This Saturday 20 September, 132 years after women secured the right to vote, thousands of women and allies across the country are taking to the streets to rise up against the Government’s gutting of the pay equity system.
Unions, women’s organisations, and community groups have come together to organise the Women’s Day of Action for Pay Equity, a nationwide celebration of working women whose rights are under attack.
More than 20 events are being held from Whāngarei to Invercargill including marches, rallies, family friendly events, and community gatherings.
“132 years after women secured the right to vote in Aotearoa, we gather again in strength and solidarity,” said NZCTU Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges.
“Government has cancelled pay equity claims that would have eased the cost of living and lifted pay for more than 180,000 people. These are the people who provide the services that make life possible, such as schools, libraries, hospitals, aged care, and disability support.
“On Saturday we will make it clear that pay equity will be a central issue at the next election. No government can dismantle pay equity – we have won it before, and we will win it again.
“This is more than a protest – it is a celebration of the women who nurture, lead, and resist. It honours the suffrage legacy and amplifies our collective power to shape the future,” said Ansell-Bridges.
Details of nationwide events:
Whāngarei
Laurie Hall Park
11.30am
Auckland
AUT to Britomart
11.30am
Thames
Cnr Pollen St & Pahau St
10.30am
Tauranga
Mt Drury Reserve
10.30am
Hamilton
Te Kura Nui O Rototuna High School
11.00am
Whakatāne
The Gap – Whakatane Town Centre
11am
Gisborne
Gladstone Road at the town clock
10.30am
New Plymouth
Puke Ariki Landing
12pm
Napier
Napier Soundshell
11am
Whanganui
Whanganui Market Stall
10am
Palmerston North
Clocktower in the Square
1pm
Levin
Cnr Queen St & Salisbury St
11am
Masterton
Town Hall Square
11.30am
Porirua
Te Rauparaha Arena
10am
Wellington
Midland Park to Parliament, followed by Wellington Cathedral
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2025 – Watsons, AS Watson Group’s flagship health and beauty brand, announces the exclusive launch of “The Watsons Family” – an innovative and vibrant character-driven intellectual property (IP) created to revolutionise customer engagement across Asia. This creative initiative introduces 16 unique characters, each reflecting different MBTI personality types, to create deeper emotional connections with customers while transforming everyday health and beauty routines into engaging, shareable experiences.
Jared DeGuzman, Customer Director of Brand Marketing, Watsons International, says, “The Watsons Family represents our strategic evolution from traditional retail to experiential retail. By harnessing the power of character-driven storytelling, we’re not just selling products – we’re creating a universe where health and beauty become sources of joy, inspiration, and community connection for our customers across Asia.”
Tapping into the Opportunities of Surging IP Market Growth
Character-driven IPs are rapidly transforming the global market, emerging as a pivotal trend for brands seeking to boost recognition, customer loyalty, and market share. IP-related products in Asia experienced a 448.94% year-over-year increase in gross merchandise value in 2024, with sales and order volumes rising by more than 200% [1]compared to the previous year, underscoring the growing value of creative, emotionally engaging brand experiences.
Recognising this transformational market opportunity and responding to evolving customer expectations across Asia, Watsons will commence The Watsons Family launch in Hong Kong, serving as the strategic launchpad for regional expansion. The initiative will subsequently roll out across Asian markets including Mainland China,Malaysia, TaiwanandThailand. The rollout will be accompanied by dynamic marketing campaigns designed to immerse customers in the lively spirit of the IP.
In Hong Kong, the launch will spotlight 3 flagship characters – Sunny (the wellness champion), Kilo (the energetic fitness coach), and Flora (the glowing facial mask), representing supplement, wellness, and beauty respectively. From 17 September, customers will be welcomed into The Watsons Family universe through a vibrant health campaign. During this period, Watsons stores will be transformed with colourful visuals, immersing shoppers in the playful energy of the characters. The excitement will extend online with exclusive social campaigns designed to deepen engagement across digital platforms. To add an extra layer of delight, a special Meet & Greet event featuring The Watsons Family characters will also be launched.
To integrate The Watsons Family into daily routines, Watsons will launch Own Brand products featuring character-inspired packaging in the markets of Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Thailand. Everyday essentials – from skincare and personal care to body care – will be reimagined with collectible designs, turning routine self-care into a joyful experience.
Watsons is dedicated to making customers LOOK GOOD, DO GOOD, FEEL GREAT and driving innovation. With the launch of The Watsons Family, Watsons aims to build a more engaging and emotionally connected community, empowering every customer to discover joy, confidence, and self-care through vibrant storytelling and creative experiences.
Hashtag: #Watsons
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2025 – As the electric mobility sector gains momentum across Southeast Asia,VinFast Auto Philippines Inc. (VinFast Philippines), a fast-growing electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer; V-Green Charging Station Development Philippines Inc. (V-Green), a pioneer in EV charging infrastructure; and Green and Smart Mobility Philippines Inc. (Green GSM Philippines), operator of the country’s first all-electric taxi fleet,have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with BDO Unibank Inc. (BDO).
