Politics – Countering Foreign Interference bill a dramatic attack on free speech and rights

Incident involving injured baby, Dargaville

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January 6, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Attributable to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei CIB:

Police are currently investigating an incident involving an injured five-month-old baby.

On Saturday 28 December the baby was presented at Dargaville Hospital with serious head injuries.

The baby was flown to Whangārei Hospital and later transferred to Starship Hospital in Auckland where they are making a good recovery.

Police are continuing to make inquiries into the circumstances of how the baby came to be injured.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

Range of resurfacing road maintenance for SH1 Bulls starts next week

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January 6, 2025

Manawatū-Whanganui region maintenance programme

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

A reminder that crews will be working from next week to resurface a small stretch of State Highway 1 at the intersection of SH1/3 in Bulls.

The overnight work will begin on Tuesday 7 January and is expected to be complete on Wednesday 22 January.

Crews will be working on site from 6pm to 6am, resurfacing this stretch of road between Fagan St and the SH1/3 intersection.

For the first week of the programme (Tuesday 7 – Wednesday 15 January), the section of road between Daniell Street and the SH1/3 intersection will be closed. A detour will be in place, taking traffic through Criterion Street to avoid the closure.

Following the closure, stop/go traffic management will remain in place from Thursday 16 January to Wednesday 22 January to allow crews to complete the road maintenance work.

The detour and delays are expected to add less than 5 minutes to the journey time. Outside of working hours, the road will be open with a 30km/h temporary speed limit in place.

Following this (from Wednesday 22 to Wednesday 29 January), further road maintenance is planned in Bulls on SH1 Bridge Street. Stop/go will be in place at night between Gorton Street and the Bulls Bridge while road patching is completed.

In the event of bad weather, work will begin on the next fine day and may extend the programme out.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi thanks all road users for taking the detour and for their support while we work to boost resilience of this stretch of road.

State Highway 1 Tīrau to Waiouru accelerated maintenance

State Highway 1 Tūrangi to Waiouru – including the Desert Road – will be closed for vital road rebuilding and repairs for around 2 months from Monday 13 January 2025. Find out more and plan ahead

Long delays on SH2 Te Puna due to fire

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January 6, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

6 January 2025 3:30 pm | NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

Due to a large scrub fire near the Te Puna Stream Bridge, State Highway 2 (SH2) is reduced to ONE LANE which is causing significant delays.

Emergency services are on the scene and NZ Police is providing traffic control.

Traffic is building with delays of approximately 60 minutes southbound from Waihī, and 30 minutes northbound from Te Puna. Motorists should delay their trips or expect delays. Please take care when passing the scene.

Alternative route – State Highway 29 over Kaimai Range onto State Highway 27 onto State Highway 26 before rejoining SH2.

Ngāruawāhia homicide: Police following good lines of enquiry, appeal for information

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January 6, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attributable to Acting Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders:

Police conducting a homicide investigation into the death of Turipapa Tukere in Ngāruawāhia are following good lines of enquiry, but are still seeking information from the public.

At around 1.30pm on Friday 27 December, Police were alerted to a number of people fighting on Waipa Esplanade, near the intersection of Newton Street. Sometime later, a critically injured woman was taken to the ambulance station on Jordan Street. Despite the best efforts of first responders, Turipapa died before she could be airlifted to hospital.

Since then, Police have been speaking with a number of people who are helping to build a picture of what occurred leading up to Turipapa’s death.

Evidence has also been collected from various scenes across Ngāruawāhia, which will be analysed by ESR. Police hope this analysis will identify the person and/or people involved.

Alongside these enquiries, due to ongoing tension between gangs in and around the area, a Gang Conflict Warrant was issued under the Criminal Activity Intervention Bill. The warrant powers have assisted in de-escalating gang tensions in the area with a number of arrests made and weapons seized. Police have also obtained information during the execution of these warrants that may be relevant to the homicide, and this information is currently being reviewed by the investigation team.

