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

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

Source: BestBrokers.com

The U.S. Federal Reserve raised interest rates by a quarter point on Wednesday as persistent inflation and higher energy prices continue to put pressure on the economy, while the Bank of England is expected to hold its 3.75% rate despite UK inflation rising to 3.1% in August. Amid elevated prices and higher costs of living in most parts of the world, I am reaching out with our latest analysis examining the countries where annual inflation accelerated the most between July and August 2026.

To identify the countries where inflationary pressures are intensifying, the team at BestBrokers compared annual inflation rates for 93 countries with available August 2026 data. We measured the change in each country’s inflation rate between July and August, rather than comparing monthly price movements. The figures were collected from national statistical offices and Trading Economics, with the dataset available on Google Drive via this link.

The analysis shows that the biggest acceleration was recorded in Pakistan and Fiji, where between July and August, annual inflation rose by 1.9 percentage points. Rwanda follows with a 1.2-point increase, while Senegal recorded a 0.9-point rise. Among major economies, inflation also accelerated notably in Spain, going up from 3.6% to 4.3%, while in Italy it intensified from 2.9% to 3.3%, and in the United Kingdom, from 2.9% to 3.1%.

Other key findings from the report:

• Pakistan and Fiji recorded the sharpest acceleration in price growth, with annual inflation in both countries heating up by 1.9 percentage points in August. Pakistan’s rate climbed from 9.2% in July to 11.1%, while Fiji’s increased from 5.7% to 7.6%.
• Rwanda also saw a notable 1.2-point acceleration as yearly inflation rose from 14.5% in July to 15.7% in August, while Senegal recorded a 0.9-percentage-point increase – from just 0.3% in July to 1.2% in August.
• European countries experienced significant uptake in inflation, too, with Kosovo recording an increase by 0.8 percentage points to 7.3%, while Moldova, Montenegro, and Spain both recorded 0.7-point rises to 7%, 4.5%, and 4.3%.
• Inflation moved in the opposite direction in Romania, with annual rates falling by 2 percentage points from July to August to 6.2%. Still, this remains the highest inflation in the European Union.
• Argentina and Turkey currently have the world’s highest inflation at 33.50% and 31.51%, respectively. Sizable price increases for August were also recorded in Rwanda (15.70%), Ethiopia (15.10%), Egypt (14.50%), Mongolia (12.50%), Pakistan (11.10%), and Kazakhstan (9.80%).

‘When inflation accelerates, the consequences tend to reach well beyond families’ budgets. Households find their purchasing power squeezed, while businesses face rising costs and tougher decisions over prices, wages, and investment. The latest figures also show how uneven the global inflation picture remains, with some countries seeing a renewed rise in price pressures, while others are moving in the opposite direction. That divergence makes the policy response more complicated, particularly for central banks trying to balance inflation against economic growth. For consumers, however, even a relatively small acceleration can matter if it persists and begins to erode incomes over time.’

– comments Alan Goldberg from BestBrokers.

Additional details about the countries with the highest and lowest inflation rates in August 2026 can be found in the full report. It also features the places where inflation continues to go up, along with the methodology behind our findings, while the full dataset we compiled is available on Google Drive via this link.

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

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

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

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Four Fire and Emergency New Zealand personnel from Auckland, Dunedin, Ōmokoroa, and Richmond were presented with King’s Birthday Honours by the Governor-General, the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, at an investiture ceremony at Government House in Wellington today.

Fire and Emergency Board Chair Raveen Jaduram was pleased to be part of the Fire and Emergency Royal Honours luncheon, held at Parliament following the investiture ceremony, celebrating the recipients and their well-deserved recognition.

“Our people being honoured today have made outstanding contributions across Fire and Emergency, as well as fostering strong connections within their communities.”

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements. We thank them for the lasting contribution they have made in service to Fire and Emergency and to Aotearoa New Zealand. Their communities are stronger because of their work.”

An additional two King’s Service Medal recipients, Ralph Pitcher and Graeme Kates, will be attending ceremonies to receive their awards later in September and October.

Congratulations to the recipients:

Mr Esitone (Leota Pauga Esitone) PAUGA, appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Leota Pauga Esitone Pauga has served for more than 40 years with Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the preceding New Zealand Fire Service (NZFS).

Mr Pauga became a career firefighter in 1981 and served until retirement in 2025. He was an operational firefighter for 32 years before attaining the role of Assistant Commander in 2013 and Area Commander in 2015, latterly holding roles with Fire and Emergency national headquarters. He co-founded Afi Pasefika (Pacific Fire) in 1996, an initiative which has become an important part of the People Led Network and Pacific representation and advocacy within Fire and Emergency. Under his guidance Afi Pasefika has grown into a national network of career and volunteer firefighters, support personnel, and executive officers. The network works closely with Pacific communities to deliver fire safety messages, foster recruitment, and provide career advice for Pacific personnel. He was the Fire and Emergency representative on the Te Kiwi Māia Advisory Group from 2021 to 2025. His leadership has enabled firefighters and their family to access specialised wellness and recovery support. He has strengthened the relationship between Fire and Emergency and the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority, establishing collaborative initiatives to enhance operational capability. Mr Pauga led a team of firefighters to Samoa as part of New Zealand’s contribution to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024.

Ms Michele Margot POOLE, appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

Ms Michele Poole has contributed to emergency responses across New Zealand for more than 30 years.

Ms Poole is currently a Senior Regional Communications and Engagement Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. She is a member of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Emergency Management Assistance Team, the Fire and Emergency Urban Search and Rescue Command and Technical Support team, and the Maritime New Zealand National Oil Spill Response team. She represents Fire and Emergency on the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council Public Information and Warnings Group. She has developed and implemented Fire and Emergency’s Emergency Strategic Communications capability. She trains and supports Public Information Management around New Zealand and has built capability in emergency communication across the public communications sector and in local government. She was instrumental in establishing the New Zealand chapter of Emergency Media and Public Affairs (EMPA) and chaired the New Zealand EMPA Conference from 2014 to 2021. She has contributed to some of New Zealand’s most significant emergency responses including the 2011 Christchurch and 2016 Kaikōura earthquakes, Whakaari/White Island eruption in 2019, and Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. She has been deployed to major emergency responses in New South Wales and Queensland in Australia. For her contributions to emergency communications, Ms Poole was made a Fellow of EMPA.

Mr Ian John BLUNT, awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community.

Chief Fire Officer Ian Blunt has contributed more than 40 years to community service and leadership, primarily through Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade.

Mr Blunt joined Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1984, progressing from Station Officer in 1988 to current Chief Fire Officer since 2002. He has played a key role in regional emergency preparedness and inter-agency cooperation by forging effective partnerships between Fire and Emergency New Zealand, St John, Coastguard, and local Bay of Plenty organisations. In 2015, he pioneered the establishment of New Zealand’s first dedicated Medical First Response Unit staffed solely by medical responders, separate from the firefighting team. This innovation now supports approximately 300 calls annually and is recognised nationally. He has ensured sustainable funding for the station through community and corporate partnerships, enabling the acquisition of vehicles and equipment without requiring members to fundraise. As a long-time member, Chair and Course Superintendent of the Ōmokoroa Golf Club, he has used his own equipment and time to improve the grounds and infrastructure. He has been involved with the Ōmokoroa Boat Club since the early 1980s, serving as Commodore and ensuring ongoing emergency response collaboration to enhance community safety. Mr Blunt has been involved in Ōmokoroa Point School fundraising activities as a member of the Parent Teacher Association and through the Fire Brigade.

Mr Edward Keith (Ted) FORD, awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the dairy industry.

Mr Ted Ford has served the Appleby community over 36 years as a volunteer firefighter and is a prominent member of the Jersey farming industry.

Mr Ford was an inaugural member of the Appleby Volunteer Rural Fire Force in 1988 and was instrumental in its transition to a Fire and Emergency New Zealand Volunteer Fire Brigade in 2017. He worked as a training coordinator and vehicle and equipment coordinator. He has had a long involvement with the Nelson Agricultural and Pastoral Association, becoming Vice President in 2018, and President from 2019 to 2021. He continues to serve as a committee member, focusing on the care and maintenance of the Association’s 100-acre park. He has volunteered with local and national Jersey groups and is a Jersey New Zealand Regional Ambassador for the Upper South Island. He was a committee member for the planning and presentation of the Top of the South New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. He was Chair for the Top of the South Agricultural Industry Training Organisation and offered training on his farm to develop cadets’ practical and theoretical farming knowledge. Mr Ford was Chair of the Appleby School Committee from 1985 to 1987 and continues to support the school with educational farming visits.

