New Zealand and Iceland are deepening cooperation, in the areas of working holidays, taxation and geothermal energy, Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced.
“New Zealand and Iceland may be oceans apart, but we are two island nations united by shared values,” Mr Peters, who is visiting Iceland today, says. “These initiatives constitute an important step towards enhancing New Zealand’s cooperation with Iceland.”
Mr Peters, following his meeting with Iceland’s President Halla Tómasdóttir, announced New Zealand and Iceland will start negotiations on a reciprocal Working Holiday Scheme.
“A working holiday scheme with Iceland will create new opportunities for our young people to connect, collaborate, and contribute to each other’s societies, and gain valuable international experience while enriching our communities and economies,” Mr Peters says.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says: “Working Holiday Schemes enable young people to travel, study, and work in each other’s countries. Beyond individual benefits, a scheme with Iceland will also encourage reciprocal tourism and seasonal work in regional areas.”
“Through the Working Holiday Scheme, young New Zealanders will be able to experience and learn from this remarkable country with its dynamic, world-leading, added-value economy,” Mr Peters says.
While in Reykjavik, Mr Peters also signed a Double Tax Agreement with Iceland’s Finance Minister, Daði Már Kristófersson.
“This Double Tax Agreement will strengthen economic cooperation between our two countries by providing clarity and fairness for businesspeople who operate across New Zealand and Iceland,” Mr Peters says.
Mr Peters also visited Iceland’s Nesjavellir Geothermal Power Station, with Energy Minister Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson.
“The New Zealand Government is investing in exploring the potential of supercritical geothermal energy in the Taupō Volcanic Zone,” Mr Peters says.
“Geothermal could help secure New Zealand’s future energy needs, which is why it’s critical that we learn from world leaders in this area like Iceland.”
Mr Peters is visiting Iceland as part of a wider visit to the Nordic region. He will also travel to Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland.
CHANGSHA, HUNAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – On the morning of October 13, a ceremony for the transfer and incorporation of the Zidanku Chu Silk Manuscripts （Volumes Ⅱ and Ⅲ）, namely The Five Elements Decree and The Offence and Defense Divination, into the collection of Hunan Museum was grandly held.
Present at the ceremony were guests from both China and the United States, including Rao Quan, Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism and Director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration; Liu Hongbing, Member of the Standing Committee of the Hunan Provincial Party Committee and Director of the Publicity Department of the Hunan Provincial Party Committee; Jiang Difei, Vice Governor of Hunan Province; Tang Wei, Vice Director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration; and Chase Robinson, Director of he Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art in the United States. All of them witnessed this historic moment together.
During the ceremony, Tang Wei, Vice Director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, read out the Official Consignment Letter for the Zidanku Chu Silk Manuscripts. Chase Robinson, Director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, delivered a speech. Liu Hongbing, Member of the Standing Committee of the Hunan Provincial Party Committee and Director of the Publicity Department of the Hunan Provincial Party Committee, and Rao Quan, Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism and Director of the National Cultural Heritage Administration, delivered speeches respectively.
At the end of the ceremony, Director Rao Quan and Minister Liu Hongbing handed over the Inventory of the Zidanku Chu Silk Manuscripts. This move marked the official return of the treasure works Order of The Five Elements Decree and The Offence and Defense Divination, which had been lost overseas for 79 years, to their homeland and their incorporation into the collection of Hunan Museum.
The Zidanku Chu Silk Manuscripts are the earliest silk manuscripts with the significance of classic works ever discovered in China. They systematically record contents such as astronomy, calendar, cosmology, and military divination in the pre-Qin period, and are indispensable precious material materials for the study of archaeology, philology, document studies, and the history of thought. The successful return of Order of The Five Elements Decree and The Offence and Defense Divination this time is a model case of China’s recovery of lost cultural relics through international cooperation, and their return and incorporation into the collection can be regarded as another major landmark achievement. This move not only supplements a crucial material chapter to the genealogy of Chinese civilization, but also the successful practice itself is a direct embodiment of the country’s cultural confidence and soft power. It sends a clear message to the world about China’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its civilizational heritage, while providing a successful “Chinese approach” for the repatriation of such cultural assets.
