Source: Island Innovation

27 July, 2026: The Virtual Island Summit (VIS), the premier free online conference for island communities worldwide, will return on 15-17 September 2026.

Now in its eighth year, VIS marks a significant shift from previous editions. The three-day event will follow a narrative arc, with each day building on the last and programming spanning time zones from the Pacific to the Caribbean so audiences everywhere can join live at times that work for them.

• Day 1, Adapt to Change, looks at how island communities are responding to conditions that have already shifted, from decarbonising marine transport and adapting to coastal erosion, to the generational knowledge and ocean governance practices that have sustained island communities for decades.
• Day 2, Transform Systems, examines the models and mechanisms already reshaping island futures: rethinking tourism before pressures become irreversible, turning waste into a circular local economy, reviving indigenous languages, and building food sovereignty in the face of import dependence.
• Day 3, Mobilise Action, turns to what moves people, capital and political will: the funding structures, coalitions and leadership approaches that turn plans into results.

The event is free to attend and open to the public, continuing the Summit’s commitment to accessible, Zero-Carbon knowledge sharing between islanders and global partners alike.

“The Virtual Island Summit is our flagship online event and we are proud to deliver a high-level knowledge-sharing platform that puts islands at the heart of global discussions,” said James Ellsmoor, Chief Executive Officer of Island Innovation. “The Summit highlights islands not simply as places facing shared challenges, but as places developing practical solutions with relevance far beyond their own shores. This year we are evolving the format to reflect how island communities actually work through challenges: understanding the problem, finding what works, and mobilising the resources to scale it. We want attendees to leave VIS 2026 with a clearer sense of where islands stand and what comes next.”

The first confirmed speakers for VIS 2026 include heads of government and senior policy leaders such as:

• Lourdes Leon Guerrero, Governor of Guam;
• Feleti Penitala Teo, Prime Minister, Government of Tuvalu;
• Cora Richardson-Hodge, Premier of the Government of Anguilla;
• Albert Bryan, Governor of the US Virgin Islands
• Jache Adams, Minister of Public Works and the Environment, Government of Bermuda;
• Hannah Mary Goodlad, MSP for Shetland Islands & Minister for Public Finance, Scottish Government;
• Chris Lee, Senator, Hawaii State
• Kalani Kaʻanāʻanā, Chief Executive Officer, Hawai’i Green Growth
• Rachel Kyte, UK Special Representative for Climate;
• Chris Elmore, MP and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Multilateral, Human Rights, Latin America and the Caribbean at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
• Marie-Antoinette Maupertuis, President of the Corsican Assembly & President of the Islands Commission of the Conference of Peripheral Maritime Regions (CPMR)

They are joined by researchers, educators and sector experts including:

• Dr Dai-Yeun Jeong, Director of the Asia Climate Change Education Center;
• Maria Ackrén, Director of the Stefansson Arctic Institute;
• Laurie Brinklow, Chair, Institute of Island Studies, University of Prince Edward Island, University of Prince Edward Island;
• Peter Van Aert, Researcher and Teacher at the Institute of Culture, Society and State, National University of Tierra del Fuego;
• Chalapan Kaluwin, Director of Momis Ocean and Climate Research institute & Dean of School of Sustainable Resources Management & Business Studies, PNG University of Natural Resources and Environment;
• Olly Newton, Executive Director of The Edge Foundation.

Additional speakers will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

Previous editions have brought together heads of state, ministers, and senior practitioners from over 500 island communities across the Caribbean, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, and beyond, drawing more than 10,000 attendees.

All sessions will be available free of charge. Registration is now open at islandinnovation.co/events/virtual-island-summit-2026.

MIL OSI

Source: Greenpeace Aotearoa

In protest over the Conservation Amendment Bill, Greenpeace climbers have hung an eighteen square-metre banner from a giant rimu tree in an ancient West Coast forest.

The activity recreates one of New Zealand’s most iconic environmental protests – the Native Forest Action tree occupation and campaign that helped to successfully end logging of native forest on public land.

Nearly three decades later, on World Conservation Day, Greenpeace says New Zealanders are being called on to defend the forests previous generations fought so hard to save.

Greenpeace campaigner Gen Toop says, “The forests, wildlife and waterways that define Aotearoa are under attack from this Coalition Government’s despicable Conservation Amendment Bill.”

“Hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders spent decades fighting to protect native forests and establish the conservation estate and National Parks we know today. This Government is now trying to dismantle those hard-won protections.”

“Today, on World Conservation Day, we remember all those people who stopped the chainsaws, blockaded the logging roads and defeated all the previous governments that have tried to destroy native forests before.”

Logging of native forest on public land was finally brought to an end in 2002 after decades of public campaigning, including high-profile actions in the podocarp forests of the West Coast, kauri forests of Pūketi, and giant rimu forests of Pureora and Whirinaki-Te Pua-a-Tāne.

The image of the late Pat McNamara suspended high in the forest canopy during a five month long occupation of the Charleston Forest in 1997 by Native Forest Action (NFA) became a defining image of that campaign and inspired people around the country.

The campaign ultimately won an end to native forest logging and saw 130,000 ha of native forest on the West Coast transferred into protection under the Department of Conservation.

Greenpeace says if the Coalition Government’s Conservation Amendment Bill passes it would unravel decades of conservation progress. It proposes to reverse the purpose of the country’s Conservation law from protection, to commercial exploitation “to the greatest extent practicable”, potentially opening conservation land up to logging once more.

Dean Baigent-Mercer, one of the original group who occupied Charleston Forest in 1997, says, “Many native forests only stand today in Aotearoa because people defended them, generation after generation. People who refused to accept their destruction. It’s time for us to do it again.”

The banner unfurled by Greenpeace today reads ‘Toitū te Taiao. Join Us. Defend Nature’.

Toop says, “The generations that came before us fought hard battles, marched, petitioned, occupied trees and never gave up in defence of nature. Today, we inherit that same responsibility to defend these forests for the generations that will come after us.”

“We’re calling on all those who respect the forests, waters and lands of Aotearoa, to join us and defend them from this Government’s Conservation Exploitation Bill.”

Greenpeace is inviting people to join a Nationwide Day of Action on 15 August to say Hands off Conservation Land. The organisation has also teamed up with Forest and Bird and are together inviting people to ‘March for Nature’ down Auckland’s Queen Street on September 19.

