Police have helped staff at Oranga School in One Tree Hill celebrate the return of a large amount of specially prepared paint, that had gone missing from its grounds.
The paint was to be used for important maintenance work on school buildings and had been specially mixed in a sheen known as “all blacks”.
Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rachel Dolheguy, says the theft of the paint occurred sometime overnight on Sunday.
“Four, ten litre buckets of the special paint had been left at the school for the weekend but was discovered to be missing, and this was reported to Police yesterday.
“A scan of social media identified an amount of All Blacks paint for sale, providing the Glen Innes Tactical Crime Team with quick actions in paying a visit to the seller at their home on the North Shore this morning.
“A search of the property was executed, and the missing paint was located inside.”
A 34-year-old woman was charged with receiving stolen goods and will appear in the Auckland District Court at a later date.
Inspector Rachel Dolheguy says Police enquiries into the matter are still ongoing.
“This was great work from our staff to locate and recover the paint so quickly, and we’re very happy that it is now back with the school.”
Road users and residents need to be ready for night closures on SH58 Whitby/Paremata, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).
“Work is starting this Sunday night, 12 January, for five nights through to Thursday,” says NZTA Wellington Transport Alliance Manager, Roxanne Hilliard.
Road crews will resurface areas of State Highway 58 between Joseph Banks Drive and Postgate Drive for five nights. “They will set up from 7 pm each night so drivers should expect delays from then,” says Ms Hilliard.
Postgate Drive to James Cook Drive – two nights
Resurfacing will be carried out on Sunday 12 January and Monday 13 January. SH58 Paremata Road will be fully closed between Postgate Drive and James Cook Drive, 9 pm to 4.30 am each night until the following morning.
James Cook Drive to Joseph Banks Drive – three nights work
Resurfacing will be carried out on Tuesday 14 January, Wednesday 15 January and Thursday 16 January. SH58 Paremata Road will be fully closed between James Cook Drive and Joseph Banks Drive, 9 pm to 4.30 am each night until the following morning.
“SH58 between Pāuatahanui and Paremata is a critical transport link.” says Ms Hilliard. “Regular maintenance is essential to ensure it remains resilient and accessible to road users and residents. We appreciate everyone taking care around crews and on the detour route while this work is happening.”
Road users and residents are urged to plan ahead for these works.
Works schedule and detour maps
SH58 Postgate Drive to James Cook Drive
Sunday, 12 January and Monday, 13 January. Road closed 9pm – 4.30am the following morning.
3 in 5 Grab partners are keen to pursue a Diploma or Degree
Grab partners and their loved ones benefit from exclusive admission requirements, and enjoy additional perks including free trial classes to select courses, as well as learning tools such as tablets when they sign up via GrabAcademy
Select Diploma programmes are also available in Chinese, making it easier for more partners to upskill themselves without language concerns
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2025 – Leading superapp Grab announced today that it has partnered with the London School of Business and Finance (LSBF) to offer eight Diploma and Degree programmes, along with English language preparatory courses, to its driver- and delivery-partners, as well as their family members and friends. Offered through GrabAcademy, this initiative seeks to make tertiary education more accessible, empowering Grab’s partner community in Singapore with greater opportunities for personal and professional growth.
GrabAcademyxLondon School of Business and Finance Singapore Campus
In a survey conducted with close to 1,100 Grab driver- and delivery-partners in Singapore[1], 3 out of 5 (or 60%) of them expressed interest in pursuing a Diploma or Degree programme. The top three motivators were to improve their skills and knowledge (27%); increase their potential earning (24%); and enhance their employability (24%). Among those who were hesitant to pursue tertiary education, respondents cited that personal or family commitments (30%) and a lack of time and course schedule flexibility (27%) were the main barriers preventing them from doing so.
To address these challenges, the programmes offered under this partnership are designed with flexibility at their core. Lessons can be attended in person, online, or through a blended approach, allowing partners to choose what works best for them. To further increase access to these programmes, Grab partners and loved ones can choose to apply via a non-standard entry requirement[2] that considers their work experiences, reducing barriers for those who wish to upskill.