As the original excavation site of the silk manuscripts, Hunan is the most ideal home for these treasures. Their return will enable Hunan Museum to combine the only existing original fragment of the Zidanku silk manuscript in China (which is in its collection) with other cultural relics of the Chu and Han dynasties to build a more systematic and in-depth research, interpretation, and exhibition system for Chu culture. With this as the core, the museum is committed to building a world-class academic highland for Chu culture research.
The return of the silk manuscripts is not only a “repatriation through time and space” of the memory of civilization, but also a harmonious echo of cultural exchanges between China and the United States. Hunan Museum stated that it will take this as a prologue to expand international cooperation, allowing these thousand-year-old ancient scrolls to shine with the glory of the times in their homeland and jointly writing a new chapter in the inheritance of civilization with the world.
Hashtag: #HunanMuseum
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New learning spaces advance XWA’s “Academy of the World” vision, integrating bilingual education and AI literacy from the earliest years.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – XCL World Academy (XWA), a leading international school in Singapore, has opened a new Early & Primary Years campus. Designed for children aged 18 months to 11 years, it nurtures globally minded, bilingual, and future-ready learners through inquiry-led education and thoughtful use of AI and technology.
From L to R: Mark Petterson, Secondary Years Principal, Tammy Murphy, Head of School, Ms Lee Hui Ying and Dr. Syed Harun Alhabsyi, Members of Parliament for Nee Soon GRC, Maria Sweeney, Early & Primary Years Principal, and Justin Kirby, Senior Head of Academic Pathways & Student Achievement
The ceremony was officiated by Dr. Syed Harun Alhabsyi, and Ms. Lee Hui Ying, Members of Parliament for Nee Soon GRC, and Advisors to Nee Soon GRC Grassroots Organisations, as well as distinguished guests from various embassies, chambers of commerce, and the wider community. Also in attendance were XWA’s educators, students, and families to celebrate this momentous occasion.
“We at XWA interpret education as a pathway to lifelong learning, beyond exams and we prioritise education that equips students for life, not just academic tests,” said Head of School, Tammy Murphy. “This new campus encourages young learners to explore ideas, use technology creatively, and connect what they learn to the world around them”, added Tammy.
Positioned as Singapore’s Academy of the World, XWA embeds AI literacy, bilingual pathways, and future-ready competencies from the earliest years through an inquiry-based IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and the school’s signature XCLerate framework. XCLerate integrates six pillars – Creative Arts, Global Citizenship, Student Leadership, Community Action Service, Entrepreneurship & Financial Literacy, and Digital Literacy – to develop confident, adaptable learners.
From as early as four, students begin developing foundational digital and problem-solving skills through the XCLerate framework. This framework teaches them how to ask good questions, think critically, and explore how technology can be used creatively and responsibly. These early experiences lay the groundwork for more advanced, future-focused learning as they progress through their grades.
Complementing this is XWA’s bilingual programme (English-Chinese), where two native-speaking teachers co-teach each class – one in English and one in Chinese – to build fluency and confidence in both languages. Students also have access to language acquisition programmes and home language options in French, Spanish, Japanese and Chinese, supporting a multicultural environment that strengthens communication, cultural understanding, and creative thinking to ensure students build both human and technical skills to thrive in a digital-first world.
Singapore continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for education and innovation. Schools across the nation, including international ones like XWA, play an important role in translating national ambitions into everyday learning. Reflecting this momentum, XWA’s approach to early learning combines technology, bilingual learning, and human-centred values to help children navigate an increasingly digital-first world.
Speaking at the event, Dr Syed Harun said “Education today is not merely a transference of knowledge, but also about developing values like resilience, empathy, and social acumen with both our peers and the community around us. In doing so, it prepares children for a world that brings diversity, variety, and change. International schools like XWA add to the richness of Singapore’s educational landscape and tapestry, bringing global perspectives while engaging the local community here at Nee Soon.”
