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Update – arrest made in relation to Brooklyn shooting incident

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Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Jocelyn Bell of Wellington CIB:

A woman has been arrested today in connection with the shooting incident at Brooklyn’s Pukehinau Flats last Sunday.

The 34-year-old woman was arrested in Palmerston North. She is due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on Saturday 8 November on charges of aggravated robbery, and committing a dangerous act with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Another person of interest has also been identified, and we cannot rule out further charges in relation to this matter.

We hope today’s arrest will come as a relief to the Brooklyn and Te Aro communities, which we know have been shaken by this incident.

Enquiries are ongoing, and further updates will be shared proactively.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Momentum builds in India-NZ partnership

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Source: New Zealand Government

The first official visit by India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and an Indian trade delegation has accelerated trade talks and deepened business ties, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.

Minister Goyal was joined by the largest delegation from India to visit New Zealand, including businesses and media among the 43.

The visit included a series of high-level business meetings, engagements with the New Zealand Indian community, and further talks with Minister McClay to advance negotiations of a free trade agreement (FTA) between New Zealand and India.

“Hosting Minister Goyal provided an opportunity to showcase both the quality of New Zealand’s export offerings and the successful business partnerships already flourishing between our two countries,” Mr McClay says.

A free trade agreement would accelerate the development of new partnerships and bring benefit to both countries.

“Discussions in Rotorua today were constructive, and we made good progress in a number of areas.

“We focused on our shared ambition to secure a balanced, comprehensive, and ambitious FTA that grows our trade relationship and delivers real benefits for both countries.”

Developing the relationship with India has been a priority for this Government, and has seen an unprecedented level of engagement over the past two years.

Minister Goyal’s visit follows Indian President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to New Zealand last year as well as Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s trade mission to India this year, alongside the largest business delegation ever, and two successful visits to India by Foreign Minister Winston Peters and five visits by Minister McClay since the election.

Minister McClay will travel to India at the end of next week to continue the discussions.

“Both sides are committed to moving at pace, without compromising on a high-quality outcome,” Mr McClay says.

Once concluded, the FTA has the potential to unlock access to the dynamic and rapidly growing Indian economy, providing more choice for New Zealand exporters at a time of great uncertainty in the global trading environment.

MIL OSI

SC Asset Wins HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 November 2025 – SC Asset Corporation Public Company Limited has been honored with the HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2025 award—one of the region’s most prestigious recognitions. The award reflects the company’s success in human resource management, its strong organizational culture, and its commitment to employee well-being in all dimensions.

The HR Asia Best Companies to Work for in Asia award is organized by HR Asia Magazine, a leading human resources publication across Asia. Selection is based on people strategies, workplace culture, and the level of employee engagement.

Ms. Chomchada Kuldiloke, Senior Executive Vice President-Corporate Brand and Communications, SC Asset, shared her thoughts on this achievement:

“This award highlights our genuine devotion to treating employees with fairness and care. At SC Asset, we are committed to fostering a workplace where individuals can thrive—growing in their careers, feeling fulfilled, and discovering purpose in collaboration. We believe our people are the driving force that will carry the company forward sustainably.”

For over 20 years, SC Asset has been dedicated to developing high-quality real estate, encompassing single-family homes, condominiums, office buildings, hotels, and warehouses. Guided by its vision to lead in Living Solutions, the company addresses every aspect of modern living while staying true to its guiding principles: Freedom to be Our Best and Thriving Together. These values ensure employees work in an environment that supports professional growth, personal well-being, and social contribution.

SC Asset also places great importance on fostering a modern corporate culture through its Employer Brand Inside SC. This initiative reflects the belief that “employees are the heart of the business.” To support this, SC Asset has designed flexible and inclusive benefits that meet the needs of every generation—from Hybrid Workplace, Workation, Flexi Benefits models and opportunities to comprehensive learning and career development support.

Together, these efforts affirm SC Asset’s position not only as one of the most desirable companies to work for in Asia, but also as an organization deeply committed to caring for, supporting, and growing alongside its employees, customers, and communities—sustainably and for the long term.

Hashtag: #SCAsset #SCTheDreamWorkplace

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

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

Passengers Advisory: Batik Air Operations Shift to Terminal 4 in Changi Airport, Singapore Starting 11 November 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

Strategic move strengthens Batik Air’s regional presence and supports expanding route network across Southeast Asia

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 November 2025 – Lion Group, comprising Batik Air Malaysia, Batik Air Indonesia, and Thai Lion Air, will begin operations at Changi Airport Terminal 4 (T4) on 11 November 2025, offering passengers a modern, seamless journey from check-in to boarding, with automated services, exciting terminal attractions, and enhanced connectivity across Southeast Asia.

