Events – Marlborough Sounds Marinas Set for Auckland Boat Show 2025
Source: Port Marlborough
Education – Minister’s view not the experience of schools, say principals
Source: NZ Principals Federation
YSH Farm Unveils New Brand: Original Tiong Bahru
Source: Media Outreach
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – YSH Farm, a third-generation Singaporean farm renowned for its premium-quality ducks since 1976, proudly announces the launch of its new brand, Original Tiong Bahru.This Chinese New Year, the brand pays homage to Singapore’s culinary heritage by reviving traditional recipes that date back to the 1930s.
YSH Farm roasted pig and specialties
Inspiration Behind Original Tiong Bahru
The name “Original Tiong Bahru” reflects the brand’s deep connection to Singapore’s rich food culture. YSH Farm has long supplied its heritage recipes to famous stalls in Tiong Bahru. By preserving these original tastes, the brand seeks to provide a culinary bridge between the past and the present.
“We want the younger generation to experience the flavours of old-school Singapore while honouring the traditions that have shaped our culinary identity,” said Ying Xin, B2C brand manager from YSH Farm.
The recipes showcased under Original Tiong Bahru have been carefully curated to preserve the culinary traditions passed down through generations. These heritage dishes are not just food but a celebration of the stories and values that have shaped Singapore’s food culture.
A Unique Offering in the Market
Original Tiong Bahru distinguishes itself with its focus on specialty products, including signature dishes such as Roasted Duck and Suckling Pig. These premium pork and duck meat recipes have been specially reserved for the brand to create an authentic and exclusive dining experience for customers.
In addition to these staples, the brand will feature a limited-time goose offering for Chinese New Year. This rare delicacy, prepared by a master chef with over 50 years of expertise, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and tradition.
Exclusively Online Availability
Original Tiong Bahru’s products will be available exclusively online. Customers will gain convenient access to these heritage dishes. The Goose Offering, in particular, will be available for a limited time and in limited quantities. Customers are encouraged to place their orders early to secure this delicacy before it’s gone.
Future Plans
While YSH Farm is not focused on rapid expansion, the fresh poultry and frozen meat supplier in Singapore envisions introducing more specialty products under the Original Tiong Bahru brand.
“Our goal is not growth for the sake of growth but to ensure that people value these heritage products,” as revealed by Mr Chew, product manager of YSH Farm. “We hope these offerings can be appreciated for their cultural significance.”
With the launch of Original Tiong Bahru, YSH Farm continues its mission to connect the past with the present through food.
https://www.yshfarm.com.sg/
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Hashtag: #yshfarm
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
Apple Storage Celebrates 20th Anniversary Five New Branches Opened in the First Quarter Offering Rent-Free Periods to All Customers
Source: Media Outreach
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Apple Storage, Apple Storage Group (the group) is not only preparing for large-scale celebration activities this year, but also vigorously expanding its branch network at the beginning of 2025. In the first quarter, five new branches will be opened, and for the first time that the group has entered Kennedy Town and North Point. The group will also celebrate with Hong Kong citizens, offering rent-free periods for all to immediately increase living space at home!
Accelerated Development, Expanding Branch Network
This year, the group has added five new branches in Kennedy Town, North Point, Wong Chuk Hang, Kwun Tong, and San Po Kong, four of which are already in operation. Moreover, Apple Storage has over 120 branches in Hong Kong now, serving more than 100,000 customers. The group aims to surpass 180 branches throughout Hong Kong within three years.
Fifth-Generation Branches with Fully Upgraded Environment
Apple Storage has always led industry to progress together and improve the branch environment, differentiating itself from typical industrial storage. Entering its 20th year of operation, the group has launched new branches with fifth-generation design. The branches are fully equipped with intelligent sensor lights and facial recognition systems, utilizing smart technology to enhance the storage experience. With a fresh branch design, customers will have a brand-new impression.