Ms Lee Hui Ying added “Strong families and supportive communities give our children the confidence to thrive. This new campus reflects how future-ready learning, together with inclusive bilingual education and genuine care for each child can lay strong foundations for lifelong growth. Schools such as XWA play an important role in nurturing our young learners, bringing families and the Nee Soon community closer together.”
Tammy added “We want our students to grow into leaders who use innovation to make life better for others. Whether they’re four or fourteen, our goal is to help them approach technology, and the world around them, with curiosity, responsibility, and compassion, and to see innovation as a way to make a difference.”
The campus also includes dedicated spaces for arts, design, science, and well-being, alongside outdoor learning environments, a multi-purpose gymnasium, an Innovation Hub and a dedicated eSports arena – among the first of its kind in an international school in Singapore – designed to foster teamwork, strategy, and digital literacy through play. Together these spaces, including the dedicated science labs for Early and Primary Years, ensure every child’s growth is supported academically, creatively, and emotionally.
During the opening, guests celebrated the opening with student showcases in the arts, music, dance and service, exemplifying how the XCLerate programme connects learning with real-world impact. The new facilities mark XWA’s continued commitment to developing confident, empathetic, and future-ready global citizens ready to lead change.
https://xwa.edu.sg/
Hashtag: #XWA #XCLWorldAcademy
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Regional leaders from Hong Kong, Korea, India, Singapore and Indonesia share ESG insights shaping Asia-Pacific’s sustainable future
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – The International Chamber of Sustainable Development (ICSD) and the Hong Kong Public Administration Association (HKPAA) jointly hosted the APAC ESG Forum: The Impacts of ESG on Business and Government: An Asia-Pacific Perspective, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This landmark event marks a significant milestone as ICSD celebrates its 5th anniversary and HKPAA commemorates its 35th anniversary.
Speakers and Organising Committee
The forum brings together leading experts from across the Asia-Pacific region to examine the transformative role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks in modern business operations and government policies. As organizations worldwide increasingly integrate ESG principles into their strategic planning, this timely event addresses the critical need for understanding ESG’s multifaceted impacts on both private and public sector management.
Distinguished International Speaker Panel
The forum features an exceptional lineup of regional experts who will deliver keynote presentations and participate in panel discussions:
Professor Carlos Lo (Hong Kong), Director of the Centre for Business Sustainability and Director of the Public Policy Research Centre at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, will present on “Sustainability Indices: Business ESG and Beyond.”
Professor Ryan S. Song (South Korea), Professor of Law and Policy Advisor to Chancellor at Kyung Hee University, will address “A Regulatory Crossroads: Korea, Double Materiality, and the Future of ESG Accountability.”
Professor Ram Kumar Mishra (India), Former Director and Chair Professor of Corporate Governance and CSR at the Institute of Public Enterprise, will discuss “Government strategies in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in India.”
Ms. Hardini Kusumadewi (Indonesia), Vice Coordinator of the Ministry of Health-Institute for Health Metrics Project, will present “ESG-Driven Digital Health Innovation: Lessons from Robotic Tele-surgery Adoption in Indonesia.”
Dr. Sabrina Luk (Singapore), Assistant Professor at Nanyang Technological University, will explore “Harnessing digital technology to create a sustainable city: The case study of Singapore.”
Dr. William Yu (Hong Kong), Founder & CEO of World Green Organisation (WGO), will examine “The Influence of AI and Geopolitical Talent Management on ESG.”
Addressing Critical Regional Challenges
According to the organizing committee, the Asia-Pacific region continues to be the focal point of global economic growth, making it essential to understand how ESG frameworks can drive sustainable development across diverse markets and governance systems. The forum will explore how organizations can enhance their environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and governance practices while leveraging emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to achieve strategic objectives.
“In today’s rapidly evolving global political and economic landscapes, the integration of ESG frameworks into business operations has become increasingly important for both business and government,” stated Dr. Angus Yip, Founding Chairman of ICSD. “This forum will provide valuable insights from various regional experts to help participants understand the current developments of ESG impacts across our vibrant region.”
