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New Teacher Bonding Scheme supports schools and teachers

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Source: New Zealand Government

A new Teacher Bonding Scheme is offering teachers incentives and will support schools with persistent recruitment challenges to attract and retain great teachers, Minister of Education Hon Erica Stanford announced today.

“We want to help drive recruitment to schools around the country where it can be harder to bring new and experienced teachers on board, so that all of our children can get the best start and thrive with excellent teachers,” Ms Stanford says.

From October this year, teachers recruited to eligible schools under the scheme will receive up to $40,000 over five years when they remain teaching at the school. 

Payments start at $5,000 per year before tax after year one and reach $11,000 per year in year five. The Scheme will deliver 185 places each year.

“Great teachers are critical to student success and delivering the world-class education our learners deserve. This Government is committed to supporting schools that face the most persistent recruitment challenges. 

“The new Teacher Bonding Scheme will allow us to target support where it is most needed, and, by opening this scheme to all teachers, will help school boards and principals to have more options to recruit teachers who are the right fit for them.

“Sector feedback is clear that harder-to-staff schools want the opportunity to attract and retain experienced teachers to their schools, as well as beginning teachers. We have listened to that feedback and deliberately designed the Scheme to deliver what is needed.”

The scheme will be a $7.5 million investment annually by 2030 and will replace the existing Voluntary Bonding Scheme (VBS) and the BeTTER Jobs Programme. From 5 October  2025, the VBS and BeTTER incentives will be closed to new applicants, as TBS will replace them both. Teachers currently registered in the VBS and BeTTER schemes will continue to be supported.

“This is a practical, forward-looking solution that acknowledges school’s recruitment challenges vary across regions and within urban areas, and I look forward to the results it will produce for our young people.”

MIL OSI

Stolen vehicle just the start in Northland

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Source: New Zealand Police

Failing to stop proved to be the wrong move in Whangārei after it led Police to a serious discovery.

Police conducting proactive patrols on Tuesday afternoon spotted a stolen vehicle travelling south on Otaika Road.

Whangārei Area Response Manager Senior Sergeant Rene Rakete says Police signalled for the vehicle to stop, however it took off at speed.

“When officers attempted to stop this vehicle it accelerated away at speed, turning down a side street in an attempt to evade Police,” he says.

A short time later Police located the vehicle parked at an address on Lichfield Place.

“A search was conducted of the address, with three people of interest located inside,” Senior Sergeant Rakete says.

Further searches uncovered live shotgun rounds, a firearm, and more ammunition.

“This was great work by our officers, who persevered when losing sight of the stolen vehicle” Senior Sergeant Rakete says.

“We are pleased these items are now off the street and the alleged offender is facing the consequences of his actions.”

A 45-year-old man appeared in the Whangārei District Court charged with failing to stop and unlawfully possessing a firearm. He was remanded in custody and will reappear on 29 September.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Noguchi Coin Debuts First-Ever Pop-Up Store Outside Japan, with Exclusive Launch of Jewel Special Edition Coin

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Source: Media Outreach

The pop-up will feature Exclusive Noguchi Coin x Jewel Limited-Edition Commemorative Coin and GST-exempt Coins from Mints across the World

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 September 2025 – Noguchi Coin will unveil the first-ever Jewel Special Edition Commemorative Coin at its debut overseas pop-up in Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore. Strictly limited to 100 pieces and available only for a limited time, the release marks a milestone collaboration with Jewel Singapore.

As Japan’s trusted curator of rare and high-quality collectible coins, Noguchi Coin is recognised for its leading online platform and extensive range of internationally renowned coins. This landmark launch brings Noguchi Coin’s passion for numismatics beyond Japan, introducing Singapore’s collectors and enthusiasts to a world of exquisite coins sourced globally from trusted mints in Canada, Austria, and beyond.

Noguchi Coin and Jewel Singapore Collaboration Coin
At the heart of this pop-up is the unveiling of the exclusive Jewel × Noguchi Limited-Edition Commemorative Coin on 19 September 2025, with only 100 pieces available at $88 (inclusive of GST), created specially and available only at the Singapore pop-up.

