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UK festival cancelled after headliner Kanye West blocked from travelling to UK

Source: Radio New Zealand

Organisers of a popular London music festival say it has been cancelled after the headliner, Kanye West, was blocked from traveling to the United Kingdom.

The announcement that West, who is known as Ye, would headline the three-day Wireless Festival had sparked criticism from Jewish groups and politicians, who highlighted his repeated antisemitic remarks in recent years.

The backlash saw major sponsors Pepsi and Diageo withdraw from the event, which had been scheduled for 10-12 July. It also drew criticism from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who had called the decision for West to headline “deeply concerning.”

Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

JUSTIN TALLIS / POOL / AFP

Now, British officials have blocked West from entering the country, saying his presence in the UK would not be conducive to the public good.

On Tuesday (all times local), Starmer said that West “should never have been invited to headline Wireless.”

“This Government stands firmly with the Jewish community, and we will not stop in our fight to confront and defeat the poison of antisemitism,” the British leader said in a statement posted on X.

“We will always take the action necessary to protect the public and uphold our values.”

In the wake of the government’s decision, Festival Republic, the firm that organises Wireless Festival, said the event would be called off.

“Wireless Festival is cancelled and refunds will be issued to all ticket holders,” the company said in a statement Tuesday.

“Antisemitism in all its forms is abhorrent, and we recognise the real and personal impact these issues have had. As YE said today, he acknowledges that words alone are not enough, and in spite of this still hopes to be given the opportunity to begin a conversation with the Jewish community in the UK,” Festival Republic added.

The rapper had previously issued a statement saying he had been following the conversation surrounding his Wireless appearance and wanted “to address it directly.”

“My only goal is to come to London and present a show of change, bringing unity, peace, and love through my music,” read the statement in an update to his Wall Street Journal letter “To Those I’ve Hurt,” circulated by Festival Republic earlier on Tuesday.

“I would be grateful for the opportunity to meet with members of the Jewish community in the UK in person, to listen,” said West.

“I know words aren’t enough – I’ll have to show change through my actions,” he added. “If you’re open, I’m here.”

‘Deeply regrettable’

West – who previously said he had bipolar disorder before saying last year that he had been misdiagnosed and instead has autism – took out a full-page advert in the Wall Street Journal in January to apologise for his previous comments.

Reacting to the news that West had been blocked from entering the UK, the charity Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) said the government “has clearly made the right decision.”

“Someone who has boasted of making tens of millions of dollars from selling swastika t-shirts and who released a song called ‘Heil Hitler’ just months ago clearly would not be conducive to the public good in the UK,” said a CAA spokesperson in a statement Tuesday.

“Wireless Festival, in its desperate quest for profit, defended the invitation until the end. That is shameful, and its sponsors should continue to stay away,” they added.

Jewish community organisation the Board of Deputies of British Jews also said that it welcomed “the government listening to the concerns of Jews in the UK and preventing Kanye West from entering the country.”

“It is deeply regrettable that Wireless Festival invited him in the first place and then doubled down when the Jewish community and our allies objected,” said Phil Rosenberg, president of the Board of Deputies of British Jews, in a statement Tuesday.

“We note that the Festival has now been cancelled but it should never have reached this point. The situation could and should have been resolved much earlier.”

Wireless is one of the UK’s biggest music festivals, attracting up to 150,000 attendees each year.

West has not performed in the UK since headlining Glastonbury in 2015.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/uk-festival-cancelled-after-headliner-kanye-west-blocked-from-travelling-to-uk/

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New Zealanders will understand government can’t support everyone during fuel crisis – Luxon

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the support offered so far was about protecting the the most vulnerable, without driving up inflation. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The prime minister is reluctant to say whether there will be any further support for New Zealanders during the fuel crisis, but believes New Zealanders will “understand.”

Ministers will meet with major businesses later in the week to get their perspectives on what may be required, should fuel supply become disrupted further.

The government has so far temporarily boosted the in-work tax credit to $50 a week for around 143,000 lower-income families, while also expanding eligibility to a further 14,000 families, to receive the credit at a reduced rate.

It has also temporarily increased mileage rates by 30 percent for home and community support workers.

Over the last few weeks, the government has repeated that any support would be “timely, temporary, and targeted”.

On Monday, Christopher Luxon would not commit to expanding support, saying while it “will look” for support for those that are “most vulnerable,” the government could not afford to do “everything for everyone,” and that most New Zealanders would understand.

“We cannot alleviate the pressure for everybody, but we do have a framework around timely, targeted, temporary support, which I think most New Zealanders would understand and appreciate. And they also appreciate and understand that we have a job to do to protect their long-term interests and that of the economy too.”

Luxon said the support offered so far was about protecting the the most vulnerable, without driving up inflation.

“I have to protect the long-term future of New Zealanders as well, and actually making sure that we actually aren’t running up inflation and interest rates.”

The government is unlikely to take measures similar to Australia, and cut the fuel excise tax or road user charges for heavy vehicles.

While saying diesel was the “lifeblood” of the economy, and sectors like farming and construction relied on it, Luxon stopped short of saying whether there would be any support, but pointed to meetings the government was having and would be having with high diesel users.

“It is understandable that diesel users want relief from rising prices, and we are acutely aware of the pressure that all Kiwis are feeling. But seeking to alleviate that pressure for everyone would be unaffordable and irresponsible.”

One thing the government is likely to do is abandon plans to raise the fuel excise tax. A 12 cent increase is due to come in January, but the transport minister, finance minister, and prime minister are signalling it will be postponed, or dropped altogether.

Luxon said while legislation would need to be passed, Cabinet had not made a decision.

“We recognise that there’s going to be elevated fuel prices for some time, and it just seems like stalling that or deferring that will be probably the wisest course of action,” he said, while acknowledging a deferral would cause challenges to the National Land Transport Fund.

“If there is a fall-off in revenue that’s being raised, the reality is we have to be straight with New Zealanders and say we might have to make some choices and trade-offs, and I think that’s OK to do that.”

Sectors such as farming, construction, and aviation have been warning of the impacts of the fuel crisis on their businesses.

Asked whether there would be support for businesses affected by the crisis, particularly any that were facing going under, Luxon said many businesses and households were doing it tough, but the government would not be spraying around money “in a cash bazooka.”

Ministers to meet with major businesses this week

Luxon said there had already been lots of industry engagement, and there would be more over the coming week.

The government had been talking to the aviation sector over jet fuel, as well as high diesel users, and the finance minister has spoken to banking chief executives with an expectation they “stand by” companies that may be high consumers of diesel in the short term.

Ministers would also be talking to the Major Companies Group (MCG), which RNZ understands will happen on Thursday.

The Major Companies Group is an advocacy group, under the BusinessNZ umbrella.

It represents over 170 companies, including the likes of Spark, Foodstuffs, Vector, Zespri, and Fonterra, as well as ports, airports, construction firms, fuel companies, and major banks and insurance companies.

“We don’t want to repeat the mistake where we happen to industry. We want to work with industry, because in many ways we see them being quite critical for actually solving some of the challenges we may incur should we get a fuel disruption in the future,” Luxon said.