Twenty Years of Grouping Management with Safety and Compliance
The group is committed to promoting the importance of storage safety in the industry and complying with the safety standards and regulations of government departments. Branches under the group have successively obtained safety certificates from the Fire Services Department and the Buildings Department. The group will also constantly cooperate with government departments to optimize branch safety facilities, making it the storage brand with the most branches that have “passed the inspections of the Fire Services Department and the Buildings Department” in Hong Kong.
Introducing the Latest Technology for Electronic Management
The group invests heavily in intelligent technology every year to revitalize the storage business. Recently, it collaborated with Wonder, a well-known local payment platform provider, to develop a digital payment and financial management platform tailored for storage. It has been used in all branches since this year, integrating different payment methods and order processing workflows to provide customers with more electronic payment channel choices while optimizing daily paperwork at the branches. This year, AI will be introduced to analyze customer data and provide more thoughtful storage services.
Celebrating the 20th Anniversary with Abundant Discounts
As Apple Storage reaches its 20-year milestone, the group is preparing to hold a series of celebration activities. In addition to rewarding employees, it is also planning large-scale citywide events to celebrate with the public, including offering rent-free periods for storage, free transportation, rental cash vouchers, etc. Long-term supportive customers will also be invited to participate in the celebration. Apple Storage is currently launching its 20th-anniversary promotion. Apple Storage offers 4-months rent-free period and free transportation to new customers, providing a one-stop solution to storage problems.
Looking Back on Twenty Years, Never Forgetting the Original Intention
Over the past twenty years, we have experienced the ups and downs of Hong Kong’s economy and witnessed tremendous changes in society. When faced with unprecedented challenges and difficulties, Apple Storage Group has always adhered to its customer-centric approach, continuously improving service quality, perfecting storage facilities, actively introducing advanced management technologies and security equipment, and enhancing the overall quality of storage design and leisure spaces to provide customers with safe, convenient, and reliable storage services. We have always stayed true to our original intention and are committed to providing customers with high-quality products and services.
Hashtag: #AppleStorage
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
New Waikato Regional Renal Centre officially opens
Source: Waikato District Health Board
Kuini Nga wai hono i te po cuts the ribbon supported by Hon Tama Ponaki
Te Pureoranga – Waikato Regional Renal Centre was officially opened today (Sunday 16 February) with a ceremony at Waikato Hospital, attended by representatives from Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, Members of Parliament, and the Māori Queen, Kuini Nga wai hono i te po.
Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, alongside the Hon Tama Potaka, officially opened the facility, cutting a ribbon and unveiling a plaque.
Local iwi Te Haa o te Whenua o Kirikiriroa, played a key role in the co-design of the new facility and gifted the name Te Pureoranga to the centre. The name reflects the purpose of the renal services: helping patients and their whānau access life-saving care, with the aspiration of achieving purification and restoration of physical and spiritual wellbeing.
Improving health infrastructure is a priority for Health New Zealand to ensure better access to timely, quality healthcare closer to home.
Executive Director Health NZ Reset Programme, Chris Lowry highlighted the significance of the new centre, acknowledging the contributions of those involved in its design and construction.
“Te Pureoranga gives us a purpose-built facility for renal patients and a long-term home that brings all renal services together as the central service for the Te Manawa Taki region,” she said.
The new facility provides 53 dialysis chairs (43 for hospital-based treatment and 10 for home-training patients). It also includes a whānau room, along with additional clinic and education spaces.
Dr Andrew Henderson, Health NZ Medical Director for Cancer and Chronic Conditions for Waikato, expressed pride in the new centre, noting its importance to patients and staff.
“This facility is a testament to our commitment to renal patients, who often face lifelong conditions.
“To my knowledge this is the largest integrated renal service building in Australasia, and having all our healthcare professionals – nurses, dietitians, social workers, podiatrists, psychologists and more – under one roof will make a significant difference in providing comprehensive, coordinated care.”
The new centre has been built to modern standards – achieving a Greenstar 5 rating and is fitted out with the latest clinical technology and equipment.
Te Pureoranga – Waikato Regional Renal Centre opened for patients on Monday 6 January 2025.