The coin design features Jewel Changi Airport’s world-renowned Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall on the planet and an emblem of Singapore’s identity as a crossroads of the world. More than a landmark, the Rain Vortex represents the flow of commerce, culture, and innovation, drawing people together in harmony under one roof.

By capturing this symbol on a commemorative coin, Noguchi Coin celebrates Singapore’s role on the global stage while also reflecting its own philosophy, connecting tradition with the future, Japan with Singapore, and collectors with enduring value.

Bringing World-Class Coins at Accessible Prices
Noguchi Coin is dedicated to making high-quality collectibles more accessible without compromising authenticity or rarity. By sourcing directly from official local channels in countries such as Canada and Austria, and reducing unnecessary distribution layers and labor costs, Noguchi Coin ensures that its customers receive the highest quality coins at the most competitive prices.

In addition to the limited-edition coin, the pop-up will also feature a selection of GST-exempt coins, making them even more attractive to collectors and investors in Singapore. These include internationally recognised bullion coins such as the Vienna Philharmonic, Canadian Maple Leaf, Britannia, Australian Kangaroo, Chinese Panda, American Eagle, South African Krugerrand, and more, all valued for their purity, liquidity, and global reputation.

A Milestone for Collectors in Singapore
Strategically located at Jewel Changi Airport, one of Singapore’s most recognisable landmarks and a gateway for international travellers, the pop-up marks Noguchi Coin’s first step into Southeast Asia. Beyond being a retail showcase, it offers collectors the rare opportunity to access exclusive coins at GST-exempt prices, appealing to both local enthusiasts and global visitors.

The event is expected to draw coin collectors, design lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike, offering a rare chance to view and own coins not normally available in Singapore. Early visitors will also enjoy access to the limited-edition of the Jewel × Noguchi Rain Vortex Coin.

Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel
Date: 4 September – 4 December 2025
Time: 10am – 10pm daily
Venue: Jewel Changi Airport, L1 (Outside Imperial Treasure)

For more information: https://noguchicoin-jp.com/ instagram @noguchicoin.en

https://noguchicoin-eu.com/
https://www.instagram.com/noguchicoin.en/
https://www.youtube.com/user/noguchicoin

Hashtag: #NoguchiCoin #Jewel #Coincollector #coincollection #Singapore

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

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

Atradius Appoints Bart Poublon as Director, Risk Services for Asia and Oceania

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Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 September 2025 – Bart Poublon has been appointed Director of Risk Services for Asia and Oceania, effective September 2025. He also joins the Atradius Leadership Team, expanding his role within the organisation.

Bart Poublon

Previously serving as Head of Risk Services for APAC, Bart has been a key contributor to Atradius’ regional success since joining the Asia team in 2005.

Eric den Boogert, Managing Director for Asia, commented on Bart’s promotion:
“Having worked closely with Bart for over a decade, I’ve witnessed his results-driven mindset, agility in driving change, and ability to lead high-performing teams. His promotion is a testament to the immense value he brings to our business and stakeholders.”

He added, “Bart has consistently contributed to our profitable growth in Asia. His expanded scope will further enhance our capabilities across the region, including the Middle East, as we continue to focus on growth, transformation, and customer excellence.”

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Bart Poublon stated:
“I am honoured to take on this new position and look forward to collaborating with our leadership team and colleagues. In today’s dynamic business environment, companies face ever-evolving challenges in their pursuit of growth. We will continue to support our clients with expert risk management solutions that enable sustainable success.”

With over 20 years of experience in trade credit insurance, Bart has held senior roles in risk services, claims, and recoveries at Atradius since joining the company in 2001. His career has spanned key international markets, including France, the UK, Japan, Australia, and Hong Kong, where he has been based since 2012. Bart’s global expertise and leadership across diverse portfolios position him well to lead the region’s risk strategy effectively.

https://atradius.com.hk
https://www.linkedin.com/company/atradiusasia

Hashtag: #AtradiusAsia #LeadershipAppointment #AtradiusLeadership #CorporateUpdate #CreditInsurance #BartPoublon

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

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

Local Water Done Well delivering for Kiwis

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Source: New Zealand Government

Twenty percent of councils have now had their water services delivery plans approved, Local Government Minister Simon Watts says.

