Govt funding for biodiversity an embarrassment

February 17, 2025

Source: Green Party

The Government’s newly announced funding for biodiversity and tourism of $30-million over three years is a small fraction of what is required for conservation in this country.

“Touting this funding announcement as a win for biodiversity is frankly embarrassing, given the deep cuts made to conservation last year,” says the Green Party spokesperson for Conservation, Marama Davidson.

“We can and must do more to protect biodiversity in our country by adequately funding conservation programmes through comprehensive, government-backed stewardship.

“This new funding is a mere drop in the bucket compared to what the Government’s own officials have told it is required for conservation – it also does very little to make up for the huge shortfalls the Department of Conservation is facing.

“The Department of Conservation manages a third of our country’s land. Officials say that they are $25 million a year short just to maintain their assets, and yet last year they had another $31 million a year cut from its budget by this ideologically driven Government with its relentless push to reduce public spending – regardless of the consequences.

“Unfortunately we have seen this Government repeatedly undermine Aotearoa New Zealand’s conservation priorities in favour of commercial interests, despite full knowledge of the challenge we as a country face to protect our biodiversity.

“Cuts by this Government are dismantling environmental agencies, including the Ministry for the Environment, and the Climate Change Commission, all the while eroding science capability across the public service.

“When the Green Party was last in government, we oversaw the largest funding injection for conservation in over a decade. Let’s fully resource DOC and environmental bodies so future generations can enjoy Te Taiao” says Marama Davidson.

MIL OSI

-30°C Extreme Challenge: JETOUR T2 Conquers the Arctic

MIL OSI

February 17, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – In the Arctic Circle, the JETOUR T2 faces tough challenges, proving its off-road capabilities in extreme cold and harsh terrain.

The Arctic’s rugged geography, with snowfields, mountain roads, ice crevasses, and muddy paths, poses significant risks, such as skidding, imbalance, getting stuck, or flipping over. Snow-filled craters increase the difficulty, easily causing tires to become stuck or leading to rollovers. Equipped with the advanced XWD system and a rear differential lock, the JETOUR T2 handles these icy and snowy terrains effortlessly. Its 6+X driving modes automatically switch to adjust to road conditions, distributing power for optimal traction and ensuring smooth performance without stopping.

The JETOUR T2 delivers power with its 2.0T turbocharged engine and 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Also, the engine boasts a maximum power of 187kW and a maximum torque of 390N·m, ensures high efficiency and stability in temperatures as low as -30ºC. Its approach angle of 28°, departure angle of 30°, and ground clearance of 220 mm enables the JETOUR T2 to easily overcome tough terrains.

No one is born a champion—true strength is forged through relentless trials. With extraordinary capability, the JETOUR T2 has conquered the harsh Arctic, showcasing the exceptional performance of a light off-road SUV.

Hashtag: #JETOUR

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

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

Dusit Thani Kyoto named Four-Star Hotel in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2025 Star Awards

MIL OSI

February 17, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Luxury hotel earns another prestigious accolade for its exceptional service and world-class facilities

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2025 – Dusit Thani Kyoto, a luxury urban oasis operated by Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has built on its recent One Michelin Key recognition by earning a 2025 Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Award—further cementing its reputation as one of Kyoto’s most exceptional hotels.

The Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating is awarded to properties that demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding facilities.

Founded in the United States in 1958, Forbes Travel Guide (formerly known as Mobil Travel Guide) is a globally respected authority in luxury hospitality, renowned for pioneering the five-star rating system in 1960. Its anonymous inspectors evaluate hotels based on more than 900 objective standards, ensuring a trusted benchmark of excellence in the travel industry.

The Four-Star rating is awarded to properties that demonstrate exceptional service and outstanding facilities. Dusit Thani Kyoto earned this distinction through rigorous, undercover assessments by Forbes Travel Guide’s inspectors, who experienced the hotel just as a typical guest would—paying their own way to ensure impartiality.