Mr Graeme Lawrence KATES awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to conservation and the community.

Mr Graeme Kates has played a significant role in the protection of native biodiversity in the Arthur’s Pass region for more than 31 years.

In 2003, Mr Kates privately funded extensive stoat and rat traps within the Bealey Valley, a conservation initiative which led to the foundation of the Arthurs Pass Wildlife Trust (APWT). With the APWT, he undertook initial work to protect the Great Spotted Kiwi in the Arthur’s Pass National Park, where his subsequent research and data collection led to improved knowledge of the species. He helped install 106 kilometres of trap line and coordinates the volunteers that service them, resulting in over eight thousand predator species caught within the Arthur’s Pass National Park. He created and maintains a website that updates the public on track and mountain conditions, weather stations and webcams within Arthur’s Pass National Park. As an experienced mountaineer, he wrote ‘Arthur’s Pass: A Guide for Mountaineers’, published by the New Zealand Alpine Club. He voluntarily controls invasive weed species and is largely responsible for the eradication of lupins in the Bealey Valley. Mr Kates also volunteered for Arthur’s Pass LandSAR, and served for more than 29 years with the Arthur’s Pass Volunteer Fire Brigade, including five years as Fire Controller and 17 years as Deputy Fire Controller.

Mr Ralph Edward PITCHER awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community.

Mr Ralph Pitcher has served the Whangamatā community for more than 60 years.

Mr Pitcher has been a volunteer firefighter since 1965, still actively serving as part of the Whangamatā Fire Brigade. He assisted with major equipment and building changes to the Brigade and has mentored generations of firefighters. He is founding member, President, and committee member of the Moana House retirement home, where he was integral to the completion of the Wilson Wing Hospital, and five low-cost housing cottages for pensioners. He has served for more than 48 years with the Whangamatā Lions Club, including 15 years as President. He served on several committees and manages the Charitable Trust responsible for dispersing funds to community organisations. He is Trustee of Lions Investment Golf Club, committee member of the Williamson Golf Club and was involved in the establishment of Titoki Golf Club. He was a volunteer ambulance officer and later became Chair of St John’s Whangamatā Ambulance Service. He was a committee member of the Whangamatā Club for 15 years. He was President and was founding member of the Whangamatā Sports Centre and Squash Club, contributing significantly towards the Club’s redevelopment. Mr Pitcher volunteers as a Meals on Wheels driver.

MIL OSI

Source: ASB Bank

15 September 2026

ASB has today announced Vittoria Shortt is stepping down as CEO and Managing Director after almost nine years. She will finish up with ASB on 11 December this year.

Sinead Taylor has been appointed as Vittoria’s successor. Ms Taylor is currently Group Executive Institutional Banking and Markets at Commonwealth Bank of Australia and brings extensive banking, operational and commercial experience to the role.

ASB Chair Dame Therese Walsh paid tribute to Vittoria for the significant impact she has had on ASB.

“I’d like to acknowledge Vittoria’s incredible work and dedication as CEO, and before that as a member of the ASB Board.

“As CEO, Vittoria has led ASB through a period of significant change and challenge for all Kiwi, and for the banking industry; from Covid-19 to a global explosion in fraud and scams, the rapid rise of AI, a market study and Select Committee inquiry.

“Against this backdrop, ASB has continued to adapt, perform strongly and lay solid foundations for the future. Under Vittoria’s direction, ASB has continued to focus relentlessly on our customers and our purpose to accelerate progress for all New Zealanders.”

Reflecting on her time at ASB, Ms Shortt says she feels incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity.

“When I look back at what we’ve achieved, I’m most proud of how deeply our purpose has become part of ASBers’ work every day to help improve customers’ financial wellbeing, support our communities and back the New Zealand economy.”

Vittoria initially plans to take a break before deciding what’s next. “I’m looking forward to some travel, starting with a roadie around New Zealand, and spending more time with my family. I want to take some time to consider my next move professionally.”

Sinead Taylor

Prior to her current Group Executive role, Sinead Taylor has held Executive positions within the Commonwealth Bank group including Group Executive, Chief Operations Officer and Executive General Manager of Bankwest, as well as roles in global markets, strategy, marketing, business and corporate banking. Before banking, she held senior strategy and marketing roles in professional services.

Sinead was born in Glasgow, Scotland and lived for a number of years in New Zealand after moving to Rotorua at the age of nine.

Dame Therese says Sinead will build on ASB’s strong foundations and take the bank into its next chapter.

“Sinead has broad experience and an impressive track record and reputation for creating impact, executing ambitious strategies and leading with purpose. She has led large teams, implemented complex transformation at scale, strengthened risk management and delivered better outcomes for customers. That combination of customer focus, operational discipline and execution makes her well placed to lead ASB through its next phase.”

Sinead’s appointment has received non-objection from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. She will take over as CEO and Managing Director on 12 December 2026.

MIL OSI

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

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

Source: Morningstar DBRS

27 August 2026

Overview

The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) has triggered an unprecedented surge in demand for digital infrastructure, particularly data centres. 

Once viewed as a niche segment within real estate and infrastructure markets, these facilities have rapidly evolved into a distinct asset class. 

As AI models grow in scale and complexity, their computational requirements increase exponentially, making data centres essential to supporting this technological transformation. 

Sustaining AI expansion requires significant investment. In the U.S., AI-related spending was estimated at USD 430 billion in 2025 and could more than double by 2029, reflecting both rapid innovation and the capital-intensive demands of computing, storage and energy infrastructure. To support this growth, technology companies have raised around USD 300 billion from U.S. investors and increasingly relied on bank financing for AI and data-centre development. Banks have become deeply involved in this ecosystem, not only in the U.S. but also in Europe and the UK through large-scale financing, syndicated lending and securitisation. As a result, the banking sector is increasingly embedded in the expansion of AI-driven digital infrastructure. According to Morningstar DBRS, this creates significant business opportunities for banks whilst also increasing sector concentration risks, prompting active exposure management. However, whilst data-centre lending has been one of the fastest-growing areas of bank credit in recent years, exposures generally remain a modest share of overall loan portfolios. Furthermore, banks employ a range of established risk-management tools, including syndication, concentration limits, exposure caps, portfolio monitoring and risk-transfer mechanisms, to manage sector-specific risks and limit excessive concentration.

Key Highlights

• AI is driving unprecedented investment in data centres, thereby transforming them into a strategic asset class and creating significant financing opportunities for banks through lending, syndication, and capital markets activities.
• Banks’ exposure to the data-centre sector is growing rapidly across the U.S. and Europe, supported by strong demand from hyperscalers and AI developers, but this expansion increases concentration and credit risks.
• Banks are actively managing these risks through syndication, securitisation, and risk-transfer structures, shifting part of the exposure to institutional investors whilst raising new questions around transparency and systemic risk.

Strategic Rationale for Banks’ Exposure to Data Centres

Banks’ exposure to data centres takes multiple forms, including syndicated loans to developers, corporate lending to hyperscalers and infrastructure operators, and capital-markets financing through structured finance transactions. Given the scale of modern AI infrastructure projects, financing is typically arranged by large banking syndicates capable of underwriting substantial amounts of capital. Moreover, banks support the sector through a broad range of capital markets solutions, including M&A advisory, debt arranging and equity capital markets transactions.

U.S. banks remain the dominant participants in the market. Institutions such as JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo regularly arrange multibillion-dollar financings for data-centre developers and AI-related infrastructure. For example, JPMorgan led a USD 7.1 billion construction loan for Crusoe’s Stargate AI campus in Texas in 2025, whilst a consortium led by Morgan Stanley and MUFG provided USD 2.6 billion of financing to CoreWeave later that year.

European banks have also increased their participation through infrastructure lending, project financing, and syndicated transactions, both within Europe and internationally. For instance, Deutsche Bank AG, in September 2025, provided EUR 600 million of financing to Sweden-based EcoDataCenter and participated in AirTrunk’s AUD 4.3 billion financing in Australia alongside other lenders. Beyond traditional bank lending, private credit funds, infrastructure investors, and asset managers are becoming increasingly important capital providers. NVIDIA Corporation’s recently announced initiative to help mobilise more than USD 500 billion for AI infrastructure illustrates both the scale of anticipated investment needs and the growing role of nonbank capital providers.