Background

• The Native Forest Action campaign to end logging of native forest on the West Coast endured from 1997 till 2002. Helen Clark and the Labour Party committed to a ban prior to the 1999 election. On the first day they were sworn in after the 1999 election they signed an order to stop logging of native forest on public land.
• In May 2001, 130,000 ha of public land was transferred to the conservation estate. About 18,000 ha went to National Parks, Westland Tai Poutini, Kahuranagi and Paparoa, the latter of which increased in size by nearly 25%. Notable and rich additions to the conservation estate included North Ōkarito, Ianthe, Ōpārara, Mokihinui and Saltwater.
• The campaigns to protect the forests of Aotearoa, including NFA’s campaign are documented in the book Fight for Forests by Paul Bensemann.
• Greenpeace Aotearoa is calling for a national day of action on Saturday 15 August to protect the forests of today. People around the country will organise their own actions against the Conservation Amendment Bill. More information is available at binthebill.nz.
• Greenpeace Aotearoa with Forest & Bird and allied groups are coordinating a March for Nature. At 1pm on Saturday 19 September 2026 people will come together in Auckland to say ‘hands off conservation land’. More information is available at marchfornature.nz.

MIL OSI

Source: Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO)

Mums and their newborn babies are missing out because Plunket services are running on shoestring budgets with skeleton staffing, and their health needs are unable to be met, Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO says.

NZNO national delegate and Plunket nurse Kelly Morrissey says due to funding shortages, Plunket nurses are booking and travelling to six to seven appointments a day, while doing up to 10 on clinic-based days. This reduces the quality time required for pēpē and their whānau.

“Limited funding and understaffing feels like juggling several balls in the air always mindful it could come crashing down at any time.”

She has called on the Coalition Government to keep its promise from the previous election campaign and fund Plunket properly.

Whānau Āwhina Plunket looks after society’s most vulnerable members as it takes care of the health and wellbeing of children under five and their families. However, years of decreasing financial support from the Government has led to the not-for-profit organisation being stretched to the limit.

Kelly Morrissey says the Coalition’s promises to “ensure Plunket is funded to do their job properly”, made during the last election campaign has not materialised. The situation for Plunket has in fact worsened.

“Budget 2026 was the Government’s last chance to fulfil its coalition agreement between the National and NZ First parties but we were ignored again. To make matters worse our pay equity claim was scrapped last year when we were just weeks away from submitting it.

“How are our services expected to cope with this neglect from the Government? In some parts of the country, local fundraising still supports our services.”

Government funding is also vital to recruit and retain staff, she says.

“Plunket nurses are paid considerably less than our hospital-based colleagues. The lack of funding is resulting in much-needed staff leaving for higher paying jobs in hospitals, further hampering the ability to provide vital care and support.

“Proper Government funding would keep nurses from leaving Plunket for better paid hospital jobs.

“The simple solution is pay parity where all nurses with the same skills qualifications and experience are paid the same. Without funding this is impossible to do.”

MIL OSI

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed two new appointments to the Waitangi Tribunal, Nick Wells and Rick Witana.

“I would like to welcome Mr Wells and Mr Witana to their new roles and, at the same time, thank Dr Paul Hamer and Basil Morrison for their service as they step down as members,” Mr Potaka says.  

“Dr Hamer and Mr Morrison will continue serving on their existing panels until those inquiries conclude.

“Mr Wells and Mr Witana bring a breadth of experience across governance, law, Iwi leadership, public policy and Crown–Māori relationships that will further support the Tribunal’s work.” 

Mr Wells joins as a member of the Waitangi Tribunal for a three-year term, replacing Dr Hamer, who has served for six years.

Mr Witana joins as a member of the Waitangi Tribunal for a three-year term, replacing Mr Morrison, who has completed 18 years of service.

Notes to editors 

Nick Wells 

Nick Wells is an experienced governance and legal practitioner with extensive expertise in corporate law, investment, and Iwi governance. He currently holds senior governance roles including Chair of Ngāpuhi Asset Holding Company and Kaikohe Berries, and Co-Chair of UNICEF Aotearoa.

Rick Witana 

Rick Witana is an experienced Māori governance leader with a strong background in Iwi representation, public policy, and Crown–Māori engagement. He previously served as Chair of Te Rūnanga Nui o Te Aupōuri and has held senior Māori relations and public sector roles.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/28/waitangi-tribunal-appointments-confirmed/

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed three key reappointments across Māori whenua, economic development, and Māori broadcasting governance.

The appointments are Dr Charlotte Severne ONZM as Māori Trustee, Hinerangi Edwards ONZM as a trustee of the Poutama Trust Board, and Brian Morris as a member of the Te Māngai Pāho Board.

“The reappointments provide continuity for organisations that help unlock the potential of Māori land, support Māori enterprise, and strengthen te reo Māori through broadcasting,” Mr Potaka says.

“Dr Charlotte Severne, Hinerangi Edwards and Brian Morris each bring strong governance experience and a deep commitment to delivering positive outcomes for Māori.

“Their continued leadership will help ensure these organisations continue supporting Māori landowners, growing Māori enterprise, and promoting te reo Māori and tikanga Māori.

“I thank Charlotte, Hinerangi and Brian for their ongoing service and their continued commitment to Māori development.”

Notes to editors

Dr Charlotte Severne ONZM

Dr Severne has served as Māori Trustee since 2018, leading Te Tumu Paeroa through a period of significant operational change. Her reappointment for a further two-year term will support the continued delivery of statutory trustee services, sound financial management and organisational stability.

Hinerangi Edwards ONZM

Ms Edwards has served on the Poutama Trust Board since 2021. She brings extensive governance, commercial, investment and Māori economic development experience and has been reappointed for a further five-year term.

Brian Morris

Mr Morris has more than 30 years’ experience in education, publishing, te reo Māori and tikanga Māori. His reappointment for a further three-year term will support Te Māngai Pāho’s work to promote Māori language and culture through broadcasting and content.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/28/leadership-reappointments-confirmed-for-maori-whenua-economic-development-and-broadcasting/

Long-term measures to reduce risk from fishing to hoiho will come into force on 16 September 2026, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

“Last year I established a temporary emergency ban of set-net fishing in a high-risk area around the Otago Peninsula to protect hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins).This allowed for a review of scientific evidence and public consultation before deciding next steps.

