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Saint Clare School Unveils AI-Backed Learning Management System for Special Education

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 August 2025 – Saint Clare School has launched a powerful new Learning Management System (LMS) designed to transform how teachers plan lessons and create Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) for students with special needs. Leveraging over 15 years of curriculum data and enhanced by generative AI, the platform streamlines planning, boosts teaching efficiency, and strengthens parent-teacher communication, paving the way for scalable, impactful special education both locally and abroad.

Students following AI-designed personalised education plans in class

Empowering Teachers and Enhancing Collaboration

Developed in partnership with SOZCODE and guided by Saint Clare’s academic board, the LMS aims to reduce the special needs curriculum development time by 30–50%. Previously, teachers spent hours manually drafting IEPs and lesson plans. Now, they can input basic learning needs, such as “functional academics” or “social skills”, into the system and receive suggested learning goals and lesson ideas through an embedded SPED curriculum bank. Educators can then tailor these suggestions to fit the unique needs of each student.

“At the heart of it, the LMS provides more students with special needs to gain access to structured and validated curriculum especially in countries lacking in critical special needs education support and resources,” said Kelvin Ng, the co-founder of Saint Clare School.

Beyond curriculum support, the LMS features a “Single Child View,” consolidating each student’s class enrolment, IEPs, therapy records, attendance, and communication logs. Teachers, Heads of Department (HODs), and leadership teams can collaborate more efficiently, with each IEP and lesson plan undergoing a structured approval process. Built-in audit logs and timestamped actions ensure transparency and quality control at every step.

The Learning Management System also supports student progress tracking and custom analytics through platforms like Google Looker Studio. Educators can assess IEP effectiveness, identify trends in learning outcomes, and refine teaching approaches based on real data. Parental engagement is also tracked, ensuring timely communication and productive involvement in their child’s educational journey.

Scaling Special Education Across Southeast Asia

Saint Clare School’s long-term vision is to evolve the Learning Management System into a full-fledged SPED operating system, one that can be adopted by special education schools in Singapore and across the region. In late 2025 or early 2026, the system is slated to be piloted in two affiliated schools in Kuala Lumpur and Sabah.

This scalable solution is especially impactful for schools lacking structured special education frameworks. With its comprehensive curriculum bank and alignment to Singapore’s high standards, the platform empowers institutions to deliver credible, individualised learning support without starting from scratch.

With the successful rollout of this Learning Management System, Saint Clare School is leading the charge toward a more efficient, data-driven, and inclusive future for special education.

https://saintclare.com.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/p/Saint-Clare-School-for-Special-Education-100063695783788/

Hashtag: #SaintClareSchool #GenerativeAI #LearningManagementSystem

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

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

Tavo Unveils the Shell™ – A Pet’s Elevated Sanctuary of Comfort and Style

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Source: Media Outreach

Thoughtfully engineered with a motion-locking sway, elevated design, and naturally flame-resistant fabrics, the Tavo Shell blends safety, style, and serenity into one elegant, pet-ready sanctuary.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 August 2025 – Tavo Pets, the pet protection brand from the creators of the premium child car seat brand Nuna Baby, returns with another design-forward essential. Introducing the Tavo Shell, a revolutionary pet bed and swaying lounger that is set to redefine pet comfort, offering a dedicated safe haven that seamlessly integrates into the modern home. Hot on the heels of its Maeve™ 3-in-1 Pet Travel System, Tavo continues its mission to bring design and wellbeing together for pets and their people.

Tavo Shell™

“At Tavo, we hold an uncompromising belief that life is better when it’s shared between people and their pets,” said Helen Johnson, Marketing Director at Tavo Pets and Nuna Baby. “Drawing upon decades of Nuna’s safety expertise and purposeful design, we apply the same rigorous standards to every pet essential we create. The Shell is a natural extension of that philosophy, designed not only to look beautiful in your home, but to deliver the same level of care, comfort, and protection we’ve long reserved for our little ones.”