We believe banks’ involvement in data-centre financing is consistent with their traditional role in supporting large-scale infrastructure and technology investments. The sector offers attractive long-term growth prospects, significant financing needs, and access to strategically important technology clients. In addition to lending income, syndication and capital-markets activities generate substantial fee revenues in a normalising interest rate environment, whilst limiting balance sheet usage.

Key Risks Associated With Data-Centre Financing

Despite strong growth prospects, we note that data-centre financing carries several risks for banks. In our view, concentration risk is one of the most significant credit considerations for banks active in the sector. Projects are typically large and often dependent on a limited number of hyperscalers, AI providers, or specialist operators.

Credit risk is also closely linked to expectations regarding future AI adoption. Many investment decisions assume continued growth in demand for computing capacity and the sustained use of new infrastructure. If commercial AI adoption develops more slowly than expected, utilisation rates and cash flows may fall short of projections, weakening borrowers’ ability to service debt.

Data centres are also exposed to technological obsolescence risk, although to a lesser extent. Rapid advances in chip technology, computing architecture, and cooling technologies may reduce existing facilities’ competitiveness, calling for considerable additional investment to remain operationally relevant.

Finally, data centres face asset-specific risks across both the development and operating phases. For facilities under development, permitting delays, construction challenges, power-connection constraints, and cost inflation can adversely affect project performance and increase risks for lenders. For operational assets, revenues often depend on long-term contracts with a relatively small number of tenants, whilst project economics rely on access to reliable and affordable electricity. Energy-price volatility and evolving environmental regulations can adversely affect project performance and increase risks for lenders.

Insurance availability has also become an increasingly important consideration, with higher premiums, tighter coverage terms, and reduced insurer capacity already affecting some large-scale data-centre projects.

Concentration risk at the tenant level remains particularly relevant. Large hyperscalers continue to account for a significant share of industry demand and capacity commitments, creating dependency on a relatively small group of counterparties. Recent market data indicates that hyperscalers represented approximately 59% of North American data-centre tenant demand in 2026, highlighting the importance of monitoring customer concentration and counterparty exposure.

We have also previously highlighted risks related to energy availability and physical security considerations for data centres, which are likely to remain important as the sector continues to expand.

Managing Down Exposures Through Risk Transfer and Securitisation

In response to concentration, capital-allocation, and portfolio-management concerns, banks are increasingly adopting strategies to reduce retained exposures. One primary tool is syndication, which allows institutions to distribute loans across a broader group of lenders and investors, limiting single-name balance sheet exposure. The USD 2.6 billion CoreWeave financing is an example of this approach, with exposure distributed among a large lending syndicate rather than retained by a small number of lead arrangers. Banks are also making greater use of significant risk transfer (SRT) transactions, enabling them to transfer portions of credit risk to external investors whilst preserving client relationships and maintaining lending capacity. In addition, banks increasingly use loan sales and secondary-market transactions to reduce retained exposures, free up capital, and enhance balance sheet flexibility. As a result, institutional investors, including private credit funds, insurance companies, and infrastructure investors, are becoming increasingly important providers of funding for digital infrastructure projects.

Securitisation also plays a growing role. By packaging data-centre loans into ABS and similar structures, banks can convert relatively illiquid exposures into tradable securities and broaden the investor base supporting the sector. For example, Vantage Data Centers completed the first EMEA data-centre ABS transaction in 2024, raising GBP 600 million through securitised notes, whilst Switch issued USD 1.7 billion of data-centre ABS in 2024 and a further USD 3.5 billion of ABS and CMBS financing in 2025. These transactions illustrate how capital markets are increasingly being used to recycle capital and redistribute risk beyond the banking system.

In our view, whilst these mechanisms improve capital efficiency and support the continued expansion of AI infrastructure, they may also create new vulnerabilities. Strong investor demand could weaken underwriting discipline, whilst the migration of exposures from regulated banks to nonbank financial institutions may reduce transparency and complicate the assessment of systemwide risk. Regulators are likely to focus not only on banks’ direct exposures but also on the channels through which AI-related infrastructure risks are redistributed across the broader financial system.

Related Research

• Money Laundering Risks in European Banking: Credit Implications, Emerging Threats and Evolving Supervision (5 August 2026)
• ECB’s Geopolitical Reverse Stress Test: More About Risk Management Than Capital (3 August 2026)
• One Rulebook, Many Markets: The Remaining Barriers to Europe’s Banking Union (28 July 2026)
• European Commission to Further Advance European Banking Integration and Simplify Rules (21 July 2026)
• European Banking Midyear Outlook: Middle East Conflict Not Derailing Positive Earnings Dynamics (20 July 2026)
• European Depositor Preference Reform: Implications for Bank Credit Ratings (30 June 2026)
• Can Europe’s Savings and Investments Union Overcome Fragmentation to Reap Potential Credit Benefits? (15 June 2026)
• Mythos-Class AI Raises Cyber Stakes for European Banks (10 June 2026)
• Middle East Conflict is Leading to Higher Provisions for Some Global Banks (2 June 2026)
• Shifting Demographics Create Structural Challenges for European Banks (2 June 2026)
• Italian Banks’ Solid Q1 2026 Results Support Credit Profiles As Earnings Momentum Normalises (14 May 2026)
• U.S. Data Center Q1 2026 Research (27 April 2026)
• European Banks’ Middle East Exposures: Modest Direct Risk, With Potential Stress Via Indirect Macro-Financial Channels (9 April 2026)
• European Data Centre CMBS: Regulatory Clarity Could Supercharge Italy’s Data Centre Expansion (18 March 2026)
• European Banks’ AT1 Instruments at a Crossroads: Regulatory Reassessment and Market Implications (11 March 2026)
• Data Centres: AI, Power, and the Energy Transition (9 March 2026)
• Middle East Conflict: Direct and Indirect Impact Manageable for Global Banks and Asset Managers (3 March 2026)
• The Expanding Role of Synthetic SRTs in European Bank Capital Planning (2 February 2026)
• Stablecoins and the Digital Euro: The New Frontier for Europe’s Payment Landscape (19 January 2026)

Notes

All figures are in euros unless otherwise noted.

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MIL OSI

Source: WEAll Aotearoa New Zealand

New polling has found overwhelming public support (82%) for a law requiring governments to consider the long-term impacts of their decisions on future generations when they develop laws and policies.

There was strong support across the political spectrum, with 90% of Greens, 89% of ACT, and 87% of NZ First voters supporting the idea of politicians being legally required to consider the long-term impacts of their decisions.

The polling, conducted by Talbot Mills, was commissioned by the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa (https://www.weall.org.nz) (WEAll Aotearoa) as part of their rangatahi-led, non-partisan campaign Tomorrow Together (https://www.weall.org.nz/tomorrowtogether). The cornerstone of the campaign is a call for a Future Generations Act for Aotearoa, inspired by the successful Welsh model (https://weall.org/resource/wellbeing-of-future-generations-wales-act/).

18-year old Nate Wilbourne, Future Generations Lead at WEAll Aotearoa, says the polling result shows the public wants to see politicians required to consider the impacts of today’s decisions on the generations to come:

“This polling shows that Kiwis from across the political spectrum want our politicians to be required to make wise decisions for the long term. This is tradies, retirees, students and small business owners saying that politicians need to govern for a resilient, prosperous future, not just the next three years.”

“A Future Generations Act is common sense and doable. Wales has had a Future Generations Act since 2015, and Scotland, Australia and Finland are following suit.”

“Every big issue we’re grappling with right now – housing, climate, unemployment, cost of living, infrastructure – all these things are harder because we haven’t had strong enough long-term thinking, or enough willingness to make decisions that will take years to pay off. A Future Generations Act would make intergenerational fairness a legal requirement and in turn, push our leaders to plan for the long-run.”

“We are calling for political parties to work across the house to legislate a Future Generations Act.”

Additional polling from WEAll Aotearoa found 71% of New Zealanders believe that New Zealand’s economy is working “poorly” or “very poorly” for young people.

As Nate says, “This is what happens when we stop thinking about the long-term. This tells us we need to change course and start building an economy that works for people today and generations to come.”

Tom Rutherford said: “As one of Parliament’s youngest MPs, I’m conscious that many of the decisions we make today will shape the New Zealand my generation and future generations inherit. We need to ensure long-term thinking is part of our decision-making, particularly on issues that cannot be solved in a single parliamentary term. I’m looking forward to contributing to a conversation about how we can build a better future for all New Zealanders.”

Arena Williams said: “Labour backs young people and is focused on building an affordable future here in Aotearoa with good jobs, healthcare when and where you need it, and warm homes. We must keep involving young people in politics and ensure their voices are included in the decisions that affect their lives.”

