Category: United States of America

Posted on

Country Life: International blade shearers on edge for the Golden Shears

Source: Radio New Zealand

Blade shearers at work preparing for the Golden Shears in Masterton. RNZ/Sally Round

At Rewa Rewa Station’s woolshed in Tīnui shearers are at work, but it’s not as noisy as usual.

Over the clatter of sheep hooves on the floorboards, you can make out the snip-snip-snip of blade shears instead of the much louder whirr of machine shearing tools.

Holding the shears – which look like giant scissors – are 15 blade shearers from several countries – here to learn a few tips from world champion blade shearer Allan Oldfield, in preparation for the Golden Shears competition in Masterton next week.

Follow Country Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart or wherever you get your podcasts.

Blade shearing is slower than machine shearing but leaves a thicker layer of wool on the sheep, beneficial if they’re caught in spring storms, Oldfield said.

“Blade shears leave about half an inch, so 10 or 12 millimetres of wool on the sheep, and that just gives them some protection against the elements, whereas even the cover combs on machines, which are meant to leave more wool on, they only leave five or six millimetres of wool.”

It’s done over a short season but is a skill in demand, with only about 20 commercial blade shearers in New Zealand, he said.

“It takes a lot of time to learn to blade shear well. For three months of work a year, a lot of people aren’t willing to put that effort in.”

A shearer works his way with his blades over a sheep, leaving a thicker layer of wool on the animal, beneficial before spring storms. RNZ/Sally Round

Blade shearing tutors Allan Oldfield and his father Phil at smoko in the woolshed. RNZ/Sally Round

Blade shearing is valued for cultural as well as practical reasons, according to the multi-national group in the woolshed.

Maureen Cadet from France has used her blades on flocks on remote islands where there is no electricity, and on milking sheep in the Pyrenees.

“It’s actually a pretty nice day, because everybody is gathering. We are, like, 20 or more shearers, blade shearing on that small flock for the day, and having a party at night.”

Wearing moccasins, tough jeans and a black singlet, she looks like shearers the world over, honing her blades on a sharpening tool in the corner of the woolshed.

Maureen Cadet holding a pair of blades. She has ten pairs at home in France. RNZ/Sally Round

In another part of the shed, shearers from The Netherlands and the Basque Country sort through a fleece, exchanging knowledge in a mixture of Spanish, Dutch and English.

Erik Bijlsma, from The Netherlands, likes the idea of practising an old craft.

“We’ve got those flocks that are grazing fields of heather, that are brought into the village, and then they make a sort of a festivity out of it to shear the sheep, and that’s all done in the traditional way.

“It’s much easier on the ears than machine shearing.”

Blade shearers from The Netherlands, France and the United States training at Rewa Rewa Station in Tīnui. RNZ/Sally Round

Being a social bunch, blade shearers enjoy the relative quiet of their craft, Oldfield’s father Phil said.

With half a century of shearing and wool handling under his belt, he was also in the woolshed imparting his knowledge.

Not having to shout above the machines, talk on the woolshed floor veers from politics to religion to relationships he said.

Also, according to Oldfield senior, blade shearing is way easier on the body.

“When you machine-shear a sheep, you pretty much turn it 360 degrees every time you shear them. And you’re shearing 200 or 300 or 400 a day.

“With the blade shearing, you walk around the sheep, and you might shear one or 200 sheep a day, so a lot less weight being carted around.”

Loren Opstedahl from South Dakota is in the United States’ two-person blade shearing team. He has competed at the Golden Shears twice before in machine-shearing.

His blades and his body were getting a good workout at the blade shearing school – good practice given he rarely took up the blades back home.

“If I practice, I’m shearing alongside my team. So they’re shearing with machines, and I’m over there shearing with the blades, slower, making less money, killing time.

“I just have to force myself to do the practice there, because it’s more nostalgic in the US.”

Allan Oldfield took his blade shearing school to Rewa Rewa Station in Wairarapa to give blade shearers some tips before competition at the Golden Shears. RNZ/Sally Round

New Zealand traditionally does well in the blade shearing, Allan Oldfield said, with South Africa the toughest ones to beat.

He was expecting good competition at the Golden Shears.

“The big thing for competition shearing, and that we’re working on here, is getting a really clean finish on the sheep.

“Blade shearing is probably 65 percent quality of the job, 35 percent speed.”

Learn more:

  • Find out more about the Golden Shears here

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/28/country-life-international-blade-shearers-on-edge-for-the-golden-shears/

Posted on

Farmers calling for same animal welfare standards on local and imported pork

Source: Radio New Zealand

NZPork has previously warned that local producers were struggling against a flood of lower-welfare imports. 123RF

Farmers are renewing calls for the Government to enforce the same animal welfare standards that local pig farmers face on imported pork.

A group of farmers, pork producers and advocates wrote to the Prime Minister and government ministers this week, calling for a “level playing field” among locally-produced and imported product.

The pork industry has wanted this for years now, with industry group NZPork warning that local producers were struggling against a flood of lower-welfare imports.

NZPork estimated that more than 63 percent of pork consumed in Aotearoa came from countries like United States, Spain, Germany and Canada.

In some of these countries, farmers still used sow stalls (narrow cages for pregnant pigs) which New Zealand banned, and had smaller space requirements or longer periods allowed for sows in farrowing crates (that have just given birth to protect the piglets).

It came after last year’s controversial move by the Government to allow farmers a decade grace period before enforcing stricter welfare regulations.

Waikato dairy farmer Walt Cavendish was about to transition his Matamata farming operation into free range pork farming.

He signed the letter addressed to the Government, having said farmers, consumers and the animals deserve high welfare standards.

“New Zealand led the way in 1999 with the Animal Welfare Act. It was a world leading piece of legislation,” he said.

“We made quite a clear decision as a country that animal welfare matters. And we seem to have gone down the road of insisting on that for our farmers, but not insisting that for our imports.”

“For these family farming families, they’re trying to compete with product that would just not be allowed to be farmed here.”

Cavendish had met with officials on the matter previously, and said New Zealand could legally enforce what was called a public morals exemption on importers

“The biggest argument that’s put is the trade implications.

“They’re just so nervous about it.

“Everyone keeps using the trade argument.”

But he said it would be unlikely that those exporting nations would take retaliatory action in response, considering the New Zealand market’s small scale.

“It’s just an argument to try and stop this going further, and that’s why I’m quite firm that the public morals exemption is our best way forward.

“And realistically, with such a low amount of the export from these countries, that they’re hardly going to worry about it.”

He believed people’s fears that pork prices would go up even further if we ditched imports was a “false narrative”, as the national pig herd would likely increase to meet demand.

“Because ultimately, you would be able to produce more, so the cost of production would go down.

“We don’t really feel that the price will go through the roof at all, and there are examples that Animal Policy International have done in their research, where we’re talking peanuts, you know, very little. We’re talking cents, not dollars, in relation to the price adjustment per kilogram of pork.”

But he acknowledged it was a significant concern for cash-strapped consumers, though many of them were passionate about animal welfare.

“One of the big things I get from people that comment to me is their fear of the price going up, because they can’t even now afford a lot of the meat products on the shelf.

Trade minister Todd McClay said if New Zealand introduced requirements based on our methods of production, this could potentially undermine our efforts to prevent other countries from applying unjustified measures that could impact negatively on our agricultural exports.