“I have decided this closure will be made permanent. I am also establishing a new escalating response framework called a Fishing Related Mortality Limit (FRML) so I can act quickly and decisively to increase protections if needed.”

Hoiho is a taonga species, and the northern population that lives on the lower South Island and Rakiura/Stewart Island is classified as nationally endangered.

“Last year’s risk assessment projected that to stabilise the northern hoiho population we must cut deaths from all causes by half, and I consider the new protections will achieve this goal for fisheries bycatch,” Mr Jones says.

“However, I want to be very clear that fisheries bycatch is not the main reason the northern hoiho population is in a precarious state.

“The major risks to hoiho are disease, predation, and starvation, but implementing these long-term measures to reduce the risk of fisheries bycatch will help.”

The FRML sets limits for accidental capture of hoiho, with accompanying actions, including potential further closures if necessary. The annual FRML for the northern hoiho population has been set at four a year.

“This is not a target, it is a bottom line. It will further incentivise fishers to do everything possible to prevent hoiho bycatch, as I will put further restrictions on fishing in the area in place to ensure this limit is not exceeded,” Mr Jones says.

“I thank the many people who made their views known during public consultation.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/28/protection-for-hoiho-made-permanent/

The round brings HiDream.ai’s total financing over the past three months to more than RMB 2.1 billion and marks its entry into unicorn status

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

Source: Dental for All

Monday 27 July

The Dental for All coalition welcomes the Green Party’s commitment to publicly delivered, free dental care for everyone and support for by-Māori for-Māori services in their new election manifesto. This announcement follows increasing attention on the failures of the current approach to oral health and calls for free dental care to be included in the public healthcare system.

“As an oral health therapist, I believe that oral health is a universal right, not a privilege. It is encouraging to see oral health recognised within the wider health agenda, alongside commitments to kaupapa Māori approaches that will help reduce inequities,” says Samuel Carrington, Associate Dean Māori and Senior Lecturer at the University of Otago Faculty of Dentistry and member of the Dental for All coalition.

“The PSA is very supportive of this policy which seeks to fully fund dental healthcare,” says Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary of the Public Service Association. The PSA represents the public oral health workforce and is a member of the Dental for All coalition.

“Dental care privatisation has completely failed New Zealanders. The provision of dental care is patchy, and is so expensive that many families now avoid going to the dentist at all. New Zealanders deserve to have dental care wrapped into our public healthcare system, so that all our communities can benefit – not just those who can afford it,” says Fitzsimons.

According to the latest NZ Health Survey, 43% of New Zealand adults report unmet need for dental care due to cost, and previous research released by Dental for All shows that the downstream effects cost the country billions every year.

Polling conducted by Talbot-Mills, released in March, shows that 83% of people support dental care being brought into the public healthcare system, with widespread support from voters across the political spectrum.

In April, Dental for All released a costed policy plan which includes a network of community oral health clinics to deliver universal, free oral healthcare as part of the public healthcare system, investment in the oral health workforce and resourcing for Māori tino rangatiratanga over oral health.

“There is a clear evidence base and strong public mandate for universal, Te Tiriti o Waitangi-consistent oral healthcare. We know that this is a viable, cost-effective policy and it has popular support.” says Dental for All campaigner, Hana Pilkinton-Ching.

The Green Party’s newly-announced health policies include a focus on prevention in health services, expanding access to essential primary and dental care (working towards publicly delivered, fully free services), funding dental vans to visit rural communities and kaupapa Māori approaches to end health inequities.

“We welcome this direction and look forward to seeing meaningful investment, a strengthened oral health workforce, and a clear pathway to delivering accessible, equitable oral healthcare for all people in Aotearoa,” says Carrington.

“It’s great to see the Greens are ready to put oral health back where it belongs, in the public system. We hope that other political parties will respond to the call from communities around the countries and commit to policies that address the urgent need for access to oral healthcare, and lead us towards a better future,” says Pilkinton-Ching.

MIL OSI

Source: Federated Farmers

ACT’s plan to transfer responsibility for managing game animals on conservation land to the Game Animal Council needs a major rethink, Federated Farmers says.

Richard Dawkins, Federated Farmers pest management spokesperson, says allowing the Game Animal Council to set game population targets is extremely concerning.

“ACT has fired a shot with this policy, but they’ve completely missed the mark,” he says.

“Hunters generally see deer as a valuable resource. They want healthy herd numbers, plenty of hunting opportunities and, in some places, quality trophy animals.

“On the other hand, many farmers view those same deer as pests that cause huge problems when they damage pasture, crops, fences, forestry and native vegetation.”

That conflict is evident in ACT’s description of Himalayan tahr as a ‘treasured herd’, Dawkins says.

“They may be treasured by hunters, but they’re also an introduced pest that can cause significant damage to vulnerable high-country vegetation.

“Under ACT’s plan, the people who value the animals would be setting the limits, while neighbouring farmers could carry the consequences and the costs.

“That is an obvious conflict of interest.”

Dawkins says there is plenty in the announcement worth discussing.

“Hunters make a valuable contribution to conservation and back country maintenance, and we support better access and more secure funding for community groups.

“But giving hunters control of population targets crosses a line.

“ACT has made a significant mistake by assuming the interests of hunters and neighbouring farmers are automatically aligned – they are not.

“Farmers should not be expected to carry the cost of maintaining game animal populations for someone else’s recreational benefit.”

Federated Farmers says the practicalities are also far more complex than ACT’s announcement suggests.

Game animal management sits alongside the Wild Animal Control Act, the Conservation Act, Treaty obligations, public access, visitor safety and communications with people using conservation land.

It must also work alongside OSPRI, regional pest management plans, 1080 operations and control programmes for goats, pigs and other species.

“These animals are often managed across the same landscape,” Dawkins says.

“Having one organisation managing deer while another manages goats, biodiversity and disease control risks duplication, conflicting objectives and more bureaucracy.”

Dawkins says the Wapiti Foundation demonstrates that carefully designed partnerships between hunters and government can work in specific circumstances.

“That success reflects a unique arrangement with clearly defined objectives and does not justify transferring responsibility for setting deer population targets nationwide.

“Good local partnerships should be expanded where they work, not used as the basis for a wholesale transfer of responsibility.”

Dawkins says the answer is clear targets, better coordination and targeted investment.

“Federated Farmers agrees the current system is not delivering the level of feral browser control New Zealand needs, but simply transferring responsibility from DOC to the Game Animal Council is not the answer.

