups in Vietnam,” said Lisa Balm, Executive Creative Director, Elmwood Asia. “The embroidery and weaving technique evoke intricate detail and richness, creating a culturally layered aesthetic that feels both intimate and celebratory. By focusing on shared symbols and reimagining them through the artistry and cultural depth of Asian craftsmanship, we created a single visual language that successfully translates across Tet and Lunar New Year.”
Locally focused Creative Platforms in Action
Vietnam: ‘Weaving a New Tet’
In Vietnam’s fast emerging, tech savvy market, the campaign theme “Dệt Nên Tết Mới” (“Weave a New Tet”) encourages Gen Z to create new traditions with their families. At the heart of the campaign lies a short film ‘Stitched Together’ which tells a story of a traditional family reunion, brought to life by innovative AI technology. The film is centred on the Vietnamese brocade art form, with every character, object & gesture in the film. The campaign is further amplified with a mini three-episode social film series where each episode heroes a Tet cultural item reimagined through modern visual storytelling, encouraging families to see familiar traditions into a new light.
For Gen Z, TET meals often feel predictable. The Coke Half-Half Tablecloth transforms the dining table into a festive centerpiece, visually dividing the table into two halves: one for honoring beloved Tet classics and the other for showcasing modern global flavors Gen Z craves. To inspire creativity, Coca‑Cola released a curated collection of Half-Half table ideas, blending traditional dishes with bold twists like sushi rolls, tacos, and fusion sliders.
Coke Drinkable Pháo, inspired by the crackle of firecrackers, adds a playful layer of interaction. The episode features a Vietnamese family coming together to thread strings through iconic Coca-Cola cans, tying them together to create a vibrant, eye-catching red firecracker display that is both modern and traditional. The “click” of a can opening not only signals the start of a refreshing sip but also heralds the grand beginning of the Tet celebration. Everyone lends a hand, chatting as they work – this is when the whole family “weaves” a new New Year by drawing closer together, transforming the often tedious task of cleaning into a bonding moment filled with laughter.
Coke Red Envelope: For Gen Z, the age-old Lì Xì tradition often feels like a draining ritual. The reimagined “Lì Xì from the heart” reimagines the traditional red envelope, turning it from a simple, functional gift into something deeply meaningful. Beyond lucky banknotes, each envelope holds priceless treasures from the giver’s heart: an old family photo with the promise ‘Let me take care of the family matters,’ a handwritten note telling his sister to ‘always smile brightly,’ and even a jogging date for his younger brother—each one celebrating connection, creativity and care.
Singapore & Malaysia: A Cross‑Border LNY Anthem
In Singapore and Malaysia, where festive music powers connection across generations, the theme “Grab a Coke & Huat Together this New Yearl” centers on an original Lunar New Year Anthem, 可口可樂，共創好年” that anchors a wider social-first and on-ground celebration, encouraging participation across generations both online and offline.
Music for All Generations: The song blends festive orchestration with contemporary Pop and Rap, performed by 3P (Malaysia) and Mayiduo (Singapore), and was developed hand‑in‑hand with local teams to reflect cross‑border festive traditions. From decorating homes with modernised calligraphy scrolls to gifting blind boxes in place of traditional angpaos, the music video showcases generations for all ages coming together, bridged through meaningful experiences led by Gen Z.
Immersive On Ground Experiences: In the bustling hearts of Singapore and Malaysia, vibrant experiential activations come to life, inviting families to enjoy and immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of uplifting activities such as calligraphy, fortune telling, and creating their own version of the Lunar New Year anthem.
From Social to Store
Designed as a fully integrated campaign, the Coca-Cola Lunar New Year / Tet 2026 celebrations unfold across social storytelling, live experiences, festive packaging, and in-store moments. From shareable films and music-led participation to large-scale festive activations and easy access at retail, the campaign connects celebrations with everyday moments – making it simple for families to take part whether at home, online, or in-store.
Partnerships with Grab, e-commerce platforms, supermarkets, and convenience stores ensure that festive moments flow naturally from celebration to purchase, supporting both traditional trade and modern retail.
By placing local culture and human creativity at the centre, and by inviting Gen Z to play an active role in preserving Lunar New Year traditions, Coca-Cola shows how brands can help keep cultural celebrations meaningful – not by standing apart from tradition but by celebrating it together with the people who will carry it forward.
For more information, visit www.cocacola.com or follow Coca-Cola on Facebook and Instagram.