“Last year animal product exports worth $42 billion reached plates around the globe, making up more than half of our total goods exports.”

“New Zealand is a global leader in farmed animal welfare standards, which underpin our trade reputation and the high quality of our global exports.”

McClay said New Zealand works with other countries to improve animal welfare standards through our membership in the World Organisation for Animal Health and through bilateral collaboration.

“It is important to recognise that different countries have different production systems. Approaches to caring for animals are adapted to local conditions and applying the same standard can sometimes result in different welfare outcomes.”

Food and Agriculture Organization’s latest statistics show New Zealand imported more than 47,000 tonnes of pork in 2023.

The “Fair for Farmers” campaign was launched at the Northland Fieldays in Dargaville today that ran into Saturday.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/farmers-calling-for-same-animal-welfare-standards-on-local-and-imported-pork/

Posted on

Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern moving to Australia

Source: Radio New Zealand

Dame Jacinda Ardern. RNZ

Dame Jacinda Ardern is moving to Australia.

The news comes after an Australia real estate website reported the former New Zealand prime minister had been house hunting for properties in Sydney’s northern beaches.

According to RealEstate.com.au, Ardern and husband Clarke Gayford were seen looking at homes for sale in Curl Curl and Freshwater.

The website puts the median price for homes in Curl Curl at AUD$4.1 million (NZD$4.8m) with a growth of 6 percent in the last 12 months.

In Freshwater, RealEstate.com.au said the median price was $3.9m.

In a statement, a spokesman for Ardern said her family had been travelling “for a few years now”.

“For the moment they’re basing themselves out of Australia – they have work there, and it brings the added bonus of more time back home in New Zealand.”

Ardern, Gayford and 7-year-old daughter, Neve Gayford, had been living in the United States where Ardern was working for Harvard University.

She is also a trustee of Prince William’s Earthshot Prize.

In March 2025, Ardern joined Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government as a Distinguished Fellow and member of the world leaders circle.

Ardern also recent released a memoir, A Different Kind of Power, and a children’s book, Mum’s Busy Work.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/former-prime-minister-dame-jacinda-ardern-moving-to-australia/

Posted on

New Zealanders in Iran urged to leave as tensions rise

Source: Radio New Zealand

Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced travel bans on members of the Iranian regime involved in the violent suppression of protests. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The Foreign Minister is warning New Zealanders to get out of Iran, adding that the advice to not travel there has been long-standing.

Tensions have been increasing between Iran and the US, and the New Zealand government applied further sanctions on the nation this week.

“It has been horrifying to witness the brutal killing of thousands of protesters in Iran,” Winston Peters said.

“Iranians have the right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and access to information. Those rights have been ruthlessly violated.”

New Zealand joined Australia, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada and the United States in implementing travel bans targeting 40 individuals, including Minister of the Interior Eskandar Momeni, Minister of Intelligence Esmail Khatib, and Prosecutor-General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad. It will also include members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Peters said if war broke out in Iran, which he said was possibly likely, there was a risk innocent New Zealand citizens could be retaliated against by the local regime.

He told RNZ he suspects there could be hundreds of Kiwis in Iran – currently 26 are registered as being there.

“The last time we had this exercise when we were getting people out rapidly when we thought there was an emergency it proved to be well over 130 and very dramatically in the last few days, so we just don’t know.

“Get out, I suppose, is the safest answer for us to give them, and it’s been the advice we’ve given them for some considerable time now,” he said.

In this circumstance Peters says there could be retaliation and that’s why he is encouraging New Zealanders to get out.

“If war was to break out the retaliation against innocent citizens who are there with no essence of guilt whatsoever could be nevertheless very huge, and that’s what we’re warning people against – not just getting caught up in the war but being caught up in retaliatory measures by the local regime.”

Peters told RNZ the motivation for New Zealanders staying in Iran is most likely being near family and making sure they’re safe.

“New Zealanders need to know we go to extraordinary efforts to try and keep our people safe but they have to do their bit to.”

On whether war is likely to break out in Iran, he said, “it’s possibly likely and you have to deal with the worst case circumstances if they arise and that’s what we’re trying to do”.

Peters said there were many countries who shared New Zealand’s view that “Iran is being supported by countless examples of terrorist proxies worldwide – and there are many Middle Eastern and Islamic countries who hold that view as well”.

On global tensions Peters told RNZ it’s the worst he’s seen it since World War II.

“It’s made things all that much more difficult for countries like New Zealand that’s got a tremendous record of supporting peaceful measures and engaging in freedom and democracy and the rule of law.

“It’s made it difficult for all of us but we’ve got to press on and make sure we don’t lose this battle,” he said.

In January, the New Zealand embassy in Iran was temporarily closed due to the “deteriorating” security situation.

At the time a ministry spokesperson said all diplomatic staff had left Iran on commercial flights, shifting operations to Ankara in Turkey.

The government’s long-standing advice over a number of years has been not to travel to Iran and in January, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) urged any New Zealanders still in the country to leave now.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/new-zealanders-in-iran-urged-to-leave-as-tensions-rise/

Posted on

‘Lot of urgency’ for Tall Blacks ahead of Fiba World Cup qualifying games

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tall Blacks and Australian NBL players like Reuben Te Rangi will be looking for different contracts in the off-season. www.photosport.nz

The winless Tall Blacks hit the road this week faced with the duel challenge of qualification for next year’s Fiba World Cup hanging in the balance and players leaving camp early to chase lucrative overseas contracts.

Home and away defeats against Australia late last year put New Zealand on the back foot in the Asian Qualifiers.

The Tall Blacks need a win against the Philippines on Friday or Guam on Sunday to keep hopes of finishing in the top three in their qualification group alive.

New Zealand’s road to qualifying for the world cup for an eighth time started in November and will not conclude until March next year – all things going to plan.

But the Tall Blacks’ campaign could come to a halt as soon as July if they do not start winning.

Head coach Judd Flavell said there was a “lot of urgency” to get results in this window.

“We need to win as many games as we can, it doesn’t mean that if we lose this game it is all over but there is a lot of importance on these two games in this window and the same can be said for every window after this.”

Flavell will have a strong core of players to call on against the undefeated Philippines including New Zealand Breakers teammates Reuben Te Rangi, Taylor Britt, Max Darling, Carlin Davison, Alex McNaught and Sam Mennenga as well as Brisbane Bullets trio Tyrell Harrison, Taine Murray and Tohi Smith-Milner.

Akita Northern Happinets centre Yanni Wetzell is also back for the first game while Jordan Ngatai’s return to the black singlet will see him add to his 93 appearances.

But some of those players will leave camp before the Guam game.

“We have some players who have made themselves available [for the Philippines game] but they’re moving on to [club] contracts and the thing with these international windows is they are during the seasons and the Australian NBL season has come to an end for most of the guys in our squad and so those guys have got another contract that they’re looking to go to and some of those contracts are quite lucrative.

“Guys have put up their hand to come along to this first game because they know how important this one is and we’ve got another great chance to develop our depth in the second game.”

Big men Wetzell, Mennenga and Harrison are names that are likely to be missing as they take up new club contracts.

The Tall Blacks sit dejected after their loss during the FIBA World Cup Qualifier against Australia. Marty Melville/ Photosport

Flavell said the unavailability of players at different times of the year, either through college seasons in the United States or club contracts around the world, was the “number one challenge” the Tall Blacks faced.