Yee Wee Tang, Managing Director of Grab Singapore, said: “We have always believed that our platform can be a catalyst for lifelong learning among Singapore’s platform workers. That is why we started GrabAcademy in 2020 – to offer tailored learning programmes that meet their unique needs and aspirations. We understand that balancing work, life and learning can be tough. Through partnerships with thoughtful academic institutions like the London School of Business and Finance, we are making tertiary education more accessible, flexible and attainable for platform workers.”
Driving Impact with Industry-Relevant Education
Through this partnership, Grab partners and their loved ones are offered five Diploma programmes, three Degree programmes as well as English language preparatory courses by LSBF via GrabAcademy.
The Diploma and Degree programmes under this partnership are specially curated to meet industry demand for specialised skillsets such as cybersecurity and computer science. It also caters to the learning aspirations of Grab’s partners, who expressed strong interest in the survey to pursue tertiary education in business administration/studies as well as logistics and supply chain management. Given their interests, Diploma programmes for Business Administration as well as Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management will also be offered in Chinese, making it easier for more partners to upskill themselves without language concerns. (See Appendix for full programme list)
“We’re thrilled to work alongside Grab to offer education that is not only practical but also aligned with the current needs of the workforce,” said Rathakrishnan Govind, LSBF Global CEO. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to bridging the skills gap in Asia and providing individuals with the knowledge and tools to thrive in their careers. The programmes will offer hands-on, skills-based training, giving learners the edge they need in an increasingly competitive job market.”
Additional support to help partners through their learning journeys
To encourage more Grab driver- and delivery-partners to upskill and reskill, Grab will offer special support including:
Application fee waiver for LSBF Diploma and English Language programmes.
Special welcome pack, including a complimentary tablet[3] upon enrolment, to complement their learning experience.
Free trial classes are available for select modules in the Degree and Diploma programmes, as well as the preparatory course[4]
“With the economy constantly changing, it’s important for me to keep up by upskilling and staying relevant. The new Diploma and Degree programmes from GrabAcademy and LSBF make it easier for driver-partners like myself to further my studies, and the flexibility to study online or in-person means I can continue working and earning without any interruption to my income,” said Lim Puay Thiam, 41 Grab Delivery -Partner.
Interested partners can visit GrabAcademy for more information.
[1]GrabAcademy Further Education Survey among 1,094 driver-and delivery-partners in Singapore in July 2024 [2] Non-standard entry requirements will be assessed on a case-by-case basis subject to approval of the London School of Business and Finance’s Academic Board. [3] Applicable only for enrolment to Degree or Diploma programmes. Applicants can choose between receiving a tablet or a GrabGifts voucher (worth SGD 250) upon successful enrolment. Tablets or GrabGifts vouchers will be physically distributed to the student on the first day of orientation. [4] The free trial class is limited to one session per programme: one for the Degree, one for the English Diploma, one for the Mandarin Diploma, and one for the Preparatory Course in English.
Appendix 1 – List of LSBF Programmes Available for Grab driver- and delivery partners
English Diploma Programmes
Chinese Diploma Programmes
Degree Programmes
English Programmes
Diploma in Business Studies
Diploma in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Cyber Security Networks
Preparatory Courses in English, Beginners to Advanced Levels
Diploma in Information Technology
Diploma in Business Administration
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science
Weekly English
Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Business Studies
Hashtag: #LSBF
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DOC Operations Manager Whakatipu, David Butt, says the temporary site will be convenient and closer to most of the district’s extensive visitor network.
“These two weeks are some of the busiest we get for visitors,” says David.
“Glenorchy is a gateway to the area’s most popular day and multi-day hikes including the Routeburn Track, Greenstone/Caples Track and Dart/Rees Valley, making it a busy place for visitors wanting to get out and experience nature.
“We always want to figure out the best way to serve Whakatipu visitors, so we’re also keen to see how well the temporary site is received.
“The visitor centre in Queenstown (50 Stanley St) will be closed during this period, as staff will be based in Glenorchy. There will be notices on the doors to advise people of the temporary Glenorchy location and contact phone numbers for enquiries.”
The pop-up visitor centre will be run from the former Glenorchy Café on Mull Street and provide DOC information and services.
People checking in for the Routeburn Great Walk from 13-26 January will need to do so when they arrive in Glenorchy.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2025 – Divineway Fengshui announces the release of Master Louis Cheung’s new book, An Introduction to Liu Ren Divine Magic. The book aims to provide an in-depth exploration of Liu Ren Divine Magic, an ancient Taoist tradition, offering insights into its principles and relevance today.