Notes to editor

About Nate Wilbourne: Nate Wilbourne is the Future Generations Lead at WEAll Aotearoa. Co-founder of Gen Z Aotearoa, he is a Forbes 30 under 30 change maker, and a globally renowned advocate for his work with young people, nature, and for future generations.

About the Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa: WEAll Aotearoa is one of 25 hubs that make up the global Wellbeing Economy Alliance. We are a non-partisan and independent ‘think and do’ tank working to redesign Aotearoa New Zealand’s economy around the wellbeing of our people and te taiao. We use an evidence-informed approach and think upstream to develop practical, long-term solutions for the public good. Through building a new economic system we can address the root causes of major challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

About the campaign: Tomorrow Together is WEAll Aotearoa’s rangatahi-led campaign for a Future Generations Act for Aotearoa New Zealand. It is grounded in the belief that the choices we make today should ensure a thriving future for generations to come. We want to build a governance system that looks beyond short-term political cycles and deeply invests in the future, for the wellbeing of all of us. The campaign has been supported by the youngest MPs from four different parties: Tom Rutherford (National), Arena Williams (Labour), Tamatha Paul (Greens) and Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke (Te Pāti Māori), as well as Sir Geoffrey Palmer (https://www.weall.org.nz/videos/palmer), Christopher Finlayson, (https://www.linkedin.com/posts/wellbeing-economy-alliance-aotearoa-nz_hon-chris-finlayson-kc-proposes-four-reforms-activity-7442412804533403652-e2qi/) and the late Jim Bolger (https://www.weall.org.nz/videos/bolger).

MIL OSI

WRISE’s initial HKD30 million investment accelerates WRISE AI Labs while the appointment of Dr. Jeffrey Wu as Group Chief Scientist and a strategic collaboration with Panorama reinforces the Group’s long-term AI-native wealth management strategy

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

Source: OFX

Currency markets are set for another volatile month as resilient US economic data, diverging central bank policies and geopolitical uncertainty continue to weigh on investor confidence, according to OFX’s latest Monthly Currency Outlook.

The report highlights renewed US dollar strength and central banks each exploring different policy options as the key themes shaping foreign exchange markets, with investors closely monitoring economic data and monetary policy signals for further direction.

OFX Director, Luke Czirok, said currency markets are likely to remain highly sensitive to interest rate expectations and economic data.

“While inflation has eased in many economies, central banks are taking very different approaches to monetary policy, creating ongoing volatility across major currency pairs.

“The key challenge for businesses and individuals is navigating uncertainty. Currency markets can move quickly when expectations around interest rates or economic growth change, which is why staying informed and having a strategy in place can be critical when managing international payments,” he said.

The OFX Monthly Currency Outlook reports the US dollar remains well supported after stronger-than-expected economic data reinforced expectations that US interest rates will remain higher for longer. This has strengthened demand for the greenback while placing pressure on many major currencies, including the euro, Australian dollar, New Zealand dollar and Japanese yen.

At the same time, differing approaches from the world’s major central banks – particularly the US Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, Bank of Japan and Bank of England – are creating greater uncertainty for investors and businesses exposed to international markets.

The euro weakened throughout June as markets increasingly anticipated the European Central Bank (ECB) would leave interest rates unchanged while the US Federal Reserve maintained a more hawkish outlook. Investors will closely watch the ECB’s July meeting, along with fresh Eurozone economic data, for signs of improving growth.

In the United Kingdom, political developments are also expected to remain in focus following the appointment of Andy Burnham’s as Prime Minister and the formation of his cabinet, including the appointment of John Healey as Chancellor. While uncertainty initially weighed on sterling, expectations of a smooth leadership transition have helped the pound recover some recent losses.

The Australian dollar recorded mixed performance in June, weakening against the US dollar while remaining resilient against several trading partners thanks to stronger commodity prices and improving global risk sentiment. China’s economic outlook, commodity markets and global interest rate expectations are expected to remain the key drivers for the currency.

Similarly, the New Zealand dollar came under pressure from broad US dollar strength, softer commodity prices and reduced expectations for further domestic interest rate increases.

Meanwhile, the Japanese yen remains near multi-decade lows against the US dollar as investors continue to favour higher-yielding US assets despite the Bank of Japan’s gradual policy normalisation. Markets are watching closely for any signs of further policy tightening or potential government intervention to support the currency.

The Canadian dollar, Singapore dollar and Hong Kong dollar also remain heavily influenced by US dollar strength, with investors closely monitoring upcoming central bank decisions and economic data releases for further direction.

With central banks entering another critical policy period and global economic uncertainty persisting, OFX expects foreign exchange markets to remain highly responsive to incoming economic data throughout July.

For further information and access to the full OFX Currency Outlook see OFX websiteen-au/blog/currency-outlook/”>OFX Monthly Currency Outlook

Notes to editors:

OFX expected trading ranges, July 2026

• EUR/USD: 1.1200-1.1620
• EURGBP 0.8510-0.8730
• GBP/USD: 1.3100-1.3515
• GBPEUR 1.1455-1.1750
• AUDEUR 0.6036-0.6082
• AUDGBP 0.51648-0.52194
• AUDNZD 1.2132-1.2213
• AUD/USD: 0.6883-0.6960
• NZDEUR 0.4964-0.4998
• NZDGBP 0.4248-0.4289
• NZDAUD 0.8188-0.8243
• NZD/USD: 0.5658-0.5727
• USD/JPY: ¥158-¥164
• DXY: 100.300-101.200
• CADUSD 0.7000-0.7350
• USDSGD 1.2850-1.3020
• USDHKD 7.8350-7.8480

About OFX:

OFX is a leading financial operations company providing businesses and accounting firms with real-time financial control and visibility to do business anywhere in the world. With an innovative platform and 24/7 human support, OFX automates and simplifies doing business across borders, reducing risk and eliminating routine operational tasks. Offering global business accounts, payments to 180 countries in 30+ currencies and currency risk management solutions to simplify global payments. OFX further enhances business operations by providing corporate cards with spend management, bill payments, vendor management, and integrations with popular accounting and HRIS software, to help achieve better business solutions so accounting firms and businesses thrive.

Headquartered in Sydney, Australia, with offices globally, in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore and Hong Kong. ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified globally, 700+ employees, listed on the ASX since 2013, licensed in 50 jurisdictions and regulated by over 50 regulators globally. OFX has been a trusted innovator in global money movement for over 25 years.

For more information about OFX and its financial automation solutions, visit OFX website

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

private open-air bathing experiences, refined dining, and Dusit’s

signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality on the shores of Lake Tōya

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 June 2026 – Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, is continuing its strategic expansion in Japan with the opening of WE Hotel Toya, Dusit Collection, a serene lakeside retreat in Hokkaido designed by internationally acclaimed architecture studio Kengo Kuma & Associates.

Officially joining the Dusit Collection brand on 1 July 2026, WE Hotel Toya, Dusit Collection marks the first Dusit Collection hotel in Japan and Dusit’s third hotel in the country, building on the momentum established by ASAI Kyoto Shijo, a neighbourhood-inspired lifestyle hotel, and Dusit Thani Kyoto, a Michelin-Key recognised luxury hotel inspired by Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

Dusit Collection is Dusit International’s upper-upscale and luxury brand designed for distinctive hotels and resorts that celebrate individuality, local culture, thoughtful design, and a deep connection with each destination. Each property is carefully selected for its unique character and ability to create experiences shaped by the people, places, and stories that surround it.

Located on the shores of Lake Tōya, a scenic caldera lake at the heart of the Toya-Usu UNESCO Global Geopark in southwestern Hokkaido, and approximately 100 minutes by car from New Chitose Airport, WE Hotel Toya, Dusit Collection welcomes guests to one of Japan’s most captivating natural destinations, celebrated for its volcanic landscapes, natural hot springs, outdoor adventures, and spectacular seasonal scenery.

Originally opened in 2018, the intimate luxury retreat features a striking architectural identity created by Kengo Kuma & Associates, whose extensive body of work includes the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo and Scotland’s V&A Dundee design museum. Inspired by the surrounding landscape, the resort’s design blends natural materials, warm textures, and a contemporary interpretation of Japanese craftsmanship to create a seamless connection between the interiors and the lake, forests, and mountains beyond.

The property features 55 lake-view guestrooms alongside three expansive two-storey villas offering additional space and privacy for families and small groups. Each guestroom offers approximately 37 sq m of living space and includes its own private open-air bath overlooking Lake Tōya, allowing guests to enjoy the calming tradition of Japanese open-air bathing in complete privacy. Guests can also enjoy a large communal bath with panoramic lake views, creating a restorative bathing experience deeply connected to the destination.