Hashtag: #Cocacola
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
From Routine Check-ups to Advanced Endoscopy: Building a “Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery” Lifeline for Every Stage of a Pet’s Life
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – As a leading animal medical institution in Hong Kong, the Veterinary Emergency Centre (VEC) has always been committed to providing the most comprehensive and reliable health protection for pets. To further enhance its “General Family Vet” care experience, VEC is pleased to announce the official appointment of Dr. Martin, a professional general practitioner. Dr. Martin will lead a wide range of outpatient services, covering everything from routine physical examinations, dental care, and geriatric/pediatric care to advanced endoscopic procedures. This appointment reinforces VEC’s one-stop health commitment of “from prevention to recovery,” serving as a trusted medical backbone for pet owners.
VEC is dedicated to integrating its professional 24-hour emergency mechanism with in-depth general care. Equipped with advanced medical systems—including sophisticated operating theaters, Intensive Care Units (ICU), and CT scanners—VEC ensures precision in every step from routine screenings to deep diagnostics. Through a rigorous triage process, the centre can immediately respond to emergencies such as accidental ingestion of foreign objects, ensuring no delay in life-saving treatment. This round-the-clock intensive care capability provides the most stable support for endoscopy, dental care, and soft tissue surgery, achieving seamless protection from preventive medicine to the recovery phase.
Starting from Prevention: Building a Health Defense Line for the Entire Life Cycle
VEC’s professional dental care services for cats and dogs aim to maintain healthy teeth and gums, ensuring pets live longer and healthier lives. Many pet owners may be unaware that dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets; up to 80% of dogs and cats begin to suffer from dental problems around the age of three. Dental disease not only causes discomfort but can also allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, leading to more serious conditions such as kidney, heart, and metabolic diseases.
Regular dental care helps prevent various health issues and reduces the risk of pain or gum infections. Early detection of dental problems significantly improves a pet’s quality of life. With extensive clinical experience, Dr. Martin excels at handling the diverse care needs of pets from puppy/kittenhood to their senior years. He firmly believes that excellent medical care should not stop at “treatment” but must begin with “prevention.”
“The role of a general family vet is to accompany pets through every stage of their lives,” says Dr. Martin. “Through regular physical exams, oral care, and ultrasound monitoring, we can detect potential health risks early and intervene before a disease develops. This not only alleviates the pet’s suffering but also significantly enhances their quality of life.” Dr. Martin also reminds pet owners: “Prevention is better than cure. Owners should pay attention to subtle but persistent changes in daily life, such as appetite, water intake, weight, and behavior patterns. These are often the most overlooked aspects of a health check-up.”
Case Study: Advanced Endoscopy Saves Pet from Major Surgery
Dr. Martin holds a keen interest in endoscopy and soft tissue surgery, utilizing advanced equipment for precise diagnosis. He recently handled a memorable emergency case involving Taro, a mischievous Jack Russell Terrier. While his owner was playing a board game, Taro curiously swallowed a die, leading to immediate vomiting and loss of appetite.
Facing this critical situation, Dr. Martin leveraged his clinical experience to perform an endoscopic procedure during the “golden window” of time. This allowed him to successfully retrieve the foreign object from Taro without the need for invasive surgery, avoiding the trauma and risks associated with traditional laparotomy. Taro recovered rapidly after the procedure and was able to return home the same day.
Dr. Martin’s diagnostic and treatment philosophy aligns perfectly with VEC’s core values. Supported by VEC’s robust 24-hour emergency infrastructure and high-end equipment, Dr. Martin provides immediate, high-level endoscopic treatment for sudden cases like Taro’s, saving critical time and reducing the risks associated with hospital transfers.
Seamless Trilingual Communication: Caring for the Vet-Patient Relationship with a “Family-First” Heart
Beyond his medical expertise, Dr. Martin’s linguistic advantages provide transparency and psychological support for pet owners. Graduating from the University of Edinburgh in 2018, Dr. Martin is fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. Not only can he manage various soft tissue surgeries and endoscopic treatments, but his “internal and external” versatility allows him to communicate accurately and warmly with pet owners from diverse backgrounds, helping them choose the most suitable treatment plans.
He practices medicine under the philosophy of “Caring for pets and owners with a family-first heart.” Dr. Martin believes that effective communication can alleviate the anxiety owners feel when their pets are ill, building a deep bond of trust. “I hope every owner who enters the consultation room can feel the sincerity of ‘treating pets as our own,’” he adds. “When we treat patients as family, the diagnosis becomes deeper and the treatment warmer.” This human-centric communication model helps address not only the pet’s physiological pain but also supports the owner through the ups and downs of the treatment process.