“It’s just about making sure that we all have a common understanding of what’s required. We know it’s incredibly difficult, particularly for our diesel users, in particular. That means that many of them, frankly, are having to put fuel surcharges in place and pass those costs on to their customers.”

BusinessNZ’s chief executive Katherine Rich said the “situation update” between ministers and the MCG would provide an opportunity to ask questions and share direct business perspectives.

Rich said businesses wanted to see a level playing field when it came to timely and accurate information from the government.

“It has been positive to see early planning, strong consultation with relevant firms, clear phases, and a continued reliance on market settings and supply chain expertise before intervention. That discipline matters, particularly for business continuity and economic stability,” she said.

BusinessNZ’s fuel company members were working closely with suppliers, and Rich said they currently did not see it as a supply problem, but a price issue.

“Many have been reluctant to pass on higher costs in the short term, in the expectation that the situation may stabilise,” she said.

Under Phase Three of the government’s National Fuel Plan, critical transport services like road freight for supermarket and grocery supply chains sit in Band B of the priority bands.

Phases Three and Four are still under consultation, with the finance minister on Monday saying she would make further announcements in the next few weeks.

Rich suggested the fuel plan would be strengthened further if the food and grocery sector was elevated to the ‘life-supporting’ Band A, recognising its “critical role in maintaining continuity of supply for households.”

BusinessNZ’s director of advocacy Catherine Beard has also been seconded into the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment’s response team, which Rich said would “contribute real-time business insight and supply chain expertise” to ensure operational realities were well understood as decisions were made.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/new-zealanders-will-understand-government-cant-support-everyone-during-fuel-crisis-luxon/

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‘Not part of the puzzle’: Ameliaranne Ekenasio on Silver Ferns silence

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ameliaranne Ekenasio (left) and Dame Noeline Taurua after winning the Constellation Cup series, 2024. AAP / www.photosport.nz

Former Silver Ferns captain Ameliaranne Ekenasio says she has not had any contact with the national side’s management since making herself unavailable for selection last year.

The 35-year-old revealed she has not spoken with head coach Dame Noeline Taurua since stepping away from the Ferns, a decision she made midway through 2025 in order to prioritise her physical and mental wellbeing.

Weeks after Ekenasio’s sudden withdrawal, Taurua and her coaching team were stood down after player complaints prompted an independent review into the team environment.

Taurua was later reinstated in October after a bruising affair that dominated the headlines for weeks.

Ekenasio, who is getting ready for another ANZ Premiership campaign, told RNZ she has not had any contact with Taurua or any of the Silver Ferns’ high performance team.

“No, since making myself unavailable, I think initially it was because I needed some space from everything and just needed time to just be a mum again you know so everybody really respected that. But you know since then I think the sport, it just moves on and I’m just not really a piece of that puzzle anymore so nah I haven’t really needed any contact,” said Ekenasio, who has returned to the Central Pulse for the 2026 season.

The 79-test Silver Fern played a key role in New Zealand’s 2019 Netball World Cup triumph and captained the team to victory in the 2021 and 2024 Constellation Cup series, under Taurua.

Taurua was stood down days out from the Taini Jamison series in September last year after being unable to come to an agreement with Netball NZ over proposed changes to the Silver Ferns high performance programme. The veteran coach was reinstated in October, after nearly two months of mediation.

Ekenasio, who had already made herself unavailable for the Silver Ferns by then, said it was difficult to watch the drama unfold around the team.

“It was definitely really tough because we all love the black dress and we give so much. I think it was 10 years I represented New Zealand and everybody gives so so much, you give your heart and soul to it so it was really hard to see.”

Ameliaranne Ekenasio, right, is considered one of the best goal attacks in world netball. photosport

RNZ sought clarification from Netball NZ on whether Silver Ferns management had been in contact with Ekenasio and if not, whether there were any plans to do so.

The organisation did not directly address the questions, but in a statement said “NNZ does not comment on the details of private player conversations”.

The national body did confirm that Taurua and members of the Silver Ferns high performance team recently travelled to Australia for meetings with players plying their trade in the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) league.

“This is part of standard HP planning activity, which has also been taking place with athletes across New Zealand.”

Ekenasio, who is widely regarded as the strongest goal attack in New Zealand, said the likelihood she will make herself available for Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games in July are very slim.

“I honestly don’t think so, I mean I don’t want to make a call super early you know but the reality is, it’s a real tournament style and I just don’t think my body can kind of last that kind of back to back games, especially when some of our young girls are coming through, they definitely will be able to. I don’t think my body can do those back to back games as well as the training that’s needed, so that’s kind of where I think at the moment.”

After four seasons at the Waikato Bay of Plenty Magic, Ekenasio has returned to the Pulse this season, who she first played for in 2015.

Players are heading into another season of ANZ Premiership netball under a cloud of uncertainty as to what the future holds for the competition.

Last year Netball NZ struggled to secure a broadcast deal for the sport’s domestic showpiece. There is no broadcast plan in place for the league beyond this year’s agreement with TVNZ for free to air coverage.

With less money in the system, players had to take a 20 percent pay cut for 2026, which Ekenasio describes as devastating.

“When you think about the pay cuts that we’re taking and I have been in this competition for such a long time and when I look at it in comparison to what we’re getting now, we’ve gone backwards so so much, it’s really hard.

“Netball I believe is such a great product but something’s just missing the mark. I know it’s not just players, it’s really tough out there for management, for our franchise, we’re scrambling to find money everywhere but the reality is the product is just going to be less because our girls have less time to be able to commit to the sport. We want to be able to commit more, more time is needed to go professional but we have still to pay our bills, it’s disheartening and just a really tough place for us as players.”

Ameliaranne Ekenasio has returned to the Pulse, where she started in 2015. PHOTOSPORT

Ekenasio said the growing pay gap between the New Zealand league and Australia’s competition was also a big concern.

“It’s devastating to see the pay increase over there, it’s really hard to see. The flipside is that some of our Ferns have gone over there and been able to take those opportunities so it’s great for them but it’s hard here in New Zealand.”

The Pulse lost a seven players in the off-season, including Silver Ferns Kelly Jackson and Maddy Gordon, who took advantage of Netball NZ’s u-turn on eligibility criteria.

They were granted exemptions to play in Australia’s SSN league, while still being able to play for the Silver Ferns. In total nine current and former Silver Ferns are playing in Australia’s competition this year.

Ekenasio said working from a blank canvas was challenging but invigorating.

“It is a brand new team so there’s been a lot of work and there still will be a lot of hard work put into building and strengthening connections because the reality is they’re all pretty much brand new.

“It has been a bit of a breath of fresh air for me as well, I enjoy that real connection piece with players, it has brought a bit of life back to me I guess.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/not-part-of-the-puzzle-ameliaranne-ekenasio-on-silver-ferns-silence/

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The regions where rent is dropping fastest

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / REECE BAKER

Renters across the country are being asked to pay less for their properties, Realestate.co.nz says, and some regions have had sharper drops than others.

