New Zealand secures major shipbuilder for new ferries

October 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government, through its procuring company Ferry Holdings Limited has secured Guangzhou Shipyard International as the builder of two new ferries, Rail Minister Winston Peters confirmed today.

“GSI is the largest modern integrated shipbuilding enterprise in Southern China, founded in 1954 and is listed on the Hong Kong and Shanghai stock exchanges,” Mr Peters says.

“We want the best deal possible for New Zealand taxpayers and a shipbuilder of the competence, capability and capacity of GSI underscores the high degree of confidence in our no-nonsense ferry replacement programme.

“Ferry Holdings and GSI are still in negotiations, and details will not be disclosed until these negotiations are completed along with the port agreements with CentrePort Limited and Port Marlborough New Zealand Limited.

“As we said in early September, we have secured major components including a fixed price, completion in 2029, and full delivery of our ship specifications for 200-metre-long ferries with road and rail decks, and room for 1,500 passengers each.

“We intend to make an announcement before the end of this year detailing our agreements and how we have saved the taxpayer billions by cancelling project iReX and returning to the no-nonsense solution we started in May 2020,” Mr Peters says.

MIL OSI

Local Elections – Rural voices lead the way in council elections

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: Federated Farmers

Farmer voices will be heard loud and clear in council chambers over the next three years, with nearly 70 candidates linked to Federated Farmers elected.

“In the lead-up to this election, Federated Farmers urged rural people to get involved in local decision-making – both by standing as candidates and by voting,” Feds local government spokesperson Sandra Faulkner says.

“The response on both fronts has been really heartening.

“I congratulate all who put their names forward. We look forward to continuing to constructively engage on matters affecting rural communities.”

While this year’s local government elections have seen the lowest voter turnout in 36 years, with only 32.65% of eligible voters bothering to have their say, the response in provincial and rural New Zealand was significantly better.

The rural turnout was 43.6%, and in provincial cities it was 38.3% – both eclipsing the 28.8% who cast a vote in metro areas.

“Perhaps this shows that rural and provincial residents better understand how decisions by local authorities – on things like roading, water infrastructure, district planning rules – affect their daily lives,” Faulkner says.

“A major part of Federated Farmers’ work is advocating to district and regional councils for a focus on core infrastructure, reining in rates rises, fairer cost-sharing, and common-sense planning rules.

“We urged candidates with a strong understanding of rural and farming needs to fight for election.

“They did just that – and clearly plenty of voters appreciated their policies and skillset.”

Based on preliminary election results, there are 10 current or former Federated Farmers provincial presidents among the 69 successful candidates linked to Feds.

They are: Will Foley (Mayor, Central Hawke’s Bay District), Andrew McGiven (Matamata Piako District), Luke Pepper (Ruapehu District), Jamie Falloon (Masterton District), Keith Holmes (Waikato Regional Council), Geoff Young and David Rose (Environment Southland), Ben Fraser and Sally Dryland (Horizons Regional Council), John Blackwell (Northland Regional Council).

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Sport – Brodie Kane returns to Wānaka to inspire women into endurance sport

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: Scope Communications

Media personality and multisport athlete Brodie Kane will return to the Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half in February 2026, joining Olympic gold medallist Emma Twigg and fitness trainer Caroline Patterson in the team event.

Kane will swim the 1.9km leg of the iconic middle-distance triathlon, with Twigg taking on the 90km bike and Patterson, described by her team mates as a “demon in running shoes”, will do the 21.1km run. With all three having busy lives outside of sport, Kane says their team reflects the spirit of the event; strong, supportive and inspiring.

“I’ve had a huge year of racing, so this time I need the moral support and fun of being in a team,” says Kane. “And the event was so much fun last time I did it – such great vibes – I couldn’t say no.”

Challenge Wānaka is calling on more women to enter the 2026 event, with a focus on growing female participation through its partnership with Kane, who believes women often underestimate their strength and hopes her involvement will help others take the leap.

