First Fast-track housing project gets green light

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September 18, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones have welcomed news that the first housing development has received consent under the Fast-track Approvals Act.

The Maitahi Village housing development in Nelson lodged its application in February 2025 and has now been approved by an independent expert panel.

Minister Bishop says the Maitahi Village development is expected to deliver approximately 180 homes, including 50 Ngāti Koata iwi-led houses, a retirement village with 194 townhouses and 36 in-care units, and a commercial centre.

“The development will provide much-needed housing and commercial infrastructure for the Nelson region.

“It is a significant investment in the future of Nelson and is expected to inject up to $308 million into the local economy.

“The Maitahi Village development is the second project to be approved through the Fast-track one-stop shop following the Port of Auckland wharf extension’s approval last month. I’m pleased to see the system starting to deliver approvals in these key areas to help address our significant infrastructure deficit and increase housing supply.”

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said he was looking forward to more regional housing developments reaching the approval stage, along with other regional projects in the pipeline.

“I’m working with Minister Bishop on legislative changes to speed up the process and get projects under way faster.”

For more information about the project: Maitahi Village | Fast-track website

Notes to editor:

Maitahi Village:

CCKV Maitai Dev Co LP lodged a substantive application for the project on 19 February 2025.
The panel was appointed by panel convener Jane Borthwick and commenced on 12 May 2025.
The draft decision was issued by the panel on 19 August 2025.
The panel’s final decision can be appealed to the High Court on a question of law.
Panels make the decisions to approve or refuse consents and whether to impose conditions.

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.

Expert panels have been appointed for:

Milldale
Sunfield Masterplanned Community
Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stage 1 and Stage 2
Waihi North
Kings Quarry Expansion – Stage 2
Drury Quarry Expansion—Sutton Block
Taranaki VTM Project
Ryans Road Industrial Development
Rangitoopuni
Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents
Homestead Bay
Stella Passage Development
Pound Road Industrial Development project

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

Ashbourne
Auckland Surf Park
Ayrburn Screen Hub
Brymer
Gordonton Country Estate Development
Grampians Solar Project
Southland Wind Farm
The Point Mission Bay
Twizel Solar Project
Waipiro Marina
Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project
Lake Pukaki Hydro Storage and Dam Resilience Works
Southern Link Inland Port

MIL OSI

Fatal crash: Sanson

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police can confirm that one person has died following a serious crash near Sanson this afternoon.

The crash, which involved a ute and a truck, was reported to emergency services about 12pm.

Sadly, the sole occupant of the ute died at the scene. One person also received minor injuries.

State Highway 3 between Sanson and Stewart Road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit carries out a scene examination.

Diversions are in place and motorists should expect delays.

Support is being provided to those involved.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI

Vingroup named to TIME’s ‘World’s Best Companies 2025’ list

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MIL OSI

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September 18, 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2025 – Vingroup, Vietnam’s leading private conglomerate, has been honored as one of the “World’s Best Companies” by TIME magazine. Vingroup is the first and only Vietnamese company to be included on this elite global list, solidifying its reputation and standing on the international stage.

The “World’s Best Companies 2025” ranking, compiled by TIME in collaboration with global data firm Statista, evaluates businesses on three key criteria: Revenue Growth, Employee Satisfaction, and in-depth analysis of Sustainability (ESG).

Vingroup, as the first Vietnamese enterprise to meet the rigorous selection standards, demonstrated a strong performance across all three metrics. With a total score of 77.06, the conglomerate secured the 817th position among the top 1,000 companies worldwide.

In the Revenue Growth category, Vingroup was ranked “Very High”. The Group’s total assets exceeded 958.235 trillion VND as of June 30, 2025. Its consolidated net revenue and after-tax profit for the first half of 2025 reached nearly 130.476 trillion VND and 4.540 trillion VND, respectively, representing a 103% increase in revenue compared to the same period the previous year.

For Employee Satisfaction, Vingroup ranked 894th globally. The Group has cultivated a dynamic work environment that fosters dedication, innovation, and engagement, with a strong emphasis on professional and personal development. Vingroup has consistently topped the “Best Places to Work in Vietnam” lists by independent evaluation organizations.