“When it comes down to it you really want to try to build as much continuity as you can and that’s going to result in taking steps forward and having progression.

“But it is what it is, it’s to no one’s fault it’s just how it works and we’ve got to do the best we can and be problem solvers.

“It effects all countries, but if you look at a some of the super power teams, and Australia is one of those super power teams, with the depth they have and some of the other countries for a smaller country like us we’re probably effected a little bit more.

“It’s a funny old season the international qualification windows where you come together for a few days and play a couple of games and then you don’t see each other for three months and then you come together and try to do it again really quickly.”

Flavell has had mixed results against the Philippines.

His first game in charge of the national team in November 2024 was a loss to the Gilas in Manila. It was the first time the Tall Blacks had lost to them.

However, last year Flavell guided the team to two wins over Philippines in Asia Cup qualifiers to take the head-to-head to six wins for the Tall Blacks.

Back in “basketball-mad” Manila, Flavell said New Zealand would face a “hostile” environment fuelled by around 20,000 Gilas supporters.

Having played a number of times over the last 12 months Flavell said they “have great familiarity” with what the Philippines will put on the floor and did not expect any surprises.

Following their showdown with the Philippines, the Tall Blacks travel to Guam.

Flavell and many of the roster had not been to Guam before.

Like the Tall Blacks, Guam are at the bottom of the Group A standings with two losses, against Philippines, in the first window.

New Zealand has taken care of Guam in their two previous match-ups, with a 125-43 win back in 1999 and more recently a 113-94 win during the 2020 Fiba Asia Cup Qualifying campaign but Flavell said the current Guam team they knew less about.

“It’s always a bit of danger when you don’t know so much about your opposition”.

Guam host Australia in the first game in this window.

The third qualifier window is in July, when Philippines and Guam both come to Auckland.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/lot-of-urgency-for-tall-blacks-ahead-of-fiba-world-cup-qualifying-games/

Posted on

NRL kicks off in Vegas this weekend

Source: Radio New Zealand

National Rugby League players Spencer Leniu (3rd L), Billy Walters (5th L), Aaron Woods (C) and Campbell Graham (3rd R) pose with Las Vegas showgirls, an Elvis impersonator and Fijian warriors. Vegas Promo Tour at Allegiant Stadium on December 12, 2023. David Becker

The National Rugby League competition kicks off on Sunday in Las Vegas, with four teams making the trip to start the season – the Knights, Cowboys, Bulldogs and Dragons.

This is the third year the NRL has taken its first round to Las Vegas to put on a showpiece for the American market.

But it’s also round one of 27 to try and make it to the much-coveted grand final.

Bulldogs winger Marcelo Montoya said they still needed to focus on the result.

“For us it’s important that we get the two points,” he said.

“I know we’re going there to play and it’s exciting but at the top of our minds when we go there – the two points is what’s important for us.”

The Bulldogs play the Dragons in Vegas, after the Knights and Cowboys open season 2026 at the 65,000-capacity Allegiant Stadium.

It’s a long way from home for all of the teams, but some fans are expected to follow them over to Sin City.

Knights centre Dane Gagai said Newcastle fans tended to come out of the woodwork in most places.

“Knights fans turn up everywhere,” he said.

“No matter where you go, up north Queensland, they’re just everywhere, so I’m sure we’re going to have a fairly good turnout over in Vegas.

“I know people have already got their tickets and they’ve been mentioning that they can’t wait to get over there and watch us play, so hopefully we cannot disappoint.”

The Vegas season opener was introduced to the NRL in 2024.

On offer this week have been the Las Vegas Nines, a signing session, a school gala, and OzFest, and Scotland will play the USA in a triple header – the under-19 youth teams, the women’s sides and the men’s teams – at Cougar Stadium.

Super League teams Hull and Leeds will kick off the match day, which is Saturday local time, Sunday for most of the Pacific.

Game one of the new season kicks off at 1:15pm on Sunday (AEDT) – Knights versus Cowboys.

Now-retired Cowboy Chad Townsend told the NRL’s Game Plan show about the players to watch in his old team.

“For me the keys to attack for the North Queensland Cowboys… Scott Drinkwater… led the Cowboys in line-break assists and try assists last year.

“Tom Deardon – obviously the show-and-go we know is elite, defensively very sound, great leader; and Jaxon Purdue.”

After the Vegas games, the remainder of round one continues in Australia – and in Auckland, for the Warriors hosting the Roosters – from 5-8 March.

The Broncos are the defending champions. They also made it to the final of the World Club Challenge earlier this month, but lost 30-24 to Hull.

The Broncos will face the Panthers in the first round.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/nrl-kicks-off-in-vegas-this-weekend/

Posted on

Scales corporation profits off the scale

Source: Radio New Zealand

Harvest of Posy apples is under at Mr Apple’s Meeanee orchard near Napier. SUPPLIED/Mr Apple

Strong sales of premium apple varieties into Asia and the Middle East has led Scales Corporation to report a massive jump in profit.

The company’s net profit for the 2025 financial year was $117.7 million – a 137 percent lift on the year before.

Revenue was $899.9 million, up 54 percent on 2024.

The company’s horticulture division, Mr Apple, produced an underlying result of $65.2 million up 73 percent on the year before.

Managing director Andy Borland said horticulture delivered an outstanding result driven by increased apple export volumes and average prices.

“Mr Apple’s own-grown export volume was 21 percent up on last year, with our strategically important markets of Asia and Middle East comprising 84 percent of total fruit sold.

“Premium volumes accounted for approximately 74 percent of total export sale volumes, with significant growth in Dazzle and Posy as well as Red Sports varieties. We estimate that Premium apple varieties will account for around 80 percent of export volumes by 2027.”

Last year Scales also bought 240 hectares of apple orchards from Hawke’s Bay company Bostock.

Borland said the acquisition was a key component of this result, allowing it to fast-track its long-term strategy of investing in apple varieties targeted to the Asia and Middle East markets.

He said the company’s juice business, Profuit delivered another exceptional performance underpinned by strong sales prices in export markets.

Scales pet food business saw increased sales to South East Asia and The United States – the underlying result lifted 33 percent to $73.9 million.

It’s logistics arm which provides international freight services delivered another record underlying result of $7.6 million, an increase of 10 percent.

Borland noted logistics processed a significant increase in volumes due to strong volumes from the dairy sector and a positive cherry season, providing an extremely robust result for the division. It also benefited from strong apple volumes.

The outlook for the year ahead remains positive.

Company chair Mike Petersen said In FY2026, global proteins is expected to perform strongly and continue to realise the benefits of its increased investments.

“Mr Apple has commenced picking and packing for the 2026 apple season, with a crop of around 3.5 million TCEs forecast. Pricing is expected to be favourable.

“Logistics is expected to contribute positively and has seen continued strong air freight demand in the year to date,” he said.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/25/scales-corporation-profits-off-the-scale/

Posted on

Science, Maths and English resources rolling into classrooms

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is rolling out new Maths, English, and Science resources and initiatives, helping raise student achievement and sparking discovery in primary classrooms with brand-new science kits, Education Minister Erica Stanford announced.

“We’re committed to helping young people who are behind to accelerate and to ensuring they have the foundations to set them up for the next steps in their learning journey,” Ms Stanford says.

New resources now available include:

  • A new teacher-facilitated writing tool for Year 6 to 10 students a year or more behind
  • Maths resources for Year 9 and 10 students
  • New science kits for primary school classrooms

“Today’s Maths and English package will help ensure children are ready when they finish primary school, along with supporting students currently in their early years of secondary school.