Offline Book Launch Event Date: 12 January 2025 (Sunday) Time: 3pm to 6pm Venue: Divineway Fengshui Gallery, 374 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427619
Online Book Launch Webinar Date: 19 January 2025 (Sunday) Time: 2pm to 3:30pm Platform: Facebook (Details to be announced)
About the Book An Introduction to Divine Magic explores Liu Ren Divine Magic, a Taoist tradition. The book provides a detailed overview of its principles and practices, presenting them in a manner accessible to a wide audience. Key features include:
A comprehensive explanation of Divine Magic and its role in achieving balance and harmony.
Practical guidance for integrating these principles into daily life.
Clarifications on common misconceptions related to Taoist rituals.
With its engaging and informative content, the book is a informative resource for readers seeking to enhance their understanding of Taoist practices. By delving into the roots of Liu Ren Divine Magic, it bridges the ancient and modern worlds, offering practical applications for today’s challenges.
The book is available at Divineway Fengshui Gallery and will be distributed through major bookshops and online platforms, priced at S$27.00 (excluding GST). It can also be purchased at Kinokuniya, Popular, and Amazon.
A motorist faces the prospect of serious charges after driving through cordons at the scene of a South Waikato crash that closed State Highway 1 this morning.
About 5.30am, two vehicles collided at Piarere, between Horahora and Paparamu roads. Five people were injured – three seriously and two critically – and the highway was closed for a scene examination by the Serious Crash Unit.
Police were still working at the scene at 9.30am, when a car transporter and trailer drove around workers at two cordons and then through the crash scene. An officer was forced to jump out of the way as the truck and trailer carried on through the investigation area, knocking over cones as it did so.
Senior Sergeant Murray Hamilton says the driver was pulled over by Police and spoken to. Charges are being considered against the 53-year-old Auckland man.
“It doesn’t matter if you don’t want to take a detour or are running late, there’s no excuse that justifies ignoring road closures or putting people at risk.
“Closing a State Highway isn’t done lightly or without good reason and in this case, it was to determine what caused a serious crash that sent five people to hospital.
“Thankfully, the majority of people understand that.”
Enquiries into the cause of the crash are continuing and the road reopened about 11.30am.
PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2025 – Prince Foundation welcomed 10 Nanyang Technological University (NTU) students from Singapore for a three-week program focused on expanding education access and entrepreneurship mentoring in Cambodia.
NTU students return to Cambodia to develop innovative solutions for advancing education and entrepreneurship in underserved communities.
The students, participating in the NTU PEAK ASEAN Program, conducted field research and developed solutions for two main challenges: improving education access in underserved areas and creating mentorship programs for young entrepreneurs.
The NTU PEAK ASEAN program is designed to develop leadership and problem-solving skills among its students through experiential learning in host countries in Southeast Asia and beyond. Participants create solutions for socio-economic issues while collaborating with local organizations.
“Education is the cornerstone of sustainable development and transformative change,” said Gabriel Tan, Chief Communications Officer of Prince Holding Group and Head of Prince Foundation. “By collaborating with NTU students, we are bridging nations and generations to tackle pressing challenges.”
The foundation, which serves as the philanthropic arm of Prince Holding Group, one of Cambodia’s leading business groups, provided mentors to help students develop recommendations based on local needs while incorporating regional best practices.
Desmond Woo, Deputy Director of NTU Singapore’s Career and Attachment Office, said the Foundation gave students valuable experience addressing real-world problems.
“The Foundation’s guidance and resources have been instrumental in equipping students to deliver innovative, practical solutions that align with Cambodia’s aspirations for growth and development,” Woo said.
The program aligns with the Cambodian government’s development goals and reflects Prince Foundation’s focus on education, healthcare and community service initiatives.
This marks the second time Prince Foundation has hosted the NTU PEAK ASEAN Program in Cambodia, with the first time in 2022.
Hashtag: #PrinceFoundation #NTU #Education
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Adecisionof the Auckland District Licensing Committee sends a strong message to alcohol retailers who engage in Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) services in retail alcohol outlets.