The warrant is due to remain in place until tomorrow, at which time it will be reviewed.

Police continue to appeal to the community and anyone who may have information in relation to Turipapa’s death to please contact Police.

If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now at https://webforms.police.govt.nz/en/update-report or call 105.

Please use the reference number 241227/6958.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Confirmation of fatality, Gore

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January 6, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police can confirm that a three-year-old child died after being struck by a vehicle in a driveway at a residential address in Gore at around 6:30pm on 1 January.

The child died in Gore Hospital a short time later. Our thoughts are with the child’s family at this sad time.

Following considerable work, including with the ESR at the scene, Police investigators are treating the death as not suspicious at this time.

The investigations team will continue to make enquiries on behalf of the Coroner.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Maybank’s Insurance Arm, Etiqa Insurance, Pioneers the Return of Takaful Offerings in Singapore

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January 6, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

New Shariah-compliant investment-linked product addresses the needs of customers looking for values-based insurance solutions; further strengthening the Group’s Islamic Wealth Management offerings

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Maybank’s insurance arm, Etiqa Insurance Singapore (Etiqa), today jointly announced the launch of Invest future, Singapore’s first Takaful offering in over a decade, with Maybank Singapore (Maybank) as its exclusive distributor.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore launches Invest future solution

Invest future is designed to cater to the growing demand for Islamic financial solutions in Singapore. This investment-linked plan (ILP) is designed to support sustainable wealth accumulation goals through Shariah-compliant investing, tailored for the growing demographic seeking ethical investment options while offering flexibility and protection.

Mr Alvin Lee, Maybank Singapore Country CEO said, “Values-based financial solutions such as Etiqa’s Takaful ILP, is an integral component of Islamic Wealth Management (IWM) offerings based on Shariah principles. Maybank, as the regional offshore IWM hub for Maybank Group in Singapore, is the first Bank here to provide end-to-end values-based financial solutions. And as the exclusive distributor of Etiqa’s Takaful offering – a first in Singapore, we are very pleased to mark another milestone in scaling our capabilities with a comprehensive suite of solutions aligned to the five IWM pillars for customers through their different life stages. This is our ongoing commitment to meet evolving customers’ needs while upholding their values and ethical considerations.”

“We are excited to lead the way in launching Takaful ILP as our inaugural Takaful product in Singapore, recognising that ethical investing is increasingly gaining traction among Singaporeans,” said Raymond Ong, CEO of Etiqa Insurance Singapore. “”Our Takaful ILP promotes Shariah values of mutual cooperation and purposeful investing. By introducing values-based insurance that targets all sectors of the community, we aim to provide ethically crafted, holistic life journey solutions that all customers can trust. We believe that by aligning our products with strong ethical principles, we can create lasting value for our customers and contribute positively to society.”

By extending its insurance solutions with this new product offering, Etiqa Insurance Singapore hopes to offer financial solutions that adhere to the principles of cooperation, fairness, and shared responsibility.

Committing to customers as a priority with values-based insurance

Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s launch of the new values-based insurance is part of the company’s ethos to make insurance accessible, keeping customers’ interests and needs as the core foundation of its product and service offerings.

Unlike traditional insurance plans, which focus solely on financial protection, values-based insurance encompasses a broader perspective of protection that covers the ethical, social and personal concerns of customers. This emerging product offering resonates with the diverse needs and aspirations of policyholders while managing risks, enabling individuals to connect more deeply with their values.

The benefits of values-based insurance include:

Risk Sharing: Policyholders of a values-based insurance product share the financial risks collectively, leading to a sense of community and shared responsibility among policyholders.
Purposeful: Values-based insurance plans are aimed at sustaining protection for a group of individuals, rather than maximising profit.
Transparency: Values-based insurance products offer a more transparent approach in terms of what the policy is invested in, how the funds are paid out, and underwriting profits, if any through stringent reviews by the Shariah advisors to ensure fairness to customers.

Maybank Singapore is the exclusive distributor of Etiqa’s Invest future solution in Singapore.