By combining VEC’s powerful hardware and 24-hour emergency system with compassionate, detailed communication, the addition of Dr. Martin ensures that the “General Family Vet” experience remains person-centered, helping pet families build a stronger and more transparent health defense line.
VEC Veterinary Emergency Centre (Belcher’s Street) Address: Shop B2-C, G/F, Luen Wai San Chuen, 136-142 Belcher’s Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong Scope of Service: Open 24/7, providing 24-hour emergency and inpatient services, house-call services, and professional support for emergencies at any time.
VEC Veterinary Emergency Centre (Davis Street) Address: Shop C & H, G/F, Luen Kee San Chuen, 9-9C Davis Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong Scope of Service: Providing specialized internal medicine, various surgical and orthopedic procedures, and outpatient services.
Unifying the Mixed-Use Portfolio of Iconic “66” Brand with Enriching Experiences and Brand Collaborations
HONG KONG SAR and SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) (“Hang Lung” or the “Company”) is kicking off its 66th anniversary celebrations in the Chinese Mainland with a first look at the year-round exclusive experiences, bespoke offers, and strategic partnerships curated under the theme “66 and beyond.” Throughout 2026, the Company will bring this milestone to life across its retail, office, and hotel portfolio, showcasing one-of-a-kind collaborations and experiences designed to enrich lives and connect communities.
The Chinese New Year campaign across ten “66” malls in eight Mainland cities kicks off Hang Lung’s 66th anniversary celebrations
Rooted in the Company’s identity, “66” traces back to Plaza 66 at 1266 West Nanjing Road in Shanghai, and has since evolved into a symbol of Hang Lung’s mixed-use portfolio in the Mainland. “66 and beyond” captures the spirit of that evolution, signifying the Company’s limitless potential for the future.
As the first quarterly highlight of the anniversary year, celebrations began with the nationwide Chinese New Year campaign, “Find Your Steed, Forge Your Path“(隆馬新程), running from now until March 3, 2026. Taking place across ten “66” malls in eight Mainland cities, the campaign invites customers to explore contemporary installations that reinterpret traditional auspicious motifs along with engaging workshops and offers tailored to the cultural spirit of each city.
Hang Lung is also rolling out the year-round “66 and beyond” hotel offers, celebrating the milestone through thoughtfully curated stay, dining, and wellness experiences.
Conrad Shenyang has launched a special room rate at 66% of the Best Available Rate, an exclusive F&B set at RMB666, a special wellness experience package, and more.
Grand Hyatt Kunming is offering the complimentary Hang Lung 66th Anniversary Benefits Package to all room guests, featuring beauty, dining and other coupons at Spring City 66; a SPA Thai Aromatic Massage at RMB666; the 66th Anniversary Afternoon Tea, and special F&B menus priced at RMB66 across the hotel’s restaurants and bars, among others.
Conrad Shenyang and Grand Hyatt Kunming have launched the “66 and beyond” hotel offers
The anniversary celebrations will continue to unfold throughout 2026, with more exclusive experiences and special moments to be announced in the coming quarters, inviting customers, tenants, and communities to celebrate “66 and beyond”.
Key milestones of the “66” brand
Appendix – Details of “66 and beyond” hotel offers
Hotel
Offers
Conrad Shenyang
Guestroom
Room rate at 66% of the Best Available Rate for Premium Room and above.
Deluxe Room Package at RMB1,660 and Deluxe Suite Package at RMB2,266, each including complimentary room upgrade and F&B allowance of RMB660.
Laundry coupon at RMB66, with a redemption value of RMB100.
Others
F&B Set for Two at RMB666 at The Gallery, The Archive, LINK Restaurant and Man Tang.
Fitness center pass at RMB6,666, including 30 sessions and six additional trial vouchers; single-session access available at RMB166.
Wedding discount voucher at RMB6,666, with a redemption value of RMB10,000.
Grand Hyatt Kunming
Guestroom
Complimentary Hang Lung 66th Anniversary Benefits Package for all room guests, including beauty, dining and other coupons at Spring City 66.
Hang Lung 66th Anniversary Suite Package at RMB2,866, including the “66th Anniversary Afternoon Tea” for two at Patine Lounge and complimentary upgrade to Grand Club Lounge benefits for HOUSE 66’s Ruby Tier members and above.
Wellness
SPA Thai Aromatic Massage at RMB666.
60-minute SPA Aromatherapy Full Body Massage at RMB366 for HOUSE 66’s Agate Tier members and above.