In the Sustainability category, Vingroup’s significant contributions to societal development, both within Vietnam and on a global scale, distinguished it from many other major international brands. Vingroup has become a model for sustainable economic and social development, particularly through its leadership in the global green mobility revolution.

Madam Le Thuy, Vice Chairwoman of Vingroup and Chairwoman of VinFast, stated: “Being named one of TIME’s ‘World’s Best Companies 2025’ is not only a testament to our tireless efforts but also a recognition of Vingroup’s credibility, transparency, and global standing. This will motivate us to continue our commitment to sustainable growth, fostering a progressive work culture, and making a positive impact on the community and society for a better future for all.”

This recognition follows two consecutive years of accolades for VinFast, a Vingroup subsidiary, which was previously named to TIME’s “100 Most Influential Companies 2024” and “Asia-Pacific’s Best Companies of 2025” lists. In the latter, VinFast was recognized as one of the companies “shaping the region’s position on the global economic map.”

Founded 101 years ago, TIME is a leading global magazine headquartered in New York. With its worldwide presence and deep, objective analysis of political, economic, cultural, and scientific events, TIME holds significant influence in shaping public discourse. Its lists and rankings are widely regarded as authoritative and credible worldwide.

Hashtag: #Vingroup

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

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

Arrest made in Operation Block homicide

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police have made a significant development in an investigation into a murder in Pakuranga Heights more than 13 months ago.

Earlier today, the Operation Block investigation team made an arrest in connection with the murder of 59-year-old Tuipulotu Vi in August 2024.

A search warrant was executed at an address in Franklyne Road, Ōtara, where a 23-year-old man was taken into custody.

Operation Block commenced on 19 August 2024, when Police responded to reports of several gun shots heard on Marvon Downs Avenue at about 6.45am that Monday morning.

Upon arrival, Mr Vi was located inside a vehicle with gunshot wounds, and despite efforts from first responders he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers, Counties Manukau CIB, says Police have spent months piecing together information in relation to this homicide case.

“This male has been charged with being a party to Mr Vi’s murder and will appear in the Manukau District Court this afternoon.

“I want to acknowledge the significant period of time that has passed since this tragic incident, and our thoughts remain with Mr Vi’s family.

“I would also like to acknowledge the investigation team who have remained committed to holding those responsible for Mr Vi’s death to account.”

Detective Inspector Vickers says Police enquiries are continuing and further arrests cannot be ruled out.

“The public will appreciate there are specifics in the investigation we are unable to discuss, however we are following positive lines of enquiry to bring this case to a close.”

Police remind the media and public that suppression orders remain in place with some details relating to this matter, including anything relating to the ongoing investigation.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

State highway summer maintenance underway in Marlborough

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

State Highway 1 south of Picton, the gateway to the South Island, is about to get a summer facelift.

Contractors will be hard at work on the highway between Koromiko and Picton for 3 weeks starting Monday 29 September.

Wayne Oldfield, System Manager Marlborough, says they will rebuild a 770-metre section of the highway near Linden’s Crossing.

“This will be our first major regional project of our summer maintenance season. Work crews will mill out the old road surface and replace both lanes with new asphalt.”

“We are expecting to lay around 6,000 square metres of asphalt. The end result will be a much-improved road surface on a route that carries over 6,000 vehicles every day,” Mr Oldfield says.

Because it is a road rebuild, Mr Oldfield says it will affect traffic.

“For a job of this size, it is unavoidable. However, we always do our best to minimise disruption as much as we can.”

“To ensure we complete this as quickly as possible, road crews will be working weekdays, both day and night, over three weeks,” Mr Oldfield says.

Stop/Go traffic management will be in place, and drivers can expect 10-minute delays while traveling through the work site.

Mr Oldfield says the road rebuild is essential work and will bring long-term benefits.

“Previously, we have been doing ongoing repairs to this section of State Highway 1, but the pavement has reached the end of its life.”

