AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for October 16, 2026 – Full Text
1. Hunua Quarry development fast-tracked
October 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
A third substantial Auckland quarry project has gained Fast-track approval to expand operations, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Resources Minister Shane Jones say.
This is the 37th project approved through the Fast-track process.
Winstone Aggregates lodged its application in March 2026, with approval taking around four months from the appointment of an independent expert panel.
The redevelopment of Hunua Quarry will expand existing quarrying activities to allow Winstone Aggregates to deepen the existing Symonds Hill Pit to access additional high-quality greywacke and enabling a peak production capacity of up to 5.4 million tonnes a year of processed aggregate.
“Auckland needs a steady supply of aggregate for housing, construction, businesses and infrastructure. For over 15 years, Auckland has had to bring aggregate in from outside the region, at a significant cost. If the shortage gets worse, building and infrastructure costs will continue to rise,” Mr Bishop says.
“The expansions of this quarry, Drury Quarry and Kings Quarry will help reduce the shortage of aggregate and avoid extra costs. Without the expansion, the quarry’s approved rock supply would likely run out by 2039.
“The expert panel decided that the project would have major benefits for Auckland and the rest of New Zealand. It would make the supply of materials more reliable and make good use of a quarry that has been operating for about 100 years.
“The project was approved with conditions to manage concerns about increased truck traffic on Hunua Road and other roads. Other conditions were put in place to protect the land, natural surroundings and appearance of the area.”
“These three quarrying expansions approved through Fast-track mean a range of important projects will no longer need to source aggregate from outside the region and costs can be kept to reasonable levels. In addition, the region will benefit from lower emissions and less heavy traffic on major roads,” Mr Jones says.
“Quarrying is vital to the country providing the materials New Zealand needs to address the housing and infrastructure deficit, as well as providing employment.”
Media contacts
Chris Bishop – Tegan Harris +64 21 823 151
Shane Jones – Lucy Bennett +64 221 038 687
Notes to editor:
More information about the project: Hunua Quarry Development
Fast-track by the numbers:
37 projects approved by expert panels.
18 projects with expert panels appointed.
68 projects are currently progressing through the Fast-track process. 29 active substantive and 39 referral applications.
77 projects have been referred to Fast-track by the Minister for Infrastructure.
149 projects are listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act, meaning they can apply for Fast-track approval.
On average, it has taken 118 working days for decisions on substantive applications from when officials determine an application is complete and in-scope.
Fast-track projects approved by expert panels:
Arataki [Housing/Land]
Ashbourne [Housing/Land]
Auckland Prison Capacity Increase [Infrastructure]
Ayrburn Screen Hub [Infrastructure]
Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]
Delmore [Housing/Land]
Downtown Carpark Site Development [Housing/Land]
Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2 [Housing/Land]
Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block [Mining/Quarrying]
Foxton Solar Farm [Renewable Energy]
Green Steel [Infrastructure]
Haldon Solar [Renewable Energy]
Hananui Aquaculture [Aquaculture]
Hunua Quarry Development [Mining/Quarrying]
Homestead Bay [Housing/Land]
Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme [Renewable Energy]
Kings Quarry Expansion – Stages 2 and 3 [Mining/Quarrying]
Lake Pūkaki Hydro Storage and Dam Resilience Works [Renewable Energy]
Māhinerangi Wind Farm [Renewable Energy]
Maitahi Village [Housing/Land]
Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing/Land]
Mt Iron Junction [Housing/Land]
North West Rapid Transit [Infrastructure]
Pound Road [Housing/Land]
Rangitoopuni [Housing/Land]
Ryans Road [Housing/Land]
Southland Wind Farm Project [Renewable Energy]
State Highway 1 North Canterbury – Woodend Bypass Project (Belfast to Pegasus) [Infrastructure]
Stella Passage Development [Infrastructure]
Sunfield [Housing/Land]
Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 [Infrastructure]
Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable Energy]
The Point Mission Bay [Housing/Land]
Waihi North [Mining/Quarrying]
Waitaha Hydro [Renewable Energy]
Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project [Infrastructure]
Wellington International Airport Southern Seawall Renewal [Infrastructure]
Expert panels have been appointed for:
188 Beaumont Street
Alternative to the Brynderwyn Hills
Auckland Surf Park Community – Stage 2
Barrytown Minerals Project
Beachlands South
Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project
Bream Bay Sand Extraction Project
Brookvale Green
Central and Southern Block Mining Project
Mt Welcome, Pukerua Bay, Porirua
Ōhoka Residential Subdivision
Oparure Quarry South-Western Pit
Remarkables Ski Area Upgrades and Doolans Expansion Project
Southern Link Inland Port
State Highway 29 Tauriko Network Connections
The Point Solar Farm
Twizel Solar Farm
Waikanae North Development
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/15/hunua-quarry-development-fast-tracked/
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2. New term, same story; attendance up again
October 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Provisional school attendance data for Term 3 2026 shows despite a tough flu season in person attendance rates were the highest of any Term 3 since 2022, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says.
In Term 3 2026, 52.2% of students met the criteria for regular attendance, representing a 1.7 percentage point increase from 50.5% in Term 3 2025. A student attends school ‘regularly’ when they are in class for more than 90 per cent of the term.
“This data shows attendance rates continue to rise under this Government. We are focussed on fixing what matters, and few things are as important as school attendance,” Mr Seymour says.
“When the Government takes attendance seriously, so do students and their families and care givers. That’s the attitude we’ve taken to attendance during this difficult period.
“In Term 3 2022 regular attendance was at 45.8 per cent. In Term 3 2026 about 53,000 more students attended school regularly than in Term 3 2022. Kiwi students are showing up to school more, and parents are pushing them to attend. Those students and parents should be proud.
“The results speak for themselves. When faced with a tough flu season in Term 3 2025 attendance dropped 1.2 per cent. This year when faced with the same difficulties and an arguably tougher flu season, attendance rose 1.7 per cent.