Currently, the renal service, located on the Waiora Waikato Hospital campus, takes care of over 900 patients across the Te Manawa Taki region.
Te Pureoranga was the first stage of a wider building programme, which includes a new adult acute mental health inpatient facility. The old Waikato Regional Renal Centre was located on the site where the new mental health facility is being built.
(left to right) Tumuaki Hone Thompson, Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, Charge Nurse Manager Nicky Hagan, Hon Tama Potaka
L-R Acting Director of Cancer and Chronic Conditions Gabby Reynolds, Head of Department Renal Dr Kannaiyan Rabindranath., Michelle Sutherland, Group Director Operations Hospital and Specialist Services – Waikato Shephanie Doe, Executive Director Health NZ Reset Programme Chris Lowry, Chief of Tikanga, Hauora Māori Services Mahaki Albert, Medical Director Cancer, Chronic Conditions and Radiology Dr Andrew Henderson, Charge Nurse Manager Renal Nicky Hagan
Te Pure Oranga – Waikato Regional Renal Centre official opening
It’s raining, its pouring. Top of the South drivers, heed the weather warnings.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
| NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi
Drivers in the top of the South Island are urged to keep a close eye in weather and road conditions tonight.
The Metservice has issued a Heavy Rain Warning for the Tasman ranges west of Motueka, with heavy rain forecast for 10 hours from 9 pm tonight. This will affect State Highway 60 in Tākaka and Golden Bay.
A Heavy Rain Watch is also in force overnight for the Bryant and Richmond Ranges, including the Rai Valley. This will affect State Highway 6 between Nelson and Canvastown, and also State Highway 63 through the Wairau Valley.
Drivers must be prepared for wet weather driving and take extra care on the roads. Wet roads are slippery so road users should drive to the conditions – reduce speed, increase following distances, and avoid sudden braking.
Bad weather can also see roads closed at short notice. Drivers are encouraged to check road and weather conditions before they travel.
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New programme to grow manufacturing workforce
Source: New Zealand Government
A new pilot programme connecting high school students with New Zealand manufacturers has launched, Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk has announced.
“Manufacturing is a powerful economic player, contributing about 8.4 percent of New Zealand’s GDP and employing 10 percent of our workforce – but businesses are telling us skill shortages are curbing productivity,” Mr Penk says.
“Manufacturing can supercharge our economic growth and strengthen our competitive edge on the world stage, if the sector is given the right support to thrive and increase its exports.
“That’s why our Government has teamed up with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa to establish an ‘earn as you learn’ pilot in Waikato. This offers high school students hands-on experience with local manufacturers, while earning a qualification and a paycheque.
“Students will spend two days in the classroom, three days working each week with a manufacturing business and leave with an NZ Certificate in Manufacturing Level 3.
“It’s fantastic to see educators and industry leaders, supported by government, coming together to tackle practical challenges businesses are facing, and providing young Kiwis with the opportunity to forge a pathway into a rewarding career.
“This pilot is just one part of a broader partnership with Advancing Manufacturing Aotearoa, focused on supporting the sector to grow, innovate and foster new talent.
“I’m excited to follow the journeys of these students as they help shape the future of New Zealand manufacturing.”
Note to editors:
- The pilot will run for the duration of the 2025 Secondary School / Polytech year.
Serious crash: SH 39, Otorohanga, Waikato
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police can advise a serious crash has closed both lanes on SH39, Ormsby Road near Puketotara.
A crash has occurred between a truck and caravan at around 11.20am.
Emergency services are responding to the scene and the road is completely closed and will be for some time.
Two people have serious injuries and are being transported to hospital.
Motorists are advised to avoid SH39 if possible and expect delays in the area.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Milestone reached for Takitimu North Link Stage 1 Road of National Significance
Source: New Zealand Government
Construction of Takitimu North Link Stage 1, a new four lane expressway connecting Tauranga and Te Puna, has passed the halfway point, which is great news for economic growth and productivity in the western Bay of Plenty, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.