“Doing a long-term fix now means less maintenance and fewer disruptions for drivers in the future,” Mr Oldfield says.

Driver advice

Drivers can expect travel delays of around 10-minutes at the project site. They should factor this into their travel plans and allow extra time for their journeys. This is particularly important for those who have Picton ferry connections.

Please follow all traffic management, temporary speed limits, and instructions from road crews. They are there to keep everyone safe.

Works schedule

Monday 29 September to Friday 17 October. Weekdays, 24 hours.
No work on weekends – 5 & 6 October and 11 &12 October.
Stop/Go traffic management and 30km/h temporary speed limit. Expect 10-minute delays.
A 30 km/h temporary speed limit will be in place outside work hours.
These works are weather-dependent, and schedules may change.

MIL OSI

Waitematā Police make further arrests over Hobsonville incident

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

Waitematā Police have made two further arrests over an altercation that took place in a Hobsonville car park on Tuesday afternoon.

It brings the total number of arrests to three, as a determined investigation quickly locates those allegedly involved.

Police have been investigating since the altercation occurred at around 4.40pm on 16 September.

“During the course of this altercation, a firearm was allegedly discharged in a public car park,” Detective Senior Sergeant Ryan Bunting, of Waitematā West CIB, says.

“Our determination to hold those involved to account has been unwavering. We’ve made excellent progress in just two days.”

Police have executed search warrants at three addresses in West Auckland, seized three vehicles and a number of items of interest in the investigation.

Last night, at around 9.30pm, Police arrested a 25-year-old man which brought the total number of arrests to three.

That man will appear in the Waitākere District Court today on a charge of wounding with intent.

It follows an earlier arrest yesterday morning of a 20-year-old man. He will also be appearing today on a charge of assault with intent to rob and driving without a licence.

“The man who allegedly discharged the firearm appeared in court yesterday and enquiries are ongoing to find anyone else who may have been involved,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunting says.

“We are reassuring members of the community that we take their safety very seriously. Our enquiries are ongoing, and we are not ruling out further arrests.”

ENDS

Nicole Bremner/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Police locate body in search for missing Māngere woman

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

Counties Manukau Police have located a body in the search for a woman missing from Māngere for nearly three months.

Eileen ‘Ella’ Davenport, 57, had been missing from her Hain Avenue home since 20 June 2025.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, of Counties Manukau West CIB, says on 10 September Police located a body in a reserve near Savill Drive.

“Police had been carrying out a search operation as part of ongoing enquiries to locate her,” he says.

“The area being searched consisted of dense scrub and a creek which flows into the Manukau Estuary.”

Police made the discovery with the assistance of a cadaver dog.

“It has taken us some time, but we can confirm that the body has now been formally identified as Ms Davenport,” Detective Senior Sergeant Hayward says.

“Tragically, this brings the search for her to an end, and I know that this is not the outcome any of us wanted.

“She has since been returned to her whānau, and I can confirm her death is not being treated as suspicious.”

Police acknowledge and thank all those who contributed to the search efforts, including members of the public and specialist teams.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Eileen’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Serious crash, SH3, Sanson

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 3, south east of Sanson.

The road is closed between Sanson and Stewart Road.

Motorist should avoid the area if possible and expect delays.

There are thought to be serious injuries and the Serious Crash Unit is in attendance.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI

Police seek information over Far North burglary

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September 18, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

Far North Police are appealing for information about a burglary where multiple firearms and two vehicles were stolen.

An investigation has commenced this week into the burglary at a rural property in the Kaeo area.

Police believe the burglary has occurred between 4-14 September.

Detective Brooke Chambers, of Northland’s Organised Crime and Gang Disruption Unit, says finding the firearms is a top priority.

“Firearms in the hands of the wrong people pose a significant risk to our communities and we would like to return these to the custody of their rightful owner.”

A white 1997 Toyota Landcruiser 70 series “Troopy” and a 1987 Harley Davidson Sportster motorcycle were also stolen.