“Women are classic overthinkers, we catastrophise and doubt ourselves all the time,” she says. “But the joy it brings me when I see women overcome those thoughts is absolutely priceless. You will never regret giving something like this a go.”

Challenge Wānaka Event Director Jane Sharman says Kane’s involvement is a huge boost for the event and its wider mission.

“Brodie brings energy, authenticity and a real passion for empowering women,” says Sharman. “She’s relatable, she’s inspiring, and she’s not afraid to talk about the tough stuff – from body confidence to imposter syndrome. We’re thrilled to have her on board.”

“Women are often juggling so much – careers, kids, commitments – and that can make training for an event feel overwhelming. Taking on Challenge Wānaka as a team not only makes the event more achievable, but also brings an extra element of fun to the experience.”

Held along the shores of Lake Wānaka and surrounding river tracks and trails, Challenge Wānaka is often described as New Zealand’s ultimate destination race, combining world-class racing with the beauty of the lakeside town.

“It’s genuinely an event for everyone,” says Kane. “You get to start on the same start line as elite athletes and share the course with people from all walks of life. And also, Wānaka! It’s ridiculously beautiful – the whole weekend will be epic.”

Kane is also encouraging others to seize the opportunity to enter Challenge Wānaka and begin planning an unforgettable summer race weekend in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular destinations. With event registrations now open, there is also the opportunity to win a Challenge Wānaka weekend experience through the ‘Ultimate Wānaka Race Weekend’ giveaway, which includes race entry, accommodation for two and a range of Wānaka experiences to make the most of your “race-cation.”

The Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka Half and Garth Barfoot Aquabike take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026, with the junior, intermediate, and senior schools events taking place on Thursday, February 19, and Friday, February 20. The triathlon includes a 1.9km swim in Lake Wānaka, a 90km bike ride and a 21.1km run with entries open to Individuals and teams.

Entry to the Ultimate Wānaka Race Weekend Giveaway is now open, here. Entries close November 15.
https://challenge-wanaka.com/enter-giveaway/

About Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka
The Gallagher Insurance Challenge Wānaka is one of the world’s most scenic triathlon festivals, held annually in New Zealand’s stunning Southern Lakes region. Featuring a range of events including the flagship middle-distance triathlon, multisport races, and AquaBike, the festival welcomes athletes of all levels. Operated by the Challenge Wānaka Sports Trust, a charitable organisation committed to community wellbeing, the event supports youth, adaptive athletes, and local charities through inclusive sport and recreation initiatives. In 2026, the Challenge Wānaka Festival event will mark its 20th year, taking place from February 19 – February 21. Registrations at www.challenge-wanaka.com.

MIL OSI

ANDPAD Launches English Web Version for Global Users

MIL OSI

October 14, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2025 – ANDPAD Inc. (Head Office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director: Takeo Inada; “ANDPAD”), which operates the eponymous cloud-based construction project management service bearing its name, will launch the English-language version of the web browser for its “ANDPAD” service.

Additionally, the setting of time zones to display standard times for each region will now become possible.

ANDPAD is actively pursuing multilingual support for various functions of its service against the backdrop of growth in the use of the service globally and an increasing number of users who are foreign language speakers. In February and June 2025, the company launched the English-language and Vietnamese-language versions of its app, respectively. With this third part of efforts to further accommodate a global market, ANDPAD has outfitted the web browser for the service bearing its name with English language support and time zone settings.

Additionally, the new time zone settings allow information to be displayed according to each user’s local region. This enables teams to prepare work schedules, upload photos, communicate via chat, and handle reports in their local time, promoting more accurate and smoother communication for projects spanning different locations.

Going forward, ANDPAD will continue to drive digital transformation in the construction industry as it expands its services to markets beyond Japan.

■About Usage

Existing ANDPAD users can use the English-language version and time zone settings at no additional cost.