Opened in September 2023, Dusit Thani Kyoto is set in the peaceful Hongwanji Monzen-machi district, just 850 metres from the city’s bustling Kyoto Station. Operating under Dusit’s luxury Dusit Thani brand, the hotel seamlessly blends Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with Japan’s deep-rooted culture of omotenashi (wholeheartedly looking after guests) and features 147 meticulously designed guest rooms that balance timeless elegance with contemporary comfort.

The hotel also serves as a hub of gourmet dining experiences. Guests can embark on an interactive omakase journey at Kōyō, which showcases Kyoto’s 24 micro-seasons through the finest ingredients. Den Kyoto elevates mixology with handcrafted cocktails infused with Thai herbs, while Ayatana, the hotel’s signature Thai fine-dining restaurant, delivers an exquisite celebration of Thai flavours and culinary artistry. Committed to sustainability, Ayatana sources premium seasonal ingredients from the Kansai region, including fresh herbs and vegetables from Ohara Farm and organic tea leaves from its own tea farm in Wazuka.

Alongside versatile event spaces that accommodate up to 240 guests, the hotel also boasts a signature Devarana Wellness centre, where expert therapists blend ancient Thai massage therapies with traditional Japanese healing rituals, ensuring a truly restorative experience.

“Receiving Forbes Travel Guide’s distinguished Four-Star Award just over a year after our opening is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, heartfelt service, and creating truly memorable experiences for our guests,” said Makoto Yamashita, Cluster General Manager, Dusit Thani Kyoto and ASAI Kyoto Shijo. “Inspired by this accolade and our One Michelin Key status, we remain committed to raising the bar, delivering exceptional service, and ensuring our hotel continues to be a place of warmth, elegance, and meaningful connections for all who visit.”

For more information about the hotel, please visit Dusit Thani Kyoto.

Hashtag: #dusitinternational #dusitthanikyoto

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

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

SDR submission dates

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: Tertiary Education Commission

Last updated 17 February 2025
Last updated 17 February 2025

This page contains the dates for Single Data Return (SDR) and Indicative Enrolment Collection (IND) for 2025.
This page contains the dates for Single Data Return (SDR) and Indicative Enrolment Collection (IND) for 2025.

All tertiary education organisations (TEOs) that receive Delivery at Levels 1–10 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework, including Youth Guarantee (YG), and/or that have students with student loans or allowances, need to complete a SDR three times a year and an IND once a year.
For file names and example files, see SDR resources.

Return date*
Extract date**
SDR description

1–6 March 2025
1 March

March IND

Student, course enrolment and course register files for all learners enrolled in the current year. All valid enrolments, even though some of the students may be entitled to withdraw or change without penalty.

14–29 April 2025
11 April

April SDR

Student, course enrolment and course register files for all learners enrolled in the current year.
Course completion file
Qualification completion file

8–21 August 2025
7 August

August SDR

Student, course enrolment and course register files for all learners enrolled in the current year.
Course completion file
Qualification completion file

1–31 January following year
31 December

December SDR

Student, course enrolment and course register files for all learners enrolled in the current year.
Course completion file
Qualification completion file
Forecast EFTS units for the following year and up to the next three years Workforce questionnaire (WFQ) – Staff return for staff employed over the current year. The WFQ must be uploaded before you submit the December SDR.

* The return date is the date by which you must submit your SDR or IND files to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC).
** The extract date is the reporting date – the date on which data is extracted from your Student Management System (SMS).

Auckland farewell: the Mild Hogs Postie-Bike Challenge for prostate cancer

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: Prostate Cancer Foundation

In a valiant display of spirit (or perhaps a touch of madness) six self-described “Mild Hogs” all on the wrong side of 50 have today survived Northland’s weather on the 1st leg of their Postie-Bike Challenge, a 2500km (Cape Reinga to Bluff) for prostate cancer.

Tomorrow morning they’ll hit the road for leg 2 (Auckland to Te Kuiti), departing from Auckland City Honda where a number of the team’s trusty Honda NBC110 bikes are serviced.