Professor Peter Fong, President of HKPAA, emphasized the practical significance of the event: “Understanding the impacts of ESG on the operations of both business and government is crucial for achieving long-term success and addressing global challenges. By bringing together experts from across the Asia-Pacific region, we aim to facilitate knowledge sharing and best practice development.”
Comprehensive Program and Professional Development
The forum runs from 9:00 AM to 12:15 PM and includes registration, keynote presentations, a networking coffee break, and an interactive panel discussion with Q&A session. Participants will receive a 3-hour Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certificate, making this event valuable for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in ESG and sustainability practices.
The event will be moderated by Professor Peter Fong and Dr. Alice Te, Vice President of HKPAA, ensuring high-quality facilitation of discussions between speakers and attendees.
Hashtag: #ICSD
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Police are now in a position to name the victim of a homicide in Pahiatua on Wednesday 15 October.
She was 74-year-old Karen Gilbert-Palmer, an occupant of the Arthur Street property in Pahiatua which was subject to a scene examination.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson says Police continue to support Mrs Gilbert-Palmer’s family and keep them updated on the investigation.
Police were called to Arthur Street at around 4.40pm, where a woman was located deceased in a residential property.
“The investigation is now focused into locating Jeremy Robertson and Police continue to seek information regarding his whereabouts.”
Police would like to speak with Jeremy, who is in his 50s and is of solid build.
“We would like to hear from anyone who may have seen Jeremy in the Tarawera Road, Rotorua area from Wednesday 15 October.
“We also continue to appeal for information from the public including any information about a red, late-model Mitsubishi ASX VRX station wagon, registration QGU91.”
Should you see Jeremy, do not approach him but call 111 immediately and advise Police.
Non-urgent information can be provided through our 105 services and referencing file number 251015/6286.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704) announced today that it has been named a Leader in Network Analysis and Visibility (NAV) solutions by Forrester. The analyst firm’s independent market evaluation scores the flagship Trend Vision One™ platform highest among all 12 evaluated solutions in the “current offering” category.
To learn more aboutThe Forrester Wave™: Network Analysis and Visibility Solutions, Q4 2025, visit:https://www.trendmicro.com/explore/forrester-wave-nav
Rachel Jin, Chief Platform and Business Officer at Trend: “As organizations accelerate cloud adoption, IoT integration, and AI-driven innovation, the need for deep, network-based visibility has never been greater. Through our platform, Trend empowers customers to reduce risk exposure, detect and respond faster, and enforce Zero Trust across their entire organization before threats escalate.”
Trend Vision One™ combines Network Detection and Response (NDR) with Cyber Risk Exposure Management (CREM) to deliver:
XDR for Complete Visibility: Correlates telemetry across endpoints, networks, identities, email, cloud, and data for faster detection, deeper investigations, and accelerated response.
Proactive Cyber Risk Exposure Management: CREM continuously discovers assets, assesses risk in real time, and automates mitigation to proactively mitigate cyber risk.
The Forrester report cites capabilities of Trend Vision One™ including:
“Outstanding threat detection capabilities across east-west and north-south traffic via a best-of-breed approach”
“Intuitive workflow and threat-hunting capabilities [which] perform custom investigations and visualizations”
“Extensive customizability in its detection logic due to its rich telemetry”
“Highly robust” compliance monitoring, “supporting a wide range of frameworks and allowing the creation of custom frameworks”
Support for “granular administration for RBAC”
Forrester’s report also notes that “Trend Micro is best suited to enterprises with budget or resource constraints as well as current customers that want a unified, “single pane of glass” experience.”
Forrester does not endorse any company, product, brand, or service included in its research publications and does not advise any person to select the products or services of any company or brand based on the ratings included in such publications. Information is based on the best available resources. Opinions reflect judgment at the time and are subject to change. For more information, read about Forrester’s objectivityhere.
Together with Correios, Rhenus is supporting the international logistics of United Nations cargo for the COP 30 Climate Conference in Belém, Brazil.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – The Rhenus Group has been nominated by Correios as the Global Logistics Service Provider for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 30). In partnership with the state-owned company, designated as the Strategic Logistics Operator for the event, Rhenus will manage the international transport of the United Nations cargo to the climate conference, which will take place from November 10 – 21 this year in Belém, Brazil.