Supported Features: Construction management,Chat, and ANDPAD Blueprint

Please contact us at the following for use this service.

https://andpad.jp/help/inquiry

*1: “Summary of the Status of the Notification of the Employment Status of Foreign Nationals” (As of October 31, 2024)https://www.mhlw.go.jp/stf/newpage_50256.html
*2: “Launch of ‘ANDPAD,’ a Cloud-Based Construction Project Management Service, in English as the First Part of Efforts to Offer Multilingual Support; Acceleration of Global Rollout” press release (distributed on February 26, 2025) (Japanese language only)https://andpad.jp/news/20250226
*3: “Launch of ‘ANDPAD,’ a Cloud-Based Construction Project Management Service, in Vietnamese as the Second Part of Efforts to Offer Multilingual Support” press release (distributed on June 26, 2025) (Japanese language only)https://andpad.jp/news/20250626

Hashtag: #ANDPAD

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

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

Local study options on show at EIT Hawke’s Bay Information and Enrolment Day

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

29 seconds ago

EIT Hawke’s Bay will host its annual Information and Enrolment Day this week, giving prospective students a chance to explore local study options across its campuses and learning centres.

The event runs from 9am to 6pm at the EIT Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale, with additional sessions held from 10am to 2pm at the Maraenui, Hastings, and Central Hawke’s Bay Learning Centres.

EIT Executive Director of Operations Glen Harkness says the ability to study close to home is becoming increasingly important for students and families.

“EIT allows people to gain qualifications locally while staying connected to whānau and community. Whether you’re looking to upskill, change careers, or explore new study options, our friendly team will be ready to help you find the right path.”

Glen says the Information and Enrolment Day is a chance for people to visit the campus, ask questions, and get a feel for the learning environment.

“It’s a great time to showcase our new purpose-built facilities, which have a strong focus on student wellbeing and success.”

The event also ties into EIT’s Live here, Study here, Work here campaign, which features local actress Kristyl Neho, delivering the message at familiar locations around Hawke’s Bay.

EIT offers a wide range of qualifications, from certificates and diplomas to degrees and postgraduate programmes, with flexible full-time, part-time and online options.

“Many of our programmes are filling fast, so we encourage people to enrol early to secure their place.”

For more information, check out the EIT website or EIT Hawke’s Bay on Facebook and Instagram.

MIL OSI

Serious crash, Geraldine-Fairlie Highway, Middle Valley

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

The Geraldine-Fairlie Highway is closed following a serious crash.

Emergency services were advised around 11:25am that at least two vehicles were involved in a crash at the intersection with Bracefield Road.

Two people are said to be in serious condition, and three others have minor to moderate injuries.

The intersection is closed while the Serious Crash Unit attends the scene.

ENDS

MIL OSI

Simpler science funding to drive innovation

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Better access to a new, more efficient science funding system will make it easier for researchers to focus on delivering results that matter for New Zealand, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today.

Following recommendations from the Science System Advisory Group, a single, independent board, called Research Funding New Zealand, will be established to make most funding decisions.

“The message from the science and research community has been loud and clear – the current funding system is too complex, too bureaucratic, and takes time and energy away from actual research,” says Dr Reti.

“So, this Government is simplifying the way we fund science, so our researchers can spend less time on paperwork and more time on discovery, innovation, and results that will grow our economy and benefit New Zealanders.

“Research Funding New Zealand will replace the multiple layers of decision-making, taking on the Endeavour, Marsden and Strategic Science Investment Funds – currently administered by three separate funding bodies.

“The change doesn’t change the value of funding available for science, innovation and technology in New Zealand, instead reducing duplication and making the process easier to navigate for applicants.”

Under the new model, public investment in science will be focused on the economy, the environment, health and society, and technology.

An in-principle decision has also been made to transfer health research funding from the Health Research Council to Research Funding New Zealand, with existing funding continuing be invested in critical health research.

“These changes are about smarter investment and stronger outcomes and aligns science funding with similar structures in other small, advanced economies,” Dr Reti says.