Meet The Shell: A Sanctuary of Style and Snuggles

The Tavo Shell is designed to elevate your pet’s comfort—literally. Crafted with a unique shell-inspired design that gently sways like ocean waves, it cradles your pet in unparalleled comfort, offering a serene retreat. The raised platform with cloud-like cushioning lifts your pet away from dust and drafts, bringing them closer to you for restful connections and a better view of their surroundings. Equal parts modern art and pet paradise, the Shell is the perfect mix of style and snuggle, providing a throne worthy of your pet’s loyalty while enhancing your home’s aesthetic.

Thoughtful Innovation for Pet Well-Being and Owner Peace of Mind

The Tavo Shell stands apart with its meticulously engineered features, prioritising both pet safety and owner convenience:

Three Recline Positions: Designed to help your pet find the position that’s just right for ultimate relaxation and support.

Soothing Side-to-Side Motion: A gentle push initiates a calming, unassisted swaying motion that lasts for up to two minutes. Crucially, the Shell operates without cords, batteries, or noises, eliminating potential hazards such as entanglement, accidental ingestion of materials, or startling sounds that can cause anxiety in pets. This thoughtful design ensures a truly safe, calm, and uninterrupted sanctuary.

Motion Lock Feature: For moments when stillness is preferred, the Shell easily locks into a stationary position, providing versatility and stability.

Dedicated Comfort Zone: Its unique shell-like shape cradles pets, making them feel safe and secure in their personal haven.

Elevated Downtime: The raised design offers a perfect perching platform for cats or for dogs who enjoy a higher vantage point.

Soft, Machine-Washable Fleece: The removable, ultra-soft fleece seat cover easily zips off and is machine washable, ensuring effortless hygiene and long-term freshness.

Strong Frame & Base: Built with a strong interior aluminum frame and a curved base, the Shell provides exceptional stability. This robust construction ensures the lounger maintains its elegant form and supportive structure even with energetic pets jumping on and off, preventing it from becoming out of shape after use. It is also simple to assemble and disassemble, with the seat detaching from the base for convenient storage and transport.

Naturally Flame-Resistant Fabrics: In line with Tavo’s commitment to safety, the Shell’s fabrics are naturally flame-resistant and free of harmful fire-retardant chemicals, making them safer for your pet and providing owners with added peace of mind.

Unlike conventional pet lounging solutions that can present safety concerns or behavioral issues, the Tavo Shell is engineered to mitigate these risks. Its cord-free design and stable construction remove the dangers of chewing on wires or unstable structures. The gentle, unassisted sway fosters natural calming without the over-stimulation or anxiety sometimes associated with less thoughtfully designed pet swings.

The Tavo Shell Pet Bed and Swaying Lounger, suitable for pets up to 60kg and designed to fit beautifully into any home aesthetic, is available for a retail price of SGD $449, exclusively at https://tavopets.com/sg/shell-pet-bed?color=LATTE. It is also available on our official Shopee store for your convenience. Additional pet gear is expected to launch soon.