“From next week, through our Make it Write action plan, Year 6 to 10 students who are a year or more behind are set to benefit from the new Writing Acceleration Tool.

“Scribo is a teacher-facilitated 14-week tutoring programme that will provide targeted support for each student’s learning needs. 

“The writing tool will help close literacy gaps and strengthen students’ writing, spelling, and grammar. It is curriculum aligned and designed to reflect New Zealand context and culture.

“We have been able to extend the programme to Year 10, which was initially announced for Years 6 to 8. There will be 120,000 student licences available to all state and state-integrated schools. Resources and strong support will be available for teachers alongside the release.”

New curriculum-aligned digital maths resources are also being provided for Year 9 and 10 students, alongside professional learning and development, following feedback from secondary schools. This is a continuation of the maths supports we have provided to every primary school across the country, now rolling up to Years 9 and 10.

“The new digital resources for Years 9 and 10 will include digital textbooks and workbooks guidance for teachers. Over the next three years, the resources are expected to benefit around 140,000 students each year, supporting 6,000 teachers.

“Teachers can choose the extent to which they use the resources, whether in full, or for supplementing existing resources that are working for them. There will also be professional learning development provided.”

Ms Stanford says a major milestone has also been reached in delivering Budget 2025 investments to strengthen science in primary and intermediate schools.

“New science kits are now rolling out across schools. These will be hands on and curriculum aligned, supporting teachers with bringing science to life in classrooms.

“We’re focused on ensuring every child is inspired and engaged with their learning. The new kits will support strong science from an early age and support teachers to deliver practical, interactive lessons.

“Science is such a fun and interesting part of school for so many young people, full of discovery and experimentation. These kits will provide another great dynamic element to lessons that helps spark interest and knowledge that can lead into new pathways in the future. This will help provide a great introduction to STEM subjects, an in-demand area with high-value jobs.”

Through the Government’s investment of $40 million, science kit provision is set to have full national coverage by early 2027, to align with the implementation of the new science curriculum.

“This is a Government that has put more resources into the hands of students to help raise achievement and close the equity gap, through careful financial management and prioritisation. 

“Our children and teachers deserve the resources and supports to set them up for success. We’re committed to increasing the number of students to the expected level and to growing potential – our investment today is about fixing the basics, and teaching the basics brilliantly.”

Notes to editor:

  • The initiatives support the Government’s target of 80 percent of Year 8 students at, or above, the expected curriculum level for their age in reading, writing and maths by December 2030. The Curriculum Insights and Progress Study 2024 showed that:
    • For writing, 24 percent of Year 8 students were at the expected curriculum benchmark.
    • For maths, 23 per cent of Year 8 students were at the curriculum benchmark
  • The Writing Acceleration tool has been made available in response to results released last year from the Curriculum Insights and Progress Study.
  • Scribo is used internationally by leading school systems across Australia, South-East Asia, the USA and the Middle East.
  • The Government has also funded 349 literacy intervention teachers for primary schools and 143 maths intervention teachers through Budget 2025’s learning support investment package.
  • The maths resources are being provided by Education Perfect, a local Kiwi company.
  • In Maths, through Budget 25, maths intervention teachers will also be providing a new 12-week Maths Acceleration Programme for Years 3 to 6. This will facilitate small-group sessions as an addition to the regular classroom programme. More than 800 schools will be using the programme in 2026, with almost 140 additional full-time equivalent teachers already funded.
  • The maths resources into schools programme for Years 0 to 8 has delivered more than one million maths books.
  • Science kits will be developed and provided by House of Science, a reputable local provider. Training and ongoing support will be available for teachers.
  • 720 schools have already registered for a science kit, ahead of the curriculum. There will be, on average, two kits per year level at any one time. The kits will be taken after a period of time and replaced with a brand-new kit.
  • As part of this initiative, an entirely new suite of science kits is in development for Māori‑medium education, with purpose‑built resources for and settings that align with Te Marautanga o Aotearoa, the Māori curriculum.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/24/science-maths-and-english-resources-rolling-into-classrooms/

Posted on

Middle East Coffee Shops Earn Spots in The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026 List

Source: Media Outreach

This year’s edition sees six coffee shops from the region secure placements in the Top 100 List

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2026 – The second edition of THE WORLD’S 100 BEST COFFEE SHOPS 2026 with DaVinci Gourmet announced its global ranking at CoffeeFest Madrid 2026 on 16 February 2026. This year marks a breakthrough moment for the Middle East. The United Arab Emirates secured two placements in the global Top 100, reinforcing its position as a fast-growing specialty coffee hub. In addition, Qatar and Oman achieved their first-ever entries in the global ranking, and Turkey’s Meet Lab Coffee returned to the list, underscoring the region’s growing presence on the world coffee stage.

2026 Top 100 Winners

The list confirms the emergence of new global capitals of quality coffee, as well as the consolidation of an increasingly diverse and innovative international coffee community that includes The United States, which leads the ranking with nine selected coffee shops, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East.

Middle East coffee shops that made the Top 100 Ranking:

  • Benchmark Coffee, UAE
  • Harvest Coffee, Qatar
  • Meet Lab Coffee, Turkey
  • Azura – The Coffee Company, Oman
  • Cypher Urban Roastery, UAE
  • Flat White Specialty Coffee, Qatar
“Congratulations to all 100 ranked coffee shops. The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026 with DaVinci Gourmet is the global benchmark celebrating the cafés shaping the future of coffee, and as a leading beverage solutions brand, DaVinci Gourmet is proud to stand alongside it as the global title partner,” said Eloise Dubuisson, General Manager, Food Service Brands, Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa.
RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE IN COFFEE
The ranking combines the evaluation of more than 800 professional judges from all continents with public voting, which exceeded 350,000 votes in this edition. In total, more than 15,000 coffee shops worldwide were analysed.
A benchmark for the industry and professionals, The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops is the first global ranking recognising excellence in coffee and aims to highlight coffee shops that not only serve exceptional coffee but also create unique coffee experiences.
As Global and Title Partner of the 2026 edition, and together with initiatives like the DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Championship, DaVinci Gourmet remains committed to championing global beverage artistry and café culture.

Hashtag: #TheWorlds100BestCoffeeShop #DaVinciGourmet

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/2026/02/24/middle-east-coffee-shops-earn-spots-in-the-worlds-100-best-coffee-shops-2026-list/

Posted on

The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops: Asia Pacific’s Notable Winners

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2026 – The second edition of THE WORLD’S 100 BEST COFFEE SHOPS 2026 with DaVinci Gourmet announced its global rankings at CoffeeFest Madrid 2026, revealing a reshaped coffee landscape for the Asia Pacific region.

This definitive list of the world’s best specialty coffee shops saw Australia deepening its leadership with seven coffee shops in the global ranking, Taiwan with four, returning favourites such as Singapore’s Apartment Coffee maintaining its 2025 ranking, and Malaysia’s Story of Ono climb one level up.

Australian newcomer Only Coffee Project Crows Nest clinched 4th position followed by Toby’s Estate Coffee Roasters in 5th. Returning to the list were Proud Mary Coffee and Coffee Anthology, joined by newcomers Beta Coffee and Single O. The blend of returning icons and new entrants underlines Australia’s ongoing influence on global café standards.