One-month and annual membership card of the fitness center at RMB1,666 and RMB8,866 respectively for HOUSE 66’s Agate Tier members and above.
F&B
Signature dishes at RMB66 at Yun Xiang Chinese Restaurant, Grand Café, Osara Restaurant, and Altitude Bar for HOUSE 66’s Ruby Tier members and above.
10% service charge waiver on wedding package for HOUSE 66’s Sapphire and Emerald Tier members.
For complete details, please refer to the hotel’s official website, WeChat mini-program, or other official channels. More information will be announced in due course.
http://www.hanglung.com/
Hashtag: #HangLungProperties
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2026 – CyCraft Technology Corporation (TWSE: 7823), Taiwan’s first pure-play AI-native cybersecurity company, has officially listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange Innovation Board, marking a major milestone for Asia’s emerging AI-driven security leaders.
CyCraft’s founders joined representatives from the Taiwan Stock Exchange, Yuanta Securities, auditors, and legal advisors to celebrate the company’s listing on the TWSE Innovation Board.
CyCraft is forged in one of the world’s most challenging cyber environments. Taiwan faces persistent and large-scale cyber threats from highly-motivated threat actors targeting government, semiconductor supply chains, financial systems, and critical infrastructure. Rather than theorizing about threats, CyCraft has spent years defending against them at national and industry scale.
That experience has produced real-world operational advantages global markets increasingly demand: early-warning intelligence, autonomous machine-speed defense, and field-proven AI automation that cannot be casually replicated.
As generative AI reshapes software development, many SaaS categories face commoditization through “vibe-coding.” Cybersecurity stands apart. Mission-critical defense requires real adversarial data, ultra-low latency, zero-configuration precision, continuous adaptation against sophisticated attacks, and regulatory-grade trust. These capabilities are not synthetic. AI does not replace cyber defense—it amplifies defenders who already operate in real operational environments.
CyCraft’s platform is built around three growth engines:
Enterprise Cyber Resilience.
Its flagship XCockpit AI platform operates over 600K sensors, protecting hundreds of government agencies, financial institutions, and semiconductor leaders across Asia-Pacific. The platform delivers preemptive exposure discovery, automated attack-path simulation, SEMI E187-compliant supply-chain risk mapping, and autonomous triage and response. The shift from reactive protection to preemptive resilience defines CyCraft’s core value proposition.
AI Agent & LLM Security.
As enterprises deploy LLMs and autonomous agents, CyCraft addresses a rapidly emerging risk layer. XecGuard provides ultra-low-latency AI guardrails to detect and prevent prompt injection, jailbreaks, data exfiltration, and tool misuse in real time. Paired with XecART, an automated red-teaming and evaluation platform, CyCraft delivers a scalable, cloud-based and on-prem AI gateway for secure multi-agent orchestration.
The XecGuard and XecART dashboards enable enterprise AI governance with real-time guardrails, automated red teaming, and flexible deployment via on-premises environments or cloud-based APIs.
Enterprise Cyber Resilience.
Its flagship XCockpit AI platform operates over 600K sensors, protecting hundreds of government agencies, financial institutions, and semiconductor leaders across Asia-Pacific. The platform delivers preemptive exposure discovery, automated attack-path simulation, SEMI E187-compliant supply-chain risk mapping, and autonomous triage and response. The shift from reactive protection to preemptive resilience defines CyCraft’s core value proposition.
AI Agent & LLM Security.
As enterprises deploy LLMs and autonomous agents, CyCraft addresses a rapidly emerging risk layer. XecGuard provides ultra-low-latency AI guardrails to detect and prevent prompt injection, jailbreaks, data exfiltration, and tool misuse in real time. Paired with XecART, an automated red-teaming and evaluation platform, CyCraft delivers a scalable, cloud-based and on-prem AI gateway for secure multi-agent orchestration.
The XecGuard and XecART dashboards enable enterprise AI governance with real-time guardrails, automated red teaming, and flexible deployment via on-premises environments or cloud-based APIs.
XecGuard enables enterprise AI governance with real-time guardrails and flexible deployment via on-premises environments or cloud-based APIs.
Unmanned Systems Security.
CyCraft’s XecDefend platform pioneers cyber protection and disruption capabilities for AI-driven anti-drone defense. The solution enables autonomous detection, soft-kill response, and resilient protection for unmanned aerial, maritime, and ground systems—offering software-defined defense for critical infrastructure and defense supply chains.