Representatives of VinFast, V-Green, Green GSM Philippines, and BDO Bank at the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding between the parties.
The agreement marks the start of a strategic collaboration that will support the three companies’ expansion and operations in the Philippine market, making electric vehicles more accessible to Filipino consumers and businesses. It also signifies a broader push to accelerate the country’s transition toward cleaner energy.
Through this partnership, VinFast Philippines (a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam’s largest conglomerates) will leverage on BDO’s comprehensive suite of financial solutions including cash management, consumer banking, leasing, and insurance services and create tailored financing programs for both retail and corporate customers.
At VinFast, we view sustainable transportation as more than just a technological shift—it’s a commitment to future generations,” said Ms.Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Sales of VinFast.“Partnering with BDO, a trusted and forward-thinking financial institution, allows us to empower Filipinos with greater access to EVs while helping shape a smarter, greener, and more livable urban future.”
The partnership extends beyond vehicles. V-Green has already secured approvals to roll out EV charging stations in four SM Supermalls, with further expansion planned across Alfamart outlets, educational institutions, and other strategic locations within the BDO–SM ecosystem.
“Charging infrastructure is essential for sustainable EV growth,” noted Mr. Nguyen Thanh Duong, CEO of V-Green. “By partnering with BDO, we can fast-track the deployment of convenient and reliable charging solutions that make EV use more practical and scalable across the Philippines.”
Meanwhile, Green GSM Philippines, operator of the country’s first all-electric taxi fleet powered by VinFast vehicles, has integrated with BDO’s digital banking platform since its launch in June 2025 to support its driver onboarding and expansion.
“Our mission is to deliver cleaner, safer, and more transparent public transport,” said Mr. Dao Quy Phi, CEO of Green GSM Philippines.“Our partnership with BDO strengthens our driver support and enables sustainable fleet expansion. It also lays the foundation to help the Philippines in reducing emissions and modernizing urban transportation.”
Charles M. Rodriguez,BDO Unibank’sExecutive Vice President and Head of the Institutional Banking Group shared “Our collaboration with VinFast, V-Green and Green GSM allows us to support the broader adoption of electric vehicles and the development of green infrastructure in the country. By providing the right financial solutions, we are enabling businesses to drive a future-ready transport sector.”
Together, VinFast, V-Green, and Green GSM are building a holistic electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines, spanning from EV distribution to charging infrastructure development and electric taxi operations. With BDO’s financial support and the SM Group’s extensive network, this partnership aims to bring meaningful benefits to Filipinos – through expanded mobility and improved transport systems aligned with the country’s long-term development goals.
Hashtag: #VinFast
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Remutaka Hill Road is closed due to a high wind warning.
The closure of the road is required for safety and won’t be reopened until winds ease.
Motorists are advised to add extra time to their journey, as the alternative routes are State Highway 3 / Te Ahu a Turanga or the Pahiatua Track, which are significantly longer.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand volunteers from Oxford, Fox Glacier, Matatā, and Taihape were presented with their Royal Honours by Governor-General the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro at Government House in Wellington today.
“These four recipients have dedicated years to supporting their communities to become stronger, safer, and more resilient through their roles as volunteers for Fire and Emergency, and through all their other community contributions. It is wonderful to see their efforts recognised today,” Fire and Emergency Board Chair, Rebecca Keoghan, says.
“On behalf of Fire and Emergency and the people of Aotearoa New Zealand, we wish to thank you for your outstanding service – your communities are richer for your work.”
Entering its third year, the event continues to grow, giving Prime members in Singapore early access to savings across thousands of products, from categories such astoys, babies, electronics, and home & kitchen.
Customers can get a head start on their holiday shopping withsome of Amazon’s best deals of the season, with savings on popular brands such as Nerf, Pigeon, Bose, SMEG and Dyson.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 September 2025 – (NASDAQ: AMZN) – Amazon today announced that Amazon Prime Big Deal Days will return to Singapore from 7 – 13 October 2025, giving Prime members exclusive access to deals on thousands of trusted products from top local and international brands across multiple categories including groceries, toys, babies, electronics, and home & kitchen at Amazon.sg/primebigdealdays. Prime members also enjoy free delivery on eligible items including international store. The shopping event comes at the perfect time for those looking to get an early head start on holiday shopping, with deep discounts set to be available on popular brands such as Nerf, Pigeon, Bose, SMEG and Dyson. From popular gifts to everyday essentials, Amazon serves as the ultimate holiday destination where customers can conveniently complete all their seasonal shopping needs.