It said the average asking price for rental properties on the site was down 2 percent in March, to $632 a week. Auckland was down 2.3 percent, year-on-year, Wellington was down 6.3 percent but Canterbury was up 0.6 percent.

There were some bigger falls elsewhere in the country: Hawke’s Bay was down 8.1 percent, Coromandel was down 11.3 percent and Taranaki was down 4.9 percent.

The cheapest average asking rent in the country was $433 a week on the West Coast.

The declines were offset by a sharp increase in Central Otago Lakes, up 12.3 percent to an average $903 a week.

Southland was up 8.6 percent, but only to an average $497.

The number of properties for rent dropped 2.8 percent across the country.

Spokesperson Vanessa Williams said if that were to continue, it could change the market.

“The market is relatively stable for now, but in regions like Central Otago Lakes District, where demand continues to outstrip supply, renters continue to pay well over the national average,” Williams said.

Economist Shamubeel Eaqub said the drop in rents was a combination of the pressure on people’s incomes and the increased housing supply in places like Auckland, relative to demand.

“When we had no immigration, it turns out we didn’t have a lot of population growth.”

Data released by Stats NZ on Tuesday showed that there were 680,000 rented dwellings in the March quarter, or about 32 percent of all the private housing stock.

Stats NZ’s “stock” measure of rents, which includes properties that had not been re-let, was down 0.1 percent in the month, and the “flow” measure, which is only newly relet properties, was down 7.8 percent and down 2.1 percent over the year.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/the-regions-where-rent-is-dropping-fastest/

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Another Corrections deputy chief executive under scrutiny after staff raise concerns

Source: Radio New Zealand

Another deputy executive at Corrections is under scrutiny. RNZ / Blessen Tom

Another deputy executive at Corrections is under scrutiny over their behaviour.

The department is undertaking “preliminary inquiries” in relation to a message sent by a deputy chief executive to a staffer after they raised concerns about the “tone and instructions”.

The message was sent about a month after the same deputy chief executive apologised to a separate staffer about the way he had communicated with them.

In response to questions from RNZ about the deputy chief executive, Corrections’ chief executive Jeremy Lightfoot confirmed that in February the then acting chief executive overheard a staffer telling a colleague they were “uncomfortable” with the way a deputy chief executive had communicated with them.

“On hearing this, the Acting Chief Executive spoke to the staff member to understand what had occurred, and also sought advice from the People Services team.

“The Acting Chief Executive met with the Deputy Chief Executive to outline Corrections’ expectations that staff, and especially senior leaders, should be mindful and considered in how they communicate. The Deputy Chief Executive apologised to the staff member involved.”

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

Then, in late March, a staffer raised concerns with their manager about the “tone and instructions” contained in a Microsoft Teams message by the same deputy chief executive.

Corrections’ chief executive Jeremy Lightfoot. RNZ / Diego Opatowski

“People Services are undertaking preliminary enquiries into this matter and have shared the available details with me.

“Corrections employs more than 11,000 staff and the overwhelming majority of their interactions are carried out with integrity, honesty and professionalism.”

Lightfoot said it was his “clear expectation” that staff were “mindful of the impact our words and actions can have on others”.

“We’ve worked hard in recent years to encourage a culture where people feel safe to call out interactions or behaviour they’re not comfortable with.

“I expect all of us at Corrections to take accountability for our actions, be respectful of other people’s perspectives, apologise if we get things wrong, and learn so we keep improving.

“If anyone feels that a concern they’ve raised hasn’t been appropriately addressed, I encourage them to raise them with me, our Integrity team, or another staff member they trust so we can ensure this is followed up.”

If a complaint is received about a Corrections employee, a manager in conjunction with support from People Services conduct an assessment of how to appropriately respond to the complaint.

“Where further information is required, preliminary enquiries may be undertaken.

“A decision is then made as to whether an informal or formal approach is required. A formal approach includes putting allegations to the employee and an employment investigation may be undertaken, by either an internal or external investigator.”

The revelations come after RNZ recently revealed another deputy chief executive, Leigh Marsh, was under investigation over allegations of bullying.

Leigh Marsh. Supplied / Corrections

There are eight deputy chief executives at Corrections.

Lightfoot earlier confirmed the concerns regarding Marsh were raised on 15 February.

“No other formal concerns have been raised about this individual, and they have not previously been subject to an employment investigation.”

After receiving the concerns, advice was sought from the human resources team and support was put in place for the staff member who raised the concerns, Lightfoot said.

“The decision was then taken to undertake a formal employment investigation.”

The investigation would be carried out by an external independent investigator, Lightfoot said.

“The concerns raised relate to alleged conduct around management processes and bullying within the employment relationship.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/another-corrections-deputy-chief-executive-under-scrutiny-after-staff-raise-concerns/

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Teaching Council replaces vacant seats on governing body

Source: Radio New Zealand

Richard Tindiller

The Teaching Council replaced three vacant seats on its governing body after warnings that failing to do so would break its own rules.

Council chair David Ferguson told RNZ it made the decision after taking advice.

But the Educational Institute Te Riu Roa said the council, which is the regulatory body for the teaching profession, had earlier told education sector leaders it would not refill the seats.

The vacancies were for members elected by early childhood, primary and secondary teachers who resigned earlier this year or late last year.

The Education Act required the council to replace as soon as possible any member who left with more than six months to run on their term on the governing body.

RNZ understands the council’s leaders did not want to do that because the government was planning to pass a law change that would alter the council’s membership.

But they changed their mind following a meeting with sector leaders.

NZEI national secretary Stephanie Mills said Ferguson told the union and the leaders of other education sector groups at the meeting last month the council was not planning to fill the vacancies.

“We then wrote to the council and said that, in our view, they were in breach of their own rules, that it was important, not just in terms of the voice of teachers, but also in terms of the integrity of the council, that it followed those rules,” she said.

Mills said it was not acceptable that a body that purported to represent teachers did not have any teacher-elected members.

“Our concern was that the council hadn’t even told teachers who have paid over many decades for the council and for their certification processes that all the teacher elected members had resigned,” she said.

Mills said NZEI welcomed the council’s decision to bring back the elected teacher voices but it had happened under pressure.

“I think they have probably become aware that they are in breach of their own rules.

“It shouldn’t take this kind of pressure from the sector. This should be automatic. They should be considering their teacher stakeholders first.”

Ferguson said the council took advice about replacing the vacancies given that an expected law change would reduce the council’s membership.

“With the Education and Training (System Reform) Amendment Bill pending, the Council sought advice around the replacement of three seats that are currently vacant.

“Our concern was appointing new members without being able to provide them certainty of tenure, as the Bill proposes reducing Council members from 13 to a maximum of nine.

“In line with the advice we received and our obligations under the Education and Training Act 2020 and the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand Election Rules 2018, we have undertaken the required process to fill the vacant seats, and the three new members will be in attendance from this month’s Council meeting.”

It’s the second time the council changed course over breaching its own rules.

Last year it appointed a council member, Tom Gott, as acting chief executive even though the Education and Training Act said the chief executive could not be a council member.