AfterPay is such a BNPL service, and it offers consumers the ability to be almost instantly approved with credit. This service being used for alcohol retail purchases has been an issue that has beenraised before, most recently sparking concerns from a credit risk advisory firm.
An application for a renewal of a bottle store, Bottle-O Queens Road in Panmure, was opposed by the Council Licensing Inspector and the Medical Officer of Health, triggering a hearing in late November 2024.
In a reserved decision released yesterday, the Licensing Committee noted that the applicant had previously faced a ‘ flood’ of negative comment for having BNPL services, after which they withdrew the service.
On renewal of their alcohol licence the applicant rejected having a condition prohibiting BNPL suggested by the Council Licensing Inspector. The application was then opposed by the Inspector and Medical Officer of Health.
During the November hearing, it surfaced that the applicant was concerned about the ‘unfairness’ of the condition being applied to its licence and not being imposed on other premises offering BNPL.
The Licensing Committee looked to the provision of BNPL services that would be offered, and were of the opinion that the provision of that type of service would contribute to alcohol harm in the community, based on the evidence provided by the Inspector, the evidence given on behalf of the Salvation Army and Alcohol Healthwatch, and followed the lead of the Hamilton District Licensing Committee in dealing with similar matters.
The Licensing Committee gave a clear message to the alcohol licensing inspectorate, ” The Committee has an expectation of the Inspectorate that they will bring any Applicant before the Committee on renewal of licences if that is the case. As we have said, the Committee considers that there is the potential for alcohol-related harm from any premises offering such services…”.
Alcohol Healthwatch welcomes the decision of the Auckland District Licensing Committee, and further puts bottle stores on notice regarding BNPL services.
“We presented evidence in the hearing that shows the use of BNPL services to purchase alcohol at an apparent and often advertised low cost and no interest, increases its perceived affordability. This can lead to increased consumption and related harm,” says Executive Director, Andrew Galloway.
Alcohol Healthwatch and the Salvation Army had both previously made public submissions on the Government’s review of Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Regulations calling for alcohol to be excluded from any BNPL services, citing extensive evidence of BNPL services adding another layer of harm related to alcohol.
The Salvation Army gave evidence in the November hearing, including that they had almost 200 clients that have significant BNPL debts amounting to almost $1000 per client. Evidence also included the fact that BNPL users often came from disadvantaged backgrounds. These clients were said to often struggle with multiple debts, poor financial literacy and face physical and mental health issues. Many were said to have been associated with significant family violence issues, struggling to break the cycle of addiction and poor financial habits.
“We are pleased to welcome the decision of the Auckland District Licensing Committee, and in particular the stern warning to any alcohol retailer that participating in BNPL for alcohol will likely see applicants face challenges from reporting agencies” says Andrew.
“There is no place for buy now pay later schemes for Aotearoa New Zealand’s most harmful drug”.
GUANGZHOU, CHINA – EQS Newswire – 8 January 2025 – On December 27, 2024, Dossen Hotel Group officially rebranded its member loyalty program, “Dossen Club,” as “Miao Club,” with its popular mascot Qingmao taking center stage. This rebranding places Qingmao, the group’s super IP, directly in front of consumers, offering a fresh, engaging experience for users. In the newly unveiled promotional video, Qingmao charms viewers with its playful antics and signature “meow,” bringing joy and exclusive benefits to members while forging a closer connection with consumers.
Between December 27, 2024, and January 4, 2025, Qingmao embarked on an ambitious road trip to promote Miao Club. Starting from Guangzhou, the journey covered 2,789 kilometers and included stops in Wuhan, Changsha, and Nanning. Along the way, Qingmao delighted fans at iconic locations like the Canton Tower, engaged with visitors along the Wuhan Riverbank, and played hide-and-seek at Zhengjia Ocean Park. This interactive journey allowed Qingmao to connect with the public in a vivid and personal way.
Qingmao’s Adventure marks the beginning of Dossen Hotel Group’s efforts to establish its IP as a bridge to young consumers. It embodies the group’s strategic focus on youthfulness and vibrancy, aligning perfectly with its goal of engaging younger audiences. Cheng Xinhua, founder, chairman, and CEO of Dossen Group, emphasized the importance of the approach of “youthification”, stating:”Our users are becoming younger. As a lodging service provider catering to the mass market, we must also embrace youthfulness. It’s essential to understand what young people like and need, and provide tailored lodging solutions for the new generation.”