“Within two weeks of councils submitting their plans, more than 2.5 million New Zealanders now have an accepted, financially sustainable delivery approach for their water services for the next ten years and beyond, using the tools developed under Local Water Done Well, including the Watercare Charter,” Mr Watts says.

“Accepted today, the Waikato Water Done Well plan will combine water services for over 130,000 people in the Hauraki, Matamata-Piako, Ōtorohanga, South Waikato, Waipā and Waitomo District Council areas. This is an unprecedented and impressive collaborative effort between councils.

“With Taupō District Council as a shareholder in Waikato Water Done Well, there is an opportunity to achieve efficiencies for a further 40,000+ people in the coming years. I’m encouraged Taupō is taking advantage of shared services and is open to joining the CCO as benefits are realised.

“Hurunui and Kaikōura District Councils’ CCO plan was also accepted, and I’m advised they are keen to look at options to join forces with neighbouring councils where it makes financial and operational sense to deliver shared services at scale in future.

“With the help of long-term lower-cost finance available under Local Water Done Well, CCOs can service their debt at lower levels than they can going it alone. This means they will be able to plan coordinated infrastructure works and spread the costs over time, so they are more fairly shared between current and future ratepayers. 

“By ensuring water plan costs are well managed, we can ease the financial pressure on council’s and their communities. It will mean Kiwis are able to keep more money in their pockets. 

This will ensure water plans are prudent and costs are well managed, easing the financial pressure on councils and their communities. It will mean Kiwis are able to keep more money in their pockets by ensuring water services delivery costs are well managed.

“Subject to rigorous criteria under the Local Water Done Well legislation, councils that have plans opting for in-house business units also accepted to date gives me confidence in the financial sustainability of their plans.

“What is clear is that that regardless of the delivery model chosen, after decades of underinvestment, Local Water Done Well is delivering much-needed investment nationally in water services infrastructure while providing local council decision-makers the options that suit the communities they serve.” 

MIL OSI

NZ-AU: Perseus secures approvals for underground mining at Yaoure

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Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Perth, Western Australia, Sept. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PERSEUS MINING SECURES APPROVALS FOR UNDERGROUND DEVELOPMENT AND MINING OPERATIONS AT YAOURÉ

Perseus Mining Limited (ASX/TSX: PRU) wishes to advise that a Presidential Decree authorising the development and operation of the CMA underground project at Perseus’s Yaouré Gold Mine in central Côte d’Ivoire, was granted on 18 September 2025 by His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire.

The Presidential Decree was issued following the approval of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, and issuance of a Ministerial Arrêté by the Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition in May this year. These approvals, supported by the Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy, were critical pre-requisites for the commencement of the development phase of the CMA underground project.

Infrastructure projects associated with the CMA underground mine development have been completed and development of the declines will now commence following the commissioning of the underground mining equipment by Perseus’s specialist underground mining contractor, Byrnecut. The establishment of the underground operation below the CMA Open Pit, will extend the mine life of Yaouré until at least 2035 based on currently delineated Mineral Resource and Ore Reserves.

With the commencement of the driving of declines, the next major milestone for the CMA underground operation will be first ore production which is planned for January 2026, with commercial production scheduled to be reached in March 2027.

Perseus’s CEO and Managing Director Jeff Quartermaine said:

Receiving the Presidential Decree authorising the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s first underground mine is a major milestone for Perseus, allowing us to immediately proceed with the cutting of portals and ultimately gaining access to further important ore sources for processing through the Yaouré processing facility.

While receipt of the formal authorisation comes later than originally planned, the delay has allowed us time to complete all infrastructure works required to support the operation as well as ensure that Byrnecut’s underground equipment is available and commissioned ready for immediate commencement of mining operations.