As part of its transition to Dusit Collection, the resort’s culinary concepts have been refreshed to create a thoughtful dialogue between Japanese craftsmanship and Dusit’s Thai heritage, showcasing the best of Hokkaido’s seasonal ingredients alongside signature Thai influences.

EZO Cuisine celebrates Hokkaido’s rich culinary heritage and highlights local producers through Japanese cuisine enhanced with refined international techniques. Breakfast highlights include Japanese and Thai set menus featuring locally sourced vegetables, premium Hokkaido rice, dairy products, seasonal juices, and original herbal teas, while dinner focuses on carefully crafted seasonal menus.

Guests can also discover authentic Thai noodle favourites at The Noodle Bar, including spicy and aromatic Tom Yum noodles and Khao Soi (a rich, coconut-based curry noodle dish from northern Thailand), while TARU Bar, named after the Japanese word for wooden cask, celebrates Japan’s traditions of ageing and craftsmanship through a curated selection of organic Japanese teas from Dusit’s tea garden in Kyoto, alongside sake, whisky, and craft liqueurs. Toya Bar completes the experience with creative cocktails, premium spirits, and relaxed lakeside evenings.

“Japan is an important strategic market for Dusit, and the arrival of Dusit Collection represents another exciting milestone in our journey to bring our unique style of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to destinations with distinctive character and strong cultural appeal,” said Chanin Donavanik, Group CEO, Dusit International. “WE Hotel Toya, Dusit Collection perfectly embodies the spirit of the Dusit Collection brand, demonstrating how thoughtful design, local connections, and personalised service can come together to create experiences that truly reflect their destinations.”

Reservations for WE Hotel Toya, Dusit Collection are now open, with a special introductory offer inviting guests to experience the newly rebranded lakeside retreat. Available for stays from 1 July – 30 September 2026, the offer includes 20% savings on a half-board stay, including two meals daily.

For more information, please visit dusit.com/dusitcollection-wehotel-toya

Hashtag: #Dusit

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

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

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 May 2026 – Immuno Cure Group (“Immuno Cure“), headquartered at Hong Kong Science Park, is pleased to announce the inauguration of the research facility for its HIV therapeutic DNA vaccine (“ICVAX^®“) at the Center of International Innovation for Technology and Science (“CIITS”) located in Hetao, Shenzhen. The facility aims for the development and application of key technologies for the clinical research and commercialization of Immuno Cure’s ICVAX^®. ICVAX^® is developed by Immuno Cure with the aim of achieving antiretroviral therapy (“ART“)-free functional cure for HIV infection. This project is carried out in collaboration with Prof. Zhiwei CHEN, the Founding Director of the AIDS Institute of Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, the University of Hong Kong (“HKU AIDS Institute“), and Prof. Hongzhou LU, President of the Third People’s Hospital of Shenzhen, in the capacity as advisors.

CIITS is a national-level achievement transformation platform co-built by Guangdong Province, Shenzhen Municipality, and Tsinghua University, and is located at the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone (“Hetao Co-operation Zone“). It is committed to building a world’s leading major technological innovation and industrialization platform with a global perspective. It focuses on key tracks including biomedicine, high-performance materials, and artificial intelligence (AI). It aims to aggregate global innovation resources, connect with leading enterprises, and conduct organized scientific research and achievement transformation to address national major strategic needs.

Since AIDS was first identified in 1981, 40.8 million people have died from HIV infection, with over 44.1 million people living with HIV globally. While antiretroviral therapy can effectively control HIV replication, it cannot cure the disease, highlighting the critical need for immunotherapies. Designed to enhance the host’s immune response, immunotherapies aim to achieve sustained viral control without lifelong ART, ultimately leading to complete viral suppression and functional cure. Immuno Cure’s proprietary innovative HIV therapeutic DNA vaccine, ICVAX^®, induces broad-spectrum, polyfunctional virus-specific T cells to achieve the ultimate goal of ART-free functional cure of HIV infection.

Immuno Cure completed the first-in-human Phase I clinical trial of ICVAX^® in November 2024, demonstrating excellent safety and promising immunogenicity. Two multi-center Phase II clinical trials—randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled—are scheduled to launch in Q2-2026 to evaluate the vaccine’s mechanism of action and efficacy. The trials will be conducted at Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong, as well as eight top-tier hospitals in China, including the Shenzhen Third People’s Hospital, Beijing Ditan Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing Youan Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, the Eighth People’s Hospital of Guangzhou, the Second People’s Hospital of Tianjin, the Sixth People’s Hospital of Zhengzhou, Chengdu Public Health Clinical Medical Center, and Chongqing Public Health Medical Center.

Notably, standardized testing systems for evaluating immunological and virological indicators are crucial for HIV vaccine clinical trials. However, the lack of domestic standard operating procedures (SOPs) for infectious samples in clinical trials hinders the clinical development and regulatory approval of novel infectious disease therapies like ICVAX^®. The mission of this research facility at CIITS is to establish an internationally aligned standardized clinical testing system for T-cell immunogenicity and viral reservoirs, as well as identify core biomarkers associated with vaccine efficacy — filling a domestic technical gap. Immuno Cure will offer the ICVAX^® Phase II clinical trial to facilitate the development of this standardized precision testing method for clinical sample analysis.

Dr. Xia JIN, CEO of Immuno Cure, stated, “I am delighted to be appointed to lead this key project of CIITS. I would also like to thank CIITS for the fully fitted modern laboratory space and the RMB10.0m funding support for this 2-year initial phase. My whole scientific team is committed to contributing diligently to the success of this project. I have no doubt that the development of a standardised testing regime would not only enhance the quality of our clinical trials for ICVAX^® but would also eventually be adopted as industry and national standards for the clinical translation of medicine for HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.

Renchen LIU, Executive Deputy Dean of Research Institute of Tsinghua University in Shenzhen and Director of CIITS, stated, “Warmest congratulations on the inauguration of the research facility for ICVAX^® at the CIITS. In the future, CIITS will continue to leverage its platform resources to implement full-chain incubation services. Project managers will provide service support throughout the entire project period, ensuring the smooth progress of the project through resource integration, talent recruitment and development, clinical collaboration, and achievement transformation. These efforts will safeguard the steady progress of the project.”

As the project advances, Immuno Cure’s ICVAX^® is positioned to become the world’s first therapeutic DNA vaccine to deliver an ART-free functional cure for HIV infection, bringing new hope to people currently living with HIV. In parallel, the standardized testing platform and collaborative innovation model developed through this effort will provide a scalable, replicable blueprint for R&D of novel therapies targeting other major infectious diseases. Together, these outcomes will strengthen the global competitiveness of biomedicine development in GBA and contribute to the development of national biosecurity capabilities and a more resilient public health system.

https://immunocure.hk
https://www.linkedin.com/company/immuno-cure

Hashtag: #ImmunoCure

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

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

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 May 2026 – Amplexd Therapeutics, Inc. (“Amplexd”), a U.S.-based clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on women’s health and underserved therapeutic areas, today announced authorization from the Hong Kong Department of Health to initiate a Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating its novel EGCg-based investigational therapy for precancerous cervical lesions associated with high-risk human papillomavirus (hr-HPV).

High-risk HPV is the primary driver of cervical cancer, which remains a significant public health burden, particularly across the Asia-Pacific region. High-risk HPV prevalence amongst Chinese women is estimated at 12.8%[1] with China representing 23% of cervical cancer cases globally[2].

The randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 2 study is being conducted at The Chinese University of Hong Kong in collaboration with Prince of Wales Hospital, with recruitment currently underway. The study will evaluate the safety and efficacy of Amplexd’s investigational therapy in women diagnosed with ASC-US and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) alongside confirmed hr-HPV infection. Clinical data are expected in Q1 2027.

Amplexd’s investigational therapy is a proprietary, shelf-stable vaginal suppository formulation containing epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), a bioactive compound derived from green tea, designed for localized self-administration at the site of disease.

“Currently, there is a significant unmet medical need for localized, non-surgical therapies specifically indicated for low-grade lesions associated with high-risk HPV. The standard of care is largely limited to increased surveillance and ‘watchful waiting,’ which can impose both psychosocial and financial burdens on patients,” said Alia Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of Amplexd. “Moreover, in many resource-constrained settings including large swaths of Asia-Pacific, access to surgical intervention and specialized follow-up care is limited. Previously published, peer-reviewed clinical and preclinical studies have explored the use of EGCg-based topical formulations in the treatment of HPV and cervical lesions. Building on this body of research, we developed a shelf-stable formulation designed for self-administration and early therapeutic intervention.”