Hashtag: #TavoPets

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

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

Rātā Foundation Reports Strong Financial Performance and Deepening Social Impact

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Source: Rata Foundation

South Island’s largest community investor, Rātā Foundation, has released its annual results for the financial year ending 31 March 2025, reporting a robust 7.1% portfolio return and growth in its pūtea to $695 million, despite global market volatility.
This financial strength enabled Rātā to invest $26.5 million in community-led initiatives across its funding regions, an increase from $21.8 million in FY24. It is evolving a responsible investment approach that delivers strong, risk-adjusted returns-supporting community goals without compromising people or the planet.
“Our investment strategy is about more than financial returns-it’s about creating meaningful social change,” said Leighton Evans, Chief Executive. “We’re proud to deliver strong results while staying true to our values. Every dollar invested is a step toward empowering communities and protecting the planet.”
Investing for Impact
Rātā investment strategy has evolved to include strategic diversification and direct investments with like-minded New Zealand entities. A key milestone this year was the acquisition of a 25% stake in Alvarium (NZ) Management Holdings Limited, which aligns with Rātā ethical investment principles and marks a significant step in its goal to allocate 30% of its portfolio to direct investments.
“We’re building a resilient portfolio that supports long-term community funding, even in uncertain times,” Evans said. “Our financial performance underpins our ability to invest in solutions that matter-like affordable housing, mental health, and strengthening the Community sector.”
Evidence of Social Impact Across our Community Investment Programme
“We’re committed to creating long-term, equitable, and sustainable impact. By focusing on key issues like affordable housing, mental health, and education, and grounding our decisions in data and evidence, we ensure our funding reaches those who need it most-building healthier, more resilient communities,” says Mr Evans.
Rātā funding has supported a wide range of initiatives, with measurable outcomes including:
 71 affordable housing units funded in FY25, up from 62 in FY24
 1,889 individuals supported through mental health programmes
 193 organisations strengthened through governance, climate
   adaptation, and AI capability workshops
 28 tailored strengthening initiatives for individual community  organisations
 34,000 instances of support for people with high and complex
 58,000 Positive youth development opportunities
 353,000 Opportunities to connect in the community
 206,000 opportunities to celebrate diversity and culture
 259,000+ opportunities to participate in sports and arts
 77,000 Opportunities for people to participate in conservation
 89,000+ volunteers involved
Regional Funding Breakdown
In FY25, Rātā Foundation distributed $26.5 million across its funding regions, up from $21.5 million in FY24, through 591 distinct funding opportunities. Key areas of investment included:
Regionally:
 Canterbury (includes Chatham Island): $17.4m
 Nelson: $3.9m
 Marlborough: $1.7m
 Multi-Region $3.5m
Priority Funding Areas:
 Support: $15.3m (up from $10.5m)
 Connect: $3.4m (down slightly from $3.5m)
 Sustain: $2.6m (down from $4.2m)
 Participate: $3.7m (up from $3.1m)
 Learn: $1.5m(steady from FY24m)
Looking Ahead
“We remain focused on strengthening community organisations and adapting to evolving community needs,” Evans said. “Our purpose is clear-create lasting social impact through ethical investment and evidence-based funding. When communities are strong, the future is too.”
About Rātā Foundation:
Rātā Foundation is the South Island’s most significant community investment fund.
Since its inception, Rātā has provided $607 million in social impact to community organisations across its funding regions of Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, and the Chatham Islands.
It manages a $700 million pūtea, generating $26 million per annum to invest in its funding regions.
Rātā long-term strategic objective is to invest in communities to enable a higher standard of community well-being. It int

MIL OSI

Health Awards – NZDA honours outstanding Kiwi dentists at awards event celebrating 120th Anniversary

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Source: New Zealand Dental Association

The New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) honoured some outstanding member dentists at its annual conference dinner and awards evening held at Tākina in Wellington last Friday.
Former television news anchor Mike McRoberts emceed proceedings and assisted with presenting the NZDA Awards across four categories, as well inducting two new Honorary Members, one new Honorary Life Member for services to dentistry in New Zealand, and one new NZDA Fellow.
National MP Sam Uffindell was in attendance and provided a wonderful speech on the significance of this year’s conference marking the Association’s 120th birthday. He also assisted with the presentation of this year’s prestigious NZDA Outstanding Young Dentist Award.
An NZDA presidential handover also took place with outgoing president Dr Amanda Johnston welcoming incoming president Dr David Excell into the role. Dr Excell will serve as NZDA President for the next two years.
This year’s annual awards event had a ‘birthday party’ dress theme as the Association celebrated its 120th Anniversary. Attendees sported birthday themed outfits to celebrate the occasion. Prizes were awarded to the best dressed on the night.
“The awards dinner is always the focal point of our annual conference, so it’s the ideal place to celebrate and acknowledge exceptional member contributions and service to our profession, as well as to the wider community,” said NZDA President Dr David Excell.
NZDA Award 2025 recipients:
– NZDA Outstanding Young Dentist Award – Dr Margaret Clark, Wellington Branch
– NZDA Colleague of The Year Award – Dr Gavin Cho, Wellington NZDA Branch
-NZDA Service Award – Dr Winifred Harding, Otago NZDA Branch
-NZDA Public Service Award – Dr Gary Lawrence, Wellington NZDA Branch
NZDA Honors 2025 recipients:
-Dr Craig Fraser: NZDA Honorary Life Member
-Prof Richard Cannon: NZDA Honorary Member
-Prof Karl Lyons: NZDA Fellow
-Dr Chris Sanzaro (ADA): Honorary Member