Note to Editors

About the five IWM pillars:

Wealth Creation: Creates wealth through Shariah-compliant banking, savings and financial products in line with Islamic principles. It seeks to achieve sustainable and ethical growth over time.
Wealth Accumulation: Generates and accumulates wealth through Shariah-compliant investment products, and is focused on values-based investing principles.
Wealth Preservation: Protects the accumulated wealth as aligned with Islamic principles through risk management and Takaful (Islamic insurance).
Wealth Purification: Purifies wealth through the concept of zakat. Zakat is the giving of alms to the less fortunate, and it is obligatory upon every Muslim who meets the requirements to pay zakat.
Wealth Distribution: Distributes wealth for future generations, which involves the transfer of wealth or assets through will writing (wasiat), endowment (wakaf) and gift (hibah).

Takaful
Takaful is based on Shariah or Islamic religious law where protection is offered on the Islamic concept of mutual help. Although Takaful must operate according to Islamic cooperative principles, it is not limited to the Muslim community, as anyone who upholds personal ethical and social principles can purchase a Takaful plan for protection needs and objectives.

Invest future
Invest future is Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s first Takaful values-based ILP, designed for those seeking ethical investing aligned with Shariah principles. It is a values-based insurance product designed to combine wealth accumulation with life protection, offering flexible investment options, access to Shariah-compliant funds, and enhanced returns through multiple bonuses. Invest future is certified Shariah compliant by the Financial Shariah Advisory and Consultancy (FSAC) of Singapore Islamic Scholars & Religious Teachers Association (Pergas).

Key benefits of Invest future include:

Investment bonuses, including start-up bonus up to 80% of first-year premiums, special bonus at 5% of regular premiums from the 6th policy year, and loyalty bonus at 0.2% of account value annually post premium payment term.
Access to Shariah-compliant funds with investments from as low as S$200 per month with access to reputable, Shariah-compliant regional and global funds.
Flexible plan options allow for two free partial withdrawals from the 4th policy year, plus options for premium adjustments, top-ups, premium-free periods, and free fund switching.
Comprehensive coverage includes death and total permanent disability benefits up to 105% of net premiums or account value.
Legacy and giving options enable policyholders to pledge benefits as a legacy gift to loved ones or *wakaf to charitable organisations (*wakaf is a voluntary charitable endowment from one’s personal belongings or wealth in the form of cash or property for pious and religious causes).
Guaranteed issuance policy, no health checks needed.
Option to add on rider for additional coverage subject to underwriting.

To learn more about Invest future, please visit: www.etiqa.com.sg/personal/investments/invest-future

Hashtag: #EtiqaSingapore

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

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

J.Lashes Celebrates 11 Years of Growth, Innovation, and Commitment to Lash Health

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January 6, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – J.Lashes, an established name in eyelash care, will celebrate its 11th anniversary on 9 January 2025. Founded in 2013 as a home-based studio, the company has grown into a key player in the eyelash extension industry, with a focus on maintaining lash health while offering innovative eyelash extensions in Singapore.

J.Lashes Outlet in Triple One Somerset

A Journey of Growth and Innovation

J.Lashes was founded with the goal of providing high-quality eyelash care while ensuring the health of natural lashes. Starting out in a small studio, the company built a loyal client base due to its personalised approach and high standards of service. Over the years, J.Lashes expanded its expertise, travelling internationally to Taiwan, South Korea, the UK, and the US to learn advanced lash extension techniques.

By 2017, the brand had outgrown its home-based roots and opened its first retail location at The Cathay. This expansion continued with additional locations, including Tanjong Pagar and Wheelock Place. In 2023, J.Lashes consolidated its operations into its flagship store at 111 Somerset, a move aimed at providing customers with an enhanced and more comfortable experience.