The partnership with Correios will leverage Rhenus’ international freight forwarding capabilities to ensure the secure and timely delivery of critical shipments for one of the world’s most significant climate events. With operations in over 70 countries, Rhenus is leveraging its global logistics expertise to support the successful execution of the COP 30 event.
The Rhenus Brazil team is playing a key role in coordinating international transportation, working closely with Correios. Rhenus is managing the international logistics process for the UN, starting with cargo collection in Bonn, Germany, followed by air transport to Brazil via São Paulo–Guarulhos (GRU) and Viracopos (VCP) airports. Upon arrival, the cargo will be processed under a temporary admission regime. Rhenus will also oversee the re-export of the cargo back to Frankfurt (FRA), ensuring its final delivery to Bonn.
“Partnering with Correios to support COP 30 underscores our commitment to responsible logistics and global collaboration – for the benefit of future generations,” said Tobias Bartz, CEO of the Rhenus Group. “Brazil is one of our key global hubs for supply chain operations and an essential center for our activities across the LATAM region, supported by our highly skilled local teams. With a strong international network and deep regional expertise, we are well positioned to strengthen supply chains throughout Brazil and Latin America. Our participation builds on our extensive experience, including serving as the official logistics sponsor for COP 29 last year. We look forward to contributing to the success of COP 30 and advancing the transition to more sustainable logistics worldwide.”
Rhenus has a proven track record in supporting major international events of various industries. Last year, the global logistics service provider demonstrated its capabilities as the Official Logistics Partner for COP 29 in Baku, Azerbaijan and supported the Belgian Olympic team at the Summer Games in Paris, managing infrastructure and equipment logistics across multiple venues. Rhenus also provided logistics support for a global customer during the Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics, and recently has been appointed the official freight forwarder for major trade shows at Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading venues for international trade shows.
Delivering Low-Emission Solutions for Sustainable Growth
Rhenus is driving sustainable innovation across the logistics industry by integrating alternative drive systems, promoting intermodal transport, and offering smart technologies that reduce emissions across air, sea, and land. Solutions like RheGreen, an air freight service, avoid up to 40% of CO₂ emissions by selecting the most efficient aircraft. Rhenus is setting new benchmarks for low-emissions logistics. Its digital tools, such as Emissions Dashboard, offer customers clear visibility into the carbon performance of their shipments, while the Transport Mode Optimizer enables them to make environmentally responsible choices by selecting transport modes with lower emissions.
In line with its corporate commitment to achieving a Net-zero target by 2045 through low-carbon solutions, Rhenus has set a goal to reduce emissions and actively support its customers in making responsible logistics decisions. To this end, and as part of its contribution to the goals of COP, Rhenus is providing a detailed report of its emissions once the operation has been completed, facilitating the control of their carbon footprint, promoting transparency, and strengthening the planning of conscious logistics aligned with global sustainability standards.
Hashtag: #Rhenus
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
A survey by Ipsos, sponsored by GSK, found that while 63% of adults aged 50 years or over in Singapore were aware of shingles, only 29% recognised that 1 in 3 may develop the disease in their lifetime.
Less than half of respondents (44%) understood that shingles can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack; fewer (36%) knew that the risk for shingles further increases amongst those with underlying chronic health conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, or diabetes.
Only 1 in 4 intended to discuss shingles prevention with their doctor within the next three months.
Survey findings reinforce need for deeper understanding of shingles and to encourage older adults to consult their doctors on shingles prevention.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2025 – A new survey1 highlighted that 63% of older adults aged 50 years or over in Singapore recognised shingles, also known as herpes zoster, as a serious disease. However, two out of three underestimated their personal risk of contracting the disease. Despite the high awareness in this group, only 25% intended to discuss shingles prevention with their doctor within the next three months.
