ExportNZ – UAE deal an export and investment win
Source: BusinessNZ
Employment – Gender pay gap remains largely unchanged – NZCTU
Source: NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi
The NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi is saying there is still huge work to do to ensure pay equity for women following the release of new data by Stats NZ that shows the gender pay gap remains largely unchanged.
Mean female wages rose only 0.2%. While women’s median pay rose 3.3%, this was in large part due to collective bargaining and pay equity settlements, which this Government has gutted. The CTU uses the mean figure as it better reflects the full diversity of wages in the economy.
“While Stats NZ prefer a measure that makes it look like there has been significant progress on the pay gap, in reality the average working woman in New Zealand is hardly better off,” said NZCTU Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges.
“The difference between the median and the mean likely reflects a lack of progress towards the gender pay gap outside of collectively bargained workforces. It has shifted the value for the middle worker – not for those on the lowest or highest incomes.
“It is likely that the progress made through collective bargaining has shifted the needle on the median wage. Increases in incomes for teaching, nursing, and other female-dominated public sector workforces have helped to close the gap.
“Pay equity settlements in some public sector workforces also likely helped, proving the success of the pay equity system in delivering real change in living standards.
“This data will represent the high-water mark for pay equity progress. The gutting of pay equity, and the below inflation offers for collective agreements in the public sector, means that the progress is unlikely to be sustained.
“At a time when we need to build on progress, the Government is deliberating preventing pay equity for some of the lowest paid women in our society,” said Ansell-Bridges.
Imitation firearm located after foot pursuit
Source: New Zealand Police
A wanted man was no match for Ōtara community Police in a foot pursuit.
He will now face his warrant in court along with several other new charges, after he was found to allegedly be carrying an imitation firearm.
Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook says a unit sighted a man known to Police outside a tavern on East Tamaki Road on Wednesday morning.
“He had a warrant for his arrest for breaching his court-imposed bail, and on approach he was told he was under arrest.
“Instead of complying he made the decision to run on foot from our staff.”
There was nowhere to run.
“Police quickly caught up with the man and units quickly had him in custody without further incident.”
Inspector Cook says the 31-year-old man was searched, which yielded an imitation firearm as well as a quantity of cannabis.
The man, with links to the Killer Beez, will appear in the Manukau District Court, now facing additional charges of unlawfully carrying an imitation firearm, escaping Police custody and possession of cannabis.
“It’s a fine result for our Ōtara Community Team who continue to be actively engaged in their area,” Inspector Cook says.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Knock, knock: It’s court calling
Source: New Zealand Police
A man acting suspiciously around parcels at a Glen Innes property has delivered himself a court summons.
On Wednesday morning, Police received information about the man hanging around a residential unit.
Both the homeowner and neighbours reported the man had no reason to be there, Auckland City East Area Prevention Manager Inspector Rachel Dolheguy says.
“He was allegedly examining courier packages left outside the property, and neighbours had challenged the unknown man about what he was doing,” she says.
“Our staff soon got on scene and spoke with this man further, who offered unfounded reasons for being there.”
The 44-year-old man has been summonsed to the Auckland District Court for unlawfully being in an enclosed yard.
Police applaud residents’ vigilance in reporting the activity straight away.
“Courier packages are irresistible for opportunistic offenders.
“It’s great to see residents keeping an eye out for their neighbours, and taking action by reporting what has happening straight away,” Inspector Dolheguy says.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Workforce Questionnaire annual return
Source: Tertiary Education Commission
Last updated 25 August 2025
Last updated 25 August 2025
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This page explains what the Workforce Questionnaire (WFQ) is, who needs to complete one, and how the data is used. It has links to resources for preparing, uploading and submitting your WFQ.
This page explains what the Workforce Questionnaire (WFQ) is, who needs to complete one, and how the data is used. It has links to resources for preparing, uploading and submitting your WFQ.
What is the WFQ and how is the data used?
The WFQ is a statistical return used to collect data on staff employed by tertiary education organisations (TEOs) that receive government funding.
It is administered by the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) on behalf of the Ministry of Education.
The data collected is used to:
calculate student-to-staff ratios
monitor workforce trends, such as:
changes in the international education labour market
staff diversity
an ageing workforce.
Who needs to complete a WFQ?
All TEOs that receive government funding and submit a Single Data Return (SDR) must complete a WFQ.