MIL OSI

Advocacy – Famine in Gaza Demands Urgent Action – Not Delays on Palestinian Statehood

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Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand expresses deep concern at Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s statement that New Zealand’s decision on recognising a Palestinian state will not be accelerated despite the official declaration of famine in Gaza.

The UN’s Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has confirmed that more than half a million Gazans are enduring famine conditions. Children are dying of starvation, aid is being obstructed, and entire communities face humanitarian collapse. This should compel urgent action from the international community—not provide justification for further delay.

Recognition of the State of Palestine is not a symbolic gesture; it is a vital step toward ensuring the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, international legal standing, and protection under global institutions. Already, the majority of UN member states, along with New Zealand’s key democratic partners, have taken this step.

By hesitating, New Zealand risks isolating itself among its allies and undermining the prospects of a two-state solution. Recognition must be principled and unconditional, not tied to shifting political preconditions. The confirmation of famine should accelerate New Zealand’s decision, not stall it.

We call on the New Zealand Government to:

  1. Recognise the State of Palestine without delay, aligning with the upcoming UN General Assembly session in September.

  2. Match humanitarian urgency with political will, ensuring New Zealand is not complicit in perpetuating injustice through inaction.

  3. Stand firmly on the side of peace, justice, and human dignity, consistent with New Zealand’s proud history of upholding international law.

At this critical moment, leadership requires courage. The Palestinian people cannot wait any longer for recognition of their fundamental rights.

MIL OSI

World Vision – First ever Australasian business forum focused on human rights a wake-up call for NZ

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Source: World Vision

Hundreds of business leaders from across New Zealand and Australia are this week attending the inaugural United Nations Business and Human Rights Regional Forum in Melbourne to learn more about ethical and responsible business practices.

World Vision New Zealand is jointly hosting the forum which will feature keynote speakers, including former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark, the OECD’s Allan Jorgensen, Meta’s Miranda Sissons, and leading businesses such as Australia’s BHP.
 
The Forum is the largest regional gathering ito explore the intersection of business and human rights and aims to help businesses adopt responsible commercial practices at a time of increasing global turbulence.   It will cover issues from modern slavery in supply chains, responsible use of AI, and the human rights impacts of climate change.
 
World Vision’s Head of Advocacy and Justice, Rebekah Armstrong, says the forum is a wake-up call for New Zealand which risks falling behind on global standards for corporate accountability.
 
She says Australia is already taking bold steps, including introducing modern slavery laws in 2018, appointing two Anti-Slavery Commissioners, and most recently naming an Ambassador to Counter Modern Slavery, People Smuggling, and Human Trafficking.
 
“Here in New Zealand, we are falling further and further behind Australia.  We don’t even have a law to report on or mitigate modern slavery in our supply chains; we have no independent commission or body to provide oversight on modern slavery; and we have no formal protections or support for victims-survivors.  We are not operating in the 21st Century,” she says.
 
Armstrong says the Forum comes at a pivotal moment for New Zealand in which two Modern Slavery Bills are currently in the parliamentary private members’ ballot. In addition, long-overdue amendments to the Crimes Act to strengthen the trafficking in persons framework were recently announced by the Minister of Justice.
 