The survey further showed that only 44% of respondents understood that those who have had shingles are at a significantly higher risk of heart attack (+59%) and stroke (+35%) compared to those who have not had shingles.2
The survey also found that 36% of respondents know that the risk for shingles further increases amongst those with underlying chronic health conditions.3
A local study has earlier reported that more than 85% of Singaporean adults aged 60 years or over have declared having been diagnosed with at least one chronic health condition.4 The five most reported chronic health conditions amongst older adults in Singapore in 2020 were: high blood pressure or hypertension; high blood cholesterol or lipids; joint pain, arthritis, or nerve pain; high blood sugar or diabetes; and renal/kidney or urinary tract ailments.4
The “Shingles Awareness Tracking Survey” conducted by Ipsos, on behalf of GSK, surveyed 200 adults aged 50 years or over in July of this year to measure the level of public understanding and perceptions of shingles in Singapore.1
In the survey, only 48% of respondents understood that the virus which causes chickenpox during childhood, the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), can remain in the body and reactivate later in life to cause shingles. 5,6
VZV is present in most adults aged 50 years or over7 and may reactivate with advancing age.8 As people age, the strength of the immune system response to infection wanes, increasing the risk of developing shingles.9
Dr Asok Kurup, from the Infectious Diseases Care Department at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, explained, “In Singapore, more than 90% of adults aged 50 years or over carry this virus.10 This means one in three will eventually develop shingles.”9
The survey also showed that at least 70% of respondents could identify the common symptoms of shingles such as a painful rash at the affected site.5 Moreover, at least 60% understood that the disease could lead to long-term, potentially permanent, complications such as nerve pain, also known as Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN), that can last for years.11
PHN is the most common complication of shingles. It affects approximately 10% to 18% of people with the disease, and the risk of PHN increases with age.12
To help encourage more older adults to consult their doctors about shingles, GSK launched an initiative in October that hired and trained seniors aged 50 years or over to become community ambassadors for shingles awareness. These ambassadors have been participating in various wellness events and activities at ageing centres, where they share personal stories and encourage their peers to go and speak with their doctor about the disease and the ways to prevent it.
A shingles awareness community ambassador (left) demonstrates a simulation of long-term pain or postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), a potential complication of shingles.11 Photo: GSK.
Ms Claire, who is in her forties, shared in a conversation with GSK, “When my father had shingles for the second time around, he was in his 60’s.13 And he came out one day, saying ‘Look, take a look at this,’ and there were rashes on his forehead and a little bit on his torso.13 He said that there was stinging pain,11 and I could feel that he was undergoing this pain because he did not wipe his face and wash. He would wake up a few times at night because of the pain on his forehead and body.”
Claire is a caregiver to her father, Christopher, who was diagnosed with shingles twice. Photo: GSK.
“While we see that overall awareness continues to improve, we need to further strengthen the understanding of our communities on the increased risk of shingles amongst adults aged 50 years or over — and it can be prevented. Go speak with your doctor,” said Dr Asok.
References
1 Ipsos. Shingles Awareness Tracking Survey Wave 4: Consumers Singapore. August 2025. Version 1. Study reference: 25-023546-01. Client Use Only. Strictly Confidential.
2 Kim, M. C., Yun, S. C., Lee, H. B., Lee, P. H., Lee, S. W., Choi, S. H., Kim, Y. S., Woo, J. H., Kim, S. H., & Kwon, S. U. (2017). Herpes Zoster Increases the Risk of Stroke and Myocardial Infarction. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 70(2), 295–296. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2017.05.015
3 Steinmann M, Lampe D, Grosser J, Schmidt J, Hohoff ML, Fischer A, Greiner W. Risk factors for herpes zoster infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis unveiling common trends and heterogeneity patterns. Infection. 2024 Jun;52(3):1009-1026. doi: 10.1007/s15010-023-02156-y. Epub 2024 Jan 18. PMID: 38236326; PMCID: PMC11142967.