When and how to submit your WFQ
You will find the WFQ Excel workbook under Data Submissions in DXP Ngā Kete.
Data requirements are provided in the “Questionnaire Instructions” tab of the WFQ workbook.
You need to submit your WFQ with your December SDR – the workbook for the new Return Year will be available in DXP Ngā Kete from November. See the SDR submission dates.
Helpful resources
These resources will help you prepare, upload and submit your WFQ.
Need help?
If you have any questions, please contact our Customer Contact Team on 0800 601 301 or email customerservice@tec.govt.nz with subject: [EDUMIS #] – WFQ.
For help with your Education Sector Login (ESL), contact the Education Service Desk on 0800 422 599 or email service.desk@education.govt.nz.
Or Tor Kor Elevates Thai Agricultural Products on the Global Stage with “IFEX Connect 2025” in Manila
Source: Media Outreach
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 May 2025 – The Marketing Organization for Farmers (Or Tor Kor), under the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, is set to spotlight Thailand’s high-value agricultural products at IFEX Connect 2025, taking place from May 22–24, 2025 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Philippines. This international showcase is held under the banner of the “Thailand Intertrade: High-Value Tropical Agricultural Products to the Global Market” initiative.
The Thailand Intertrade project aims to expand international market opportunities for premium Thai agricultural goods through the strategic use of soft power and the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy model. These efforts align with national policies focused on sustainable economic development and adding value to local agricultural products.
Mr. Panitan Meechaiyo, Director of the Marketing Organization for Farmers, remarked:
“Or Tor Kor is committed to propelling Thai tropical agricultural products—renowned for their uniqueness and quality—into global markets. IFEX Connect 2025 will serve as a strategic roadshow platform to enhance global recognition of Thai agricultural excellence, while ensuring long-term, stable income for Thai farmers.”
The event will feature a comprehensive exhibition of premium Thai agricultural products, including both fresh produce and processed goods. Highlighted items include jasmine rice, sticky rice, brown rice, white rice, crispy coconut, freeze-dried durian and mangosteen, soft-dried pineapple, guava, jackfruit, mango, and roselle. All products are sourced from qualified farmer groups and producers that meet international standards in quality, safety, and environmental responsibility.
In addition to the product showcase, IFEX Connect 2025 will host business matching sessions, Thai cultural performances, and live cooking demonstrations, delivering a full cultural experience. These elements aim to reinforce the image of Thai agricultural products as “Contemporary Cultural Products” that resonate with modern global consumers.
The Philippines was chosen as the launch market for this initiative due to its strong and growing demand for Thai agricultural products and its strategic location as a gateway to the ASEAN region.
Event Details:
- Event: IFEX Connect 2025
- Dates: May 22–24, 2025
- Location: Booths L16–17, Hall D, World Trade Center Metro Manila, Philippines
A large turnout of international importers, buyers, and consumers is expected, creating new commercial opportunities for Thai producers and supporting sustainable growth in Thailand’s agricultural economy.
Hashtag: #OrTorKor
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
Momcozy Ergonest Maternity Belly Band Nominated for Prestigious Kind+Jugend Innovation Award 2025
Source: Media Outreach
LONDON, UK – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 August 2025 – Momcozy, a leading maternity and baby brand trusted by over 3.6 million mothers worldwide, is proud to announce that its Ergonest Maternity Belly Band has been nominated for the Kind + Jugend Innovation Award 2025. The product is the only Momcozy entry to reach the award’s final session, underscoring its breakthrough design and impact in the global maternity care sector.
Recognition on the Industry’s Biggest Stage
Kind + Jugend, held annually in Cologne, Germany, is regarded as the most influential international trade fair for the baby and maternity industry. Its Innovation Award is among the most respected global honors, highlighting products that set new standards in design, functionality, and care.
The nomination of Momcozy’s Ergonest Belly Band reflects both the jury’s approval and the endorsement of midwives, who recognize its value in advancing maternal comfort and health. Winners will be announced on September 9, 2025, during the Kind + Jugend opening ceremony. The Ergonest Belly Band is also in the running for the “Midwives’ Choice” Award, which honors products proven beneficial in real-world use.
Momcozy will be showcasing at Kind + Jugend 2025.