The council and the Education Ministry told RNZ the appointment was appropriate but Gott resigned his council seat after RNZ repeatedly asked both organisations whether the appointment was legal.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/teaching-council-replaces-vacant-seats-on-governing-body/

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Professional firefighters strike for one hour on Wednesday over stalled pay talks

Source: Radio New Zealand

Professional firefighters will strike for an hour on Wednesday morning over stalled pay talks. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Firefighters belonging to the Professional Firefighters Union are striking for an hour on Wednesday morning over their stalled pay talks.

The strike would run from 7.30-8.30am.

The union said it wanted Fire and Emergency New Zealand to come up with a new offer.

It had notified further one-hour strikes on Friday and over the next two weeks.

Fire and Emergency said it might not attend less serious incidents during the strike but it would continue to respond to 111 calls.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/08/professional-firefighters-strike-for-one-hour-on-wednesday-over-stalled-pay-talks/

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From Old Channel to New Garden: How Chaoyang’s “Sakura River” is Dazzling Spring

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 April 2026 – As the spring breeze sweeps across the banks of the Beixiao River in Chaoyang District, a spectacle that has captured the heart of the entire city is unfolding. This is Beijing’s first-ever “Sakura River.”

Spanning a 4.2-kilometer waterfront, nearly 6,000 cherry blossom trees of 68 varieties are blooming in succession from late March to late April. A continuous tide of flowers—ranging from powdery white and soft pink to crimson and pale yellow-green—has transformed the spring season into a poetic garden inviting exploration.

On April 3rd, the Beixiao River Spring Boat Tour set sail. Sculling boats carve out an oriental charm on the water, car-shaped boats glide steadily between flower-lined banks, and sightseeing boats brim with urban vitality. As these three types of vessels glide along the waterway, the poetic line “boats gliding among flowers, people wandering through a painting” is no longer just a verse—it is a tangible spring experience.

Additionally, five themed stationary flower-viewing boats are moored on the river. Decorated with tulips, hydrangeas, and bougainvillea, they are docked artistically along the banks, offering picture-perfect photo opportunities at every turn.

If you had seen the Beixiao River in its former life, you would appreciate the preciousness of this beauty even more.

Once an ordinary urban flood channel with rigid banks, fragmented spaces, and disconnected paths, the river underwent a comprehensive renovation in 2024. Chaoyang District removed fences and constructed 8.4 kilometers of high-quality greenways. Seventeen new access points now connect 14 riverside communities directly to the water, with the nearest residential compound just 50 meters away. For approximately 80,000 residents, the vision of “stepping out onto a greenway and walking into a park” has become a reality.

This “cosmetic” transformation has turned an inner-city river into a “Waterfront Reception Hall” that integrates ecology, commerce, and leisure. The Beixiao River has achieved a seamless fusion of water and parkland. Visitors can stroll along the banks to admire the blossoms or step directly from the greenway into Beixiaohe Park, Dawangjing Park, and Wanghe Park to continue their search for spring blooms.

Connecting the Wangjing and Donghu districts and linking five major business hubs, the river has turned flower viewing from a short trip into a vibrant part of daily urban life. Whether jogging, cycling, walking the kids, or simply sitting idly, cherry blossoms are now right outside your window, by the roadside, and along the riverbank—offering healing snapshots and moments of joy anytime, anywhere.

New York has the Hudson River Park, reshaping dilapidated industrial banks into a world-class waterfront green corridor; London’s Thames riverbanks see spring flower seas contrasting beautifully with classical architecture. Now, Beijing has its own Sakura River—the Beixiao River. It is not a copycat, but a story of a megacity “grooming” a forgotten waterway to give it back to its citizens and to spring.

This spring, come to Chaoyang, Beijing. Take a boat and glide through a 4.2-kilometer sea of pink blossoms to experience the ultimate oriental romance.

Hashtag: #Chaoyang #SakuraRiver

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/2026/04/08/from-old-channel-to-new-garden-how-chaoyangs-sakura-river-is-dazzling-spring/

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Dwelling and household estimates: March 2026 quarter – Stats NZ information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/07/dwelling-and-household-estimates-march-2026-quarter-stats-nz-information-release/

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Galaxy Macau Celebrates Yamazato’s Debut in 2026 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide with Refined Kaiseki Experience

Source: Media Outreach

Complementing an orchard-themed dreamy tea set by two master pâtissiers, a series of fascinating delicacies is presented by Galaxy Macau in April

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 April 2026 -In celebration of its ascent to One Diamond status in China’s prestigious Black Pearl Restaurant Guide, Galaxy Macau’s Japanese fine‑dining destination Yamazato proudly unveils the Black Pearl Tasting Kaiseki — a refined and contemplative culinary expression that honours seasonality, precision and the quiet elegance intrinsic to Japanese haute cuisine. Framed by sweeping panoramic views across Galaxy Macau landscape, the experience captures the fleeting beauty of nature through an artful and disciplined gastronomic lens.

Yamazato celebrates its Black Pearl One Diamond distinction with a contemplative kaiseki by Executive Chef Hideaki Hayashi, where seasonal purity, meticulous craftsmanship, and serene vistas converge to distil the quiet poetry of Japanese haute cuisine.

At the helm, Executive Chef Hideaki Hayashi and his culinary team invite guests on a pristine gastronomic journey shaped by meticulous craftsmanship and profound reverence for ingredients. Each kaiseki course is composed with thoughtful intentions, drawing upon the season’s finest offerings, be it produce from the sky, the sea and the land. Every detail — subtle aroma, layered texture, nuanced flavours, and elegant presentation — is harmoniously orchestrated to awaken the senses and express the restrained poetry at the heart of Japanese culinary artistry.

The Black Pearl Tasting Kaiseki is priced at MOP 1,980+ per guest and is available Tuesday to Sunday, from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm.

Floral Tea Set in the Orchard Setting of CHA BEI

This spring and summer, Galaxy Macau unveils an enchanting new afternoon tea experience at CHA BEI, co‑created by Executive Pastry Chef Yam Lok Hin and internationally revered Meilleur Ouvrier de France Pâtissier 2023 Pierre‑Henri Roullard. Inspired by a radiant garden in full bloom, the Orchard in Bloom afternoon tea invites guests on a refined journey through delicately balanced savoury and sweet creations, infused with flowers, fruits and tea leaves. Within the serene surroundings of CHA BEI, the brilliance of the spring and summer season is reimagined as a tranquil, storybook orchard, where flavour and artistry flourish in harmony.

Galaxy Macau’s Orchard in Bloom at CHA BEI is a poetic afternoon tea by Lok Hin Yam and Pierre‑Henri Roullard, where florals, fruits and tea leaves coalesce in refined seasonal harmony.

The experience opens with Lavender Breeze, a graceful floral welcome that sets the tone for a series of garden‑inspired delights, where seasonal ingredients are transformed into elegant edible jewels. Bright citrus notes, sun‑ripened fruits and fragrant botanicals come together across exquisite pastries and artfully crafted savouries, each reflecting meticulous craftsmanship and creative imagination. Available throughout spring and summer, this inspired collaboration blossoms as a celebration of colour, texture and taste — where two distinct pastry visions unite in a symphony of refined indulgence.