“We’re on a roll, and I expect that to continue. Our attendance initiatives are now in force and have delivered results already. As educators, communities, and families become more familiar with new tools, those results will continue to improve.
“For example, every school is now required to have implemented their own attendance management plan (AMP). It means there are escalating responses for declining attendance.”
Some examples of how interventions might work are:
5 days absent: The school to get in touch with parents/guardians to determine reasons for absence and set expectations.
10 days absent: School leadership meets with parents/guardian and the student to identify barriers to attendance and develop plans to address this.
15 days absent: Escalating the response to an Attendance Service Provider. If absence escalates beyond this point (or for cases of non-enrolment) prosecution of parents becomes a possibility.
Budget 2025 also included $140 million of additional funding to improve attendance over the next four years.
“We’ve re-organised the provision of attendance services, awarding new contracts and increasing support for services providing excellent results,” Mr Seymour says.
“In 2024 Ministry of Education and ERO reviews found that the attendance services system wasn’t working. Funding was scattershot, distributed inefficiently, and failing to get results.
“Now, attendance services are much more effective. They’re better resourced, more accountable, better at effectively managing cases and more data driven. Thanks to this Government’s investment, they can reach twice as many students.
“As a result, attendance services are more effective at identifying non-enrolled students and are closing more cases. Support for schools to manage high numbers of re-enrolments is continuing and I would like to shout out the schools who have led this work.
“Our goal is clear: by 2030, 80 per cent of students will attend school more than 90 per cent of the time. School attendance is the first step to better learning, better health, higher incomes and stronger communities. Every student deserves that chance and we’re fixing what matters to make it happen.”
The years 2020 and 2021 are not included in comparisons because they’re not directly comparable with other years, due to the way that attendance was recorded during Covid-19 lockdowns.
The full provisional data breakdown can be found here: Attendance | Education Counts
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/15/new-term-same-story-attendance-up-again/
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3. SH54 resilience improvements on the way
October 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
A crash-prone bridge in Manawatū currently down to one lane is set to be replaced with funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Chris Bishop say.
The project to replace Haynes Bridge on State Highway 54 will receive funding of $6.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund.
Mr Jones says the investment in the new bridge on a key Manawatū-Whanganui route will deliver benefits for communities and businesses throughout the region.
“Safe, reliable roads are essential for connecting people to jobs, markets and opportunities. This investment will help ensure communities and businesses across Manawatū-Whanganui have a transport connection they can depend on, while supporting continued economic activity across the region.”
Mr Bishop says Haynes Bridge has a significant crash history and is currently operating as a single-lane crossing.
“The bridge is aging and deteriorating. If it deteriorates further or requires closure, residents, businesses and freight operators could face a diversion of around 59km.
“A replacement will create a safer, more reliable route for everyone who relies on SH54. This project delivers two important outcomes: improving safety and improving resilience.”
Design and consenting work is expected to begin within six months, with construction expected to commence in 2027.
Editors’ note
The Regional Infrastructure Fund invests in infrastructure that supports economic growth, strengthens resilience, improves regional productivity, and helps unlock investment opportunities across regional New Zealand.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/15/sh54-resilience-improvements-on-the-way/
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4. NZ First to increase funding and support to NZ Coastguard
October 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand First
span>New Zealand First will increase government funding of NZ Coastguard, ensuring this vital frontline service has the resources it needs to continue protecting New Zealanders on the water.
Coastguard’s annual budget (NZ$30–34m) is roughly 40% funded by the New Zealand Government and 60% by public support.
Under New Zealand First, Crown funding will increase to 70% of Coastguard’s operating costs – an increase of $12 million a year.
This investment will provide greater funding certainty and ensure Coastguard can meet growing demand while maintaining the high standards of service New Zealanders rely on.
Coastguard is New Zealand’s primary maritime search and rescue organisation. It has more than 2,000 volunteers operating from 62 units nationwide, Coastguard responds to emergencies across our coastlines, harbours, rivers and lakes, bringing thousands of New Zealanders safely home every year.
In the 2024/25 year alone, Coastguard responded to 2,785 incidents, assisted 6,792 people and saved 61 lives.
The additional funding will support critical maintenance and capability investment, including upgrades to New Zealand’s VHF maritime communications network, vessel procurement and replacement, and the purchase of essential rescue equipment.
It will also strengthen Coastguard’s volunteer workforce through improved training, capability development, and practical support measures such as subsidising volunteer travel costs.
In addition, New Zealand First will also improve coordination between Coastguard New Zealand, New Zealand Police, New Zealand Search and Rescue, Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Health New Zealand and the New Zealand Defence Force. Better cooperation between agencies will improve capital procurement, strengthen interoperability, reduce duplication, and ensure emergency services can respond more effectively when lives are at risk.
Coastguard volunteers give their time freely to keep New Zealanders safe.
New Zealand First believes the Government must ensure this essential national service has the funding, equipment, and support it needs to continue saving lives of New Zealanders.
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NZFirst will review Coastguard’s funding arrangement to lift baseline funding and establish a contracting model that will ensure they receive:
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Adequate access to capital for critical maintenance and capability investment,
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Improved workforce capability, and
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Volunteer support for training, wear and tear, and call out support
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NZFirst will also review arrangements across Land Search and Rescue New Zealand, Surf Life Saving NZ, and St Johns to ensure that their volunteers are adequately supported.
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NZFirst will investigate the establishment of an ‘Emergency Response Capital Grants Fund’ so that charitable organisations involved in emergency response have a secure funding option when making decisions about replacing equipment.
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NZFirst will conduct a review of emergency management services – Coastguard, NZ Police, NZSAR, Fire and Emergency NZ, Health NZ, Civil Defence and the NZ Defence Force to improve response coordination and interoperability between services.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/15/nz-first-to-increase-funding-and-support-to-nz-coastguard/
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5. De Beers Group and The Government of The Republic of Botswana Extend Partnership with Olympic Champion Letsile Tebogo as Global Ambassador
October 15, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
Three-year partnership celebrates excellence, ambition and Botswana’s remarkable development story through natural diamonds.