4 Chan, A., Malhotra, R., Visaria, A., Sung, P., Siok Seng, B. J., Ching, & Tan, Y. W. (2020). Transitions in health, employment, social engagement and intergenerational Transfers in Singapore Study (THE SIGNS Study) – II: Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal analyses of Key aspects of Successful Ageing. Centre for Ageing Research and Education, Duke-NUS Medical School. https://www.duke-nus.edu.sg/docs/librariesprovider3/publications-docs/the-signs-study—ii-report-(revised).pdf?sfvrsn=b391ced0_0
5 Harpaz R et al. MMWR Recomm Rep 2008;57:1-30; quiz CE2-4.
6 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Herpes Zoster (Shingles). Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/shingles/hcp/clinical-overview.html. Accessed May 2022.
7 Johnson, R.W., et al. Herpes zoster epidemiology, management, and disease and economic burden in Europe: a multidisciplinary perspective. Therapeutic advances in vaccines. 2015;3(4):109-20.
8 Mueller, N.H., et al. Varicella zoster virus infection: clinical features, molecular pathogenesis of disease, and latency. Neurologic clinics. 2008;26(3):675-97.
9 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US). Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Prevention of Herpes Zoster. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr5705a1.htm. Accessed May 2022.
10 Fatha N, et al. Int J Infect Dis. 2014;22:73-77.
11 World Health Organization (WHO). Shingles (Herpes Zoster): Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/shingles-(herpes-zoster)Accessed on 13 October 2025.
12 CDC;2024;1-3;Shingles Facts and Stats.
13 CDC; 2024;1-4; Shingles Symptoms and Complications.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) is backing the thousands of public sector workers striking for fair pay and safe services this Thursday, 23 October.
MUNZ National Secretary Carl Findlay says the fight for a properly funded public sector is a fight for all working New Zealanders.
“Our members work on the 99% of New Zealand’s goods that move through our ports, but we know New Zealand also relies on the nurses, healthcare workers, teachers, and school support staff who are being forced to walk off the job to be heard,” says Mr. Findlay.
Mr. Findlay says the Government’s attempts to paint striking workers as “politically motivated” are a cynical distraction from its own failures.
“This action is about skilled workers who can’t afford their rent. It’s about nurses burning out in unsafe, understaffed hospitals. These workers are not taking action lightly, they are being driven to it by a Government that prefers to spread misinformation rather than bargain in good faith.”
The Maritime Union says it’s time for workers to fight back, and remind the Government that the wealth of New Zealand is produced by workers, who deserve good pay, good conditions and good standards in their jobs.
“We hear the same tired excuses in our industry that investment in people and safety is a cost rather than the backbone of a productive economy,” says Mr. Findlay.
“This is a matter of political priorities. This Government can find money for senior managers, consultants and tax cuts that benefit a privileged few, but claims the cupboard is bare for the people who look after our sick and educate our children.”
Mr Findlay says maritime workers stand in full solidarity with every public sector worker on the picket line tomorrow.
“Their fight is our fight. An injury to one is an injury to all.”
Strike events
WEATHER UPDATE: All strikes are still going ahead, but some rallies are cancelled or have moved venues because of strong weather warnings.
If you’re a striking member and your local rally is cancelled, you should still undertake your strike action.
City
Time
Location
Kaitaia
10.30am-12pm
10.30am – Assemble at Te Ahu cnr SH 1 & Mathews
11am – March to old Pak n Save carpark
11.30am – Rally
12pm – Finish
Whang?rei
11.30am-1pm
11.30am – Assemble Laurie Hall Park carpark
12pm – March to Town Basin
12.30pm – Rally at grassed area by Rayburn House Lane
1pm – Finish
Auckland
12-2pm
12pm – Assemble in Aotea Square
1pm – March down Queen St
1.45pm – Closing at Komititanga Square
This event has NZSL interpreters
West Auckland
7.30-9.30am
Corner of Lincoln Road and Universal Road.
Thames
11am-1pm
11am – Wh?nau friendly event in Porrit Park
11.30am – Formalities
12pm – Form a human wall along the Queen St side of the park, followed by a h?koi to Scott Simpson’s office
Hamilton
11.30am-1.30pm
11.30am – Meet at Band Rotunda, Victoria Street
11.45am – March to Garden Place
12.30pm – Speeches at Garden Place
1.30pm – Finish
This event has NZSL interpreters
Taup?