“What we need is a properly funded national feral browser strategy that brings hunters, farmers, DOC, OSPRI, councils, iwi, foresters and conservation groups around the same table, with clear targets, responsibilities and accountability.

“Similar to the coordinated approaches used for wilding conifers and wallabies, hunters should have a strong seat at the table and an important role in delivery, but they should not set population targets alone.”

Population targets should be informed by independent ecological monitoring, animal health risks and the effects on neighbouring landowners.

Dawkins says more International Visitor Levy funding could significantly increase pest control, monitoring and community partnerships.

“Hunters are an important part of the solution, but they cannot be the sole judge of how many pest animals should remain on the landscape.

“Good policy must balance hunting values with the rights of neighbouring landowners and the protection of New Zealand’s environment.”

MIL OSI

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 July 2026 – Pacific Place is delighted to announce juju world, a summer collaboration with internationally acclaimed Australian artist CJ Hendry, running from 23 July to 16 August 2026. Conceived and produced in partnership with creative house Pen & Paper, the event marks Hong Kong’s first large-scale juju experience, transforming the shopping destination into an immersive world inspired by Hendry’s collectible character. The event will feature a Hong Kong exclusive merchandise collection, a wide range of interactive experiences, and seasonal shopping rewards. Pacific Place is set to be the city’s most talked-about cultural and retail destination this summer.

Who is juju?

Created by CJ Hendry, juju is a collectible character recognised for its floppy ears, flower eye and playful personality. Occupying a unique space in contemporary collectible culture, juju is both an objet d’art and an emotional companion. This summer, juju arrives in Hong Kong in a spectacular new form.

A Planet Has Landed at Pacific Place

At the heart of this whimsical universe is the juju Planet, a vibrant centrepiece surrounded by a colourful wonderland of oversized trees and fluffy clouds of pom-poms, with larger-than-life juju characters welcoming you with open arms. Touch, explore and trigger surprises — every interaction transforms juju world into an unforgettable, multi-sensory adventure for dreamers of all ages.

juju world

Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026
Time: 10am – 10pm
Location: Garden Court, Level LG1
Entry: No registration required

CJ Hendry Unveils Hong Kong-Exclusive juju Collectibles

Created exclusively for Pacific Place, the shimmering collection introduces iridescent juju inspired by the city’s vibrant energy. On top of the nine standard versions, five additional secret versions will be added to the collection as a delightful surprise. Available in limited-edition blind boxes, each is housed in a specially designed shiny collectible tin, turning the act of unboxing into a unique experience. The fun continues as visitors unlock surprise accessories at the Capsule Toy Station and customise their juju with interchangeable flower eyes, outfits and more.

juju world Merchandise Store & Capsule Toy Station

Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026
Time: 11am – 9pm
Location: Level L1, near Lane Crawford
Entry: Through member entry booking or on-site queue tickets (see details below)

A Summer Full of Rewards

juju world is the centrepiece of a summer season at Pacific Place designed to delight at every turn. From 23 July to 16 August, shopping at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct also unlocks the ‘Dreamlike Summer’ rewards programme, offering exclusive Pacific Place shopping e-Vouchers with designated same-day electronic spending, with eligible UnionPay cardholders enjoying additional rewards on top.

*General shoppers and eligible UnionPay users are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem General Rewards and UnionPay Users Extra Rewards.

^#To redeem the UnionPay Users Extra Rewards, shoppers must settle the relevant transaction(s) with UnionPay Credit and ATM Cards with the UnionPay logo, UnionPay Mobile Payment (including but not limited to Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Huawei Pay) or UnionPay QR Code (including UnionPay App or other App supporting UnionPay QR Code Payment), except the RMB cards issued by specific Hong Kong and Macau card issuing institutions. The qualified transaction(s) must be settled via the UnionPay network in full. WeChat Pay, Alipay and AlipayHK are not eligible for this Promotion. During the Promotion Period, UnionPay users are entitled to redeem the UnionPay Users Extra Rewards up to 5 times. UnionPay users must settle their payment by UnionPay when using the Shopping e-Vouchers from the Extra Rewards. Each shopper is entitled to a maximum of ONE redemption of Rewards per day. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026
Time: 11am – 10pm
Location: Gift Redemption Counter on Level L2 (near Joyce)

This summer, Pacific Place becomes something more than a destination. It becomes a world. And juju can’t wait to welcome you in.

Hashtag: #jujuworldHK #ThePlaceForCollectibles #ThePlaceForjuju #PacificPlaceHK #CJHendry #juju

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

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

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

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

Sport and Recreation Minister Mark Mitchell today announced the appointment of Deborah Hart as Chair of the Sport Integrity Commission Board.

“Deborah brings a wealth of governance, legal and accountability expertise to the role and will provide strong, independent leadership as the Commission enters its next phase and strengthens confidence in New Zealand’s sport integrity system.

“The Sport Integrity Commission plays a vital role in promoting safe, fair, and inclusive sport and recreation environments for all New Zealanders. Deborah’s experience and leadership make her exceptionally well placed to guide the Commission through its next phase of development.”

Mitchell also announced the appointment of Traci Houpapa MNZM, who has served as interim Chair since March 2026, as Deputy Chair.

“Traci has made a significant contribution to the Board and provided steady leadership as interim Chair. I want to thank her for stepping into that role. Her appointment as Deputy Chair will help support a smooth transition to the Commission’s new leadership structure.”

In addition, Tim Castle has been reappointed to the Board for a further two-year term.

“These appointments ensure the Board has the skills, experience and leadership needed to support the Commission’s important mandate and maintain public confidence in New Zealand’s integrity system.” 

Biography

Deborah Hart is an experienced governance leader and public policy adviser with expertise in dispute resolution, regulatory systems, consumer advocacy, and human rights. She chairs Utilities Disputes Limited and the Holocaust Centre of New Zealand and serves on the Human Rights Review Tribunal.

She has led major independent reviews, including the Independent Review of Aotearoa New Zealand’s Electoral Laws, is legally qualified and has extensive experience designing complaints, investigation, and accountability frameworks. Her career includes advising government on dispute resolution and serving as Executive Director of the Arbitrators’ and Mediators’ Institute of New Zealand.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/deborah-hart-appointed-chair-of-sport-integrity-commission-board/

Over 97,500 New Zealand families have now received FamilyBoost payments to help with the cost of early childhood education, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

“Raising young children comes with significant costs, and this Government is committed to backing working parents with practical support that makes a real difference,” Nicola Willis says. 