In Asia, Apartment Coffee in Singapore and Story of Ono in Malaysia took 6th and 8th place respectively, with The Republic of South Korea, Japan, China, and The Philippines securing placements in this year’s Top 100 rankings.

See the full list at The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops

The list confirms the emergence of new global capitals of quality coffee, as well as the consolidation of an increasingly diverse and innovative international coffee community that includes The United States, which leads the ranking with nine selected coffee shops, South America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East.

“Congratulations to all 100 ranked coffee shops. The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops 2026 with DaVinci Gourmet is the global benchmark celebrating the cafés shaping the future of coffee, and as a leading beverage solutions brand, DaVinci Gourmet is proud to stand alongside it as the global title partner,” said Eloise Dubuisson, General Manager, Food Service Brands, Kerry Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa.

A GLOBAL EVALUATION PROCESS

The ranking is produced through a mixed system combining the evaluation of more than 800 professional judges from all continents with public voting, which exceeded 350,000 votes in this edition. In total, more than 15,000 coffee shops worldwide were analysed.

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE IN COFFEE

A benchmark for the industry and professionals, The World’s 100 Best Coffee Shops aims to highlight coffee shops that not only serve exceptional coffee but also create unique coffee experiences.

As Global and Title Partner of the 2026 edition, and together with initiatives like the DaVinci Gourmet Barista Craft Championship, DaVinci Gourmet remains committed to championing global beverage artistry and café culture.

Hashtag: #TheWorlds100BestCoffeeShop #DaVinciGourmet

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/2026/02/23/the-worlds-100-best-coffee-shops-asia-pacifics-notable-winners/

Posted on

Vietnam Airlines Unveils Major Fleet Expansion with Up to US$ 8.1 Billion Order for 50 Boeing 737-8 Aircraft

Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 February 2026 – Vietnam Airlines, the National Flag Carrier of Vietnam, signed an agreement to purchase 50 Boeing 737-8 narrow-body aircraft in Washington, D.C. (USA), in the presence of General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam To Lam and Vietnamese officials as part of his visit to the United States to attend the Board of Peace.

On the sidelines of the signing ceremony, the airline’s leadership also met with Boeing to discuss a subsequent plan to invest in 30 wide-body aircraft in the coming period, with an estimated total value of over USD 12 billion, in support of its international network development strategy.

This landmark agreement represents a cornerstone of Vietnam Airlines’ long-term fleet modernization strategy. The airline is scheduled to take delivery of the aircraft between 2030 and 2032, with the expansion expected to increase its total fleet to approximately 151 aircraft by 2030. The US$8.1 Billion (at 2025 catalog pricing) investment prioritizes the development of the narrow-body fleet to enhance network frequency, operational flexibility and cost efficiency, while strengthening competitiveness in the next phase of growth.

The Boeing 737-8 aircraft will primarily operate on domestic and regional Asian routes, supporting rising passenger demand and strengthening regional connectivity. Over the next five years, Vietnam Airlines targets sustained double-digit average annual growth across key operating indicators, in line with the robust expansion of Vietnam’s aviation market.

Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is taking a comprehensive and forward-looking approach to strengthening its capabilities, spanning fleet modernization, financial resilience and the development of high quality talent, to support our long term growth ambitions. The investment in 50 Boeing 737-8 aircraft marks a significant step in building a modern, fuel efficient fleet while enhancing operational performance and elevating service standards to meet international benchmarks. This agreement also deepens the long standing strategic partnership between Vietnam Airlines and Boeing, creating a strong foundation for our ambition to become a five star international airline by 2030.”

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “We are proud to build on our partnership with Vietnam Airlines and support them as they pair the 737 MAX with the 787 Dreamliner to further scale regional networks and strengthen connectivity across Asia. The 737‑8’s capabilities, economics and passenger experience make it an ideal airplane to support Vietnam Airlines’ growth plans.”

Boeing 737-8 is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing’s history, recognized for its advanced design, operational reliability, and sustainability performance. With seating for up to 200 passengers and a range of up to 6,570 kilometers, the aircraft offers strong flexibility across short- and medium-haul networks.

Powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines and incorporating an optimized aerodynamic design and advanced technology winglets, the 737 reduces fuel use and emissions by 20 percent compared to the airplanes it replaces. On average, each aircraft is expected to save up to 8 million pounds of CO₂ emissions annually, supporting the airline’s network expansion while lowering operating costs.

The Boeing Sky Interior further enhances the passenger experience, featuring larger pivoting bins, advanced LED lighting, larger windows, and a spacious cabin architecture that delivers a modern and comfortable flying experience.

Beyond fleet expansion, this investment underscores Vietnam Airlines’ long-term commitment to sustainable development, emissions reduction, and service excellence. With the addition of the 737-8, the airline is strengthening its operational capabilities and adherence to international safety and service standards.

To secure diversified funding sources, Vietnam Airlines in 2025 engaged in discussions with domestic banks and dominant U.S. financial institutions, including EXIM Bank and Citi, to arrange financing for strategic projects such as fleet investment.

Building on strengthened financial foundations and improving operational performance, Vietnam Airlines continues to expand its global footprint, including the recent launch of a record 14 new international routes. The introduction of the Boeing 737-8 will further enhance the airline’s capacity to capture growth in the Asia Pacific aviation market, expand connectivity and elevate service quality, as it advances toward its goal of becoming a five-star airline by 2030.

www.vietnamairlines.com

Hashtag: #VietnamAirlines #Boeing7378 #FleetExpansion #AviationIndustry #AirlineGrowth

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/2026/02/19/vietnam-airlines-unveils-major-fleet-expansion-with-up-to-us-8-1-billion-order-for-50-boeing-737-8-aircraft/

Posted on

Health and Policy – Burnett Foundation Aotearoa welcomes the Government’s decision on U=U

Source: Burnett Foundation Aotearoa

Associate Health Minister Doocey’s decision to sign the U=U declaration today is a critical step on the road towards zero locally acquired HIV transmissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.
U = U stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U). It means that a person living with HIV who is on effective treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV to sexual partner(s).
“The U=U message helps increase testing, treatment adherence, and viral suppression rates, but most importantly, it increases the confidence and dignity of people living with HIV. It’s proof that science and compassion walk hand in hand,” says Liz Gibbs, CEO of Burnett Foundation Aotearoa.
This decision makes New Zealand the 5th country to sign the multinational U=U Call to Action, behind Australia, Canada, the USA, and Vietnam.
“Currently people living with HIV may face prosecution under the Crimes Act for HIV non-disclosure to their sexual partners (unless they are using a condom), even if they are on treatment with an undetectable viral load and therefore pose zero risk of transmission. With the Government’s official endorsement of U=U, it gives the Police, Courts and government departments the backing required to modernise outdated guidelines and policies, so they are in-keeping with the latest science.” says Gibbs.
This is a significant step forward that many across the HIV and sexual health community have been advocating for several years, and we are thrilled to see it finally come to pass.
About Burnett Foundation Aotearoa:
The Burnett Foundation Aotearoa is a national organisation dedicated to preventing HIV transmission, supporting people living with HIV and reducing stigma across Aotearoa. For 40 years, it has driven public health education, advocacy, and community-led support. The foundation empowers people with knowledge, care, and connection, working towards a future with zero HIV transmissions. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/health-and-policy-burnett-foundation-aotearoa-welcomes-the-governments-decision-on-uu/

Posted on

New Zealand signs up to U=U commitment for HIV

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand has signed the global Call-to-Action on Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), sending a strong signal of our commitment to ending HIV transmission and ensuring people living with HIV can lead healthy lives free from stigma and discrimination, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“U=U is a clear, evidence-based principle that when someone living with HIV is on effective treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load, they cannot transmit HIV sexually,” Mr Doocey says.

