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Crucial Penlink detour road repaired and strengthened

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Source: Auckland Council

Repairs to a major storm-related slip on Duck Creek Road, a crucial access road during the construction of O Mahurangi – Penlink, the new seven-kilometre highway between Whangaparaoa Road and State Highway 1, are complete.

“Last year Duck Creek Road began slumping at the site of an under slip on a corner near the northern side of the road, which was a worry because this local road is the only link to Stillwater from East Coast Bays Road,” said Alan Wallace, Auckland Transport’s GM Road Asset Maintenance & Renewals.

“While the road usually caters for around 2000 vehicle movements per day, the additional trucks carrying materials and machinery for the Penlink project put the road under extra stress. It was also crucial to fix the slip fast while widening the road and accommodating through-traffic during the on-site construction.”

“The urgency of this project was paramount, as further slips could have cut community access and disrupted the Penlink build.”

AT contractors, Fulton Hogan team, built three retaining walls (two long and one short), installed improved drainage facilities, made improvements to driveway entrances and laid new pavement.

They did this by working on one side of the road then switching to the other, in tandem with Vector retaining a power pole on top of the southern bank – at one stage the pole was held by a 55 tonne crane while works could proceed below it.

Early this year road pavement works was laid, a guard rail installed and landscaping completed before the road was fully opened on 7 February.

AT and Fulton Hogan would like to thank the residents of Duck Creek Road, their neighbours and visitors to the area, and the Penlink contractors, for their patience during this project.

“I am really pleased with the completed roadworks, including our driveway. It’s much easier to get out now it’s all finished and the stretch of road looks amazing. Thank you for keeping us updated during construction, it wouldn’t have been easy!” – Karen.

MIL OSI

Northland Regional Council news briefs 17/02/25

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Source: Northland Regional Council

Coastal Conversations
Coastal Conversations events will be held around Whangārei district during Seaweek for coastal communities to discuss coastal issues, ask questions, connect with others, and hear from experts in coastal processes and hazards.
There will be a mixture of formal presentations and a chance to mingle, chat, and check out displays from local groups, schools, regional and district councils, and organisations such as Civil Defence, CoastCare, Coastal Restoration Trust and Seaweek.
Ruakākā Recreation Complex Monday 03 March, Waipū Celtic Barn Tuesday 04 March, Whananaki Beach Hall Thursday 06 March, Ngunguru Sports and Recreation Club Friday 07 March.
Bridge extension project will close Quarry Road temporarily
A detour will be in place for 10 weeks from Monday 3 March as Northland Regional Council begins an important bridge extension project that will close Quarry Road in Kaitāia.
The detour will be along Donald Road. All motorists travelling to the airport will need to travel through Kaitāia and follow the detour. The detour is approximately the same distance from Kaitaia to the airport and includes 3km of gravel road on Quarry Road.
Travellers going to the airport from the North and East coast will need to allow extra travel time to travel to Kaitāia first.
Funding for the $1.3 million upgrade – which is part of the regional council’s wider multimillion dollar Awanui Flood Scheme upgrade – comes from the Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund for consented priority flood resilience projects that will protect land and assets during severe weather.
The work will fix a ‘pinch point’ in the flood scheme and will take place in two phases. The first section of the work will allow for earthworks underneath a proposed 15-metre extension of the bridge – which will open an additional 12-metre span – and support the wider Awanui River Flood Protection Scheme.
The extra span on the bridge will reduce the risk of flooding to surrounding houses and Awanui township
A second section of work will involve construction of the bridge extension and associated works.
Regional pest plan review
Time is running out to take part in initial public feedback on how invasive plants and animals are managed in Te Taitokerau as part of a review of the Northland Regional Pest and Marine Pathway Management Plan.
Since November last year the council has been running a period of early engagement talking to hapū, iwi, kaitiaki, pest control groups and other interested people and organisations, to help inform development of a new pest plan
The pest plan is all about how pests can be best managed in Te Taitokerau, to protect te ao tūroa (our natural world), the wellbeing of whānau and communities, and our economy.