“This Forum is a chance for New Zealand voices to be heard on the global stage, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity for New Zealand business leaders to learn, be inspired, and to bring back the insights we need to drive respect for human rights in business here at home.”
 
Armstrong says the Forum’s agenda reflects the growing consensus that voluntary measures are no longer enough to address human rights concerns.

“The challenges in this area are only growing and we need business and government to take action to address them.  From child labour in cocoa supply chains to the climate impacts of fossil fuels, Kiwi businesses are linked to serious human rights risks. Where the international rules-based order is under threat, business’ ability to do good, respect human rights and stand in the gap is incredibly important,” she says.
 
Armstrong says she is disappointed there is no New Zealand government representative at the Forum, whereas the Australian government will be represented by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia’s National Contact Point, as well as Anti-slavery Commissioners and Ambassadors.
 
She says New Zealand businesses and others can email New Zealand MPs to push for the introduction of modern slavery legislation here: www.wvnz.org.nz/act-now  
    
 
Notes:  
 

  • World Vision New Zealand is a co-organiser of the Forum alongside the UN Global Compact Network Australia, the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights, RMIT Business and Human Rights,Macquarie University B&HR Access to Justice Lab, and UNSW Australian Human Rights Institute. 
  • The UN Business and Human Rights Forum: Australia and New Zealand runs 26–27 August 2025 in Melbourne.
  • Leading New Zealand academics, business leaders, and civil society representatives, including former Prime Minister Helen Clark, Professor Gail Pacheco, Valmaine Toki, Rebecca Kingi, Claire Charters, and Fleur Fitzsimmons
  • More information on the Forum can be found at: https://unbhrforumanz.org/ 

MIL OSI

Woh Hup Reaffirms Its Heritage and Culinary Legacy with Modern Innovations

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 August 2025 – From humble Chinatown beginnings to global recognition, Woh Hup has been a cornerstone of Singapore’s culinary heritage for nearly nine decades. Established in 1936, the brand’s journey began with a dedication to crafting quality noodles before expanding into sauces—most notably the iconic Oyster Sauce—that continue to shape family kitchens across Singapore and beyond.

Discover delicious meals with Woh Hup’s exciting flavours today.

Continuing this 89-year journey of taste and tradition, Woh Hup’s accolades include being featured in the National Heritage Board’s “50 Made in Singapore Products” (2015) and named Top Influential Brand in Sauces (2018, 2023). Building on this proud legacy, Woh Hup introduces China Flavour Instant Noodles series—a modern innovation inspired by time-honoured regional tastes.

The series features three distinct variants that bring authentic Chinese flavours to your table: Dried Shanghai Scallion Oil Noodles (rich and savoury), Dried Sichuan Pepper Noodles (hot and flavourful), and Dried Shanxi Spicy Oil Noodles (aromatic and spicy). Developed for today’s health-conscious consumers, these noodles are non-fried, cholesterol-free, and trans fat-free, offering a guilt-free yet flavourful dining experience. Ready in minutes, the series adapts perfectly to Singapore’s fast-paced lifestyle without compromising on taste.

Now available at major retail outlets across Singapore, the new China Flavour series reaffirms Woh Hup’s position as a trusted homegrown brand—one that continues to honour tradition while inspiring modern tastes. Discover these exciting new flavours and explore our full range at wohhupfood.com.

Hashtag: #WohHup #HeritageFoods

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

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

Game On, Tauranga! Let’s keep the city moving during Zespri AIMS Games Week

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

With over 14,000 athletes and thousands of supporters heading to Tauranga for the Zespri AIMS Games from Saturday 30 August to Friday 5 September, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is encouraging locals and visitors to plan ahead and make the most of the free Zespri AIMS Games buses running throughout the week.