Sneak Peek: Top Deals on Prime Big Deal Days From 7 – 13 October, spanning 7 days, Prime members can unlock some of the year’s best savings from leading local favourites to global brands, everyday essentials, and small businesses. Here’s a preview of what’s in store*
Up to 50% off on Bioderma
Up to 45% off on SMEG, with additional S$50 off S$300
Up to 40% off on Nerf, Transformers, board games and more
Up to 30% off Bose headphones, earbuds, speakers and more
Up to 30% off on UGREEN chargers, USB cables & more
Up to 30% off Dyson
Buy 4 Get 20% off Magiclean, Biore, Liese
Up to 50%, with additional 3 for 15% off on Dettol, finish and more
Up to 40% off on Pigeon, with additional 3 for 15% off
“Prime Big Deal Days is one of the ways we deliver on our promise to Prime members – combining exclusive savings with the convenience and trust they already enjoy every day with Amazon,” said Peter Li, Director, China & Singapore, International Stores, Amazon. “We know our customers use sale moments to save on essentials, prepare for the holidays, and invest in bigger-ticket items at great value.”
More Ways to Shop and Save:
Join Prime: New prime signups can enjoy a 30-day free trial. Prime renews at S$4.99 per month or S$49.90 per year. Sign up at https://www.amazon.sg/prime
Enjoy convenient Delivery and Return options: Prime members can enjoy fast and free shipping on millions of eligible items across domestic selection, Amazon Fresh as well as Amazon International Store. Need to return an item from US, Japan or Germany? Easy – customers can now experience hassle-free and faster returns, including pick-up from your address or via a drop-off center. More information here.
Amazon Fresh: Free Scheduled Two-Hour Delivery (FST) for Prime members with a minimum spend of $60″ but i’m not sure about this part “available from now until 31 Dec 2025.
Exclusive Prime Member discounts: Exclusive Prime Member discounts: Prime members enjoy up to 10% off on over a million products on Amazon.sg
Amazon.sgGift Cards: Amazon.sg Gift Cards offer an easy, simple, and convenient gifting experience, providing access to an extensive selection of products on Amazon.sg at Amazon.sg/giftcard. Purchase an Amazon.sg Gift Card worth S$200 to receive additional S$15 credit from 23 September till 13 October*
Amazon Vouchers: Discover more ways to save with Amazon Vouchers. Find discounts on everyday essentials, as well as gifts, electronics, beauty, toys, and more. Simply clip the voucher and the discount will be applied at checkout. Visit Amazon.sg/vouchers for information.
*Terms and conditions apply to all promotions listed above.Shop Prime Big Deal Days Globally Prime Big Deal Days will begin on 7 October in Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, the U.S., and the UK, and for the first time, Colombia, Ireland and Mexico.
Every Day Made Better with Amazon Prime Amazon Prime was designed to make your life better every single day. Over 200 million paid members around the world enjoy the many benefits of Prime, including the best of shopping and entertainment. In Singapore, Prime membership offers a range of benefits including a discount of up to 10% on over a million eligible products on Amazon.sg, unlimited access to award-winning movies and TV episodes with Prime Video, unlimited access to video game benefits with Prime Gaming, Prime Day, and more. Prime was built on the foundation of unlimited fast, free shipping. Prime members enjoy access to free one-day delivery on domestic Prime eligible selection on Amazon.sg, free delivery on selected delivery windows for orders of S$60 and above on Amazon Fresh, free 2-hour scheduled delivery for orders of S$60 and above on Watsons and Little Farms on https://www.amazon.sg/prime , as well as early access to deals and exclusive deals. Prime is S$4.99 per month, and S$49.90 per year. Start a 30-day free trial of Prime at Amazon.sg/prime
Hashtag: #AmazonSingapore #PrimeBigDealDaysSG
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
NZ Transport Agency is seeking public feedback on a proposed speed limit change for a section of State Highway 3 (SH3) in Hāwera.
The proposal is to change the speed limit to 60 km/h on SH3 from just north of Kerry Road to just north of Fantham Street.
This 1km section of highway currently has a mix of 70 km/h and 100 km/h speed limits.
NZTA Director of Regional Relationships Linda Stewart says NZTA has been working with South Taranaki District Council.
“This proposed change reflects the area’s ongoing transformation from rural to urban fringe, driven by two decades of growth and development.
“Planned industrial expansion, including the business park near Kerry and Fitzgerald Roads, is expected to further increase traffic volumes and activity along this corridor.
“Lowering the speed limit will support safer and more accessible travel for all road users and aligns with the South Taranaki’s District Council’s Corridor Strategy for SH3 (Normandy to Hāwera). The strategy includes planned upgrades to key intersections, such as new right-turn bays at Kerry Road and Fitzgerald Road,” says Ms Stewart.
Have your say
We want to hear your views on the proposed speed limit change. You can share your feedback by completing a short survey on our website before Wednesday 29 October.