Priced at MOP598+ for two, “Orchard in Bloom” afternoon tea will be available between 2:30pm and 5:30pm every day, from now until August 31.

Alongside these sumptuous delicacies, Galaxy Macau has prepared a series of fascinating dining promotions this April and beyond:

• April 9

Blossom Palaces –

“Huaiyang Spring Feast: A Symphony of Two Masters” Four-hands Gala

The refined artistry of Huaiyang cuisine takes centre stage as Blossom Palaces Founder Bobby Lo and Macau Chef de Cuisine Ricky Wu unite for an elegant spring dinner. From tea‑infused starters to signature wood‑fired Peking duck, the evening is elevated by a live tea‑frying performance celebrating tradition, aroma and seasonal finesse.

Time: 6pm – 9pm

Price: MOP1,088/person

Huaiyang cuisine takes the spotlight as Blossom Palaces Founder Bobby Lo joins Macau Chef de Cuisine Ricky Wu for a refined spring dinner, featuring tea‑infused starters, signature wood‑fired Peking duck and a live tea‑frying performance celebrating tradition and seasonal grace.

• April 10 & 11

Saffron –

“A Royal Symphony of Thai Cuisine”

Saffron marks Songkran Festival with an elegant celebration of Thai New Year, featuring a rare collaboration between Executive Chef Jan Ruangnukulkit and Chef Chumpol Jangpra, the brain behind Bangkok’s two-Michelin-starred R‑HAAN. The immersive experience blends ceremonial rituals, cultural performances and a masterfully curated tasting menu honouring tradition, artistry and renewal.

Price: MOP1,688/person (additional MOP300 for wine pairing)

Saffron marks Songkran Festival with an elegant celebration that seamlessly blends ceremonial rituals, cultural performances and a masterfully curated tasting menu – honouring Thai tradition, culinary artistry and the spirit of renewal.

• April 18 & 19

8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA –

The Grand Bombana Feast

In celebration of Italian cuisine’s recognition as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Chef Umberto Bombana unites his protégés from Michelin‑starred kitchens across Asia for an unprecedented gastronomic gathering. Each chef presents a personal interpretation shaped by heritage and mentorship, creating an elegant dialogue between timeless Italian tradition and contemporary global expression—an exceptional feast and a living culinary legacy.

Date: April 18, 2026 (dinner)│ April 19, 2026 (lunch and dinner)

Price:
Lunch Tasting Menu MOP1,680/person (additional MOP980 for wine pairing)

Dinner Tasting Menu MOP3,280/person (wine-pairing for an additional MOP1,880)

In celebration of Italian cuisine’s recognition as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, Chef Umberto Bombana unites his protégés from Michelin‑starred kitchens across Asia for an unprecedented gastronomic gathering at 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau.

• April 25 & 26

Andaz Kitchen –

Chinese-Portuguese Master Chefs Four-Hands Dinner Series · Chapter 2

Andaz Macau’s Executive Chef André Lai joins hands with Chef Larry Liu of Shenzhen’s Black Pearl One-Diamond restaurant, CHINA LODGE, for a refined culinary exchange celebrating the dialogue between Chinese tradition and Portuguese heritage. Guided by the Cantonese principles of seasonality and purity of flavours, Chef Liu brings his thoughtful craftsmanship and contemporary interpretation of Cantonese cuisine – deeply rooted in respect for ingredients and culinary legacy – resulting in an inspired collaboration that bridges cultures through taste.

Price: MOP1,088/person (wine pairing included)

• Daily

Kyo Watami –

Triple Don Indulgence

Kyo Watami’s seafood don trio invites diners to savour three bowls of Japanese favourites, each layered with seasonal seafood over steamed rice. From luxurious sea urchin and tuna, to salmon roe with sashimi, and sweet soy‑glazed grilled eel with omelette, the set is completed with a light salad and comforting soup.

Price: MOP128/set

Date: Daily during lunch hours

A Month of Global Mixology Encounters at Galaxy Macau

International symphonies of mixology continue at Galaxy Macau’s three acclaimed venues – Pony & Plume, Long Bar and Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge.

On April 9, Capella at Galaxy Macau’s Pony & Plume will welcome star mixologist KT Lam for the second chapter of “The Finest Pour” series. Leader of the bars at Rosewood Bangkok and having led DarkSide at Rosewood Hong Kong to No. 9 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2023, KT will present four cocktails at Macau’s newest must-visit bar—each a distillation of his decade-long journey in mixology, inspired by the cities that have shaped him, capturing their energy, harmony, and contrasts.

On April 9, Capella at Galaxy Macau’s Pony & Plume will welcome star mixologist KT Lam who will shine with the distillation of his decade-long journey in mixology.

On April 11, the Ritz-Carlton Bar and Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton, Macau anticipates guests to savour an evening of “The Alchemist Flair: A Global Mixology Experience with Chase White”, as founder of Bar Blanc in Shanghai, and botanical spirits label OFBT, mixologist Chase White instils his passion and adventurous spirit into his creations, which champion a philosophy of “restrained creativity” and celebrate balance, quality, and simplicity—without sacrificing intrigue.

Long Bar at Raffles at Galaxy Macau welcomes Jo Lo and Birstacla Wong, co‑owners of Hong Kong’s acclaimed cocktail bar Bar Mind, for the April edition of Adventures in the Cavern. The award‑winning mixology duo—both past recipients of Diageo World Class Hong Kong & Macau Bartender of the Year—will present an evening of innovative cocktails that blend heritage flavours with contemporary techniques. The guest shift takes place on April 25, offering guests an inspired journey into modern mixology.

For more information about Galaxy Macau, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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/2026/04/07/galaxy-macau-celebrates-yamazatos-debut-in-2026-black-pearl-restaurant-guide-with-refined-kaiseki-experience/

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Crew member from NZ-flagged fishing vessel lost overboard

Source: Radio New Zealand

The crew member was not sighted after falling overboard. 123RF

A crew member has been lost overboard from a New Zealand-flagged fishing vessel in the Southern Ocean.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission said the person was knocked overboard by a float late on Sunday night.

It said the accident happened on the Mariner about 215 nautical miles east of the Auckland Islands.

Maritime New Zealand said its Rescue Coordination Centre was alerted and provided drift modelling to help the commercial fishing boat and another vessel search for the missing person.

It said the crew member was not sighted again after falling overboard and the search was officially suspended earlier on Tuesday.

Both Maritime New Zealand and the Transport Accident Investigation Commission said they would investigate the incident.

The commission’s chief investigator of accidents, Louise Cook, says it would send investigators to Bluff to gather evidence and interview the vessel’s crew and officials.

“Our initial focus is on evidence that could disappear or change – including recollections that are fresh in people’s minds.