“By streamlining funding and improving accountability, we’ll drive science that grows our economy, supports our exporters, tackles environmental challenges, and improves the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders.”

The Government will continue to back a broad range of science – from blue-sky research through to applied and commercial innovation – but with a system that is simpler, faster, and more focused on impact.

The transition to Research Funding New Zealand will be phased carefully over four years to ensure continuity and minimise disruption. All current research contracts will continue, and the Government will work closely with the sector to ensure the new approach delivers for scientists, industry, and the country.

“This is about getting the system working better – less bureaucracy, clearer priorities, and a stronger focus on research that makes a difference,” Dr Reti says.

MIL OSI

Agenda for November 2025 Cancer Treatments Advisory Committee (CTAC) meeting

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: PHARMAC

Information on what the Cancer Treatments Advisory Committee (CTAC) will be considering at its meeting in November 2025.

Applications

Abemaciclib (branded as VERZENIO) and ribociclib (branded as KISQALI) for people with early-stage breast cancer

The Committee will discuss applications for the funding of abemaciclib and ribociclib to be used after surgery (adjuvant treatment) and alongside hormone therapy.

Application for abemacaclib (VERZENIO) as an adjuvant treatment for early breast cancer(external link)

Application for ribociclib (KISQALI) as an adjuvant treatment for early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence(external link)

Olaparib (branded as Lynparza) to prevent breast cancer from returning in people with an early, high-risk form of the disease

The Committee will discuss an application for the funding of olaparib to treat people who have a cancer with a BRCA gene mutation and is HER-2 negative. Olaparib would be given to individuals after they have had surgery, with chemotherapy given before or after surgery as well.

Application for olaparib for early breast cancer that has a BRCA mutation and is HER-2 negative, given after surgery and chemotherapy(external link)

Olaparib (branded as Lynparza) for people with metastatic breast cancer that has a certain genetic mutation

The Committee will discuss an application for the funding of olaparib to treat cancer that has spread (metastatic). It would be used to treat people who have a PALB2 genetic mutation or BRCA mutation and whose cancer is HER-2 negative.

Application for olaparib for metastatic breast cancer(external link)

Belantamab mafodotin (branded as Blenrep) for people with multiple myeloma

The Committee will discuss an application for the funding of belantamab mafodotin (Blenrep) which is used to treat people with multiple myeloma when the cancer has returned or hasn’t responded to previous treatments. It would be used after at least two previous treatments, or after at least three previous treatments.

Applications for Belantamab mafodotin

Multiple myeloma, relapsed or refractory, 2nd line or later(external link)

Multiple myeloma, relapsed or refractory, 3rd line or later(external link)

Nivolumab (branded as Opdivo), for people with lung cancer

The Committee will discuss an application for Nivolumab (Opdivo) which is used before surgery in people with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It would be used with chemotherapy for NSCLC that can be removed by surgery and is at stage IB, II or IIIA.

Application for nivolumab (with chemotherapy), for non-small cell lung cancer

Advisory meeting agenda setting

The scheduling and agenda setting process for advisory meetings considers multiple factors. We aim to balance the relative priorities of clinical advice needed across indications, the factors for consideration for each application (for example unmet health need), the time since applications were received and the internal and advisor resource available to support each meeting.

Advisory Committee membership and records of meetings

MIL OSI

Economy – NZ Reserve Bank to ease LVR restrictions

LiveNews Publisher

October 14, 2025

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

14 October 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand intends to ease mortgage loan-to-value ratio (LVR) restrictions from 1 December 2025.

“Over the past year, we have reviewed our approach to setting LVR restrictions,” explains Acting Assistant Governor Financial Stability, Angus McGregor.

“We concluded that the introduction of debt-to-income (DTI) restrictions last year means LVR settings can be less restrictive on average. This includes looser default settings that we expect will be in place most of the time, except for when risks are particularly elevated,” Mr McGregor said.