LONDON, UK/ GABORONE, BOTSWANA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – De Beers Group and the Government of the Republic of Botswana today announced the extension of De Beers’ partnership with Olympic champion and Botswana sporting icon Letsile Tebogo. Originally launched in January 2025, when Tebogo was appointed a De Beers Global Ambassador, the partnership has now been expanded into a three-year programme of work between De Beers and the Government of Botswana as part of their wider collaboration to support natural diamond demand and promote Botswana’s unique contribution to the diamond industry. The extended partnership will help shine a light on the progress Botswana has achieved through diamonds as the nation celebrates its ‘diamond’ anniversary of 60 years since independence.
Building on the success of the initial partnership, the relationship will be anchored in a global storytelling platform themed “The Road to LA28”, following Tebogo’s journey as he prepares for the next chapter of his extraordinary career. The collaboration will spotlight the transformative role that natural diamonds play in creating opportunities, supporting communities and driving long-term prosperity in Botswana.
Letsile Tebogo said: “My success story is connected to Botswana’s diamond heritage. The resources that built our schools and sports facilities helped create opportunities for young athletes like me. This partnership goes beyond sport – it is about showcasing how natural resources can drive positive change and create pathways for the next generation.”
In 2024, Tebogo made history when he won Olympic gold in the men’s 200 metres in a time of 19.46 seconds, becoming the first African athlete to win the event and the first Motswana to claim an Olympic gold medal. His achievement captivated audiences worldwide and cemented his status as one of the most exciting talents in global sport.
Since then, Tebogo has continued to establish himself among the world’s elite sprinters. Named World Athletics Men’s Athlete of the Year in 2024, he has remained a leading force on the international circuit, delivering standout performances across global competitions and inspiring a new generation of athletes throughout Africa.
The partnership reflects the powerful connection between Tebogo’s personal journey and Botswana’s development story. Over more than five decades, Botswana’s diamond resources have helped support investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and sport, creating opportunities for generations of Batswana and helping cultivate talents such as Tebogo. Like a natural diamond formed under pressure and transformed into something exceptional, Tebogo’s rise from Botswana to Olympic glory embodies resilience, determination and the fulfilment of potential.
The Road to LA28
As the face of the campaign, Tebogo will feature in content and storytelling initiatives that explore the dedication, sacrifice and support systems behind elite performance. Building on the Talent Unearthed platform, the campaign will connect sporting excellence with Botswana’s broader story of opportunity, progress and possibility.
Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, said: Anything worth having takes time, effort and pressure, whether that’s winning Olympic gold, the growth of a nation or the formation of a natural diamond. We are proud to extend our partnership with Letsile Tebogo, showcasing how Botswana nurtures its human talent just as carefully as it develops its precious natural resources. As Botswana’s approaches its 60th ‘diamond’ anniversary of independence, its people and its diamonds have never shone more brightly.
Honourable Bogolo Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy, said: “As we celebrate Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee, we have an opportunity to reflect on a remarkable national journey. From independence to today, natural diamonds have helped transform our country and create opportunities for generations of Batswana. Letsile’s rise to Olympic champion is a powerful example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity. Through this partnership, the Government of Botswana, De Beers Group and Letsile Tebogo will share Botswana’s story with global audiences while highlighting the enduring value and positive impact of natural diamonds.”
Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #LetsileTebogo #ADiamondisForever #BuildingForever #NaturalDiamonds #Diamonds #創守永恒 #天然鑽石 #鑽石
About De Beers Group
About The Republic of Botswana
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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6. PSA says Greens public service announcement necessary to start rebuild of public services
October 15, 2026
Source: Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi
The Greens’ policy to reverse the Coalition Government’s plans to cut 8700 public service jobs and replace them with AI is a necessary step to rebuilding public services, the PSA says.
The Greens announced the policy at the PSA office in Wellington today.
“The coalition Government has dismantled our public service and dismissed thousands of public servants with no regard for the consequences. These people had more to give New Zealand and their work was important,” said Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons.
“New Zealand will need to invest in stronger public services to meet the challenges of climate change, the housing crisis, infrastructure deficit, an aging population, technological change and global uncertainty.
“In the last few days New Zealand’s 24/7 geohazard monitoring centre has shut down twice because of staff shortages after brutal funding cuts. That’s irresponsible in a country that experiences 20,000 earthquakes a year.
“The slashing of the Ministry of Social Development’s workforce by hundreds of jobs led to 6,270 pensioners missing out on Winter Energy Payments and 14,450 people having their main or supplementary benefits incorrectly cut.
“Without a change of government things will get only worse. Recently Inland Revenue – a core government agency – has said it will have to axe hundreds of jobs as its budget is slashed by 20% in the next three years.
“The Government’s new Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport (MCERT) this week told staff it won’t be able to keep doing the same level of work, as it proposes to cut 400 roles, 25% of its workforce.
“This is the Ministry meant to lead New Zealand’s response to climate change, fix our housing shortage, and plan the roads, rail and infrastructure the country badly needs. This is a Ministry that is likely to need more funding not less.”
“The Government’s cuts have been made with no plan and no thought to the current and future needs of New Zealanders. They have been made to paper over the Government’s financial mismanagement and poor choices a such as handing out hundreds of millions of dollars to tobacco companies and tax cuts for wealthy landlords.
“No country in the world has evidence that AI can replace public sector workers at the scale this Government is betting on.
“Countries like Singapore, which the Government often cites as a role model, use AI to improve public services not to reduce headcount.
“To stop this cycle of damaging restructures, the PSA is calling for a mandatory public good test before government agencies and other publicly funded employers can embark on major restructures and cut jobs,” Fitzsimons says.