“By signing this Call-to-Action, we are reinforcing U=U as a core part of New Zealand’s HIV response. Increasing awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages testing, supports earlier access to treatment, and strengthens prevention and long-term health outcomes.”

The Call-to-Action encourages countries to embed U=U within HIV guidelines and strategies, improve equitable access to testing and treatment, support community-led initiatives, and strengthen public understanding.

“Endorsing U=U aligns with New Zealand’s National HIV Action Plan, which sets out our goal of eliminating local HIV transmission by 2030 and addressing HIV-related stigma and discrimination.

“While treatment uptake and viral suppression rates are strong, it is clear stigma remains a significant barrier for many people. This commitment sends a clear message that discrimination has no place in New Zealand.”

Mr Doocey acknowledged the many advocates, community organisations and people with lived experience of HIV who have long called for New Zealand to formally endorse U=U.

“This milestone reflects years of dedicated advocacy and leadership from communities most affected by HIV. We thank those with lived experience who have shared their stories and challenged stigma. These voices have been instrumental in driving change.”

New Zealand is the fifth country to join the Call-to-Action. In addition, more than 1,100 organisations across 106 countries have signed on to share the U=U message with their communities.

This builds on the significant progress that has been made in recent years, including reductions in locally acquired HIV infections, increased uptake of combination prevention measures, and expanded testing options.

 Notes to editor:

  • New Zealand joins Canada, the United States, Vietnam and Australia in signing the Call‑to-Action.
  • The move is supported by findings from the latest HIV Monitoring Report, which highlighted ongoing progress in New Zealand’s HIV response. This included 98.5% of people diagnosed with HIV on treatment, and 91.7% achieving viral suppression.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/new-zealand-signs-up-to-uu-commitment-for-hiv/

Posted on

NZ-AU: U.S. Department of Commerce Increases Duties on Chinese Battery-Grade Graphite to 160%+ in Final Determinations

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Feb. 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NOVONIX Limited (NASDAQ: NVX, ASX: NVX) (“NOVONIX” or the “Company”), today acknowledged the U.S. Department of Commerce’s (“Commerce”) final determinations in the antidumping and countervailing duty investigations covering anode active materials (“AAM”) imported into the U.S. from China. The total amount of the tariffs applicable to AAM imported from China will be at least 160%, subject to a final affirmative determination by the U.S. International Trade Commission (“ITC”) that the U.S. AAM industry has been materially impeded because of Chinese AAM imports. The ITC’s final determination is expected in March 2026.

Highlights
Subject to the ITC’s final determination on material impediment:

  • An antidumping duty of 93.5% will be imposed on AAM imports from China from specified companies and a duty of 102.72% will be imposed China-wide on all other exporters
  • A countervailing duty of 66.82% to 66.86% will be imposed on all AAM imports from China producers
  • These duties will remain in effect unless revoked and will be reviewed every five years

“These determinations represent a meaningful step toward restoring fair competition in the U.S. anode materials market,” said Mike O’Kronley, CEO of NOVONIX. “By addressing longstanding trade distortions, these measures strengthen the foundation for domestic production of critical battery materials, accelerate investment in U.S. manufacturing, and support the creation of high-quality advanced manufacturing jobs. We believe this materially enhances NOVONIX’s competitive position as we continue scaling synthetic graphite production in North America.”

The duties apply broadly to anode-graphite materials, as defined by Commerce, including synthetic and natural graphite products, whether coated or uncoated, and blended materials used in lithium-ion battery applications.

The previously imposed 25% tariff under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and 20% tariff under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”) on AAM imports from China remain in effect. The legal validity of the IEEPA tariffs is currently under review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

NOVONIX supports the transparent and rules-based enforcement of U.S. trade laws and believes these determinations represent an important step in promoting fair competition, strengthening domestic battery supply chains, and encouraging long-term capital investment in advanced manufacturing in the United States.

With the most advanced synthetic graphite production capability in North America, NOVONIX is strategically positioned to support customers seeking secure, domestically produced anode materials. The Company continues to execute on its strategy to expand high-performance synthetic graphite production in the United States, reinforcing supply chain resilience, U.S. energy security, and long-term manufacturing competitiveness.

Additional information regarding the determinations is available through the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance records.

This announcement has been authorized for release by NOVONIX Chairman,
Mr. Ron Edmonds.

About NOVONIX
NOVONIX strives to reduce supply chain risk, support U.S. energy independence, and establish a resilient battery materials supply chain. The company is building a North American platform for critical battery materials—anchored by its Chattanooga, Tennessee headquarters and anode materials operations, expanding through its patented all-dry, precursor-free cathode synthesis technology, and supported by industry-leading battery cell testing and R&D services.
Together, these capabilities position NOVONIX as an integrated supplier of advanced battery materials and technologies powering the energy storage and electrification economy.

To learn more, visit us at www.novonixgroup.com or on LinkedIn and X.

For NOVONIX Limited
Investors: ir@novonixgroup.com
Media: media@novonixgroup.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains forward-looking statements about the Company and the industry in which it operates. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” or “would,” or other similar expressions. Examples of forward-looking statements in this communication include, among others, statements made regarding the creation and development of new technology, anticipated production capacity at its facilities, anticipated customer demand, the impacts of economic uncertainty, tariffs, and other legislation on our timely achievement of targets and customer milestones, our ability to obtain or maintain and benefit from additional government funding and other support, our expectations of the benefit of the antidumping and countervailing duty determinations, tariffs imposed on China and other countries, improving and growing battery testing equipment and research and development services business, continued investment in and efforts to commercialize the cathode synthesis technology, and efforts to help localize the battery supply chain for critical materials and play a leading role in the transition to cleaner energy solutions.

The Company has based such statements on current expectations and projections about future events and trends that it believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Such forward-looking statements involve and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the timely deployment and scaling of its furnace technology, ability to meet the technical specifications and demand of existing and future customers, the accuracy of estimates regarding market size, expenses, future revenue, capital requirements, needs and access for additional financing, the availability and impact and compliance with the applicable terms of government funding and other support, ability to obtain patent rights effective to protect its technologies and processes and successfully defend any challenges to such rights and prevent others from commercializing such technologies and processes, and regulatory and economic developments in the United States, Australia, and other jurisdictions. These and other factors that could affect its business and results are included in its filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 20-F. Copies of these filings may be obtained by visiting the Company’s Investor Relations website at www.novonixgroup.com or the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or outcomes, and actual performance and outcomes may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements contained in this communication. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement in this communication is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/nz-au-u-s-department-of-commerce-increases-duties-on-chinese-battery-grade-graphite-to-160-in-final-determinations/

Posted on

Vingroup and Vinhomes named to Time’s Asia-Pacific’s Best Companies of 2026

Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – Vingroup and Vinhomes have been recognized by TIME (USA) in the ranking of ASIA-PACIFIC’S BEST COMPANIES OF 2026, placing both companies among the Top 500 enterprises in the region.The simultaneous presence of Vingroup and Vinhomes with impressive rankings in TIME’s prestigious list not only affirms the global scale and stature of their ecosystem, but also underscores the growing influence of Vietnam’s economy on the international stage.