“Last year we expanded FamilyBoost because we wanted more families to benefit and to receive larger payments.

“We increased the rebate from 25 per cent to 40 per cent of eligible early childhood education costs, increased the maximum payment from $75 to $120 a week, and expanded eligibility to families with an average household income of up to $229,000 a year.

“The latest figures show those changes are working. The average payment has increased by 70 per cent, and across the three quarters since the expansion an average of 12,331 families each quarter have received $75 or more each week towards their childcare costs.

“The June quarter is still being processed, but already 9,498 families have received $75 or more a week in FamilyBoost payments, with more claims continuing to come in.

“FamilyBoost is about making it easier for parents to balance work and family life while easing pressure on household budgets.

“We know that childcare costs can be a significant barrier for families, particularly when parents are returning to work after having children. That’s why we’ve strengthened FamilyBoost so more working families can access meaningful support.

“Since the scheme was expanded, registrations have continued to grow. Around 115,000 families have now registered for FamilyBoost, with over 97,500 families having already received at least one payment.

“I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to register through Inland Revenue. It only takes a few minutes and families have up to four years to make a claim.

“Backing working parents and giving children the best possible start in life is part of this Government’s plan to fix the basics and build a stronger future. When families have more support to balance work and family life, they’re better able to get ahead, and that’s good for parents, children, and the wider New Zealand economy,” Nicola Willis says.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/over-97500-families-benefiting-from-familyboost/

Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for Tertiary Education and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, is travelling to the People’s Republic of China to visit Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, this week. Minister Simmonds will be accompanied by a delegation of 11 senior leaders of New Zealand institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs).

The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between New Zealand and China in the Tertiary Education, and Science, Innovation and Technology areas, to promote New Zealand as a destination of choice for Chinese students, and to visit technology and research sites in Southern China to promote scientific collaboration between New Zealand and China.

While in China, the Minister will meet with the Minister of Education of China, Mr Huai Jinpeng, as well as education officials of Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. 

“Vocational education is an important area of collaboration within the New Zealand-China relationship, built on enduring partnerships that have grown over the years,” says Minister Simmonds.

“Significant opportunities exist to strengthen educational connections between New Zealand and China and to increase the attractiveness of the New Zealand international education offering to Chinese students and agents.

“We’re deepening our education links through student exchanges, institutional partnerships, that benefit both countries, and I look forward to discussing what the future holds with my ministerial counterpart.

“I am looking forward to connecting with existing partners and exploring new avenues for education and science and innovation research cooperation between our countries,” Minister Simmonds says.

The visit supports the Government’s Going for Growth agenda to grow the value of international education and unleash growth and innovation in New Zealand. China is New Zealand’s largest source of international students and is the second largest source of international students for ITPs.

A visit to the New Zealand-China Joint Laboratory for Biomedicine and Health in Guangzhou will highlight our strong bilateral collaboration in biomedical research, including promising developments in cancer therapeutics. The visit to the XPeng Technology Park will showcase how China is translating research and innovation into commercial outcomes in areas such as electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, autonomous driving and advanced manufacturing.

Minister Simmonds departed New Zealand on Sunday 26 July 2026 and will return on Friday 31 July 2026.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/tertiary-minister-to-strengthen-new-zealands-vocational-education-links-with-china/

27 July 2026

PSNA has today challenged the Prime Minister to explain why his government has not revealed how New Zealand voted at the International Criminal Court on Friday when ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan was ousted from his role after intense Israeli/US lobbying.

Khan is under attack from Israel and the US because he sought arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Israel’s attacks on Gaza.

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa spokesperson Rinad Tamimi says Israel and the US intensified their lobbying and diplomatic bullying after an ICC Judicial Panel established to examine the evidence on claims of sexual abuse against Khan declared they were ‘unanimously of the opinion that the factual findings by OIOS (the ICC evidence collecting body) do not establish misconduct or breach of duty under the relevant legal framework’.

Israel and the US rejected the ICC legal ruling and demanded a vote of all member states of the ICC to remove Khan. That vote was held on Friday and Khan removed from office.

“The key question for Mr Luxon is ‘Did we capitulate to Israel/US pressure, or did we stand up for the ICC’s legal processes?” Tamimi says.

“We are not able to make any judgement on the allegations against Mr Khan, but New Zealand should have voted against his expulsion and insisted a proper judicial process be followed”

“Did we?” asks Ms Tamimi.

“In October last year, Foreign Minister Winston Peters issued a formal statement, with Nordic ministers in Stockholm, to ‘reaffirm our unwavering support for the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court’.”

“Did Mr Peters we waver on Friday?”

“New Zealand has already failed numerous times to uphold international law in the face of Israeli/US pressure. We want an assurance the Coalition didn’t throw in the towel again”

MIL OSI

27 July, 2026:

“We are deeply alarmed by reports coming out of Nablus in the last days including that of Israeli forces storming Nablus Specialised Hospital, alongside clashes elsewhere in the governorate that have killed four Palestinians and two Israeli soldiers.

These violent incidents in Nablus are not isolated. They sit within a wider pattern of Israeli raids, state-sponsored settler violence, the disruption of essential services, and mounting pressure on civilians and healthcare.

When armed forces enter a hospital, the impact is immediate: fear, interruption of care, delayed treatment, and added risk for already vulnerable patients.

The protection of healthcare facilities must be respected. They must remain accessible to people in need. It is unacceptable for hospitals, ambulances, staff, and patients to be targeted by violence anywhere in Palestine.”

Filipe Ribeiro, Head of Mission, MSF Palestine

For more context on MSF’s work in the West Bank read: “The impossible reality of life in the West Bank”

MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. Every year more than 120 Australians and New Zealanders go on assignment with Médecins Sans Frontières working as: doctors, midwives, psychologists, laboratory technicians, human resource/finance coordinators, pharmacists, mental health specialists and logisticians. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au

MIL OSI

SYDNEY, July 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles, and Smart, Australia’s leading salary packaging and novated leasing provider, today announced a strategic partnership to make electric vehicle (EV) ownership more accessible and affordable to Australians.