“It’s going to be a buzzing week across the city,” says Simon Sinclair, Bay of Plenty Journey Manager at NZTA. “We’re asking everyone to allow extra time for travel and check our Journey Planner for real-time updates before heading out.”

If you’re heading to events around Mount Maunganui and Pāpāmoa, the free loop bus service is a great option. Buses will run every 30 minutes on a continuous loop between key venues, including Gordon Spratt Reserve, Mercury Baypark, Baywave, Blake Park, the Mount Hot Pools, and Mount Mainstreet.

The free bus loop service, provided by Tauranga City Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council, is designed to help athletes, supporters and the community move easily between venues while supporting sustainable transport choices. To find out more about the service, visit:

https://www.nzaimsgames.co.nz/buses(external link)

To help minimise disruption to traffic while the Zespri AIMS Games are on, NZTA has paused any planned road works on state highways around the city, however the Tauriko Enabling Works project will continue as normal.

Zespri AIMS Games are being held from Saturday, 30 August to Friday, 5 September. More information:

https://www.nzaimsgames.co.nz(external link)

MIL OSI

Man dies following Muriwai incident

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police can advise that a man critically injured at Muriwai on Saturday has died in hospital.

The 28-year-old was airlifted to Auckland City Hospital after becoming trapped under a sand dune.

He remained in critical condition, but has sadly passed away in hospital today.

Police will carry out enquiries into the man’s death on behalf of the Coroner.

ENDS. 

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Police and Customs ‘one step ahead’ as $37m methamphetamine shipment is foiled

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police and Customs have sprung upon a $37 million methamphetamine shipment concealed amongst machine parts sent through air cargo.

In the process seven people now face criminal charges and 124 kilograms of methamphetamine has been prevented from reaching New Zealand communities.

Operation Vault saw its inception after Customs intelligence specialists and detectives from the National Organised Crime Group identified an importation in June 2025.

On the surface, it was a shipment of machine parts, but aroused Customs interest as it was destined for a group allegedly connected to the Killer Beez.

This shipment and two further imports containing machine parts were all examined by Customs investigators. No controlled drugs were found in the shipments, but authorities were on alert.

“Police will allege these were sent as ‘dry runs’ or ‘test runs’ before the shipment containing the controlled drugs was sent,” Detective Inspector Tom Gollan says.

This week, that importation allegedly arrived concealing 124 kilograms of methamphetamine from Canada in machine parts.

“The group had made extensive preparations to receive and distribute the methamphetamine, including hiring a rental truck and fork hoist to assist them,” Detective Inspector Gollan says.

Five search warrants were executed by Police and Customs at Auckland addresses on Thursday.

Authorities located around $36,000 in cash, and 392 grams of cocaine.

Six men, between 20 and 62, as well as a 26-year-old woman have been arrested and will appear in the Auckland District Court.

Those arrested have been charged with the importation of methamphetamine and participation in an organised criminal group.

Detective Inspector Gollan says: “The quantity of methamphetamine would have gone on to cause significant harm to our communities and is yet another fantastic outcome because of ongoing joint work by Police and Customs.

“The group involved have no regard for their anti-social behaviour and are purely motivated by the monetary profits.”

Customs Investigations Manager Dominic Adams says the use of dry runs or test runs is fairly common practice for transnational serious and organised crime groups.

“Law enforcement works closely with its partners across the globe to keep track of new and emerging trends – dry runs are not a new trick. Customs and Police have systems in place to identify these and remain one step ahead of these criminals,” Mr Adams says.

“It doesn’t matter how criminals attempt to conceal and move their drugs across the border, Customs and our Police partners have the skills, intelligence and technology to find the drugs and track down the criminals trying to smuggle them in.”

Suspicions about drug smuggling can be reported confidentially to 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768) or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

  • By the numbers:

– 124 kgs is an estimated 6.2 million doses.

– $129.9m worth of social harm.

– $37.2m retail value of methamphetamine.

ENDS. 

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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