CyCraft’s credibility is reinforced by third-party validation, including seven appearances in Gartner research, three MITRE ATT&CK evaluations with zero-configuration and zero-latency performance, and the “Next-Big” Award from former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, recognizing CyCraft as the “TSMC of cybersecurity.”.
In 2025 alone, CyCraft handled multiple critical incidents for Taiwan-listed companies and completed over ten forensic investigations in support of cyber insurance engagements in Japan.
Chairman Benson Wu stated, “In Taiwan, with AI, we help secure the world. This listing accelerates our global expansion through organic growth and strategic M&A. Our goal is to surpass 50% overseas revenue by 2030 and build Asia’s most trusted AI-native cybersecurity brand.”
Disclaimer: The information contained herein does not constitute advice.
Source: Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RNZRSA)
The Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RNZRSA) welcomes today’s High Court decision, which confirms that the organisation acted lawfully and in good faith when it adopted transitional provisions under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 to approve its new constitution.
The Court rejected a challenge brought by a small number of Auckland-based RSAs, finding that the RNZRSA was within its rights to rely on transitional provisions that allowed constitutional changes to pass with the support of 50 percent of votes cast, rather than the 75 percent threshold that previously applied.
In its judgment, the Court held that the 2022 Act intentionally grants incorporated societies greater flexibility during the transition to the new legal regime and allows them to adopt new constitutions using a simplified voting threshold, provided the process is transparent and properly notified.
The Court accepted that the RNZRSA had acted in the best interests of members, noting that they had obtained specialist legal advice before recommending the transitional approach and had clearly communicated the proposed process to its member RSAs. The Court found no evidence of improper purpose, procedural unfairness, or any attempt to circumvent members’ rights. The Court also found that the RNZRSA had undertaken a “careful and thorough planning, drafting and consultation process” for the new constitution.
“We are pleased the Court has confirmed that the RNZRSA followed a sound and legally robust process,” said Board Chair Rhys Jones. “This decision brings clarity and certainty, allowing us to continue modernising our organisation so we can better support veterans and their whānau.”
The Court also recognised that the RNZRSA’s adoption of the new constitution was necessary to ensure timely compliance with the Incorporated Societies Act 2022, which requires all societies to transition to updated governance frameworks, and to allow member RSAs time to adopt their own constitutions.
“We undertook this process in good faith, guided by expert legal advice, and with the best interests of our members and New Zealand’s veteran community at heart,” Jones said. “The High Court’s findings affirm that commitment.
The RNZRSA’s National President Tony Hill welcomed the decision and the opportunity it has provided to continue strengthening the organisation.
“We look forward to moving on as a united group, working constructively with all member RSAs to continue building and strengthening the RNZRSA to meet the challenges of the future, and ensure we are able to support all of our veterans.”
Police have caught up with a group of young people likely involved in a wave of vehicle crime across parts of Auckland.
Frontline units deployed across the North Shore and west Auckland in the early hours of this morning.
It all began just before 3.30am in Hillcrest.
Inspector Jason Edwards, of Waitematā Police, says a member of the public reported vehicles being interfered with on Stanaway Street.
“We received reports that vehicles parked on the street were being interfered with by a group of males before they fled in another vehicle,” he says.
“Units quickly responded into the area and enquiries began to locate this group.”
Four vehicles had been interfered with by the group, and Police also located an ignition barrel on the ground.
Meanwhile, the Police Eagle helicopter was watching as a group of young people abandoned a stolen vehicle in Massey around half an hour later.
Inspector Edwards says they were seen trying on foot walking onto Zefiro Drive.
“Ground units were directed to their location with all five quickly taken into custody,” he says.
“We have established this group had just been travelling with two stolen vehicles in tandem, before colliding with each other on the Royal Road offramp.
“They abandoned one vehicle and had carried on a short distance.”
Those arrested are aged between 13 and 16.
Four males have been charged with unlawfully getting into a vehicle and will appear in the Waitākere Youth Court today.
Inspector Edwards says the group is also being spoken to in relation to other vehicle crime across west Auckland and the North Shore.
“This is an outstanding result for Police and our community,” he says.
“I would like to acknowledge all the frontline teams from the North Shore and Henderson, as well as our Crime Squad that responded this morning.”
Police continue to ask the community to report suspicious activity in their neighbourhood.
“Police acknowledge the vigilant member of the public for reporting the suspicious activity in the first instance,” he says.
“We know that stolen vehicles are used to commit further offending against the community, so to be able to disrupt this group is a great outcome.”