Date: September 9–11, 2025
Booth: Hall 11.2, Stand A008
Location: Koelnmesse, Cologne, Germany
Pioneering Design: Ergonest Support Structure™ + O-Shaped Molding
The Ergonest Maternity Belly Band is the first in the industry to integrate the patented Ergonest Support Structure™ with an O-shaped 3D molding system, offering unmatched stability and relief for expectant mothers.
- Ergonest Support Structure™ relieves lower back pain.
- O-shaped molding reduces belly pressure and enhances daily support.
- Soft, breathable fabrics ensure a gentle fit for long hours of wear.
This innovative belly band helps reduce strain, improve posture, and provide much-needed comfort throughout pregnancy—allowing mothers to move more freely and confidently.
More Than a Product: A Commitment to Women’s Health
For Momcozy, this recognition goes beyond product innovation. It reflects the company’s dedication to empowering women and creating solutions that support maternal well-being.
“Being nominated for the Kind + Jugend Innovation Award is not only an honor for the Ergonest Maternity Belly Band, but also a validation of our mission to make motherhood more comfortable, supported, and celebrated,” said Fiona, GTM Director at Momcozy.
Hashtag: #Momcozy
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
NZ–UAE Trade Agreement enters into force today, unlocking billions in new opportunities
Source: New Zealand Government
The New Zealand–United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has officially entered into force today, opening the door to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay announced.
“The NZ–UAE CEPA is New Zealand’s fastest-ever trade agreement. Negotiated in just over four months, it delivers up to an estimated $42 million in tariff savings per year for Kiwi exporters and the wider economy,” Mr McClay says.
“From today, 98.5 per cent of New Zealand’s exports to the UAE will enter duty-free, rising to 99 per cent by the start of 2027. This is one of the best goods market access packages we have ever secured.”
Key goods such as dairy ($766m), red meat ($52.5m), apples ($34.9m), kiwifruit ($7.8m), seafood ($15.5m), forestry products ($9.4m), and honey ($5.2m) will all enter duty free from today.
The UAE is one of New Zealand’s largest markets in the Middle East and a gateway into a US$500 billion economy that is growing and diversifying rapidly. With two-way trade already worth $1.44 billion a year the CEPA creates a platform to go much further.
The UAE imports 90 per cent of its food, meaning strong new opportunities for New Zealand’s world-class producers.
“Beyond goods this agreement creates a platform for two-way investment, digital trade, and services opportunities that will generate jobs, lift incomes, and boost the economy for all New Zealanders,” Mr McClay says.
“The CEPA strengthens our relationship with a key Gulf partner and takes us a step closer to the Government’s goal of doubling the value of New Zealand’s exports in 10 years.”
Finding Stillness in a Chaotic World: “Peace in Solitude” a solo exhibition by Bongkojthip Bhirombhakdi
Source: Media Outreach
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 August 2025 – Artist Bongkojthip Bhirombhakdi (Bua) invites audiences to step into a sanctuary of calm with her latest solo exhibition, Peace in Solitude, on view at Mini Xspace Gallery from August 2 – September 27, 2025.
Following her previous series Journey to Tranquility, which explored a personal quest for inner peace through imagined natural landscapes from seas, skies and mountains to trees and various ecosystems, Bongkojthip now turns inward, focusing on the profound experience of arriving at a place of stillness – a state where the mind becomes quiet, calm and receptive. Through her new works, she captures the quiet clarity that emerges when solitude is embraced, and peace arises naturally from within.
In this series, Bongkojthip continues her use of the wet-on-wet technique but shifts her approach by working directly with her own hands rather than brushes. This tactile method allows pigments and water to flow more organically, mirroring the spontaneity and unpredictability of nature while embodying an act of mindfulness. The result is a body of work that feels both intimate and expansive, inviting viewers into the artist’s meditative process.
“For me, solitude is not emptiness. It is fullness. It is where the noise quiets down. You, then, begin to embrace the present moment and that’s when peace is no longer something to seek. It begins to gently surface. My hope is that viewers can feel this stillness through the work and carry a little of it with them,” says Bongkojthip Bhirombhakdi.
Peace in Solitude – A Solo Exhibition by Bongkojthip Bhirombhakdi (Bua)
Place: Mini Xspace Gallery, Fl. 1, Bangkok, Thailand
Date: August 2 – September 27, 2025
Time: Mon–Sat, 10.00–17.00
More information: www.buabstudio.com
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.