“Agencies should have to stop and properly weigh up the impact on services, on workers and on the communities who rely on them, before ploughing ahead with a restructure, not after the damage is done. (See summary of criteria below).
“When restructures are rushed through as this government has done without any real assessment of the impact, it’s the public who ultimately pay the price,” Fitzsimons said.
Background: the proposed public good test
The PSA proposes a statutory requirement for public sector agencies and other publicly funded employers to assess any significant restructure against a public good test before proceeding.
The assessment would need to cover a range of criteria including:
- Impact on the services the agency delivers to the public
- Compliance with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the agency’s ability to meet its obligations to Māori under Te Tiriti
- Impacts on workforce capability, both within the agency and across the public and community sectors
- Health and safety impacts, both physical safety and the impact of workload stress on remaining staff
- Long-term, intergenerational impacts, including impacts on New Zealand’s ability to mitigate and adapt to climate change
- Impacts on population groups at risk of being disadvantaged in their access to public and community services, including women, Māori, Pasefika, migrants, rainbow communities and disabled people
- Consistency with undertakings made by the Government in response to a Royal Commission of Inquiry or Auditor-General recommendations
The PSA says the test should apply to core public service agencies under the Public Service Act 2020 and be extended to local government and publicly funded community services as a condition of public funding.
Related media releases
- New mega-ministry admits it can’t do the same job as it plans to cut 400 roles
- Geohazard centre goes dark again – more proof Govt. is breaking the basics
- MSD errors just the beginning as the impact of cuts is felt
- Enough is enough: public good test needed to stop Govt’s reckless restructures
- Axe hovers over hundreds of IRD workers as agency faces 20% budget cut
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, Health NZ and community groups.
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7. FLAIR Launches Hong Kong’s First Embodied AI International Applications Hub
October 16, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
Establishing a Research, Training and Validation Hub for Embodied AI to Accelerate Commercialisation and Industrial Adoption
HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – As embodied AI emerges as a key direction in the global development of artificial intelligence (AI), the Hong Kong Industrial Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre (FLAIR), under the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), is leveraging its years of accumulated technological expertise, industry networks and application experience to seize new opportunities arising from the Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan and the “AI+” initiative. In support of Hong Kong’s strategy to advance new industrialisation, FLAIR today officially launched the Embodied AI International Applications Hub (the “Hub”), Hong Kong’s first platform dedicated to the training, validation and real-world deployment of embodied AI and humanoid robotics technologies.
As a key platform for embodied AI research, development and scenario validation in Hong Kong, the Hub not only provides real-world application environments, but also serves as an integrated innovation infrastructure for technology development, model adaption and training, system validation and scenario testing. Through the Hub, FLAIR will establish a continuous optimisation mechanism for embodied AI technologies, enabling humanoid robotics and embodied AI solutions to progress from laboratory research to large-scale industrial deployment. This will support the development of new productive forces in Hong Kong and reinforce the city’s position as an international innovation and technology centre and a regional AI R&D hub.
The Hub was officially inaugurated by Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, and Hon Sunny TAN, BBS, Chairman of HKPC. In its initial phase, the Hub brings together seven technology partners and eight international scenario partners to jointly advance the research, testing and innovative application of embodied AI technologies across manufacturing, smart logistics, retail services, inspection and maintenance, as well as public services.
Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, said: “Humanoid robotics and embodied AI are key frontiers of the next wave of technological innovation, with tremendous potential to transform industrial operations and foster new quality productive forces. The establishment of the Embodied AI International Applications Hub by HKPC comes at an opportune time, providing technology partners with real-world applications for testing and optimising technologies, accelerating commercialisation, and supporting enterprises in expanding into international markets. The HKSAR Government will continue to support AI development through investments in research, funding and infrastructure, and work jointly with research institutions, tech companies, and industries to promote the large-scale development of technology, while ensuring safety and compliance.”
FLAIR: Driving the Development of the Embodied AI Industry through R&D and Validation Capabilities
Hon Sunny TAN, BBS, Chairman of HKPC, said: “The key to the development of embodied AI lies in whether robots can continuously learn and train to truly adapt to different scenarios and create tangible value. Over the years, FLAIR has continued to invest in AI and robotics R&D, building strong technical foundations in intelligent perception, autonomous decision-making, motion control and industrial applications. The Embodied AI International Applications Hub represents an important step in extending these R&D capabilities into real-world environments, enabling technology solutions to be trained, validated and optimised in Hong Kong before progressing towards industrialisation and international deployment. We hope this initiative will help position Hong Kong as a leading centre for innovation and application of embodied AI technologies.”
Building a Continuous Training and Validation Framework for Large-Scale Adoption of Embodied AI
As the technical lead of the Hub, FLAIR will establish a data-driven technology validation and optimisation framework through a closed-loop R&D process encompassing scenario definition, model adaptation and training, solution testing, performance evaluation, data feedback, technology iteration and revalidation. This framework will help enterprises continuously enhance the capability and reliability of embodied AI systems.
Unlike conventional technology showcase platforms, the core value of the Hub lies in its ability to leverage real-world scenario data and continuous operational testing to enable robots and embodied AI systems to learn operating patterns across different environments. This process continuously improves autonomous execution capabilities, task success rates, generalisation capabilities, safety and environmental adaptability. Such a continuous training and validation model is critical for advancing embodied AI technologies from proof-of-concept to commercial deployment.
Combining its AI and robotics R&D expertise, FLAIR will develop testing frameworks and evaluation standards tailored to the needs of different industries. Technologies will be assessed against multiple indicators, including operational accuracy, execution efficiency, system reliability, autonomous task completion rate, safety performance and environmental adaptability. These objective benchmarks will establish clear measures of technology maturity, helping industries reduce deployment risks and accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions.