Vingroup and Vinhomes have been named among the Top 500 Best Companies in Asia-Pacific 2026 by TIME Magazine.

This year’s ranking honors 500 outstanding companies that are elevating the Asia-Pacific region’s role on the global economic map under the title ASIA-PACIFIC’S BEST COMPANIES OF 2026. Vingroup achieved a total score of 89.68, ranking 57th. Vinhomes ranked 352nd with a score of 80.69.

The results are based on a rigorous and transparent evaluation process conducted by TIME in collaboration with Statista. The assessment draws on comprehensive data collection and in-depth analysis across three key criteria: Financial Performance, Sustainability Transparency (ESG), and Employee Satisfaction.

Under the Financial Performance criterion, Vingroup received high recognition from TIME, recording consolidated net revenue of VND 332.77 trillion in 2025, up 76% year-on-year, the highest in the Group’s history. This exceptional performance was driven by the simultaneous launch of large-scale real estate mega-projects nationwide, alongside strong breakthroughs in its technology and industrial segments.

Vinhomes reported consolidated net revenue of VND 154.102 trillion in 2025. Its total consolidated net revenue (adjusted) reached VND 183.923 trillion, while consolidated profit after tax amounted to VND 42.111 trillion, representing year-on-year increases of 30% and 20%, respectively, compared to 2024. These figures not only exceeded business targets but also set new records, securing Vinhomes’ place among the region’s most prestigious Top 500 companies.

Under Sustainability Transparency (ESG), Vingroup continued to demonstrate meaningful contributions across environmental, governance, and social dimensions. ESG principles are integrated across all of the Group’s operations, from advancing green industrial development and building a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem centered on VinFast, to developing Vinhomes’ large-scale urban projects based on sustainable planning standards from inception.

A standout example is Vinhomes’ mega-project, Vinhomes Green Paradise, located in Can Gio. The project aims to achieve international certifications including BREEAM Communities and ISO 37122. Beyond merely adhering to global standards, Vinhomes Green Paradise pioneers an upgraded ESG++ urban model built upon five pillars: Environment – Social – Governance – Regeneration – Climate Change Adaptation. This ESG++ framework is set to become the benchmark for all future Vinhomes developments.

With a forward-looking vision, Vinhomes Green Paradise has also become the first Official Participant in the “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign initiated by New7Wonders, affirming its global aspiration in shaping a model city of the future.

Under the Employee Satisfaction criterion, Vingroup ranked 55th globally, while Vinhomes placed 335th, reflecting a dynamic working environment that fosters creativity, dedication, and continuous personal development.

In Vietnam, Vingroup and Vinhomes have consistently led national rankings of “Best Workplaces” announced by independent organizations, reinforcing their human capital strategy as a core foundation for sustainable, long-term growth.

This marks the third consecutive year that Vingroup and its subsidiaries have been honored by TIME in prestigious global rankings. Previously, VinFast was named among the world’s Most Influential Companies 2024 and included in ASIA-PACIFIC’S BEST COMPANIES OF 2025. Also in 2025, Vingroup became the first and only Vietnamese company to be honored among the World’s Best Companies 2025.

The continued recognition of Vingroup and its ecosystem companies by TIME underscores the rising strength and expanding global influence of Vietnamese enterprises.

TIME, headquartered in New York, USA, is one of the world’s most respected publications, with a history spanning 103 years and a broad international presence. Its annual rankings are widely regarded for their objectivity, rigorous evaluation methodology, and comprehensive criteria, earning strong credibility within the global business community.

Hashtag: #Vingroup #Vinhomes

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/2026/02/13/vingroup-and-vinhomes-named-to-times-asia-pacifics-best-companies-of-2026/

Posted on

Black Ferns to play in Sacrementon and Kansas City

Source: Radio New Zealand

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe of New Zealand scores a try against the USA Eagles Women. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

The remaining two fixtures of the Pacific Four Series have been revealed by hosts USA Rugby, with the Black Ferns playing matches in Sacramento and Kansas City.

The Black Ferns’ schedule will start against the US at Heart Health Park on Sunday, 12 April at 11.00am NZT.

Kansas City will then host the Black Ferns clash with Canada on Saturday, 18 April at 10:15am NZT.

The Black Ferns last played the US last year in Auckland with the hosts winning 79-14 on their way to winning the Pacific Four Title.

Jorja Miller in action for the Black Ferns against the USA women. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

Canada beat the Black Ferns 34-19 in last year’s World Cup semi-finals, with the two teams drawing 27-27 in the 2025 Pacific Four series.

New Zealand Rugby general manager of professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said it’s a great opportunity for the Black Ferns to showcase their talent in front of new audiences.

“The United States is an important market for rugby, as we build toward the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033.

“The Pacific Four Series is a chance for the Black Ferns to inspire and connect with other sports fans, through fast-paced, dynamic and entertaining rugby.”

USA Rugby boss Bill Goren said he was excited to bring the world-class tournament and teams to the US fanbase.

“With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033 now one year closer, these multi-match events act as building blocks towards our goal of record success in 2033.

“Last year was a historic year for women’s rugby, we’re ready to continue that momentum this spring with a strong collective of host cities, partners and players.”

The Black Ferns will end their Pacific Four Series run when they meet the Wallaroos in a historic match at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Anzac Day as previously announced.

Black Ferns Pacific Four Series 2026 Schedule:

Black Ferns v USA

Saturday, April 11, 4.00pm PT (Sunday, April 12, 11.00am NZT) kick-off

Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

Black Ferns v Canada

Friday, April 17, 5.15pm CT (Saturday, April 18, 10.15am NZT) kick-off

CPKC Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

Black Ferns v Australia

Saturday, April 25, 7.45pm AEST (9.45pm NZT) kick-off

Sunshine Coast Stadium

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/black-ferns-to-play-in-sacrementon-and-kansas-city/

Posted on

Inquest into death of Nicholas Kahotea, soldier who fell from helicopter during training

Source: Radio New Zealand

Lance Corporal Nicholas Kahotea, of the 1st NZSAS Regiment, who died in a training accident in South Auckland on 8 May. Defence Force / Supplied

An inquest into the death of a special forces trooper during a training exercise in south Auckland hopes to find out what went wrong.

Lance Corporal Nicholas Kahotea fell to his death in May of 2019 while training to dismount from a Blackhawk helicopter onto the edge of a building.

Kahotea was leading his SAS regiment through what should have been a routine training exercise.

The men were excited to perform their first bump landing, a helicopter manoeuvre meant to get soldiers onto the roof of a building as quickly as possible.

It was part of a joint exercise with the United States military, using its top-of-the-line Blackhawk helicopters to train for counter-terrorism operations.

One of Kahotea’s fellow soldiers, whose identity is suppressed and can only be referred to as call sign 63, said the team was enthusiastic.

“I’m not sure whose decision it was but we were told the next [exercise]’s going to be a bump landing. And we were pretty excited about it,” he said.

“When we got told we were going to do a bump landing at nighttime it didn’t matter to us, we do training at night all the time. We were excited to get another skill under our belt.”

A bump landing involves setting just one wheel on the edge of a building and hovering steady while the troops step off.

Call sign 63 was first off the helicopter.