“We’re also interested in the onboard fishing operation, individual design, history, performance, maintenance, and equipment of this vessel.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/07/crew-member-from-nz-flagged-fishing-vessel-lost-overboard/

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Fire and Emergency highlights change of strike timing and warns public to be vigilant

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is warning the public that the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) will be undertaking a strike tomorrow, Wednesday 8 April, between 7.30am and 8.30am. 
This is a change from its previously scheduled strikes, which have occurred on Mondays and Fridays. 
Future strikes are scheduled for midday to 1pm this Friday, 10 April and 7.30am to 8.30am next Monday, 13 April. 
“I want to reassure the public that all 111 calls will be received and responded to during the strike periods,” Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler says. 
“However, our response times will be delayed in impacted areas as volunteer crews will be responding from the next closest location. So, we are asking the public to remain extra careful. 
“Our advice remains the same. If there is a fire, evacuate early, get out, stay out, then call 111. 
“It’s also a timely reminder coming so soon after clocks changed back from daylight saving time to check your smoke alarms are working properly.” 
Megan Stiffler says Fire and Emergency will continue to prioritise emergencies and may not attend less serious incidents during the one-hour strikes, such as private fire alarms where there is no sign of fire, small rubbish fires, traffic-management assistance, and animal rescues. 
In addition, Fire and Emergency has established a process with Hato Hone St John and Wellington Free Ambulance for responding to medical events in impacted areas. 
“We remain focused on achieving a fair and sustainable settlement with the NZPFU so we can continue working to keep our communities safe,” Megan Stiffler says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/07/fire-and-emergency-highlights-change-of-strike-timing-and-warns-public-to-be-vigilant/

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Open letter to Peters: We fought fascism. Why are we silent now?

OPEN LETTER: By Nureddin Abdurahman to NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters

Minister,

You are about to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at a time of real global tension.

Moments like this define countries.

My great-grandfather fought fascism.

In 1935, when fascist Italy invaded my country of birth, Ethiopia, then Abyssinia, Emperor Haile Selassie warned the world at the League of Nations. Many countries hesitated. New Zealand didn’t.

Under Prime Minister Michael Joseph Savage, we called for sanctions. We chose principle over power.

We used to be clear about our principles in international politics. We stood against apartheid. We stood against nuclear testing in the Pacific.

In the 2010s, New Zealand went across Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and Asia asking for support to sit on the UN Security Council — not as a powerful country, but as a voice for the powerless.

Many countries trusted us and backed us. And for a time, we honoured that trust.

On 23 December 2016, under [then Foreign Minister] Murray McCully, we backed a UN resolution declaring Israeli settlements illegal under international law. There was pressure. We stood firm.

On 25 March 2026, the UN voted to recognise slavery and the transatlantic slave trade as among the gravest crimes against humanity. Most countries supported it. New Zealand stepped back.

And as of 2026, we still refuse to recognise the State of Palestine while genocide unfolds in Gaza.

Minister, the current global tensions make this even more important. New Zealand is clear on international law when it comes to Iran. We must be just as clear when it comes to the United States and Israel.

As a small trading nation, our economic, diplomatic and security interests depend on international law being applied consistently. If we pick and choose, we weaken that system and we weaken ourselves.

Our reputation was built by standing up and punching above our weight, even when it was uncomfortable.

That is where our soft power came from. We have the potential to be a superpower in soft power.

Right now, we risk losing that by moving closer to powerful countries, even when they are in the wrong.

Minister, take that history with you into that meeting. Be clear. Be consistent. Stand for international law everywhere, not just where it is easy.

People in New Zealand and around the world are watching. And history has a long memory.

Nureddin Abdurahman is a Tangata Tiriti from Addis Ababa 17 years ago and a Wellington City Councillor. He first won a seat as a Paekawakawa/Southern Ward councillor in 2022 and was re-elected in 2025.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/07/open-letter-to-peters-we-fought-fascism-why-are-we-silent-now/

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Government’s newest ministers sworn in after cabinet reshuffle

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at the swearing in ceremony for Mike Butterick and Cameron Brewer. Samuel Rillstone/RNZ

The government’s new newest ministers have been sworn in at Government House in Wellington.

Both first term National MPs, Cameron Brewer and Mike Butterick were made ministers outside of Cabinet.

National’s Cameron Brewer being sworn in. Samuel Rillstone/RNZ

Brewer, the MP for Upper Harbour, has been made minister for Commerce and Consumer Affairs and minister for Small Business and Manufacturing, as well as an associate Immigration minister.

He was most recently chairing the Finance and Expenditure committee, sometimes seen as a proving ground for potential future ministers.

This term, he had also been a member of the Justice committee, and the deputy chair of the Governance and Administration committee.

Butterick, meanwhile, has become minister for Land Information and associate Agriculture.

National’s Mike Butterick being sworn in. Samuel Rillstone/RNZ

The Wairarapa MP spent some time as deputy chair of the Environment committee, was a member of the Education committee, and was most recently a member of the Primary Production committee.

Brewer and Butterick’s move into the Executive was part of last week’s reshuffle, which was prompted by the retirements of Judith Collins and Dr Shane Reti.

With Chris Penk and Penny Simmonds moving into Cabinet, it opened up two spots for ministers outside Cabinet.

Governor General Cindy Kiro at the swearing in ceremony of National’s Mike Butterick and Cameron Brewer. Samuel Rillstone/RNZ

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/07/governments-newest-ministers-sworn-in-after-cabinet-reshuffle/

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Ben Roberts-Smith is accused of 5 war crime murder charges. How did we get here?

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Taucher, Lecturer in History, Murdoch University

After landing in Sydney airport following a flight from Brisbane, Australia’s most decorated living soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, was arrested by Australian Federal Police. He’s faced court in New South Wales and been charged with five counts of the war crime of murder, following a years-long joint investigation between police and the Office of the Special Investigator.

Roberts-Smith is only the second Australian to be charged with such offences, and the most high-profile.

But the path to this point has been long and winding. Here’s how we got here, and what happens next.

[embedded content]

The media reporting and defamation case

This is not the first time Roberts-Smith will face a court for alleged war crimes.

In 2018, he sued three journalists and Fairfax Media for defamation. This followed media reports by Australian journalists Nick McKenzie, Chris Masters and David Wroe, alleging he had murdered Afghani personnel during operations in Afghanistan.

Roberts-Smith has always denied any wrongdoing.

To defend themselves, the journalists relied on proving in court that their reporting was accurate: that Roberts-Smith had, in fact, committed war crimes.

In 2023, the court held there was sufficient evidence that Roberts-Smith had himself murdered two Afghani personnel and ordered or pressured a subordinate soldier to murder another.

Read more: ‘Dismissed’: legal experts explain the judgment in the Ben Roberts-Smith defamation case

Because that trial was a civil proceeding, lawyers representing the journalists did not need to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. They only needed to meet the lesser standard of proof that the allegations were true on the balance of probabilities.

In a criminal court, where Roberts-Smith will answer a case brought by the AFP, the court will need to be satisfied beyond reasonable doubt to convict him of the charges.

The maximum penalty for the war crime of murder is life imprisonment.

The defence inquiry

The allegations against Roberts-Smith are part of a much larger investigation process.

In 2016, the Australian military began investigating allegations Australian soldiers has committed war crimes in Afghanistan. The Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force tasked Paul Brereton with preparing a report on it.