The Phase 2 trial will evaluate endpoints including lesion regression, viral clearance, and overall safety profile, with the goal of generating data on the potential for early therapeutic intervention in hr-HPV-associated disease.

Additional information about the study can be found at www.drugoffice.gov.hk under trial identifier eCTS-2026-021 and at www.clinicaltrials.gov under trial identifier NCT07572396.

Important Information

This clinical trial has been authorized by the Hong Kong Department of Health. Participation will be subject to eligibility criteria and informed consent. This investigational therapy has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and its safety and efficacy have not been established.

Hashtag: #AmplexdTherapeutics #hrHPV #HPVtherapy #HPV #cervicaldysplasia #LSIL #ASCUS #Phase2clinicaltrial #womenshealth #EGCg #cervicalcancer #investigationaltherapy #clinicaltrial

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

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

An Australian with a calling and an Auckland radio host running on pure determination are the newly crowned national champions of stone skimming.

In pristine conditions, hundreds flocked to a remote corner of Lake Hāwea on Saturday to watch or toss a rock at the inaugural national competition.

Abbey McDonald, an Australian living in Queenstown, described her decision to enter the event as a feeling of destiny.

She quickly stole the show with a skim of 72 metres – the furthest of the day – then clinched the women’s final and a ticket to the World Stone Skimming Championships in Scotland in September. Her throw in the final was 42 metres.

“I’ve been waiting to find my career. I’ve been saying ‘should I go to uni? Should I not?’ And travelling around. And then this popped up and I just knew it was for me,” she said.

Stepping up to the platform, McDonald said she felt a sense of belonging.

“I had my support crew there, they had their hats on… and I just felt right at home.”

Auckland-based The Rock host Jay Reeve said his 51 metre winning throw in the men’s final using “a real dog” of a stone with a chunk of quartz in it was as much of a shock to him as anyone.

“Not even in my wildest dreams. Look at me, I’m not an athlete. I’m held together by duct tape, and pure determination and will, pretty much,” he said.

Reeve, originally from Tauranga, said he had not skimmed a stone in quite some time.

“That showed early, and then I managed to get one across the line in the final.”

They were among more than 130 competitors chasing glory – some competing under their real names while others opted for aliases such as Hans Skimmer, Splash Bandicoot and Skim Shadbolt.

Each had three attempts to send a stone dancing across the lake as far as possible down a designated lane.

Throws had to bounce at least twice and competitors had to keep both feet planted, while any that strayed too far to the side were instantly disqualified.

Competitor Sam Lockwood, from Arrowtown, said the perfect skim began with finding the perfect stone, which could not be wider than three inches (7.61cm).

“It’s got to be quite thick. I think the main problem for today is everyone’s been picking really thin stones. So it’s been catching at the end and it curls….I’ve got big hands luckily and I can handle a big wide stone,” he said.

Event organiser Richie Laming said Lake Hāwea offered smooth waters and near-perfect skimming conditions throughout the day.

“We’ve got an incredible high pressure system exactly over Lake Hāwea at the moment – sublime, calm conditions. If there was a day that New Zealand records were to be set, it is today,” he said.

Queenstown resident Ben Davies, better known as Skim Shady, said he made a last-minute call to enter after a few too many drinks one night.

He quickly found himself near the top of the leaderboard.

“I’ve been living down in Otago for years so there’s lakes everywhere, and as I’ve been walking my dogs and hanging out down by lakes, I just throw rocks now and again, and been doing pretty well at it,” he said.

“Here we are – top of the table, living the dream. It feels pretty good.”

For Wānaka competitor Don Elder, the real prize was simply a good day out.

“I’ve been training for months. It’s been a lot of hard work, sacrifices, and it all comes down to the day – and it wasn’t going to be me. But that’s okay. I had a huge amount of fun. It’s been one of the best days I’ve had here for a long time,” he said.

The championship was organised as a fundraiser for Melanoma New Zealand and to help raise awareness that the country has one of the leading melanoma diagnosis rates in the world, Laming said.

It would be the first of many, he said.

“We’ll definitely be having it as an annual, but we’re just discussing the biannual option or even having regionals or inter-provincials… the lake’s the limit,” he said.

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

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/05/18/first-ever-stone-skimming-champions-crowned-in-lake-hawea/

Kiwi forward Briton Nikora will make his State of Origin debut next week after being named in the Queensland team.

Nikora is the first Kiwi international to be allowed to play in rugby league’s biggest showpiece after a change in eligibility rules.

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) announced the amendment in February.

Players were previously required to represent Australia or a tier two nation as defined by International Rugby League to be eligible for Origin.

This ruled out players who had represented the Kiwis or England.

The updated rules remove this restriction, allowing players who who meet the traditional State of Origin criteria and represent tier one nations to be eligible.

That criteria includes being been born in New South Wales or Queensland, residing in either state prior to their 13th birthday, or if a players father played State of Origin.

Nikora has played 15 tests for new Zealand, though qualifies for Queensland having moved to Brisbane at the age of nine.

He has played his senior career exclusively for the Cronulla Sharks, playing 168 NRL games since 2019.

Two Warriors will also play in Origin I- Co-captain Mitch Barnett for New South Wales and second rower Kurt Capewell for Queensland.

Team lists

NSW Blues squad

1. James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters)

2. Brian To’o (Penrith Panthers)

3. Stephen Crichton (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)

4. Kotoni Staggs (Brisbane Broncos)

5. Tolutau Koula* (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles)

6. Mitchell Moses (Parramatta Eels)

7. Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers)

8. Addin Fonua-Blake* (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)

9. Reece Robson (Sydney Roosters)

10. Mitchell Barnett (Warriors)

11. Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders)

12 Haumole Olakau’atu (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles)

13. Isaah Yeo (c) (Penrith Panthers)

14. Cameron Murray (South Sydney Rabbitohs)

15. Victor Radley* (Sydney Roosters)

16. Jacob Saifiti (Newcastle Knights)

17. Blayke Brailey* (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)

18. Ethan Strange* (Canberra Raiders)

19. Casey McLean* (Penrith Panthers)

20. Dylan Lucas* (Newcastle Knights)

Coach: Laurie Daley

* Yet to play for NSW

QLD Maroons squad

1.Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights)

2. Selwyn Cobbo (Dolphins)

3. Robert Toia (Sydney Roosters)

4. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Dolphins)

5. Jojo Fifita (Gold Coast Titans)

6. Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm)

7. Sam Walker (Sydney Roosters)^

8. Thomas Flegler (Dolphins)

9. Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm)

10. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans)

11. Reuben Cotter (North Queensland Cowboys)

12. Kurt Capewell (Warriors)

13. Max Plath (Dolphins)^

14. Briton Nikora (Cronulla Sutherland Sharks)^

15. Lindsay Collins (Sydney Roosters)

16. Patrick Carrigan (Brisbane Broncos)

17. Trent Loiero (Melbourne Storm)

18. Ezra Mam (Brisbane Broncos)^

19. Gehamat Shibasaki (Brisbane Broncos)

20. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (Dolphins)

^ Potential debutant

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

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

New Zealand’s walking football team is expecting to punch above its weight on the world stage this month.

The 2026 International Walking Football Federation World Championships kicks off in Brisbane at the end of May and it will be New Zealand’s first time competing at the championships.

The team’s coach and manager, Neil Haines – who formerly represented New Zealand – told RNZ the walking game is six-aside, played on smaller fields, and has rolling substitutes.

Crucially, the players are aged 50 and over.

Haines said the New Zealand team of 12 began training about three weeks ago on Sundays, but will be upping that to twice a week ahead of their first match against England on May 28.

“We’re looking forward to it! And then, we playing Australia. The best part of it, we will give them a run for their money.”

Haines said it was a fantastic line-up, with teams from across Europe also competing – some of whom had been playing for at least 10 years.

He said it would be a challenge, but the team was up for it.

“We’ve just started out here in New Zealand and we feel that… like most New Zealand sport we’re going to punch above our weight.

“I hope that we can cause some surprises and the players are keen to do very well, so we are hoping we will get further than just making the numbers up.”

Haines said he came across the sport a couple of years ago and has been promoting it through the local trust he chairs ever since.

From an initial gala day at the North Shore United Club, between 20-30 people now turn up for games twice a week on summer evenings, he said.