“I could see the dispatcher giving me the signal to go … I looked down and confirmed it was safe for me to drop,” he continued.

“I simply managed to step onto the roof, no worries.

“As the first man off the helicopter my job is to ensure the area at the front is clear and protect the people still on the helicopter. The threat to me and my team is out to my front. In this training exercise my main threat was the stairs off the roof, so that’s where I was looking.”

Two more soldiers dropped from the helicopter, and the exercise continued as call sign 63 moved to the stairs.

“When I got to the stairs I felt a tap on my shoulder, this indicated to me we were ready to proceed,” he said.

“I can’t recall if the next thing I heard was over the radio or if it was one of the guys behind me. It was saying man down, man down. No duff. One of your men is down on the other side of the building. No duff means it’s a serious situation.”

CCTV footage of the exercise shows the helicopter sway, as the gap between it and the roof inches wider.

That gap was the distance between life and death.

Kahotea fell several metres, sustaining catastrophic injuries. He later died in hospital.

This week, almost seven years later, a coronial inquest will recount the tragic event in detail and make recommendations to avoid similar accidents in the future.

Kahotea’s partner, Dr Sophie Walker, criticised the Defence Force’s approach to the exercise.

“A bump insertion is not a static or benign manoeuvre,” she said.

“This is a dynamic and inherently unstable balance. From a physics perspective, the Black Hawk’s mass means very small changes in altitude create very large force transfers that promote tail movement.”

She hoped the inquest would lead to answers and accountability.

“Our hope is that the findings of this inquest will ensure no other family will encounter the consequences of systemic risk assessment failure,” she said through tears.

“Loss is not something that just happened in May of 2019 … It is something that I wake up to every day. It is having to accept over and over that this is my life.”

Defence Force lawyer Sally McKechnie admitted it did not fully appreciate the risks of the manoeuvre at the time.

She said the NZDF had thoroughly investigated its processes since Kahotea’s death and had made improvements.

The inquest will continue through to Friday.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/inquest-into-death-of-nicholas-kahotea-soldier-who-fell-from-helicopter-during-training/

Posted on

Winston Peters denounces Israel for expanding control over occupied West Bank

Source: Radio New Zealand

Winston Peters says Israel’s decision is a ‘major setback for any chance at a two-state solution’. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The foreign minister has denounced Israel for expanding control over settlements controlled by Palestinians in the West Bank.

The measures passed by the Israeli security cabinet also pave the way for more settlements in the occupied territory.

Posting on social media, Winston Peters says Israel’s decision was a ‘major setback for any chance at a two-state solution’.

He says the International Court of Justice was clear Israel’s continued presence in the West Bank is unlawful, and it should reverse course immediately.

His criticism joins that of the United States, Britain, the European Union and a number of Arab nations.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/winston-peters-denounces-israel-for-expanding-control-over-occupied-west-bank/

Posted on

CGTN: Little Chinese New Year opens big window to China’s soul

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 February 2026 – As China marks Xiaonian, or Little Chinese New Year, there is growing evidence of its ancient traditions evolving into global lifestyle trends. CGTN published an article analyzing how this prelude to the Year of the Horse – from the folk ritual of “sweeping the dust” to the cross-cultural fusion of the Spring Festival Gala – illustrates China’s growing global cultural resonance.

As the lunar calendar turns its final pages, China enters a period of joyful anticipation known as Xiaonian, or Little Chinese New Year. Often celebrated as the Festival of the Kitchen God, it marks the official start of the “busy year” – a traditional term for the intense, joyful period of preparing food, cleaning homes, and shopping for the upcoming Spring Festival.

The Spring Festival is a deeply significant time for family reunion. In 2024, UNESCO inscribed the “Spring Festival, social practices of the Chinese people in celebration of the traditional Chinese New Year” onto the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

While daily routines continue to evolve, they remain anchored in rituals that provide a sense of normalcy and meaning. It is perhaps no wonder that in a climate of uncertainty, traditional Chinese lifestyles are finding a new audience beyond the country’s borders, with the Spring Festival chief among those unique traditions that are fast becoming a shared human experience.

Diverse traditions, shared aspirations

In a prelude to the broader celebrations, Xiaonian, observed on February 10 and 11 this year, kickstarts a focused period of preparation. According to ancient lore, families offer Zaotang, or sticky “Kitchen Candy,” to the Kitchen God to ensure he delivers a favorable report on the household’s conduct before he ascends to the heavens. This lighthearted tradition marks the beginning of several symbolic rituals aimed at welcoming a fresh start.

A key element of this transition is donning new clothes. In Chinese culture, the New Year represents a moment when “all things are renewed,” and wearing new garments symbolizes shedding the “dust” or misfortunes of the past to embrace auspicious energy for the year ahead. Alongside this personal renewal, families nationwide engage in “sweeping the dust,” a deep-cleaning ritual to purify the home and prepare it for new blessings.

Whereas these practices are universal, celebratory flavors vary by geography. In the north, families traditionally gather over steaming plates of dumplings, whereas in the south, the menu often features sweet rice cakes (Niangao) and glutinous rice balls (Tangyuan).

As Mao Qiaohui, a researcher at the Institute of Ethnic Literature at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, explains, these variations highlight the inclusive nature of Chinese civilization.

“Although folk customs differ between different regions across China, this diversity reflects the cultural pluralism within the Spring Festival tradition,” she notes. “Different regional identities contribute to a shared pursuit of harmony and reunion.”

The vitality of these traditions is also evident in local craftsmanship. In northern regions like Shandong and Henan, artisans are currently making Huamo, decorated steamed buns, featuring horse designs for the upcoming zodiac year. Meanwhile, in Shuozhou, Shanxi Province, intangible heritage inheritors are carving spirited stallions onto traditional gourds. These creations reflect the regional diversity of the festival and a collective desire for progress in the year ahead.

Cultural dialogue: From global stage to daily life

The festive atmosphere is reflected further in preparations for the Spring Festival Gala (Chunwan), produced by China Media Group.

Recent rehearsals show performances meshing traditional Chinese culture with international artistry. One performance piece combines the wooden clog dance of the Hani and Lisu ethnic groups with the rhythmic tap of Spanish Flamenco and Hungarian folk dance. And with global stars like Jackie Chan and Lionel Richie on the bill, the Gala’s stage is set to become a stage for the world to come together.

The reach of the gala has expanded far beyond a domestic audience. Through the “Spring Festival Gala Prelude” events held in the United States, Russia, France, Italy, and several African nations, the program has become a gateway to Chinese New Year customs and cultural exchange.

This interest extends beyond art and into the lives of people worldwide, as seen in the #BecomingChinese trend. This phenomenon features international social media users adopting elements of Chinese daily life – such as keeping a thermos of hot water handy, wearing quilted indoor slippers or practicing mindful movement with Baduanjin exercises.

The festival is no longer a distant event but a gateway to Chinese lifestyle, rooted in ancient wellness wisdom and constantly updated by modern convenience, and the first step to a journey of exploration into a culture that values ritual, safety and hospitality.

Whether through global broadcasts or shared daily habits, the Spring Festival increasingly strengthens a sense of cultural empathy between China and the rest of the world.

For more information, please click here:

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-02-10/Little-New-Year-opens-big-window-to-China-s-soul-1KEhJjMX2fe/p.html

Hashtag: #CGTN

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/cgtn-little-chinese-new-year-opens-big-window-to-chinas-soul/