Leveraging Hong Kong’s International Advantages to Accelerate Global Market Expansion
In logistics applications, embodied AI systems must handle a wide range of parcel specifications, warehouse environments and operational workflows. In smart manufacturing, robots are required to adapt to diverse production processes, safety requirements and equipment standards across different markets. In industrial inspection and public facility management scenarios, humanoid and quadruped robots must also demonstrate advanced full-body control and autonomous operation capabilities in complex environments.
By integrating real-world operational scenarios from different countries and regions, the Hub enables technology solutions to undergo comprehensive training and validation before deployment. As an international city, Hong Kong uniquely combines access to the Chinese Mainland market with alignment to international standards, providing an ideal cross-regional proving ground for emerging technologies, helping enterprises to refine and validate their solutions in diverse application environments, and accelerating commercialisation and market expansion across both Chinese Mainland and overseas markets.
Bringing Together Industry, Academia, Research and Applications to Build an Embodied AI Innovation Ecosystem
During the opening ceremony, officiating guests presented plaques to the first batch of technology partners, including Beijing Xingdongjiyuan Co., Ltd. (Robotera), Unitree Robotics, Changzhou Microintelligence Co., Ltd, AI Squared Robotics (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., AgiBot Innovation (Shanghai) Technology Co.,Ltd., Beijing Galbot AI Co., Ltd., and Rice Robotics.
In addition to technology partners, the first batch of international scenario partners comprise Government departments and international enterprises across a wide range of sectors. These partners will provide authentic, complex and diverse real-world application scenarios, enabling robotics technologies to be tested, validated and continuously optimised in environments closely aligned with the practical needs of Hong Kong and international markets. FLAIR also presented plaques to scenario partners. Representatives from scenario partners shared practical experiences in infrastructure development, smart manufacturing, aircraft maintenance and public services, demonstrating the application of Embodied AI technologies.
Looking ahead, FLAIR will continue working closely with industry partners, research institutions and technology companies to advance embodied AI research and development, standards validation and industrial applications through the Hub, fostering an internationally influential embodied AI innovation ecosystem. HKPC will also leverage its strong industry support and promotion capabilities to help mature technology solutions developed in Hong Kong reach international markets, further strengthening the city’s strategic position as a hub for embodied AI research, validation and application.
Please download the high-res photos HERE.
Photo Captions:
| 1. Professor SUN Dong, JP (Middle), Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, Hon Sunny TAN, BBS(Right), Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), and Mr Edmond LAI(Left), Chief Digital Officer of HKPC, officiated at the opening ceremony of the Embodied AI International Applications Hub, marking the launch of Hong Kong’s first dedicated platform for embodied AI and humanoid robotics applications. |
| 2. Officiating guests presented plaques to technology partners of the Embodied AI International Applications Hub, joining forces to advance the application of embodied AI technologies across logistics, manufacturing, retail, education and public service applications. |
| 3. The Hong Kong Industrial Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre (FLAIR) presented plaques to scenario partners, bringing together Government departments and multinational industrial and investment organisations to promote the development and deployment of embodied AI technologies in real-world operating environments. |
| 4. Professor SUN Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, toured the Embodied AI International Applications Hub and explored real-world applications of embodied AI technologies in logistics sorting, smart manufacturing, retail services and education. |
| 5. Beijing Xingdongjiyuan Co., Ltd. (Robotera) showcased the M7 humanoid robot and an embodied AI logistics solution, demonstrating autonomous parcel identification and logistics sorting operations. |
| 6. Unitree Robotics showcased its R1 humanoid robot and A2 quadruped robot at the Embodied AI International Applications Hub, demonstrating applications including factory inspection and autonomous mobility. |
| 7. Changzhou MicroIntelligence Technology Co., Ltd. showcased the “MicroFlex” Embodied AI Flexible Production Line, highlighting industrial robots’ autonomous perception, decision-making and execution capabilities in smart manufacturing environments. |
| 8. AI Squared Robotics (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. showcased its AlphaBot 2 general-purpose intelligent robot, powered by the embodied foundation model AlphaBrain, demonstrating practical applications in retail and food-and-beverage service scenarios. |
| 9. AgiBot Innovation (Shanghai) Technology Co., Ltd. showcased its general-purpose embodied robots and scenario-based solutions, demonstrating the application of embodied AI technologies across manufacturing, logistics, retail and public service environments. |
| 10. Beijing Galbot AI Co., Ltd. showcased a smart retail scenario and embodied AI retail solution, demonstrating robots’ capabilities in merchandise management and customer service within real-world retail environments. |
| 11. Rice Robotics showcased its latest production-grade semi-humanoid robot, NEX, in a simulated smart library and education setting, demonstrating applications in education and public services. |
Hashtag: #FLAIR #HKPC
About the Hong Kong Productivity Council
HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.
To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.
HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.
For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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8. ZTE Hong Kong and LSCM Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Hong Kong’s Digital and Intelligent Development
October 15, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
- The MoU was signed at the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026 at Hong Kong Science Park
- The two parties will collaborate on ICT infrastructure, AI, general computing, operating systems and cyber resilience
HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary ZTE (Hong Kong) Limited (“ZTE Hong Kong”) and The Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (“LSCM”) today officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Hong Kong Science Park during the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026.
The signing ceremony was attended by representatives of both parties. Ir Prof Alan Lam, Chairman of the Board of Directors of LSCM, and Mr. Mei Zhonghua, Senior Vice President of ZTE, jointly witnessed the signing; Mr. Simon Wong, Chief Executive Officer of LSCM, and Ms. Wang Huan, Managing Director of ZTE Hong Kong Representative Office, signed the MoU on behalf of both parties..
In accordance with the principles of complementary strengths, equality and mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, both parties reached a consensus on cooperation focusing on Hong Kong’s digital and intelligent development, enhancing e-government information services, and promoting the local application of secure and reliable diversified technologies in Hong Kong. They also agreed to jointly cultivate a digital and intelligent industry ecosystem suited to Hong Kong’s actual needs.
The Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM) was established in 2006 with funding from the Innovation and Technology Fund of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. Since its establishment, LSCM has been committed to researching and developing various technologies that promote the development of industries related to logistics and supply chains, and to assisting industries across Hong Kong and mainland China in adopting relevant technologies.
ZTE (Hong Kong) Limited was incorporated in Hong Kong in 2000 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ZTE Corporation. ZTE Hong Kong has been deeply rooted in the Hong Kong market for many years, serving local operators over the long term. It has a strong localized service team and delivery capability, enabling it to respond quickly to customer needs, as well as full-stack locally developed products and IT application innovation solutions, which have been widely implemented. With a deep understanding of the Hong Kong market and rich project experience, ZTE Hong Kong has achieved breakthroughs and established a presence in key industries such as the public sector and finance, providing safe and reliable ICT solutions to customers across various industries. In the future, ZTE Hong Kong will continue to leverage its localized service advantages to support the digital transformation of industries in Hong Kong.
Under the MoU, cooperation between the two parties covers areas including ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence, general computing, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Both parties will also actively promote technology and talent exchange, fully leverage their respective R&D strengths, comprehensively carry out joint innovation in areas such as general computing and artificial intelligence, and jointly develop and incubate a digital and intelligent ecosystem suited to Hong Kong. Focusing on the C86 next-generation computing platform, the two parties will carry out in-depth cooperation in areas such as locally developed computing infrastructure development and the digital transformation of government and enterprises, jointly promoting the high-quality development of industries in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.
The signing of this MoU marks the official launch of the strategic cooperation between the two parties in promoting Hong Kong’s digital and intelligent development and the application of secure and reliable technologies. Both parties will take this opportunity to deepen cooperation and complement each other’s strengths, jointly contributing to Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development and enhancements in trusted public-sector digital capabilities.
Hashtag: #ZTE
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9. Tech and Governance – Meet the Value Archaeologist
October 14, 2026
Source: Aligned Outcomes
Key facts
- Martin Johnston, Director of Cost Optimisation at Aligned Outcomes, has launched the Value Archaeologist – a campaign encouraging Australian organisations to uncover hidden savings within their existing technology budgets through contract reviews, invoice reconciliation and supplier negotiations.
- With over 30 years’ experience in IT cost optimisation, Johnston argues that many organisations continue paying for outdated, duplicated or poorly structured technology services simply because invoices go unchallenged and legacy contracts remain unexamined.
- Recent engagements demonstrate tangible results: a national waste management operator recovered credits equivalent to 16% of annual telecommunications spend, while an ASX-listed property group secured savings of 17% of annual spend before any contracts were renegotiated.
- The Aligned Outcomes team works alongside clients’ internal technology, finance and procurement specialists, combining organisational knowledge with industry benchmarks and commercial expertise, with savings verified following negotiation and implementation.
- Organisations can begin with a free corporate mobile benchmark or a focused Proof of Value assessment to determine whether a deeper investigation is warranted.
The treasure is real. The map is usually a spreadsheet.
SYDNEY, 14th October 2026 Some people hunt for treasure in ancient ruins. Martin Johnston prefers a supplier contract nobody has opened since the last renewal.
Johnston, Director of Cost Optimisation at Aligned Outcomes, is the real person behind the Value Archaeologist, a tongue-in-cheek take on the serious business of finding money buried in Australian technology budgets.
With more than 30 years’ experience in IT cost optimisation, Johnston brings expertise in technology cost management, strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations across enterprise and government. The pith helmet adds a little theatre to work that requires patience, commercial knowledge and a willingness to ask awkward questions.
The project ended. The charges survived. The person who negotiated the contract left three restructures ago. Somewhere, an invoice is still being approved because it looks much like last month’s.
That is where the digging starts.
“Most organisations do not need a treasure map. They need someone willing to read the contract, reconcile the invoices and ask why they are still paying for something agreed two CIOs ago,” Johnston said.
“The helmet is optional. The evidence is not.”
Aligned Outcomes is introducing the Value Archaeologist to bring those investigations to life and encourage executives to question expenditure that has become part of the furniture.
At a national waste management and resource recovery operator, suspected carrier overcharging prompted a detailed investigation of invoices and contracts. The work secured credits equivalent to 16% of annual telecommunications expenditure, a recovery worth 20 times the engagement fee.
At an ASX-listed diversified property group, the team reconstructed a fragmented cost baseline and examined historical invoices and contracts. It secured savings equivalent to 17% of annual spend before a single contract was renegotiated. The engagement operated on a risk/reward basis, with no upfront client fee.
The targets are not always obvious mistakes. They include supplier pricing that has quietly drifted, duplicated services, underused capacity and commercial models built for an organisation that no longer exists.
Some opportunities sit near the surface. Others require more excavation, particularly where the service remains essential and the invoice is technically correct.
“A bill can be accurate and still represent poor value,” Johnston said. “You can need the service, like the supplier and still be paying too much. A long relationship is a good thing. An unchallenged price is something else.”
Johnston and the Aligned Outcomes team work alongside internal technology, finance and procurement specialists. They combine the client’s organisational knowledge with industry benchmarks, commercial experience and the capacity to follow an opportunity through negotiation, implementation and savings verification.
The approach recognises that keeping services running leaves little time to investigate years of accumulated commitments. Savings are pursued through better commercial outcomes and optimised service delivery, with proposed changes assessed and approved by the client.
“The people inside the organisation often know where to start looking,” Johnston said. “What they need is the time, evidence and support to do something about it. We help them turn ‘I think we are paying too much’ into a result they can prove.”
Organisations can start with a free corporate mobile benchmark or a free, focused Proof of Value assessment, then decide whether the findings justify a deeper investigation.
Before searching for new funding, the Value Archaeologist suggests checking what is already buried in the budget.
About Aligned Outcomes
Aligned Outcomes brings together TeleResult, CDRU and ClearCost to help government and enterprise organisations find hidden value in technology spending. With roots dating to 1972 and more than 5,000 client engagements across its businesses’ combined history, the group combines specialist consulting, managed services and financial management software through Cost Optimisation as a Service (COaaS).