As the strategic partner to BYD and its premium brand DENZA, Smart provides access to more than 2.5 million Australians employed by Smart’s clients across the government, healthcare, education, corporate and not-for-profit sectors. This creates a direct pathway for eligible employees to consider a BYD or DENZA new energy vehicle through a Smart novated lease at the point of purchase, while helping customers understand affordability, tax savings and total cost of ownership.

The partnership provides customers access to specific tax savings for EVs through the government’s electric car discount, and comes as EV adoption continues to accelerate in Australia.

In June 2026, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 23 per cent of the new vehicle market, according to official VFACTS data. BYD Australia’s growth has been rapid, with year-to-date sales at the end of June reaching 52,335 vehicles, more than double the figure recorded at the same point last year.

As Australia’s largest salary packaging and novated leasing provider, Smart supports more than 580,000 salary packaging customers and has more than 120,000 novated lease and fleet vehicles under management. The new collaboration with Smart will give BYD customers access at the point of sale to salary packaging support and potential tax advantages available through a novated lease, including those available under current government policy settings.

BYD Australia General Manager, Wing You, said:

“As BYD continues to grow in Australia, we are focused on making new energy vehicle ownership as simple and accessible as possible for our customers.”

“Partnering with Smart allows us to integrate novated leasing support into the dealership experience, helping customers understand affordability, savings and ownership options at the point of sale.”

Smart’s Group Executive, Novated Leasing and Electric Vehicle Services, Sid Jha, said:

“This partnership brings together two market leaders with a shared ambition to accelerate Australia’s transition to electric vehicles. BYD has transformed the Australian market by making EVs more accessible, and Smart can now help remove another major barrier by integrating novated leasing into the customer journey.”

“Smart reaches more than 2.5 million Australians through employers nationally. By integrating salary packaging into the BYD customer journey, we can remove friction at a critical point in the purchase process and give customers a clearer view of cost, savings and ownership options before they make a decision.”

“For eligible Australians, this is about making EV ownership more attainable, not simply offering another way to finance a car. We can help customers understand whether a BYD through a Smart novated lease works for them, compare the cost of owning and running an EV, and give them the confidence to make the switch to electric.”

Contact

Michael Fairbairn | michael.fairbairn@smartgroup.com.au | 0448 524 731

Paul Ellis | paul.ellis@byd.com | 0455 344 431

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/994dc6e1-43f8-4082-b8cf-2fecf9fdd180 

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/198dba46-6337-4df9-b6c7-a85d30e60858

– Published by The MIL Network

The Government is making it easier for growers of smaller-scale crops to use the agricultural chemicals they need to control pests and weeds, says Minister for Food Safety Andrew Hoggard.

Agricultural chemicals are subject to risk-based maximum residue levels (MRLs). Until now, growers of minor crops such as strawberries or leafy greens have often had to rely on low default MRLs where no specific New Zealand limit has been set.

“These growers now have a pathway to use internationally agreed, risk-based MRLs, helping them get better value from available herbicides and insecticides.
Codex, the international standards-setting agency, has already done the work. This is a practical solution that balances safety with flexibility and makes it easier for industry to do business. Industry strongly supports this change, which will give growers more options and support export opportunities,” Mr Hoggard says. 
 
Most agricultural chemicals are registered for major crops, such as kiwifruit or apples, and their labels set out how they can be used.
Minor-crop growers who want to use the same products often need to do so off-label. Because default residue limits are low, they may have to use products early in the season or at less effective rates.

“Under the new pathway, strawberry growers could apply for a Codex MRL for sulfoxaflor, giving them another option to control aphids. A Codex MRL of 0.5 mg/kg would allow use during harvest with a practical withholding period, compared with New Zealand’s default MRL of 0.1 mg/kg, which requires a longer withholding period and limits its usefulness during the picking season,” Mr Hoggard says. 

New Zealand Food Safety will assess each request. If it meets the criteria, public consultation will follow. If no concerns are raised, a New Zealand MRL based on the Codex MRL will be approved and adopted.

“This is about unlocking the potential of smaller-scale growers through sensible, practical rules that keep food safe and make it easier to get on with the job,” Mr Hoggard says.

More information about the new pathway and how to apply is on MPI’s website.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/more-flexibility-for-growers-of-smaller-scale-crops/

Cancer patients across the Wellington region will benefit from more precise and advanced treatment with a new radiation therapy Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machine now treating patients at Wellington Regional Hospital, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“This new machine means patients across the region can access more advanced, highly targeted cancer treatment closer to home,” Mr Brown says.

“This latest generation LINAC replaces a machine that had reached the end of its working life, and is the first of two replacement LINACs being delivered through a $12.6 million investment to modernise radiation oncology services across the Capital, Coast, and Hutt Valley district.”

Radiation therapy is used to treat a wide range of cancers, including breast, prostate, lung, head and neck, and gynaecological cancers, and to relieve symptoms, reduce pain and improve quality of life for patients receiving palliative treatment.

The new machine uses advanced camera-based surface guidance to accurately position patients and continuously monitor them throughout treatment. This technology provides an additional layer of precision by detecting even small changes in patient position, helping ensure treatment is delivered exactly as planned while minimising radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

“The new LINAC also supports ongoing clinical innovation and workforce development, providing opportunities for staff to train and work with the latest radiation therapy technology.

“Replacing a LINAC is a significant undertaking. Each machine weighs several tonnes and sits within a purpose-built bunker with 1.2 metre thick concrete walls. Before treating its first patient, the new LINAC underwent months of installation, commissioning and comprehensive safety testing to meet strict clinical and technical standards.

“The radiation oncology team at Wellington Regional Hospital maintained services throughout the installation period, ensuring continuity of care for patients during a significant equipment upgrade.”

Just over 1,500 new patients are treated across three machines at Wellington Regional Hospital every year, delivering more than 16,000 treatments annually. The second LINAC will be replaced later this year.

Mr Brown says the investment is part of a wider programme to upgrade and expand cancer treatment capacity across New Zealand.

“New LINACs are treating patients in Auckland and Dunedin, we have delivered the first ever radiation therapy services in Taranaki and Northland, and construction is underway on the new Hawke’s Bay Cancer Centre, which will include a LINAC for the region.

“We are focused on fixing the basics and building the future. For Wellington patients, that means access to modern, world-class radiation treatment close to home, now and into the future.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/new-cancer-machine-treating-patients-at-wellington-hospital/

Four new appointments and two reappointments have been made to the Medical Council of New Zealand, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. 