The relocation from Terminal 3 to T4 supports Lion Group’s growth and rising air travel demand. Terminal 4, designed to handle up to 16 million passengers annually, features FAST, Changi’s fully automated self-service system, and unique highlights including the Chandelier playground, the Steel in Bloom garden, and the nostalgic Heritage Zone, making the airport experience part of the journey itself.

Batik Air Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, said: “This relocation represents an important step in Lion Group’s long-term growth strategy in Singapore. Terminal 4 offers the capacity and modern infrastructure to support our expanding operations, while providing passengers with a seamless, world-class airport experience. It positions us to better meet the evolving needs of today’s travellers.”

“Singapore has always been an important destination for us, and Batik Air is proud to strengthen its presence here. The move to Terminal 4 comes at the perfect time as we prepare to launch new routes from Singapore to Ipoh, Penang, and Subang on 8 December 2025. These flights, together with our existing Kuala Lumpur services, give travellers more options for quick getaways. This expansion enhances travel choices while supporting tourism, business, and cultural exchange, bringing our communities closer and paving the way for shared growth ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.”

With the Terminal 4 move and new services, Batik Air makes travel more comfortable, convenient, and flexible. Passengers are encouraged to check their flight details and plan ahead, and can look forward to faster processes, modern facilities, and more opportunities to explore Southeast Asia – all from Singapore’s award-winning airport.

For more information and to plan your next journey, download Batik Air mobile app or visit
www.batikair.com

Supporting materials and images are available at the following links: BATIK AIR MOVE TO T4 CHANGI

https://www.batikair.com.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/malindo-air/
https://x.com/malindoair
https://www.facebook.com/BatikAir.MY/
https://www.instagram.com/malindoair/

Hashtag: #BatikAirMalaysia #BatikAir #LionGroup #iflybatikair #ChangiAirport #Terminal4 #T4Changi #Singapore

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

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

Canon Drives the Future of Smart Work at Think Big Bangkok 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

Executive forum will provide a strategic roadmap for equipping businesses in Thailand for the future of work through cloud and AI innovations

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 November 2025 – Canon today announced its upcoming Think Big Bangkok Series, with the theme of ‘The Future of Smart Work: AI. Cloud and Beyond.’. Taking place at the Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn on 21 November 2025, business leaders and key tech industry players will gather to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud technology can come together to automate workflows and information management, streamline print and scan management, and tighten security and compliance, equipping businesses in Thailand with a strategic edge in today’s dynamic economy.

The dialogue surrounding cloud and AI innovations is more pertinent than ever, amidst Thailand’s significant investments into AI adoption nationwide. With the Thailand National AI Board investing around US$770 million in the National Artificial Intelligence Development Framework for the next two years, Thailand is set to become a fertile economic ground for AI- and cloud-driven digital transformation.

“The accelerating adoption of AI, cloud, and digital automation is redefining how businesses across Asia evolve, with Thailand standing out as one of the most enterprising markets driving this change,” said Norihiro (Nick) Katagiri, Senior Vice President, Regional Digital Printing and Business Solution Operations, Canon Singapore. “Think Big Bangkok aims to provide business leaders with practical insights and tools to unlock the full potential of AI and cloud technologies, helping them innovate, stay ahead, and lead with confidence in the digital age.”

Smart Innovations and Strategic Insights for a Competitive Digital Edge
Think Big Bangkok 2025 will provide industry-leading insights through an expert-led seminar. The session will equip business leaders with tools to capitalise on Thailand’s growing AI adoption efforts. The executive forum will also explore how to leverage integrated solutions to redefine operations and build a lasting competitive advantage in the future of work.

The forum’s speaker lineup comprises leading voices in the technology sector, with representatives from Canon Marketing Thailand, NT-ware, UiPath Inc. and Active Media Thailand.

Canon will also host a dedicated solutions showcase designed to demonstrate how businesses can build smart workplaces on the frontier of Thailand’s burgeoning AI economy. These solutions include:

  • imageFORCE: Canon’s intelligent multi-function device (MFD) series that enables seamless, flexible connectivity to cloud repositories and business solutions, making it easy for enterprises to access, share and manage documents anytime, anywhere.
  • uniFLOW Online: A scalable and secure print and scan cloud-based solution that allows enterprises to centralise cost management and reporting. It supports secure printing and scanning, simplifies administration and enhances productivity.
  • Therefore™ Online: An AI-powered, cloud-based information management solution that empowers enterprises to automate data extraction and streamline manual processes, boosting productivity and security, while minimising human errors.