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Events – Marlborough Sounds Marinas Set for Auckland Boat Show 2025

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Source: Port Marlborough

The team from Marlborough Sounds Marinas will be showcasing the best of New Zealand’s world-class boating facilities at the Auckland Boat Show, 6-9 March 2025.
Marlborough Sounds Marinas leads the way in sustainable marina operations, as the only marina network in New Zealand accredited under the International Clean Marina programme.
As New Zealand’s largest marina operator with marinas at Picton, Havelock and Waikawa at the top of the South Island, the team is looking forward to connecting with customers and boaties, sharing insights on berthage opportunities, and celebrating the reputation of the Marlborough Sounds as one of the most enjoyable boating destinations in the country. Located in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, the marinas accommodate over 2,000 permanent vessels, along with many more visiting boats. Their three marinas include the recently opened Waikawa North West Marina in Queen Charlotte Sound.
The team will have information and resources to hand showing available facilities, boating information about the Sounds, and displaying the products and services provided in their marinas, including the superyacht-ready, recently accredited facilities at Picton Marina.
Visitors to the stand will have the chance to go in the draw for some fantastic prizes.
The Auckland Boat Show is the perfect opportunity to meet the team, explore options for boating in this unique area, and discover why Marlborough Sounds Marinas continues to attract local and international boaties to the beautiful Marlborough region.  Meet the team on stand 111 in the ground floor pavilion at the Auckland Boat Show, March 6-9th 2025.

MIL OSI

Education – Minister’s view not the experience of schools, say principals

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Source: NZ Principals Federation

The New Zealand Principals’ Federation (NZPF) President, Leanne Otene, has expressed her surprise at the recent pronouncements of the Minister of Education, on the Q and A Show, that the roll out of the new curriculum in Literacy and Mathematics is going magnificently well.
“Other than Cambridge Intermediate School, I am not sure which schools the Minister is visiting, but this is not the feedback I am receiving as President of the Principals’ Federation,” she said.
“I am hearing from schools that the year by year mathematics curriculum is not working at all well – especially in Intermediate schools – who have received only year 7 and 8 resources, yet have children up to two or even three years below that level and some children exceeding their level,” she said.
“We have been very clear for many years now that our learners do not arrive at school all the same. They arrive at school with a broad range of readiness for formal learning, and about 30% will need some form of learning support. Conversely, there are children who exceed their year level. That is why we have always opposed a year by year curriculum,” said Otene, “because it sets up an expectation that every child is exactly at their year level, which is simply not true,” she said.
Otene was also less optimistic than the Minister about the roll out of the professional learning for teachers and principals, and said trying to change two major areas of the curriculum at once was not the best way to design curriculum change.
“We are pleased that the Minister has offered free professional learning in Mathematics and Literacy for our principals and teachers,” said Otene, “however we have received varying feedback on the quality of professional learning on offer, because it is a ‘one-size-fits-all approach’”, she said.
“We know that schools are at different stages of development, with some having adopted structured literacy, for example, several years ago and some are well familiar with the mathematics resources. Other schools have no experience of either structured literacy or structured mathematics,” she said.
“NZPF called for a slowdown of the curriculum change, asking for one subject at a time,” she said, ” so that teachers and principals could be fully trained and feel confident and competent to implement the changes,” she said.
“If we are to be successful, then it is critical that we also inject substantial resources into learning support,” said Otene. “Successive governments have failed to adequately address learning support, and we have seen no improvements with the present government,” she said.

MIL OSI

YSH Farm Unveils New Brand: Original Tiong Bahru

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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/
https://www.instagram.com/yshfarm/#

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

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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

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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

MIL OSI

It’s raining, its pouring. Top of the South drivers, heed the weather warnings.

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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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

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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.

MIL OSI

Serious crash: SH 39, Otorohanga, Waikato

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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.

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