Commitment to Lash Health and Care Services

From its early days, J.Lashes has focused on the health of natural lashes, ensuring that every extension applied preserves lash integrity. This emphasis on comfort, durability, and aesthetic quality has contributed to the company’s reputation for offering safe, long-lasting lash enhancements. Over the years, J.Lashes has also built strong relationships with its consumer base, reflecting a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Jenny Liu, Founder of J.Lashes, commented: “Reaching our 11th anniversary is a significant milestone for us. We are grateful for the continued support of our customers and the hard work of our team. This journey has been one of innovation, and we look forward to continuing to improve the lash care experience for all who visit us.”

Key Milestones and Achievements

Throughout its development, J.Lashes has achieved notable milestones, including the creation of the TUTU Lash technique and recognition at international lash competitions, such as the 2017 Spanish Lash Art Championship and the 2019 U.S. Miami Lash Competition. These accomplishments reflect the company’s position as a leader in eyelash extensions in Singapore.

In 2024, J.Lashes expanded its product offerings with lash-friendly products such as makeup remover pads and cleansing mousse. These additions support the brand’s commitment to providing a comprehensive approach to lash care, helping customers maintain the health of their lashes beyond eyelash salon visits.

Looking to the Future

As J.Lashes celebrates this milestone, the company remains focused on innovation. Plans include introducing new techniques and eyelash extensions in Singapore to meet the evolving needs of its diverse consumer base.

In celebration of its 11th anniversary, J.Lashes is offering a 20% discount for first-time customers to experience its exceptional services, including the new lightweight lash extensions—Fluffy Blossom Lashes. This limited-time offer invites individuals to explore the brand’s extensive range of premium eyelash extensions and experience first-hand the care and expertise that have made J.Lashes a beloved name in Singapore.

https://www.jlashes.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/Jlashessg
https://www.instagram.com/j.lashes/

Hashtag: #J.Lashes

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

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

Emergency services responding to Whakamārama fire, roads blocked

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January 6, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Emergency services are asking members of the public to delay travel between Tauranga and Katikati as they respond to a scrub fire reported in the Whakamārama area near Te Puna Stream.

Initial reports were received around 1:50pm.

State Highway 2 and some nearby roads are blocked.

Motorists are advised to take an alternate route and avoid the area.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Weather News – Cool southerlies, but summer isn’t gone yet – MetService

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January 6, 2025

Source: MetService

Covering period of Monday 6 – Thursday 9 January – The cool temperatures that have characterised January so far are set to continue, with MetService forecasting southerly winds prevailing for much of the week. Alongside cooler temperatures for the eastern and southern regions of both main islands, rain and showers will feature during the first half of the week. However, intervals of clearer and warmer weather will break up the generally unsettled conditions ahead.

Fierce southerly winds greeted the eastern and lower North Island on Monday morning, continuing a pattern seen over recent days. These southerlies have also affected sea conditions, generating large waves in Cook Strait.

MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane explains, “Waves are expected to peak around the middle of the day today (Monday) before easing gradually throughout the afternoon, dropping below 4 metres tonight. While these are expected to be the highest waves of the week, Wednesday is expected to bring rough sea conditions again as briefly strong southerlies accompany an approaching front.”

The eastern North Island is set to bear the brunt of wet weather early in the week, with a Heavy Rain Watch in place for the Wairoa District until 3 am Tuesday. Meanwhile, the lower South Island will see rain developing late Tuesday, which will then spread northwards up the country on Wednesday as a cold front sweeps across. Following the front’s passage, clearer conditions are expected for many areas in the latter half of the week. However, eastern regions are likely to remain mostly cloudy and cool, with occasional showers lingering.

Temperatures look to stay cooler than average for the time of year this week, particularly in the lower North Island and eastern parts of both islands, where daytime highs will struggle to climb past the mid to high teens.

“After a sizzling start to the season in early December, many might be wondering where summer has gone,” says Makgabutlane. “That said, there will be glimpses of summer weather in between the unsettled conditions. Sunshine features across most of the South Island today, and Tuesday looks like warmer weather for many, with temperatures climbing to 30°C in parts of Otago.”