“As Thailand forges ahead on its digital transformation journey, we will continue to see tremendous potential for AI and cloud technology adoption across key sectors such as manufacturing, insurance and logistics,” said Pongsaporn Krobsanit, Assistant Director, Business Imaging Solutions, Canon Marketing Thailand. “With strong government support, Thailand is uniquely positioned to set the regional benchmark in digital innovation. Through Think Big Bangkok 2025, Canon is committed to equipping business leaders with scalable solutions that harness automation, AI and cloud technologies to catalyse this shift, delivering efficiency, resilience, and sustainable growth in the years ahead.”

For more information on Think Big Bangkok 2025, please visit: https://bcbs.asia.canon/discover/events/think-big/the-future-of-smart-work-ai-cloud-beyond/

About Think Big Leadership Business Series
The Think Big Leadership Business Series, an initiative by Canon, is designed to inspire and empower business leaders with forward-looking strategies and actionable insights. First launched in Singapore in 2010, the platform helps organisations navigate today’s fast-evolving business landscape by demonstrating how innovation and technology can drive sustainable growth.

Hashtag: #Canon

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

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

Oxfam – “Keep Up the Good Work” – Oxfam Aotearoa Calls on Government to Renew Climate Finance Commitment

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Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

As world leaders prepare to gather for global climate talks, Oxfam Aotearoa has launched a new report showing the positive difference that climate funding from New Zealand has made since the support was boosted from 2022.’
Oxfam in the Pacific’s Climate Justice Lead, Lote Rusaqoli, said:
“Aotearoa New Zealand has long been a leader on the global climate stage, setting the benchmark for other wealthy nations by providing all of its climate finance as grants and not loans – a move that has been incredibly beneficial for Pacific Islanders who continue to feel the worst of the climate crisis. As we approach 2026, we urge Aotearoa New Zealand to renew their climate finance commitments to help boost the Pacific’s resilience to disasters, tackle poverty, and reinforce its leadership on climate justice.”
Oxfam Aotearoa Executive Director, Jason Myers, said:
“In 2021, the New Zealand government announced its biggest climate finance contribution to date. This has enabled communities all over the Pacific to maintain resilience in the face of the climate crisis. With no further funding for climate finance announced in the 2024 or 2025 budgets, critical projects have had to begin closing out. Keeping our promise to fund climate action has become urgent and the New Zealand government must act now to renew funding. Pacific livelihoods depend on it.”
Report author, Oxfam Aotearoa’s Climate Justice Lead, Nick Henry, said:
“New Zealand’s funding for climate action has benefited tens of thousands of people across the Pacific, but runs out at the end of next month. Our message to Government is simple: we need to keep up the good work.
New Zealand must keep our promise to help our Pacific neighbours, who have done nothing to cause the climate crisis, but are already feeling the worst of the effects.
Our report shows how New Zealand’s climate funding has generated enormous goodwill and positive relationships with governments and communities in the Pacific and beyond. If we continue the trend of ramping up funding for climate action, New Zealand could be on track to meet our fair share of the assistance promised to lower-income countries, including here in the Pacific.”
  • Full report: Pacific Resilience: How funding for climate action strengthens our region link
  • The report includes new calculations, based on data published by MFAT, showing that New Zealand’s climate finance programme has exceeded its targets to deliver the majority of funding in the Pacific, with at least 50% supporting adaptation to climate change. The report analyses New Zealand’s climate finance since 2022 and shows that:
    • 59% of programme has been delivered in the Pacific.
    • 87% supports adaptation.
    • 57% has a significant gender-equality component.

MIL OSI

Fast-track approval for Drury Metro Centre

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Source: New Zealand Government

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has welcomed the Fast-track approval of a major metropolitan development project in Auckland.

Kiwi Property Holdings lodged an application in April 2025 for the 53-hectare Drury Metropolitan Centre development in South Auckland, which has now been approved by an expert panel.

The Drury Metropolitan Centre project includes developing land for future residential use and a mixed-use centre, including approximately 10,000 m² of commercial space, 56,000 m² of retail, and 2,000 m² for community activities.

“The development is projected to inject over $1.45 billion into Auckland’s economy over the next 11 years and is expected to deliver around 3,420 full-time direct employment roles in construction and related services,” Mr Bishop says.