DTI restrictions help to underpin borrower resilience by acting as a guardrail for risky lending. They can help contain the severity and consequences of housing market corrections.

“Easier LVR settings will give banks more flexibility to lend, improving market efficiency and access to credit, particularly for first home buyers.

Now is an appropriate time to move to the new default settings. House prices are within our range of sustainable estimates. Growth in mortgage lending remains moderate and the share of high-risk lending is low,” said Mr McGregor.
LVR settings will ease with effect from 1 December:

For owner occupiers, the limit on the share of new lending allowed with an LVR above 80% will increase to 25% (up from 20%).
For investors, the limit on the share of new lending allowed with an LVR above 70% will increase to 10% (up from 5%).

RBNZ will consult with banks on changes to their Conditions of Registration over the next two weeks.

“We have also reviewed our DTI restrictions and decided to keep settings unchanged. They remain calibrated to limit high-risk lending in housing upswings and periods of low interest rates, without the need for adjustment,” said Mr McGregor.

Responsibility for reviewing LVR and DTI settings will sit with the new Financial Policy Committee from next year. The Committee will review settings at least annually and can adjust if risks become elevated.

More information:

Our approach to macroprudential policy through the cycle – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=0d186b542d&e=f3c68946f8
Reserve Bank establishes new Financial Policy Committee: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=041b69fc59&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI

Swiss-Belhotel International Expands Portfolio a 5-star hotel, Grand Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay, Batam in Indonesia

MIL OSI

October 14, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2025 – Swiss-Belhotel International, a leading global hospitality management group, has announced the signing of a Hotel Management Agreement (HMA) for a new 5-star hotel, Grand Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay, Batam. This milestone continues the group’s strong commitment to Indonesia, one of its most dynamic and fastest-growing markets in Asia, and further enhances Batam’s position as an emerging international gateway.

Grand Deluxe room

Strategically located in the heart of Harbour Bay, the new property will elevate the city’s luxury hospitality scene. Guests can look forward to an exceptional stay experience, with a wide selection of spacious and elegantly designed guest rooms and suites. Each space is carefully crafted with contemporary interiors, warm natural accents, and premium amenities to provide both comfort and sophistication. With expansive views and world-class facilities, the hotel will cater to the needs of both business travellers and leisure guests seeking a refined escape.

PT Hotel Citra Batam Investama Commissioner Mr Hartono also shared his optimism: “We are pleased to partner with Swiss-Belhotel International, and we have been partners for over a decade, and they have managed three of our hotels in this city. This new agreement not only brings world-class hospitality to Harbour Bay but also strengthens our mutual relationship. We believe this collaboration will ensure long-term success and shared growth.”

The property will also become a leading destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). Featuring one of the largest grand ballrooms in Batam, complemented by cutting-edge technology and flexible configurations, the venue is ideal for corporate events, international conventions, and stylish social celebrations. Enhanced by gourmet catering and dedicated event specialists, the hotel is set to become a preferred choice for unforgettable gatherings.

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, added: “Batam is a key market for Swiss-Belhotel International, and we are delighted to strengthen our presence here. With Swiss-Belinn Baloi, Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay, and Zest Harbour Bay already operating successfully, this new 5-star addition will enhance our diverse portfolio and reinforce our commitment to delivering exceptional value and memorable experiences to travellers in this thriving city.”

“This new property in Harbour Bay underscores our long-term commitment to Indonesia as a cornerstone of our global portfolio,” said Mr Ilkin Ilyaszade, Senior Vice President of Operations and Development for Indonesia. “We are excited to bring our international hospitality standards to Batam, supporting the city’s growth as both a business hub and leisure destination.”

The addition of this 5-star hotel is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the area’s appeal as a premier destination for international visitors and domestic travellers.

https://www.swiss-belhotel.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/swiss-belhotel-international
https://www.facebook.com/swissbelhotel
https://www.instagram.com/swissbelhotel

Hashtag: #SwissBelhotelInternational #travel #businesstraveller #tourism

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

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

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