Qingmao represents more than just a mascot; it embodies the brand’s core values. According to Wu Mei, Senior Assistant to the Chairman and General Manager of Dossen’s Brand Management Center, Qingmao combines practical value with emotional appeal: “Qingmao is not only cute but also charismatic. It serves as a cost-effective option for young users while acting as their ‘journey guardian cat.’ Qingmao brings joy to its audience and reflects Dossen’s commitment to delivering affordable yet high-quality lodging experiences.”
A Youth-Driven Strategy In 2024, Dossen Group surpassed 100 million members, achieving remarkable growth. Between 2020 and 2023, its membership base grew by 117%, with a compound annual growth rate of 22%. A significant portion of this growth came from younger users, solidifying youthification as a core strategic direction.
To appeal to this demographic, Dossen leverages a combination of unique brand identity and emotional value. While maintaining its core promise of “good hotels at affordable prices,” Miao Club enhances emotional connections with its audience through Qingmao’s relatable and endearing personality.
Cheng Xinhua underscored the transformative potential of this approach: “The youthification strategy is a vital driver for transforming and upgrading the traditional hotel industry.”
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Miao Club The journey with Qingmao is just beginning. As a “travel companion and workplace partner,” Qingmao is set to explore new opportunities to strengthen its role in youth-oriented hospitality. Miao Club aims to continue evolving, delivering innovative experiences, and leading the hotel industry into a new, vibrant era.
With Qingmao at its heart, Dossen Hotel Group is not just embracing change—it’s redefining how hospitality connects with the next generation.
Hashtag: #Dossen #MiaoClub #Qingmao
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
A Clinically-Proven Solution for Better Sleep Amid Rising Insomnia Rates in Hong Kong
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 January 2025 – Chemill Pharma Ltd., an innovative health technologies company, is proud to announce the launch of SnoozZ, a unique fast-acting sleep formula designed to address growing problem of poor sleep. With a commitment to providing effective healthcare solutions, Chemill Pharma aims to help individuals overcome the growing issue of sleep disturbances in Hong Kong and across Asia.
Recent survey indicates that approximately **74% of Hong Kong residents report poor sleep quality, with **39.4% experiencing insomnia. Factors contributing to this alarming trend include high levels of stress, long working hours, and lifestyle choices such as excessive screen time and irregular sleep patterns. Women are particularly affected, often reporting poorer sleep quality than men. The impact of these sleep issues extends beyond individual well-being, contributing to broader public health concerns such as anxiety and depression.
SnoozZ is formulated with clinically proven ingredients (Melatonin 5 mg & Chamomile 35 mg) that promote relaxation and support restful sleep. The patented OD-EffTabs technology behind SnoozZ ensures quick onset, allowing users to drift into a peaceful slumber within 30 minutes of consumption. This innovative product is not only safe and effective but also non-addictive and sugar-free, making it suitable for a wide range of consumers.
“As we continue to face lifestyle-related health challenges, our commitment at Chemill Pharma is to develop innovative solutions that positively impact quality of life. The quality of our sleep directly impacts the quality of our life and performance in all areas” said Ray Tejsinghani, CEO of Chemill Pharma Ltd. “With the launch of SnoozZ, we are excited to offer a product that addresses the critical need for better sleep in our communities.”
SnoozZ is designed for anyone struggling with sleeplessness, whether due to work stress, travel disruptions, or busy lifestyles. Its travel-friendly packaging makes it easy to carry and use anytime, anywhere.
SnoozZ is now exclusively available in Hong Kong through our partnership with Mannings, the leading retailer for health and beauty products. You can find SnoozZ at Mannings’ physical stores and online, as well as on Chemill Pharma’s own online platform. For business inquiries regarding other markets, please contact us directly at contact@chemill.com.
Chemill Pharma Ltd. remains dedicated to advancing healthcare through innovative products that empower individuals to lead healthier lives. With the introduction of SnoozZ, the company reinforces its mission to provide affordable and effective health solutions tailored to the needs of modern society.
**For more information about SnoozZ and other innovative health technologies from Chemill Pharma Ltd., please visit www.snoozz.net
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