“This is great news for jobs and growth in this fast-growing part of Auckland. The government is investing heavily into Drury and the surrounding area through new train stations at Drury, Ngākoroa, Paerātā, and electrification of the rail line to Pukekohe. 

“Major roading projects in the area include the Papakura to Drury project, including additional lanes on SH1, wide shoulders for future bus services, and extensive interchange improvements at Drury. We are also delivering upgrades to Waihoehoe Road and the SH22 Drury Corridor to enable better access to the new train stations and support long-term growth and housing in the area.

“The government welcomes this investment into this important part of the Golden Triangle’s future prosperity.” 

“The Drury Metropolitan Centre is the fifth project to receive Fast Track approval this year, following the Maitahi Village development in Nelson, the Milldale Development in Auckland, the Port of Auckland expansion and the reconsenting of the Tekapo A and B hydro scheme announced earlier this week.

“Fast track is delivering – it’s helping address our infrastructure deficit, it’s boosting housing supply, and it will create jobs and growth into the future.” 

“The Fast-track Approvals Amendment Bill, which has its first reading in Parliament yesterday, will further speed up projects going through the approvals system and improve the efficiency of the Act.”

For more information about the project: Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2

Notes to editor: 

  • Kiwi Property Holdings No. 2 Limited lodged a substantive application for the project on 4 April 2025.
  • The panel was appointed by associate panel convener and commenced on 30 July 2025.
  • The draft decision was issued by the panel on 21 October 2025.
  • Panels make the decisions to approve or refuse consents and whether to impose conditions.
  • Pukekohe rail electrification was completed and opened for passengers in February 2025.
  • Drury and Paerātā stations are expected to be operational in 2026, Ngākōroa station in 2027.
  • The Papakura to Drury project is being delivered in stages. Stage 1A began in April 2021 and was completed in August 2024. Stage 1B began in November 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2030. More information here: https://nzta.govt.nz/projects/south-auckland-projects/sh1-papakura-to-bombay
  • The SH22 Drury and Waihoehoe Road upgrades are due to begin this year.

Fast-track projects to date: 

The Fast-track Approvals Act contains a list of 149 projects which, from 7 February, have been able to apply for consideration by an expert panel. 

Projects not listed in the Act can also apply for referral into the Fast-track process. 

Project approved by expert panels: 

  • Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]
  • Maitahi Village [Housing]
  • Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing]
  • Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable energy]
  • Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stage 1 and Stage 2 [Housing] 

Expert panels have been appointed for:  

  • Sunfield Masterplanned Community
  • Waihi North
  • Kings Quarry Expansion – Stage 2
  • Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block
  • Taranaki VTM Project
  • Ryans Road Industrial Development
  • Rangitoopuni
  • Homestead Bay
  • Stella Passage Development 
  • Pound Road Industrial Development
  • Green Steel
  • Arataki project
  • Ashbourne 
  • Takitimu North Link – Stage 2
  • Ayrburn Screen Hub
  • Southland Wind Farm
  • Waitaha Hydro 

 

Projects currently being assessed prior to panel appointment  

  • Haldon Solar
  • Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project
  • Kaimai Hydro-Electic Power Scheme
  • The Point Solar Farm 

 

20 projects have now been referred into the Fast-track process by the Minister for Infrastructure 

MIL OSI

Climate News – October Climate Summary: wind, wind and more wind – Earth Sciences NZ

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Source: Earth Sciences New Zealand

The October Climate Summary is out
Highlights:
– A sudden stratospheric warming over Antarctica drove much of October’s weather
– it was a wet and unsettled month, with several severe gale wind events (including one particularly damaging storm on 23 October)
– Milford Sound, known for its wet weather, recorded its second highest October rainfall ever
– Multiple temperature records broken, including the second highest ever October temperature of 32.5°C, recorded at Kaikōura (Middle Creek)
– Conditions transitioned to La Niña.