The businesses within Aligned Outcomes have delivered more than $100 million in verified client savings in the past two years. The group reports typical client cost reductions of 15-30%, depending on the scope reviewed and existing commercial arrangements.
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10. Angel Health Releases Psychiatric Consultation Information Covering Private Clinics and Public Referral Arrangements
October 15, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
Drawing on doctors’ and medical institutions’ official websites, government healthcare directories and other public sources, the compilation presents professional backgrounds, consultation locations, contact details, published fees and appointment arrangements. Private clinic information is organised by Kowloon, Hong Kong Island and the New Territories, alongside information on first consultations and public services. Readers are encouraged to confirm individual arrangements directly with the relevant healthcare providers
People considering psychiatric care for low mood, anxiety, insomnia, attention difficulties or other mental health concerns may need information about specialist qualifications, patient groups, consultation arrangements and costs. Angel Health’s compilation brings these details together for reference and does not assess, rank or compare the doctors listed.
Information relevant to children and adolescents is also included. According to the Department of Health’s Student Health Service Annual Health Report for 2024/25 School Year, 1.0% of students attending Student Health Service Centres during that school year were referred to clinical psychologists within the service, Hospital Authority specialist clinics or other organisations for further assessment and management of psychosocial and behavioural problems. This figure relates specifically to referrals among students attending those centres.
Four Practical Considerations Before a First Consultation
The compilation covers four main considerations: specialist qualifications and patient groups, consultation duration and fee arrangements, clinic location, and follow-up arrangements.
Before making an appointment, prospective patients can check whether a doctor is listed on the Specialist Register under Psychiatry and enquire about the doctor’s patient groups and clinical scope, such as adult, child and adolescent, or older adult mental health.
An initial psychiatric assessment generally involves a detailed discussion of symptoms, medical and medication histories, and personal and family circumstances. Patients can ask about the expected consultation duration, how fees are calculated, and whether follow-up consultations, medication or additional assessments incur separate charges.
Clinic location and follow-up arrangements are also practical considerations. Some mental health conditions require ongoing assessment and regular follow-up, making accessibility and appointment availability relevant when considering a consultation.
Private Psychiatric Outpatient Information by Location
The following information is based on publicly available material as at 14 October 2026. The order of presentation does not indicate ranking or medical endorsement. Clinic opening hours do not necessarily correspond to an individual doctor’s consultation sessions. Appointment availability, service arrangements and fees should be confirmed directly with the relevant doctor or institution before booking.
Dr Law Sin Wai, Vicky | Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Dr Vicky Law is a Specialist in Psychiatry and holds the qualifications of Fellow of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists, Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry), and Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Her services cover child and adolescent, adult and elderly mental health, including mood disorders, anxiety, insomnia, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), cognitive disorders and other mental health conditions.
- Clinic: Seed Medical
- Address: Room 1505A, 15/F, Ocean Centre, Harbour City, 5 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
- Tel / WhatsApp: 3488 3836
- Clinic Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00–18:00; Saturday, 09:00–13:00; closed on Sundays and public holidays
- New Patient Fee: HK2,000forthefirsthour;HK500 for each additional 15 minutes
- Other Charges: Medication charges are quoted separately if medication is required
- Appointment Arrangement: Psychiatric consultations are by appointment only. Dr Law’s actual consultation schedule should be confirmed at the time of booking.
Dr Lai Chi Lun | Mong Kok, Kowloon
Dr Lai Chi Lun is a Specialist in Psychiatry. His qualifications include Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Hong Kong, Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists and Fellowship of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry). He is also an Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Hong Kong.
Dr Lai currently provides private psychiatric outpatient services at Alliance Medical Center in Mong Kok and Sheung Wan, with consultations in Mong Kok on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
- Clinic: Alliance Medical Center
- Address: 15/F, 655 Nathan Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon
- Tel: 2787 9372
- Fee Reference: HK1,000–HK1,500; medication charged separately
- Appointment Arrangement: By appointment. Actual fees depend on the consultation requirements and individual circumstances. Medication, investigations and other treatment charges are additional.
Dr Cheung Ching Ping, Dennis | Central, Hong Kong Island
Dr Dennis Cheung is a Specialist in Psychiatry and Medical Director of HealthyMind Centre. A graduate of the University of Hong Kong Faculty of Medicine, he is a Fellow of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists and a Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry). He is also an Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong. His previous specialist psychiatric training covered adult, child and geriatric psychiatry services.
- Clinic: HealthyMind Centre
- Address: Room 1101, 11/F, World-Wide House, 19 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
- Tel: 2180 2822
- Clinic Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00–13:00 and 15:00–18:00; Saturday, 10:00–14:00
- Public Fee Reference: New consultation HK2,000;follow-upconsultationfromHK1,000; medication charged separately
- Appointment Arrangement: By appointment. Consultation fees should be confirmed with the clinic before booking.
Dr Li Ching Kwok, Rico | Central, Hong Kong Island
Dr Rico Li is a Specialist in Psychiatry and an Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor in the Departments of Psychiatry at both the University of Hong Kong and The Chinese University of Hong Kong. His qualifications include Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of Hong Kong, Membership of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists and Fellowship of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry).
- Clinic: Radcliffe Medical
- Address: Room 522, 5/F, Central Building, 1–3 Pedder Street, Central, Hong Kong
- Tel: 2129 2991
- WhatsApp: 5488 7212
- Fee: From HK$2,000; consultation fees do not include medication, specialised psychological assessments, device-based treatments or other professional treatment fees
- Appointment Arrangement: By appointment. Actual consultation dates and times should be confirmed with the clinic.
Dr Wong Chun Bun, Gordon | Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Island
Dr Gordon Wong is a Specialist in Psychiatry and a graduate of the University of Hong Kong Faculty of Medicine. He holds qualifications from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists and the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry), and is an Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Hong Kong’s Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine.