The US$170M to be invested by Perseus in the CMA underground mine marks a new phase in our partnership with the Government of Côte d’Ivoire in expanding its thriving mining industry.”

Competent Person Statement

All production targets referred to in this report are underpinned by estimated Ore Reserves which have been prepared by Competent Persons in accordance with the requirements of the JORC Code.

The information in this report that relates to the Mineral Resources and Ore Reserve was updated by the Company in a market announcement “Perseus Mining updates Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves” released on 21 August 2025. The Company confirms that all material assumptions underpinning those estimates and the production targets, or the forecast financial information derived therefrom, in that market release continue to apply and have not materially changed.

The Company confirms that the material assumptions underpinning the estimates of Ore Reserves described in “Technical Report — Yaouré Gold Project, Côte d’Ivoire” dated 18 December 2023, continue to apply.

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information:

This report contains forward-looking information which is based on the assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of management made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made by the Company regarding, among other things: the price of gold, continuing commercial production at the Yaouré Gold Mine, the Edikan Gold Mine and the Sissingué Gold Mine without any major disruption, development of a mine at Nyanzaga, the receipt of required governmental approvals, the accuracy of capital and operating cost estimates, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used by the Company. Although management believes that the assumptions made by the Company and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the actual market price of gold, the actual results of current exploration, the actual results of future exploration, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company’s publicly filed documents. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Perseus does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

This announcement has been approved for release by Perseus Mining Limited’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Quartermaine.

ASX/TSX CODE: PRU

CAPITAL STRUCTURE:

Ordinary shares:         1,351,230,319

Performance rights: 8,554,434

REGISTERED OFFICE:

Level 2

437 Roberts Road

Subiaco WA 6008

Telephone: +61 8 6144 1700

www.perseusmining.com

DIRECTORS:

Rick Menell

Non-Executive Chairman

Jeff Quartermaine

Managing Director & CEO

Amber Banfield
Non-Executive Director

Elissa Cornelius

Non-Executive Director

Dan Lougher

Non-Executive Director

John McGloin

Non-Executive Director

James Rutherford
Non-Executive Director

CONTACTS:

Jeff Quartermaine

Managing Director & CEO

jeff.quartermaine@perseusmining.com

Stephen Forman

Investor Relations

+61 484 036 681

stephen.forman@perseusmining.com

Nathan Ryan

Media

+61 420 582 887

nathan.ryan@nwrcommunications.com.au

– Published by The MIL Network

SH2 Melling interchange construction begins

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Source: New Zealand Government

Construction has begun on the State Highway 2 (SH2) Melling Transport Improvements Road of Regional Significance that will create a safer, more resilient and accessible transport system in Lower Hutt, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Turning the sod on the Melling Interchange is a huge step forward for a project that has been a long time coming. It’s going to be transformational for Lower Hutt – reducing congestion, improving safety, boosting public transport and active transport, and driving economic growth,” Mr Bishop says.

“After so many years of waiting, it’s exciting to see the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), working with AECOM and Fletcher Construction, getting shovels in the ground.

“This project is part of a wider programme led by central and local government to boost economic growth in Lower Hutt, while also strengthening resilience and protection against floods and severe weather.

“Every day around 40,000 vehicles travel north and south of Melling on the state highway, making it one of the busiest intersections in Lower Hutt and a major choke point for commuters and freight.

“The project will deliver a new grade-separated Melling interchange and a bridge over the Hutt River, alongside upgrades to walking and cycling routes. It will also improve access to buses and trains through relocating the Melling train station south of its current site, complete with new park-and-ride facilities.

“The wider $1.5 billion RiverLink programme also includes major flood protection works and city centre revitalisation, with funding contributions of about $1 billion from NZTA, $295 million from Greater Wellington Regional Council, and $180 million from Hutt City Council.”  

The Melling interchange and bridge construction is expected to be complete in 2031, with demolition of the old bridge to follow in 2032.