Four years later in 2020, the so-called Brereton report was released publicly. It outlined 39 murders of civilians and prisoners by Australian soldiers.

The scale of the allegations was such that the Australian government created the Office of the Special Investigator. The office is to further investigate war crimes and recommend the prosecution of people involved.

Since the release of the report, progress has been slow, given there appeared to be considerable evidence of wrongdoing.

In 2023, Oliver Schulz was arrested and charged with the killing of an Afghani civilian. Evidence of this accusation was first made public in 2020. He pleaded not guilty and his case goes to trial next year.

Why has it taken this long?

As the Roberts-Smith story played out in civilian court, public commentary began to include speculation over the likelihood of future criminal charges against him.

But Australian authorities bringing Australians to trial for war crimes is uncommon. Though Australia has prosecuted alleged war criminals of foreign nationals in the past, Schulz and Roberts-Smith are the only two Australians to be both arrested and charged.

Investigating war crimes is challenging work at the best of times. In Roberts-Smith’s case, the Office of the Special Investigator’s director of investigations, Ross Barnett, said the political situation in Afghanistan has made the work even harder. Australian boots on the ground were effectively barred.

[embedded content]

Beyond practical considerations, it’s likely the prominence of Roberts-Smith as both a decorated soldier and celebrity has made investigators particularly cautious. A failed trial would likely weaken public trust in the entire investigation and prosecution program.

Many Australians celebrate the service of the country’s military personnel. They would expect charges against former soldiers for acts committed during their service would be carefully considered.

What are the laws at play?

Australian authorities legally had no choice but to undertake the costly, fraught and lengthy process of pursuing war crimes allegations.

In 2002, the Australian government joined the International Criminal Court. Membership requires parties to domestically legislate war crimes law.

It also requires governments to investigate, and where appropriate, prosecute, those who are alleged to have committed war crimes.

If a government is unwilling, or unable, to investigate and prosecute war crimes allegations, the International Criminal Court has the power to carry out the task instead.

In this case, Australian authorities did investigate the allegations and it is because of the work of the Office of the Special Investigator and the Australian Federal Police that Roberts-Smith will face trial in Australia, not overseas.

Due to the seriousness of the alleged crimes, Roberts-Smith will most likely be tried in a state supreme court, as is the case with Schulz.

Procedurally, the trial will unfold like any other criminal trial. Though the crimes are international and entwined with Australia’s membership of the International Criminal Court, war crimes and Australia’s international legal obligations in this space have subsequently been adopted into Australian criminal law.

Australia on the international stage

The decision to prosecute Roberts-Smith is at the same time both expected and in someways surprising.

On the one hand, it seemed highly likely he would be charged after his failed defamation case. The judgment set out in particularly clear detail three instances of Roberts-Smith murdering, or ordering the murder of, Afghani personnel.

Though the burden of proof was lower, it seemed clear that Roberts-Smith would eventually face criminal prosecution.

On the other hand, war crimes law seems to be at a serious crossroads internationally. In conflicts unfolding across the globe, governments – including allies of Australia – have shown what seems to be a growing disregard for war crimes law.

The upcoming prosecution of Australia’s most highly decorated soldier, who acted as the public face of the Australian military for so long, demonstrates a surprising commitment to international law that is increasingly out of step with some of the country’s major partners.

– ref. Ben Roberts-Smith is accused of 5 war crime murder charges. How did we get here? – https://theconversation.com/ben-roberts-smith-is-accused-of-5-war-crime-murder-charges-how-did-we-get-here-280037

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/07/ben-roberts-smith-is-accused-of-5-war-crime-murder-charges-how-did-we-get-here-280037/

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What is a Woman? Private Member’s Bill will expose which MPs can define truth and biology

Source: Family First

New Zealand First has proposed a Definitions of Woman and Man Amendment Bill, a Private Member’s Bill drawn for debate in April 2026, aimed at formally defining “woman” as “an adult human biological female” and “man” as “an adult human biological male” within the Legislation Act 2019. Now we find out once and for all whether MPs can define Truth and biology – or whether they’re wokesters captured by ideology and fear.

Independent polling commissioned by Family First NZ and carried out by Curia Market Research last May (2025) found majority support for a Member’s Bill that would ensure the biological definition of a woman and man are defined in law according to biology.

The Legislation (Definitions of Woman and Man) Amendment Bill will provide clarity and consistency in New Zealand law by defining “woman” as “an adult human biological female” and “man” as “an adult human biological male” in the Legislation Act 2019.

It will soon have its 1st reading.

52% of respondents said they support the proposed law and only 29% oppose it. (A further 19% were unsure).

Women net support was +4% with a further 27% unsure, but men were strongly in favour with net support +42%. Net support by age is +19% for under 40s, +22% for 40-59 year olds, and +26% for over 60s.

In terms of party vote, ACT voters were most supportive (72%) followed by NZ First (68%) and National (64%). Undecided voters were 54% in favour. Labour were 35% for and 44% against, Greens -15% net support and TPM -13%.

Family First have a history of advocating on the need to ensure the biological definition of a woman and man are defined in law according to biology…

“What is a woman?” 23,500+ Petition Presented to Parliament

A Family First petition calling for ‘woman’ to be defined as ‘an adult human female’ in all our laws, public policies and regulations and signed by more than 23,500 people was presented to Parliament in August 2024. It was received by then Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of NZ First Winston Peters and NZ First MP Tanya Unkovich.

Government Doesn’t Want To Define Woman

familyfirst.org.nz/government-doesnt-want-to-define-woman/

The Government’s response to a 23,532-strong petition asking for ‘woman’ to be clearly defined in all laws, public policies and regulations has been issued, and is being labelled as weak, confused, and shows both a clear lack of understanding around what a woman is and any desire to protect women in society.

“The sad irony is that the Minister for Women in her response refused to define what a woman is.  Alongside this, she is also clearly indicating the irrelevancy of her role because she will not actually stand up for the recognition and protection of women” says Bob McCoskrie, CEO of Family First.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/07/what-is-a-woman-private-members-bill-will-expose-which-mps-can-define-truth-and-biology/

Posted on

Person dead after car crashes into powerpole, house catches fire in Moutoa

Source: Radio New Zealand

A person died after crashing into a powerpole on the Foxton Shannon Road. The downed powerlines set fire to a house. Google Maps

One person has died after crashing into a power pole just before 4pm in Moutoa.

The crash happened on Foxton Shannon Road between Himatangi Block and Poplar South Roads.

Foxton Shannon Road is closed while Serious Crash Unit examines the scene.

A house caught fire as power lines went down.

Emergency services have extinguished the fire and have not reported any injuries.

The damage to the house is unknown.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/07/person-dead-after-car-crashes-into-powerpole-house-catches-fire-in-moutoa/

Posted on

NRL: Chanel Harris-Tavita back in NZ Warriors line-up against Melbourne Storm

Source: Radio New Zealand

Chanel Harris-Tavita scored a try double against Sydney Roosters in his only full game this season. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

NRL: NZ Warriors v Melbourne Storm

Kickoff 9.30pm, Saturday, 11 April

AAMI Stadium, Melbourne

Live blog updates on RNZ website

Five-eighth Chanel Harris-Tavita will return to the NZ Warriors line-up to face Melbourne Storm on Saturday.