MIL OSI

Business – EMA honours Alexander Topp with 2025 Patrick Seaman Award for Excellence in Health and Safety

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Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) is proud to announce that Alexander Topp, Health and Safety Manager at Briscoe Group, has been awarded the prestigious Patrick Seaman Award for Excellence in Health and Safety.
The award was presented at a recent event celebrating a major milestone of 100 graduates of the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management Level 6.
According to Nick Sheppard, EMA’s Head of Learning & Development, Alexander was recognised for his exceptional commitment to the Diploma programme.
“Alex’s work set a new standard for excellence in the course. He didn’t just complete the assessments, he produced some of the most impressive submissions since the Diploma course was first established, combining practical application with real depth of understanding.”
About the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management Level 6
Since its registration at Level 6 in 2018, the EMA’s NZ Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management has built a strong network of health and safety professionals across multiple industries throughout New Zealand. This year marks a significant milestone, with 100 graduates who have benefited from the programme’s unique approach to practical, workplace-focused learning.
The Diploma remains the only face-to-face Level 6 training course for health and safety professionals in New Zealand, offering participants peer relationships with senior practitioners nationwide and exposure to international best practice. The in-person learning fosters deeper engagement and leads to real-world impact, ultimately improving outcomes across organisations and contributing to better health and safety results for New Zealand.
About the Patrick Seaman Award for Excellence in Health and Safety
The Patrick Seaman Award for Excellence in Health and Safety is a prestigious recognition presented by the EMA to an outstanding student of the New Zealand Diploma in Workplace Health and Safety Management Level 6.
Established in honour of the late Patrick Seaman, a respected figure in New Zealand’s health and safety community and a long-standing contributor to the EMA’s learning programmes, the award celebrates excellence, dedication and impact in the field of workplace health and safety. Patrick’s legacy of leadership and influence continues through this award, which was created with the blessing of his family and first introduced in 2016.
The award recognises learners who demonstrate exceptional commitment, capability and contribution to health and safety practice, often going above and beyond the requirements of the Diploma. While academic excellence may be a factor, the award also honours those who exemplify the practical application of health and safety principles in their workplaces and communities.

MIL OSI

Local News – Porirua’s ChoctoberFest a sweet boost for local economy

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Source: Porirua City Council

ChoctoberFest is once more in the rearview mirror, having poured more than $200,000 into Porirua’s economy.
With the festival complete for the year, businesses have crunched their numbers and reported back on the positive impact of the event. The decision to hold the Whittaker’s-backed festival in the recent school holidays proved a success, with businesses noting a significant increase in foot traffic and sales compared with the previous three outings. Many reported new customers as a result of the month-long event.
After a public vote, Sushil’s Musclechef Café’s (Aotea) Molten Embrace took out the bake off, while The Jetty’s (Plimmerton) Nutty Blend won the drink section.
The Jetty’s Angela Bendall said their victory was the result of creativity and teamwork.
“Between The Jetty and our other café, Get Fixed, we’re passionate about crafting experiences that make people smile and want to come back time and again,” she said.
Sushil Ravikumar, executive chef and owner of Sushil’s Musclechef, meanwhile, said ChoctoberFest was huge for his business.
“We welcomed a lot of new customers from outside the region too,” he said.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker said ChoctoberFest’s dual goals of supporting local businesses and showing off the artistry and innovation in our community had easily been met.
“ChoctoberFest has a now well-embedded recipe for success and it showed off how Porirua can be a destination for hospitality, as well as being the home of Whittaker’s of course.
“I congratulate not only our winners and place-getters, but everyone who took part and showed so much imagination in the drinks and baking. I can’t wait to see what everyone comes up with in 2026!”
Whittaker’s chief executive James Ardern said having the opportunity to engage with local businesses in the city where Whittaker’s chocolate is made was fantastic.
“Our team were also delighted to have over 300 Chocolate Lovers visit our pop-up at local food hub Kai Tahi on 26 September. We love the fact that ChoctoberFest just keeps growing because the community is so passionate about celebrating Porirua as the home of world class chocolate.”
By the numbers:
  • Participating businesses: 32
  • Drinks on offer: 28
  • Bakes on offer: 18
  • Drinks sold: 11,906
  • Bakes sold: 5652
  • Total spent on ChoctoberFest items alone: $201,909
  • 4901 people rated what they tasted and were in to win a Whittaker’s factory tour
  • Votes came from all over the Wellington region, Wanganui, New Plymouth, Manawatu, Hawke’s Bay, Auckland, Christchurch and Australia
The top three in each category:
Whittaker’s Bake Off
  • Winner – Sushil’s Musclechef Café | Molten Embrace
  • Second – Sweet & Co | Triple Chocolate Pistachio NYC Cookie
  • Third – Black Beauty Caravan | Raspberry Rhapsody Brownie
Top of the Chocs
  • Winner – The Jetty|Jetty’s Nutty Blend
  • Second – The Coffee Cart Elsdon|Chocolate Cold Foam Cloud
  • Third – The Regal Shortbread Co.|Hok-ye & pok-ye.

MIL OSI