Detective Chambers says all information, even if it seems insignificant, could assist the ongoing investigation.

“We are appealing to community members who have disturbed strangers on their properties or witnessed any suspicious activity to please come forward.”

Urgent matters should be reported by calling 111.

Police can be updated online now or by calling 105 using the reference number 250915/2151.

Anonymous reports can be made via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111/Operation Garin.

ENDS

Nicole Bremner/NZ Police

MIL OSI

iBoozee Launches Asia’s First Smart Robotic Juice Machines in Singapore

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MIL OSI

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September 18, 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

Award-winning innovation set to deploy 500 units islandwide; transformation of healthy juice-on-the-go for millions

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 September 2025 – iBoozee, an ASEAN Award-winning innovator in the food and beverage technology sector, today marked a new milestone in its expansion with the unveiling of its Smart Robotic Mixed Fruit Juice and Apple Machines in Singapore. Building on over a year in the market, this launch reaffirms iBoozee’s leadership in redefining healthy, on-the-go choices through freshness, innovation, and lifestyle convenience.

iBoozee, the ASEAN award-winning innovator, redefines freshness with its breakthrough Automated Dual Fruit Juice Machine.

The iBoozee vending machines are the first in Asia to feature Dual Fruit Dispensing Technology, allowing customers the experience of enjoying either pure apple juice, orange juice, or a customised mix—all freshly pressed on demand. Each serving contains the equivalent of 3-4 of an apple or orange, with no added sugar, water, or preservatives, making this an excellent lifestyle choice for anyone living in a city with a hectic pace and who yet want the best and freshest to stay fit and sharp.

Healthy Convenience, Powered by Smart Tech
More than just machines, iBoozee deliver:

Robotic Processing Technology: Fruits are washed, cut, squeezed, and served in real time, with a transparent process customers can watch.
Smart IoT Monitoring: Operators receive live data on sales, inventory, and machine performance, ensuring consistent quality and uptime.
Cashless Transactions: Fully integrated with PayNow, NETS, cards, and e- wallets for a seamless, hygienic experience.
Food Safety & Hygiene: Self-cleaning cycles and airtight storage ensure all its fruits are kept fresh, in tip-top condition and safe for consumption.

Says Mr Deric Yeo, Group Chief Operating Officer of iBoozee: “We believe that true wellness shouldn’t be complicated or costly. In the midst of a hectic day, a healthy choice should be the easiest one to make. Hence, we created our Smart Robotic Mixed Fruit and Apple Juice: to offer a drink that is not only refreshing and affordable but genuinely better for you. For the student sprinting to class, the professional powering through an afternoon, or the parent needing a nourishing moment—this is for you. iBoozee is our commitment to making wellness convenient, accessible, and within everyone’s reach.”

With an ambitious goal of deploying 500 units across Singapore by end 2027, iBoozee is truly poised to become the nation’s largest provider of smart robotic juice machines. The initial roll-out of these machines will include high traffic locations to maximise visibility and convenience. Commercial buildings like offices and shopping malls, public transportation hubs and high-impact neighbourhoods like the Central Business District will be the first to enjoy these smart robotic juice machines. iBoozee’s future-ready machines are already present in Malaysia and concrete plans for expansion are in place for key markets like Indonesia and the Philippines.

Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
Beyond healthy living, iBoozee is opening the door to entrepreneurship through licensing opportunities. The model is designed to be accessible for working professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, and retirees, supported by real-time data analytics that optimise machine placement and performance.

“As Singapore embraces cashless convenience and healthier living, iBoozee is setting a new benchmark for the vending industry,” said Mr Yeo. “We are not just offering juice—we are offering an entrepreneurial lifestyle opportunity, where partners can grow with us in this next wave of smart retail.”

Showcasing at Franchise & Licensing Asia 2025
iBoozee will showcase its latest machines at the Franchise & Licensing Asia Expo (Marina Bay Sands, 18–20 September 2025), inviting franchise partners and investors to join its vision of making healthier choices available 24/7 across Singapore.

Hashtag: #iBoozee #JuiceMachines

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

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