The four new members of the Council are Dr Derek Sherwood, Dr Manoja Kalupahana, Dr Roderick Mulgan, and Andie Cook, Mr Brown says.

Dr Kenneth Clark and Dr Hinamaha Lutui have been reappointed as health practitioner members.

“I acknowledge outgoing members Dr Rachelle Love, David Ivory, Simon Watt, and Dr Charles Hornabrook, and thank them for their contribution to the Council,” Mr Brown says.

“I also recognise Dr Clark’s ongoing contribution since he was elected as Chair in June. He continues to lead the Council, with Ming-chun Wu as Deputy Chair.

“The Medical Council plays a vital role in protecting the health and safety of New Zealanders by ensuring practitioners are fit and competent to practice, and I thank each of the appointees for their commitment to patients,” Mr Brown says.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/appointments-made-to-medical-council/

The opening of the new SH29/Takitimu Drive Toll Road flyover bridge is an important milestone for the Takitimu North Link Stage 1 Road of National Significance project, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Takitimu North Link Stage 1 is a significant investment in the western Bay of Plenty. The new 6.8km four-lane expressway will support economic growth and productivity by providing a more reliable, resilient and safer connection for road users and freight operators between Tauranga and Te Puna,” Mr Bishop says.

“The flyover bridge opening to traffic today is part of the major interchange being built at SH29/Takitimu Drive Toll Road, between Tauriko and Tauranga CBD. The 367-metre-long bridge spans a section of the Kōpūrererua Valley Reserve, one of Australasia’s largest urban wetlands.

“This is a complex project being delivered in a sensitive environment. In addition to 400,000m3 of earthworks carried out, the flyover bridge is a made of giant pre-cast concrete beams and supported by 14 piles, the deepest of which is 67 metres.

“People travelling towards Tauranga CBD will now use the new flyover bridge, while a slip lane will support movements towards Tauriko. A new roundabout under construction will provide entry onto Takitimu North Link, and work will continue around these new traffic flows as the wider project progresses.

“Overall construction of the Takitimu North Link Stage 1 project is well advanced. Now in its fifth year, earthworks and the project’s 10 major structures are nearing completion, and the first sections of asphalt have also been applied. This marks an important transition from earthworks and structures to pavements and drainage. 

“The Bay of Plenty is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions, and the state highway network plays a crucial role in moving people and freight to and from Tauranga, Auckland, Hamilton and the Port of Tauranga. 

“The Takitimu North Link Stage 1 Road of National Significance project is about making those journeys more efficient, reliable, and safe. I look forward to further milestones being achieved in coming years in the lead up to completion in 2028.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/takitimu-north-link-sh29-flyover-opens-to-traffic/

MIL OSI

Transaction expected to close in fourth quarter with combined company to begin trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker “FUEL”

Vertically Integrated business model combines state-of-the-art power generation with oil & gas production to power Bitcoin mining operations

Post-Transaction combined entity expected to have an equity valuation range between US$220M-$343M

SYDNEY, Oct. 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innovation Beverage Group Ltd (“IBG” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: IBG), an innovative developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement for a reverse triangular merger transaction with BlockFuel Energy Inc., a Texas corporation (“BlockFuel” or “BFE”) engaged in oil and gas exploration and state-of-the-art power generation to support Bitcoin mining operations and high-performance data centers across North America. IBG and BFE expect to close the transaction in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and will trade on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “FUEL”.

Under the terms of the definitive agreement, IBG will merge with BlockFuel through a reverse triangular merger, with a newly formed subsidiary of IBG formed for the transaction merging with and into BFE, with BFE as the surviving entity and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary. When the transaction closes, the owners of BFE are expected to own ordinary shares in IBG representing 90% of the total number of issued and outstanding ordinary shares of IBG on a post-transaction basis, subject to certain equitable adjustments for interim financings. As previously announced, Marshall & Stevens Transaction Advisory Services conducted an independent fairness analysis which concluded that the post-transaction combined company resulting from the merger of IBG and BFE is expected to have an equity valuation range between US$220 million to US$343 million. Shareholders of IBG will own 10% of the combined entity upon closing, equaling an implied post-transaction equity value for IBG in the range of US$22 million to US$34.3 million, compared to a pre-transaction valuation of US$2.9 million to US$6.3 million.

Upon closing of the agreed transaction, Daniel Lanskey, currently President and CEO of BlockFuel and a Director of IBG, will be appointed Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the new combined entity. Sahil Beri, currently Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of IBG, will resign from both positions and will be appointed as President of a newly formed beverage subsidiary.

Sahil Beri, Chief Executive Officer of IBG commented, “The agreement for our reverse merger transaction with BlockFuel Energy marks a pivotal milestone in the IBG story as we work to maximize shareholder value. BlockFuel is uniquely positioned at the forefront of energy innovation and digital asset mining, and we are pleased to provide a public vehicle for BFE to introduce itself to the capital markets. We are separately optimistic about what the future holds for the IBG business as a subsidiary of BlockFuel as we continue to build and grow our award-winning alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage portfolio.”

Daniel Lanskey, Executive Chairman of BlockFuel added, “With today’s announcement finalizing BlockFuel’s entry into the U.S. capital markets via our reverse merger with IBG, we are well placed to capitalize on significant opportunities across the digital asset, energy capture and oil & gas sectors. Integrating IBG’s public market presence with our advanced energy harnessing and Bitcoin mining technologies creates a powerful foundation for long-term value creation. This transaction strengthens our ability to scale, expand market reach, and build a sustainable growth trajectory at the intersection of cleaner energy and blockchain infrastructure.”

If you have a question or would like to schedule a meeting with IBG or BFE management, please contact BFE@KCSA.com.