His scope of practice includes mood and anxiety disorders, sleep problems, psychosis, elderly mental health, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder and psychotherapy.
- Clinic: Optimind Clinic
- Address: Unit 1807, 18/F, East Point Centre, 555 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
- Tel: 5726 5860
- Fee Reference: Basic consultation fees are approximately HK1,000–HK2,500; medication is charged separately
- Appointment Arrangement: Patients are advised to contact the clinic directly to confirm the latest consultation schedule.
Dr Lin Wei | Sha Tin, New Territories
Dr Lin Wei is a Consultant and Specialist in Psychiatry at CUHK Medical Centre, and an Honorary Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
His professional qualifications include Membership and Fellowship of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists, and Fellowship of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry).
- Clinic: CUHK Medical Centre Specialist Outpatient Centre
- Address: 9 Chak Cheung Street, Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong
- Tel: 3946 6888
- Consultation Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00–13:00 and 14:30–17:00; Saturday, 09:00–13:00
- Public Fee for Initial Psychiatric Consultation: HK1,500–HK3,000
- Appointment Arrangement: By appointment. Actual consultation fees depend on the doctor, consultation requirements and individual case circumstances. Medication, investigations and other treatment charges are additional.
Dr Cheung Chi Kwan | Tuen Mun, New Territories
Dr Cheung Chi Kwan is a Specialist in Psychiatry. His qualifications include Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Fellowship of the Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists and Fellowship of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (Psychiatry). He provides private psychiatric services in Tuen Mun, including mental healthcare and counselling.
- Clinic: Joyful Medical Centre
- Address: Shop L202, Level 2, Leung King Plaza, Leung King Estate, 31 Tin King Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories
- Telephone: 2456 4780
- Published Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30–12:30 and 15:00–19:30; Saturday 08:30–12:30
- Consultation Arrangement: Latest consultation sessions and holiday arrangements should be confirmed before booking.
Public Psychiatric Outpatient Services
In addition to private clinic information, Angel Health’s compilation covers Hospital Authority psychiatric outpatient locations, referral and triage arrangements, and applicable charges.
Public psychiatric outpatient services provide assessment, treatment and follow-up care. The availability of adult, child and adolescent, old age psychiatry and other subspecialty services varies between hospitals and clinics. Patients should confirm the appropriate service location and arrangements with the relevant institution.
Hospitals and Outpatient Centres
The following locations are included in the compilation and grouped geographically. The list is not exhaustive.
| Region | Hospitals and outpatient centres |
| Hong Kong Island | Queen Mary Hospital; Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital; David Trench Rehabilitation Centre |
| Kowloon | Kowloon Hospital; Caritas Medical Centre; East Kowloon Psychiatric Centre; United Christian Hospital; Yung Fung Shee Memorial Centre |
| New Territories | Prince of Wales Hospital; Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital; North District Hospital; Tseung Kwan O Hospital Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic; psychiatric outpatient services associated with Kwai Chung Hospital; West Kowloon Psychiatric Centre; Tuen Mun Hospital; Tuen Mun Mental Health Centre |
| Lantau Island | North Lantau Hospital |
West Kowloon Psychiatric Centre is listed at 2/F, Main Block B/C, Kwai Chung Hospital. Patients should attend the location specified in their latest appointment notification.
Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital list adult, child and adolescent, and old age psychiatry services. Queen Mary Hospital lists psychosis services and child and adolescent psychiatric outpatient services. Referral and consultation arrangements should be confirmed with the relevant hospital or clinic.
Referral and Triage Arrangements
New patients attending public psychiatric outpatient services generally require a referral from a Hong Kong registered medical practitioner.
Following referral, cases are assessed through the Hospital Authority’s clinical triage system. New referrals are usually screened first by a nurse and then reviewed by a specialist doctor in the relevant specialty. Cases are classified as urgent, semi-urgent or stable according to clinical circumstances to determine appointment priority.
Public outpatient consultations and follow-up appointments are arranged according to hospital service provision and clinical triage. This differs from making a direct enquiry to a private clinic about an appointment with an individual doctor. The attending doctor, appointment date and location are subject to the hospital’s arrangements and notification.
Public Specialist Outpatient and Psychiatric Day Hospital Charges
Under the Hospital Authority’s standard charging arrangements effective from 1 January 2026, the relevant charges are as follows.
| Service | Eligible Persons | Non-eligible Persons |
| Specialist outpatient consultation | HK$250 per attendance | HK$850 per attendance |
| Specialist outpatient medication | HK$20 per drug item for each four-week charging unit | HK$90 per drug item for each four-week charging unit |
| Psychiatric day hospital | Free | HK$1,800 per attendance |
Medication charges are calculated per prescribed drug item in four-week charging units. Self-financed drugs are not covered by the standard medication charges. Eligibility, fee waivers and other applicable charges are subject to the Hospital Authority’s latest published arrangements. Psychiatric day hospital services are distinct from psychiatric specialist outpatient consultations; free day hospital services for Eligible Persons do not mean that all psychiatric outpatient consultations are free.
Emergency Support
Anyone facing an immediate risk of self-harm, harm to others or another mental health emergency should call 999 or attend an Accident and Emergency Department immediately. The Government’s 18111 Mental Health Support Hotline provides round-the-clock support and referral services.
Information Disclaimer
This compilation is provided for general health information only. It does not constitute a ranking, endorsement, diagnosis or medical advice, and is not a comprehensive directory of private or public psychiatric services in Hong Kong.
Professional titles, practice locations, telephone numbers, consultation hours, fees and service arrangements may change. Patients should confirm the latest details directly with the relevant doctor or healthcare institution and seek professional assessment appropriate to their individual circumstances.
https://www.angelhealthmedicalhk.com/
Hashtag: #AngelHealth #Medical #Health #Life
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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