MIL OSI

Foreign Minister to travel to New York as UN turns 80

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Source: New Zealand Government

Foreign Minister Winston Peters is travelling to New York this weekend to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

“The 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations is an important moment for reflection about the state of the international, rules-based system that New Zealand has long championed,” Mr Peters says. 

“New Zealand was a founding member of the United Nations and we have always argued that all states – no matter their size – should have a say in how the world operates. But there is no doubt that the scale, complexity and persistence of the challenges facing the world are putting immense stress and strain on the United Nations. New Zealand, working with partners, needs to continue to press for reforms to ensure the United Nations can rise to the world’s challenges as humanity enters the second quarter of the 21st Century.” 

While in New York, Mr Peters will attend the Two State Solution conference co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, participate in a number of thematic and geographic events, hold a range of bilateral meetings with Foreign Minister counterparts and senior UN officials, and deliver New Zealand’s national statement to the UN General Assembly.

“Major conflicts – including in Ukraine, Gaza, South Sudan and Myanmar – loom large as world leaders gather in New York next week. Our time in New York will be an ideal opportunity to gather information about how a broad range of partners are viewing and tackling the challenges facing the world – to help inform our own policy positions on a number of issues. 

“This includes the complex issue of the recognition of Palestine, which New Zealand has approached cautiously and deliberately over months. Next week’s engagements will help us to finalise New Zealand’s position on this important issue, drawing on the latest available information.”

Mr Peters departs for New York on Sunday 21 September, and will return to New Zealand on Tuesday 30 September.

MIL OSI

Remediated mine becomes new Reefton attraction

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Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  19 September 2025

The new public recreation area includes 22 km of tracks to and within part of the previously closed and rehabilitated OceanaGold Globe Progress mine site just outside of Reefton.

The Globe Hill Track and Globe Progress Mine tracks and visitor facilities, including a shelter, interpretation panels telling the story of the site, and toilets, have been developed by OceanaGold after almost 10 years working the area in search of gold. They provide a distinctive experience where people can get into nature and learn about the area’s recent mining heritage says Chris Hickford, DOC Greymouth District Operations Manager.

“This area offers a unique look at the mine site rehabilitation following mining activity. It will be a great addition to the already popular visitor experiences Reefton offers and attract people to the area.

“The tracks have been built to deliver great opportunities for walkers and bikers to get “naturing”. The track to Globe Progress starts on the outskirts of Reefton benefiting visitors and the local community, who can enjoy this new recreation asset right on their doorstep.”

Alison Paul, OceanaGold Senior Vice President, NZ Legal and Public Affairs says the company is really pleased with the end result.

“The tracks are the result of extensive work with DOC and iwi. It’s a great addition to the local track network, as well as opening up the rehabilitated mine site to the public.” 

Part of OceanaGold’s agreement with DOC to access the area required the company to ensure the site was restored once operations concluded in 2016. As well as removing mine infrastructure and landscaping, the area has been extensively replanted with plants grown from seed taken from the area.

OceanaGold continues to work on mine remediation and water treatment at the site while this is necessary, including maintaining and using the otherwise closed access road while this work is underway.

Find out more about the Globe Progress Mine tracks:

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

Funding to support events marking Waitangi Day

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Source: New Zealand Government

Up to $300,000 of contestable funding is now available to support community events celebrating our national day and commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“The Commemorating Waitangi Day Fund supports community groups as they reflect on our shared history and the contributions of all cultures represented in New Zealand today.

“It supports events that bring New Zealanders together to recognise and celebrate all aspects of our national identity, on our national day, including the Treaty of Waitangi and its signing. 

“This is a day that should be commemorated not only at Waitangi where the Treaty was first signed, but throughout the country – recognising that the Treaty itself travelled across our country.

“Many well-established events are delivered by communities across the country each year, which are treasured by the thousands of New Zealanders who attend them. New applicants are always welcome and encouraged to propose new ways for New Zealanders to participate in Waitangi Day events in their community.  

“I encourage community groups, tangata whenua, and local councils to work together to organise local events that bring people and community together on our national day.”

Applications for the Fund are now open and close on Monday 20 October 2025. 

MIL OSI