Coach Andrew Webster has had to make at least one change to the side that fell to Cronulla Sharks over the weekend, after Luke Metcalf limped off late with a hamstring injury that will keep him sidelined.

Harris-Tavita filled the No.6 jersey for the season-opening win over Sydney Roosters, scoring a try double, but left the field concussed the following week against Canberra Raiders, missed a week under head injury protocols and then lost his spot outright, when Metcalf came back from his lengthy knee rehab.

Metcalf joins co-captain Mitch Barnett (broken thumb) and veteran second-rower Kurt Capewell (calf) in the casualty ward.

Webster may yet be forced into more changes, with centre Adam Pompey charged with grade two dangerous contact against the Sharks, after lifting his knee into a tackle by Kiwis second-rower Briton Nikora, who was forced off the field.

The Warriors have lodged an early guilty plea, but will challenge the grading at judiciary on Tuesday night.

Fellow midfielder Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad also left late against Cronulla with a head/neck injury, but has also been named to face Melbourne.

Webster has kept his options open on the bench, including wing Alofiana Khan-Pereira on the interchange, and half Luke Hanson and centre Ali Leiataua among the reserves.

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad left the field against the Sharks with a head/neck injury. Photosport

Warriors: 1. Taine Tuaupiki, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 4. Adam Pompey, 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 7. Tanah Boyd, 8. James Fisher-Harris, 9. Wayde Egan, 10. Jackson Ford, 11. Leka Halasima, 12. Jacob Laban, 13. Erin Clark

Interchange: 14. Sam Healey, 15. Marata Niukore, 16. Demitric Vimauga, 17. Tanner Stower-Smith, 18. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava, 20. Alofiana Khan-Pereira

Reserves: 21. Morgan Gannon, 22. Luke Hanson, 23. Ali Leiataua

Meanwhile, the Storm have been bolstered by the return of former All Blacks Sevens star Moses Leo from concussion and centre Jack Howarth.

They are riding a three-game losing streak that culminated in a 50-10 defeat to Penrith Panthers last Friday.

Storm: 1. Sua Faalogo, 2. Will Warbrick, 3. Jack Howarth, 4. Nick Meaney, 5. Moses Leo, 6. Cameron Munster, 7. Jahrome Hughes, 8. Stefano Utoikamanu, 9. Harry Grant, 10. Josh King, 11. Joe Chan, 12. Cooper Clarke, 13. Trent Loiero

Interchange: 14. Tyran Wishart, 15. Alec MacDonald, 16. Jack Hetherington, 17. Davvy Moale, 18. Lazarus Vaalepu, 19. Manaia Waitere

Reserves: 20. Preston Conn, 21. Hugo Peel, 22. Trent Toelau

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/07/nrl-chanel-harris-tavita-back-in-nz-warriors-line-up-against-melbourne-storm/

Posted on

Minister for Social Investment expects govt agencies to comply with procurement rules

Source: Radio New Zealand

Minister for Social Investment Nicola Willis. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The Minister for Social Investment says her “enduring expectation” is that all government agencies comply with relevant procurement rules and policies.

It comes after RNZ revealed the Social Investment Agency (SIA) was commissioning an independent external review of its procurement practices for contracts over $100,000.

The announcement followed the resignation of the Agency’s Deputy Chief Executive Kylie Reiri in February while under investigation in relation to allegations of bullying and harassment.

It also followed the resignation of former SIA chief executive Andrew Coster who quit in December following a scathing Independent Police Conduct Authority report.

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

In response to questions from RNZ, a spokesperson for the Minister of Social Investment Nicola Willis said she had been advised by the SIA that it had made an “operational decision” to review its procurement practices.

“It is the Minister’s enduring expectation that all government agencies comply with relevant procurement rules and policies.

“The Minister can’t offer a view on the potential findings of this review as it is ongoing. She expects she will be briefed on any findings once the review has been completed.”

The review

The SIA confirmed to RNZ as part of an Official Information Act request on Thursday that they had commissioned an independent external review of its procurement practices for contracts valued over $100,000.

“The review is intended to provide assurance that procurement activity complies with the Government Rules of Sourcing and is appropriate for the scale and complexity of the agency’s work. This review is ongoing.

“While the review is underway, SIA continues to apply contract and work management practices to ensure that procurements support delivery of the agency’s work programme and provide value for money.

“This includes ongoing oversight of supplier performance and alignment of contracted work to evolving agency priorities.”

As the review had not been completed, SIA was not in a position to confirm whether any procurement activity breached the Government Rules of Sourcing, required an exception to those rules, or whether proper procurement processes were followed in all cases during the period in question.

RNZ also asked for a copy of all briefings, correspondence and reports in relation to investigations into Reiri.

“SIA has identified 63 documents within scope of your request. These documents relate to employment‑related processes and the internal consideration of allegations, including terms of reference, correspondence, and one email relating to alleged financial and procurement matters.

“The documents concern sensitive employment and internal matters and contain personal information. It is necessary for SIA to be able to manage employment issues and assess allegations effectively, including by enabling staff and other parties to communicate freely and candidly in the course of such processes.”

SIA provided a table setting out all contracts with a value of over $100,000 that were initiated or maintained during the relevant period.

“Ten of these contracts related to work within the scope of the Deputy Chief Executive – Strategy and Performance and/or the Deputy Chief Executive – Technology, Transformation and Enabling Services roles.

“While this includes all contracts within those functional areas, not all of the contracts listed involved work commissioned or directed by the former Deputy Chief Executive.”

The OIA said that while Reiri held “certain budget delegations”, responsibility for budgets “ultimately rested with the former Chief Executive”.

Lawyers acting for Reiri earlier told RNZ in response to questions that she was not aware of any allegations relating to financial and procurement irregularities concerning herself or any other person.

“To the extent there are any allegations of this nature, these are false and denied.”

In an earlier OIA released to RNZ, the SIA confirmed there had been two employment investigations over the last 12 months.

“I am also able to confirm that there has been one investigation in response to four formal reports of bullying and harassment. In the interest of privacy, we cannot provide a breakdown as to what each allegation was concerning.”

RNZ understands the investigation, which is ongoing, relates to Reiri.

“As a responsible employer, SIA takes these matters seriously and all complaints are investigated and followed through to the end. We have robust policies and procedures to manage disclosure of any allegations including protected disclosures (speak safe) and bullying and harassment policies, which provide informal and formal options for staff to raise concerns of serious wrongdoing and bullying and harassment.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/07/minister-for-social-investment-expects-govt-agencies-to-comply-with-procurement-rules/

Posted on

Fatal crash, Foxton Shannon Road, Moutoa

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died following a serious crash on Foxton Shannon Road this afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash just before 4pm.

Sadly, one person has died.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conduct a scene examination.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/07/fatal-crash-foxton-shannon-road-moutoa/