“This is a huge undertaking, with two thousand people having worked on the project to date and 1,500,000m3 of earthworks moved so far”, Mr Bishop says.
“Four of 10 bridges are already completed (Minden Road, Minden Gully off-ramp, Wairoa Road, Cambridge Road) and traffic is using the new bridges at Minden, Wairoa and Cambridge Roads.
“Earthwork crews have now broken under the Cambridge Road and Minden Road bridges, meaning it’s now possible for the project team to ‘drive through’ the full length of the future expressway for the first time.
Eight beams were installed at the Wairoa Awa (River) bridge recently, with 32 of a total of 80 beams now in place, spanning the awa and flood plains. 24 beams have been installed at the SH29/Takitimu Drive Toll Road flyover bridge this summer, with nine left to install in the next two months.
“At SH2/Fifteenth Avenue, crane pads are being built and piling will soon be underway to build the new bridge connection – this is the final structure to get underway on the project.
“In other positive news for local road users, congestion is set to improve between Fifteenth Avenue and Welcome Bay in the near future, with $10.3 million of funding confirmed by the NZTA Board for Tauranga City Council (TCC) to design extra traffic capacity between the Tauranga CBD and the growing suburbs of Welcome Bay, Hairini, Ohauiti and Maungatapu.
“These suburbs house 29,000 people and the local population is set to keep increasing. All these people need to cross the harbour to access services such as high schools, supermarkets and employment.
“This project being led by TCC will help road users get there more quickly, by adding another traffic lane to the bridge by removing the footpath from the main structure, re-locating the path to a lightweight clip-on structure and utilising a dynamic lane system – the first of its kind in the Bay of Plenty. Sections of 15th Avenue will also be widened, adding capacity as a T2 lane.
“It’s all about saving people travel time. By reducing congestion that extends onto the state highway, modelling shows it will save more than 750 vehicle-hours of congestion per day, which is an average of 2-3 minutes of peak travel time saving per vehicle.”
Note to editors:
The Takitimu North Link Stage 1 project is a Road of National Significance supporting economic growth and productivity in the western Bay of Plenty, by providing a reliable, resilient and safe expressway connection between Tauranga and Te Puna.
Tolling was confirmed for the project in December 2024.
Current expected completion date is 2028.
All roads lead to the new Piarere roundabout
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Road users can look forward to a more complete roundabout experience in Piarere, with the final permanent approach road towards Hamilton set to open.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises traffic is planned to be switched onto the new approach on Tuesday 25 February (weather permitting).
Darryl Coalter, Acting Regional Manager – Infrastructure Delivery Waikato/Bay of Plenty says the switch will provide road users a taste of the finished product.
“We’ve received positive feedback about the roundabout so far and we’re confident motorists will enjoy it even more when the final approach road is in action. It’s one step closer to a more efficient and safer intersection.”
The roundabout at the intersection of State Highways 1 and 29 opened to traffic in September 2024 with 2 temporary approach roads in action, while work continued on the 3 permanent approaches. Two of the 3 permanent approach roads (SH1 from Tīrau, and SH29) opened to traffic in December 2024.
No road closures or stop/go are needed for the switch onto the new approach road; however, motorists should prepare for minor delays in the area.
The roundabout will be reduced to a single lane with traffic switched over one direction at a time, starting with the northbound lane first and the southbound lane by late afternoon.
Mr Coalter says the project is on track to be completed in mid-2025, but there is still work to be done.
“Work will continue on the central median and barriers on the Hamilton approach, before the focus shifts to the installation of a centre sculpture, landscaping and planting.
“Prior to the switch, line marking will be undertaken under stop/go overnight from 8pm Monday 24 February until 4am Tuesday morning. Motorists should expect delays of around 10 minutes during this time.”
Mr Coalter thanks motorists for their patience and asks drivers to stick to temporary speed limits and take extra care when travelling through the area while people adjust to the new layout.
“We’re not far from the finish line now and we’re grateful for the support we’ve received from nearby residents and road users during this time.”