Haines said the game enabled men and women to continue to play a sport they loved and – although mainly about participation – players retained a competitive streak.

“Just because people are over 50, they have not lost their competitiveness and that makes it really interesting, because walking football allows the body to work without too much stress.”

Haines said it would be great if the world cup inspired more people to join.

“I’d love it if this… got people into activities where they can enjoy the company of each other, the banter, and also doing something they thought they possibly could never do again – that’s playing football on a pitch, but they’re just walking.”

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

NRL Magic Round: NZ Warriors v Brisbane Broncos

Kickoff 6pm NZT, Sunday, 17 May

Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Live blog updates on RNZ

For the first time in 2026, NZ Warriors coach Andrew Webster will finally unleash his two-headed beast – co-captains Mitch Barnett and James Fisher-Harris – in a formidable starting front row against Brisbane Broncos on Sunday.

While Kiwis colossus Fisher-Harris has been a pillar of strength for the 7-2 Warriors, Barnett has struggled to stay on the field, since starting his campaign late, as he completed rehab on his season-ending knee injury from last June.

After quietly bringing up 50 games for the Auckland club on the road against his old Newcastle Knights outfit, he broke a thumb in his next outing, missed two games, then played two games, but suffered concussion and had to sit out another week under protocols.

Then came last week’s bye.

“I’ve become a bit used to it, after last season, but it’s good to be back,” Barnett acknowledged. “I’m hoping I can get a bit of a run going now and string some games together.”

All four of his appearances have come off the interchange, as in-form dynamo Jackson Ford seemingly made the No.10 starting jersey his own, with a series of performances that have put him into Dally M Medal contention, sometimes going the full distance.

Webster has taken a risk tinkering with his winning line-up for NRL ‘Magic Round’, but is comforted by the knowledge he has re-united two of the game’s best front-rowers in tandem.

“We never intended to play Jackson Ford for 80 minutes each week,” he explained. “I think there have been three occasions when he hasn’t played 80 this year.

“We always wanted to get Fish and Barney pairing up together, with a passer, which is Erin Clark. We always wanted Jackson Ford to come on and finish the game.

“He could come on after 15-20 minutes and you almost don’t have to worry about Jacko – he can go 100mph right through to the end. That’s always what we thought would be the best dynamic, but Mitch obviously hasn’t got that momentum going.

“That’s why we wanted to do it – we’ve got our two skippers out there in the front row, and Jackson gets to come on and do his job.”

Barnett admits to being somewhat blindsided by Webster’s call.

“That’s not really a question for me, but for Webby,” he said. “He approached me and I just said yeah.

“I feel for Jacko, he’s been going really well, but I’m just here to do my role. Webby has obviously picked me, because he wants my style of game at the kickoff.

“The big fella, instead of playing 80 minutes, he might play 70 this week, so nothing really changes for him.”

With State of Origin looming, this weekend represents the last chance for contenders to push their cases, before selectors name their squads.

Barnett has made two appearances off the bench for New South Wales, both wins. Four days after last year’s 18-6 victory in the series opener, a torn anterior cruciate ligament curtailed his involvement.

Given his rotten run with injuries, he hasn’t had a chance to build any kind of form and would have to rely on past feats.

“I’m just trying to play rugby league at the moment, and put my best foot forward for the Warriors first and foremost,” Barnett conceded. “That other stuff takes care of itself, but if that opportunity comes, I’d be stoked.”

NSW fanatic Webster absolutely denies he’s switched his line-up to give his skipper his best chance to push for Origin inclusion, but is adamant Barnett deserves that call-up.

“I’m not trying to prepare Mitchell for Origin,” he said. “Personally, I think Mitchell is one of the game’s best players, particularly front-rowers.

“I know what leadership he brings. I thought, when he didn’t play last year, after he got injured, they missed him and I think great players like Mitchell have enough runs on the board, but I don’t pick the team.”

Ironically, Barnett and Ford may be competing for the same spot on the Blues’ roster.

Ford has been the best front-rower in the league this season, leading his team in running metres and tackles, and pacing the competition in post-contact metres.

As a starter, his ability to go wire to wire has essentially given Webster the luxury of an extra second-half substitution.

Barnett considers his teammate has done more than enough to deserve the call-up.

“Bloody oath,” he said. “I think he’s made for Origin.

“I just think he wouldn’t let anyone down. He does all the stuff that people don’t really see – the kick chase and the tidy-up stuff that Origin is built on.”

Another on the cusp of selection is second-rower Kurt Capewell, a 13-game Queensland veteran who wasn’t wanted for their opening loss last year, but helped turn them around with back-to-back wins to take the series.

At the time, he inexplicably led the NRL in missed tackles, but made some big stops in the Origin decider.

“I’m not particularly fond of Queensland, but I am fond of Kurt Capewell and think he should be in the team too,” Webster offered. “The way he played against Parramatta last week was an Origin performance.

“We weren’t playing our best football at times, but the way he defended and the effort areas, he’s made for Origin.

“If you look at his history, he’s got a great strike rate in Origin, so if they pick him, he won’t let them down.”

Over the past week, since Maroons halfback Tommy Dearden fell to an ankle injury, some pundits have even built a case for in-form Warriors half Tanah Boyd to replace him, while hooker Wayde Egan is another outsider on the NSW radar.

Chances are the successful candidates – or at least the contenders – will already know by now.

They will have been told to pack an extra bag for their trans-Tasman road trip.

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The New Zealand women’s cricket team continue to show promising signs ahead of the defence of their T20 World Cup crown next month, after beating England in Cardiff, in the final of a three match ODI series.

The White Ferns won by 17 runs by the DLS method, after rain interrupted the match.

England batted first scoring 181 for seven in a shortened innings of 33 overs, with Bree Illing and Rosemary Mair both taking two wickets for New Zealand.

The White Ferns initial target for the win was 184, and when England’s opening bowler Lauren Bell took three quick wickets, removing Suzie Bates, Melie Kerr and Georgia Plummer, all lbw, New Zealand’s task looked grim.

But Maddy Green, Brooke Halliday and Izzy Gaze steadied ship in the rainy conditions, as New Zealand got to 141 for four midway through the 25th over, before play was abandoned.

Halliday was named player of the match for scoring an unbeaten 42 off 54 balls.

The series finished tied 1-1 after England won the first match by one wicket, while the second game was abandoned without a ball bowled due to rain.

Green was named player of the series, largely in the back of scoring 88 in the opening game.

The teams now switch to a best of three T20 series, which begins on May 20 in Derby, ahead of the T20 World Cup, which starts on June 12.

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Wellington Phoenix’s first A-League grand final appearance has been years in the making.

After a record-breaking season, the women finished the regular season in second place to qualify for the playoffs for the first time.

To secure a place in the grand final, they had to come back from a one-goal deficit to beat Brisbane Roar after ,extra time on aggregate goals across the two-legged home and away playoff.

The grand final also marks a special milestone of the team’s 100th game.

Two seasons ago, Phoenix director of football Shaun Gill told RNZ the women’s season deserved a grade of C-minus.

Gill must be at an ‘A’ now, with room to improve, should they defeat three-time Premiers Plate winners Melbourne City at AAMI park on Saturday night.

How did the Phoenix women go from the bottom to the top?

Previous results

The Phoenix joined the women’s A-League in 2021 and are the ‘newest’ club still in the competition. (Western United joined in 2022 but had to sit this season out, due to financial issues).

Before this season’s run to the grand final, the end-of-season standings were not good reading.

In their first season, the Phoenix finished last in a 10-team competition. They recorded only two wins in 14 games during a season in which they were based in Wollongong, New South Wales, due to COVID travel restrictions.

The next season produced the same outcome – last in a then-11-team competition.

After two wooden spoon seasons, the 2023/24 campaign saw the Phoenix finish eighth, which was their best-ever finish before this season.

Last season, they dropped to ninth with seven wins, three draws and 13 losses.

Coaches

The Phoenix have had four coaches in five seasons.

Bev Priestman has been the most successful and most controversial appointment.

Priestman joined the Phoenix this season, after serving a one-year ban from all football for her involvement in a drone spying scandal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Before her appointment in Wellington, Priestman coached the Canada women’s national team, which won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. She also brought Canada to the 2023 Football World Cup, co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia.

The Englishwoman is considered the most-credentialed coach currently in the A-League and the Phoenix have her locked in for another season.

Over time, the Phoenix have now had three women as coaches, with Gemma Lewis as the inaugural coach, followed by Natalie Lawerence, before Paul Temple had two seasons in charge.