10.30am-1pm
10.30am – Gather on Taup? Primary School back field opposite Taup? medical centre
11.25am – Karakia Timatanga
11.30am – H?koi
12.15pm – Rally at the I Love Taup? sign
12.30pm – Speeches
12.50pm – Karakia Whakamutunga
T?rangi
11am-1pm
Gather at T?rangi Bridge
Taumarunui
11.30am
Picket at at Hakiaha Street, outside the Main Street playground (Taumarunui public toilets)
Tokoroa
11am-1pm
11:00am – Skate Park (corner of O’Sullivan Drive and Roslin Street)
Tauranga
11am-1.30pm
11am – Meet at Memorial Park
11.30am – Speeches then sign waving
This event has NZSL interpreters
Te K?iti
11am
Outside The Warehouse, 31 Rora Street
Whakat?ne
11am-3pm
11.30am – Gather at Council Buildings, Commerce St. Hikoi along The Strand to Wharaurangi for rally and speeches
Rotorua
11am-1.30pm
11am – Various meeting points then travel to Village Green
11.30am – Arrive at Village Green
12pm – Speeches, sign waving, kai etc
This event has NZSL interpreters
Gisborne
11am-1pm
Rally at Heipipi Park then march through town finishing at Kelvin Park.
Wairoa
8.30-9.30am
Gather at the lighthouse, then travel to Gisborne or Napier to join the larger action.
Hawke’s Bay
11am-1pm
11am – Gather at Napier Sound Shell
11.30am – Speakers
12.15pm – March down Emerson Street to Clive Square
1pm – Finish
New Plymouth
11am-1pm
Rally at the Puke Ariki Landing. Street March through the CBD – Ariki Street – Egmont St – Devon St East – Gover St-Gill St – Ariki St and back to the Puke Ariki Landing
Palmerston North
11.15am-1pm
Meet at Railway Land Reserve, and march down Church Street to the cenotaph for a rally.
Whanganui
11.30am-1.30pm
11.30am – Meet at the town bridge and march up Victoria Avenue to Majestic Square
12.30pm – Rally at Majestic Square
1.30pm – Finish
Wellington
12-2pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Levin
11.15am-1pm
11.15am – Meet at the Adventure Park (93 Oxford Street, Levin) 11.30am – March through town and back to the Adventure Park 12.30-1pm – Finish
Wairarapa
11am-1pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Nelson
11.30am-1.30pm
11.30am – Meet by Nelson Library.
12pm – March down Trafalgar Street to Cathedral steps
12.30pm – Hui at Cathedral steps with speeches
1.30pm – Hui concludes
Takaka/Golden Bay
7.30am
Picket outside Golden Bay High, meeting at Village Green
Motueka
7.30-9.30am
7:30am – Occupy both sides of road by Toad Hall (chants, placards, megaphones)
8:30am – Move to space outside Motueka Museum for more of the same
Blenheim
11am-2.30pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Greymouth
11.30am
NEW VENUE
Westland Recreation Centre
Hokitika
NEW VENUE
Hokitika Westland RSA
Christchurch
11.00am-1.30pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Te Tai o Poutini
9am-2.30pm
NEW VENUE
9am – Hokitika: Changed to Hokitika Westland RSA
11.30am – Greymouth: Changed to Westland Recreation Centre
1.30pm – Westport: Changed to Westport Bridge Club.
Mid Canterbury
11.30am-2pm
CANCELLED due to weather
South Canterbury
11.30am-2pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Oamaru
10-11am
CANCELLED due to weather
Alexandra
11am-1pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Wanaka
11am-12pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Queenstown
12-2pm
NEW VENUE
St Peter’s Church
Dunedin
11.45am-1.30pm
NEW VENUE
Edgar Centre (TBC looks hopeful) meet at 11:45am – Rally start will be 12 noon
Balclutha
11am-1pm
NEW VENUE
Inside Te Pou.
Cromwell
11.30am-1pm
CANCELLED due to weather
Hokonui/Gore
11am-1pm
Meet at Eccles St playground for a march to the Trout – Rally at 12 noon