About Innovation Beverage Group
Innovation Beverage Group is a developer, manufacturer, marketer, exporter, and retailer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands for which it owns exclusive manufacturing rights. Focused on premium and super premium brands and market categories where it can disrupt age old brands, IBG’s brands include Australian Bitters, BITTERTALES, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker, and more. IBG’s most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which is a well-established and favored bitters brand in Australia. Established in 2018, IBG’s headquarters, manufacturing and flavor innovation center are located in Sydney, Australia with a U.S. sales office located in California. For more information visit: https://www.innovationbev.com/

About BlockFuel Energy
BlockFuel Energy is involved in the acquisition, exploration and development of proven oil fields onshore in North America. By turning natural gas at the source, including stranded and flared gas, into a potent resource for the digital era, BlockFuel Energy intends to redefine the energy industry. BlockFuel Energy combines state-of-the-art power generation with oil and gas exploration to power bitcoin mining operations and high-performance data centers. Our vertically integrated concept allows us to use co-location and modular power generation techniques to optimize efficiency and investment returns. Our cutting-edge solutions for energy optimization and extraction will enable us to transform underdeveloped resources into high-margin, scalable, and sustainable revenue streams. For more information visit: https://blockfuelenergy.com/

Forward Looking Statement
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information.” These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the final terms of the potential merger transaction, the structure of such transaction, benefits of the contemplated transaction between IBG and BlockFuel Energy, expected closing conditions and the parties’ ability to complete the transaction, should definitive documentation be reached as well as other statements that are not historical facts. This information and these statements, which can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts, are made as of the date of this press release or as of the date of the effective date of information described in this press release, as applicable.

The forward-looking statements herein relate to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “envisages,” “assumes,” “intends,” “strategy,” “goals,” “objectives” or variations thereof or stating that certain action events or results “may,” “can,” “could,” “would,” “might,” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) and include, without limitation, statements with respect to projected financial targets that the Company is looking to achieve.

All forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company’s management team. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Such factors include, among others, (1) delays in finalizing definitive documentation for the contemplated transaction, (2) the risk that definitive documentation will reflect different terms than the non-binding terms described herein, (3) the risk of delays in consummating the contemplated transaction, including as a result of required regulatory and stockholder approvals, which may not be obtained on the expected timeline, or at all, (4) the risk of any event, change or other circumstance that could cause the parties to terminate the transaction prior to closing , (5) disruption to the parties’ businesses as a result of the announcement and pendency of the transaction, including potential distraction of management from current plans and operations of IBG or BlockFuel Energy and the ability of IBG and BlockFuel Energy to retain and hire key personnel, (6) reputational risk and the reaction of each company’s customers, suppliers, employees or other business partners to the transaction, (7) the possibility that the transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events, (8) the outcome of any legal or regulatory proceedings that may be instituted against IBG or BlockFuel Energy related to the transaction or merger agreement, should definitive documentation be executed, (9) the risks associated with third party contracts containing consent and/or other provisions that may be triggered by the contemplated transaction, (10) legislative, regulatory, political, market, economic and other conditions, developments and uncertainties affecting IBG’s or BlockFuel Energy’s businesses; (11) the evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes under which IBG or BlockFuel Energy operate; (12) any restrictions during the pendency of the contemplated transaction that may impact the parties’ ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; and (13) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, extreme weather, natural disasters, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities. We caution any person reviewing this press release not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as several important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions, and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur.

The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Company or on behalf of the Company except as may be required by law.

Contact:
Innovation Beverage Group Limited
Sahil Beri
CEO
sahil@innovationbev.com
www.innovationbev.com

BlockFuelEnergy Inc.
Daniel Lanskey
President and CEO
dan.lanskey@blockfuelenergy.com
www.blockfuelenergy.com

Investor Relations:
KCSA Strategic Communications
Phil Carlson, Managing Director
BFE@KCSA.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d6543343-3458-4a0b-84b2-aa163fe3f272

– Published by The MIL Network

Gisborne’s rugby community celebrated the completion of the John Heikell Grandstand at Rugby Park redevelopment today, marking the return of one of East Coast Tairāwhiti’s most iconic sporting venues and a significant achievement for the region.

Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson joined Gisborne locals today to celebrate the reopening of the revitalised facility.

“Since opening in 1955, Rugby Park is one of New Zealand’s historic provincial rugby grounds. It has hosted legendary touring sides including the Springboks and the British & Irish Lions, and the ground has been graced by rugby icons such as Ian Kirkpatrick, Richard “Tiny” White and Bob Scott.” Mr Patterson says.

“Home of the Poverty Bay Rugby Union, it’s great to see the park restored as a premier facility for rugby and other sporting codes, and a place where locals can come together to celebrate major events.” 

The original grandstand closed in 2019 after assessments found it was no longer safe to use, with significant seismic deficiencies and deteriorating building materials.

“With support from central government and local government partners, Rugby Park has been transformed into a modern, fit-for-purpose facility. 

“The redevelopment includes a new 900-seat covered grandstand, upgraded player and media facilities, a modern scoreboard, and extensive improvements to the park’s grounds and infrastructure,” Mr Patterson says.

“It not only restores a treasured sporting venue but also strengthens the region’s ability to host major cultural and community events, attract visitors, and support local economic activity.”

The project received $11.3 million in grant funding from the government for the rebuild. Co-funding for the project was provided by Trust Tairāwhiti and the Lottery Grants Board. The total project value is $12.5 million. 

“This investment helped support 26 local businesses during construction and kept money in the local economy, while building a facility that will serve Tairāwhiti for generations to come,” Mr Patterson says.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/25/grandstand-finish-at-iconic-rugby-park/

The Government is developing and testing a new AI tool to modernise the import health standard process while maintaining New Zealand’s world-class biosecurity protections, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says.

“Import health standards set the biosecurity rules goods must meet before entering New Zealand. They manage risks from plant, animal, and biological products.” 

“The way we develop these standards has not kept pace with modern trade and innovation. We are improving the system so it can move safely and faster, without compromising biosecurity.”

That work includes designing and testing a new tool that uses generative artificial intelligence.

“This is about using smart tools to take on document-heavy work, while key decisions remain with Biosecurity New Zealand experts.”

“The tool could free up staff time without cutting corners, with a four-month pilot underway to develop and trial the tool.”

“It will test whether the tool can help deliver high-quality, evidence-based standards more safely and consistently.”

The wider reform programme, including live plant import system reform, is expected to support farmers and growers over time by improving access to new plant genetics.

“This is part of the Government’s work to cut red tape and lift farmgate returns. Export revenue from the food and fibre sector is forecast to reach $64.3 billion in the year to 30 June 2026.”

“Once delivered, these reforms will mean smarter approvals for imported goods New Zealand businesses need, and fewer unnecessary restrictions on growth and productivity, without compromising biosecurity,” Mr Hoggard says.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/25/new-ai-tool-to-help-develop-biosecurity-standards/