Captains

Being given the captain’s armband has often resulted in a player not spending much time on the pitch.

Goalkeeper Lily Alfeld was the team’s first-ever player signing and inaugural captain, and played all but one game of the first season, before injury curtailed her career. She missed all the 2022/23 campaign after off-season knee surgery and a back injury, before moving into an off-field role with the club.

Football Fern Annalie Longo then had a couple of injury-riddled seasons as captain and stepped away from football at the end of last season.

During her time as skipper, Longo also had to defend the team environment, when midfielder and vice-captain Chloe Knott quit during the 2023/24 season, citing the pressures of combining fulltime work and playing professionally.

This season, CJ Bott was named captain, but announced her pregnancy in January and sat out the remainder of the season.

Bott is still the club captain, with Mackenzie Barry taking the onfield captaincy duties.

International players

The Phoenix were on the back foot, when the club first entered the A-League, because they could not sign visa players for the first two seasons of their existence.

From the 2023/24 season, Football Australia relaxed the restrictions imposed on the women’s team, removing the limit on New Zealand signings and the quota of Australian players.

This season, their leading goalscorer is American Makala Woods, who signed as an injury replacement for Dutch midfielder Tessel Middag at the start of the year.

English forward Brooke Nunn has also made her mark in front of goal, being among the team’s leading scorers and the A-League leader in goal assists. Both Nunn and Woods will be back next season.

American defender Ellie Walker has been a constant in the backline this season, as has Spanish defender Lucía León, who the Phoenix picked up from Adelaide United in the off-season, as the first new signing of the season.

One Phoenix signing who made the biggest noise when she joined the squad was Nepalese international striker Sabitra ‘Samba’ Bhandari.

Before injury ended her season, the Nepalese community in New Zealand and Australia showed up in big numbers to support their national team captain in the A-League.

Locals

Defender Mackenzie Barry has seen it all with the Phoenix as a day-one player.

Barry is the team’s most-capped player and has started every game this season. She is a product of NZ Football’s Future Ferns domestic programme.

The Football Fern has said the Phoenix are the only A-League team she wanted to play for and she is signed up for next season as part of what she saw as Priestman’s two-year project.

By comparison, Football Fern Grace Jale has played for several A-League clubs, but this is the first time she is part of playoff football.

Under Priestman, Jale is having the best club season of her career and picked up several awards at the club’s awards night. She has also signed for next season.

Teenage star Pia Vlok has had a breakout season, including the club’s first hat-trick, and her success also lead to her first call-up to the Football Ferns.

Goalkeeper Vic Esson has helped the Phoenix to the best defensive record in the competition, returning to New Zealand after seven seasons overseas, where she won several trophies.

Attacker Manaia Elliott brought up her 50-game milestone for the Phoenix this season and has been a regular in the side in her third year as a professional.

Centreback Marisa van der Meer made a comeback to the Phoenix, after back-to-back anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injuries. More than 700 days after she last played for the club, she scored in their opening game and went on to play 22 games during the regular season.

Midfielder Macey Fraser rejoined Wellington Phoenix, after she was released by National Women’s Soccer League club Utah Royals, but the Football Fern took a mental health break and she returned to the team in March.

Knees

Female footballers are more at risk of knee injuries than their male counterparts, a phenomenon that is now so prolific, it is part a FIFA study.

This season, three Phoenix players suffered ACL injuries, including two in the same month (November).

The frequency of the season-ending injury at their club lead the Phoenix to investigate if something was wrong with their ACL injury prevention practices, but they found their practices were “comprehensive and aligned with industry standards”.

The team’s latest significant injury is to forward Emma Main, who has a chronic lumbar spine injury that meant she missed the playoff series and was rehabilitating for next season.

Support

The Phoenix had a record crowd of nearly 6000 at Porirua Park for Sunday’s semifinal win, but last season, the numbers were a lot lower with an average of 739 people at home games – the lowest in the league by far.

Not surprisingly, connection with the fans increased, as the Phoenix moved up the competition standings.

“We’ve always had a really good fanbase, but definitely this year, it’s grown a lot,” Barry said.

However, getting corporate buy-in was a struggle for the Phoenix early on, with general manager David Dome issuing a public plea in 2021 for commercial assistance to find a shirt sponsor for their new women’s team.

The Phoenix owners invested heavily into the women’s team and, in previous seasons, Gill highlighted that more was spent on the women’s programme than the men’s.

“We operate at a good level of budget for players and staffing, and we’ve probably got one of the biggest football departments in the league, so there is a high expectation on that programme,” he said.

Before the playoffs, Barry said the team trained at “one of the best facilities in the whole league”.

“I think, even though it’s not verbally said, there is an expectation for us to do well. I think we can see the investment that’s been put into our team and, compared to other women’s teams in the A-League, it’s miles ahead of them.”

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For the first time in her career, CJ Bott has had to learn how to lead without crossing the white line.

The Wellington Phoenix captain has spent much of the club’s breakthrough A-League season watching from the sidelines, since her https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/584796/phoenix-captain-cj-bott-announces-pregnancy pregnancy announcement] i January.

There was never any chance she would miss Saturday’s grand final against Melbourne City at AAMI Park though.

“I’m definitely travelling,” Bott said. “You wouldn’t be able to hold me at home just yet.

“I’ve still got a few more weeks until I’m medically unable to travel, so I’m making the most of it. I’ll be there with bells and whistles, and I’ll lose my voice screaming on the sidelines.”

Bott played seven matches at the start of the season, before stepping away from playing duties, remaining involved with the squad in an off-field leadership role, as the Phoenix surged to the first grand final in the team’s five-year history.

She described her second season with the Phoenix was “definitely a different season”.

“It started off well, being on the field, and then having to take a step back, because of the pregnancy, it took a little bit to get used to and was a tough pill to swallow in many ways, because all I want to do is be out there and doing my part with the team.

“I think as the season’s progressed, and our new signings have stepped up and really embraced their roles, and the rest of the girls have also stepped up, they’ve done such an incredible job.

“I mean, there’s been some nailbiting moments of the season, but overall, they’ve done incredibly well and I’m just so proud of how they’ve handled the season.”

Coach Bev Priestman was determined to keep Bott closely involved this season, because of her leadership and experience within the group.

“It did take a little while to see where I best fit into that role, because I wanted to give [Mackenzie Barry] the time and the space and the energy and support to do her role as captain as well.

“It’s taken a bit of adjustment, but I think now I’ve figured out where I’m best fitted, and I really just try and support the girls in whatever way and whatever capacity they need me.”

Defender Emma Pijnenburg, who replaced Bott in the squad, said the Football Ferns international remained an influential figure within the team.

“She just has this aura and, when she speaks in the circle, everybody is hanging on to every word,” Pijnenburg said. “She has a lot of experience as well, a senior player in the team, and she brings a lot to the team, whether she is on the field or not,” .

The Phoenix finished the season in second place and came from behind to win the two-legged semifinal against Brisbane Roar to secure the grand final match-up, but Bott said it was not all plain sailing to get to the pinnacle game of the season.

“I don’t think it’s a shock, given the team we had at the start of the season, but based on all our injuries and unfortunate events that have occurred during the season, it is somewhat of a surprise that we’ve somehow managed to keep our heads above water and still perform, given all the difficulties this team’s been through.

“The season has been so important towards the development of women’s football in this country, in this city specifically, and I’m so excited to see what can happen in the weekend.”

Watching from the sidelines has not come naturally to Bott.

“I hate it,” she said. “It is so hard just sitting there and not being able to do anything, but I’ve had to embrace it.

“I’ve got no other choice in the matter and the girls need me no matter what. I’ve just had to bite my nails quietly and just be their biggest cheerleader.”

Bott arrived at her hometown club last season, after eight years playing professionally in Germany, Sweden, Norway and England, and was surprised by the level of professionalism at the Phoenix.

“I didn’t quite know what to expect coming in,” she said. “I knew they had access to world-class facilities, but I think that’s one thing, having the backing from the wider club and having the staff involved.

“Our staff are incredible, they are probably some of the most professional staff I’ve ever had.

“Besides the fact that a lot of our girls have to, unfortunately, work two jobs, it is the most professional environment I’ve probably been a part of and it’s the most enjoyable environment I’ve been a part of in a long, long time.”

Bott is off contract at the end of this season and definitely has plans to return to football in the future, and “absolutely” would like that to be with the Phoenix.

Before she can think about her playing future, she will have to handle a few more “nervewracking” moments in the stands, as the Phoenix women play for the club’s first piece of silverware.

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