The’ll gather at 09:00 for a warming cuppa and a huge dose of support from Danny, Donna and the team at Auckland City Honda, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation who’ll be there with their Man Van.Mild Hogs Post-Bike Challenge Auckland Farewell

09:00, Tuesday 18 February
Auckland City Honda, 8 Station Road, Penrose, Auckland

Behind this two-wheeled adventure a serious issue – 1 in 8 kiwis will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, it is now the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country and the second leading cause of cancer death in NZ men.

“This is why the Postie-Bike Challenge is so important and why we are very proud and grateful to the Mild Hogs for raising awareness of the disease and vital funds for those affected by it” said Peter Dickens, Chief Executive of Prostate Cancer Foundation NZ.

MIL OSI

$30 million to support conservation tourism

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing $30 million from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy to fund more than a dozen projects to boost biodiversity and the tourist economy, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

“Tourism is a key economic driver, and nature is our biggest draw card for international tourists,” says Mr Potaka.

“Improving tourism infrastructure is good for the economy, and investing in conservation tourism is a win win.

“Around 50 per cent of visitors cite natural landscapes and environment as their primary reason for traveling, and about 50 per cent of international tourists visit national parks.

“While visitor satisfaction remains high, work is needed to ensure Aotearoa New Zealand continues to deliver on its promise to visitors.”

To manage pressures at Aotearoa New Zealand’s most popular visitor sites, the Government is investing $11 million including:

Upgrades to huts, car parks and facilities at Aoraki Mt Cook, Rangitoto Island and Motutapu Island
Safety upgrades to 116 cable structures including suspension and swing bridges
Investment at Goat Island / Te Hāwere a Maki to improve beach access, carparking, and reflect the area’s significant cultural heritage.

“These investments will help deliver a top-notch visitor experience at some of our most popular natural heritage sites.

“Some will complement the Hauraki Gulf Bill that will deliver the highest ever level of environmental protection for this precious moana when it passes later this year.

“New Zealand’s first marine reserve, Goat Island / Te Hāwere a Maki (Cape Rodney – Ōkakari Point), will be 50 years old later this year. It is among the top 10 most visited natural heritage areas with 350,000 visitors per year and has real potential for improved visitor experiences,” says Mr Potaka.

“The benefits this will bring to the shops in Leigh, Matakana, and the surrounding area can be substantial.

“Today’s announcement follows the Government’s launching of a new campaign to gear-up tourism for 2025 by encouraging Australians to pick New Zealand for their next holiday. We are also supporting the continued development of Māori tourism, which now contributes more than $1 billion a year to New Zealand’s economic growth,” Mr Potaka says.

The Government is investing $19 million from the IVL into protecting biodiversity by reducing the spread of predators and invasive plant species. Investments include:

Stopping the spread of wallabies and managing deer and goat populations in National Parks and popular visitor areas to allow nature to thrive
Targeted predator control to protect native species especially the critically endangered Southern Dotterel birds in Rakiura National Park
Stopping and removing wilding pines from our iconic landscapes.

“By expanding predator control, we will improve the protection of critically endangered species in national parks and grow the number of iconic birds for visitors to enjoy.

“Wallabies have a terrible impact on indigenous forests such as at the popular Lakes Tarawera and Okataina, and down in Canterbury.

“These investments funded from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy will deliver better visitor experiences and improved environmental outcomes and ultimately provide a boost for sustainable tourism and growth,” Mr Potaka says.

The funding covers work across the next three years and comes from money raised under the previous $35 IVL rate.

MIL OSI

Deputy PM to visit Middle East and North Asia

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters will travel to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, China, Mongolia, and the Republic of Korea later this week.

“New Zealand enjoys long-standing and valued relationships with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, both highly influential actors in their region. The visit will focus on building on economic growth opportunities, as well as discussing Middle East issues,” Mr Peters says.

In Riyadh, Mr Peters will also attend the 2025 Saudi Cup – one of the world’s richest horse race meetings, where he will meet with potential investors in the New Zealand racing sector.

He will also attend Kiwi boxer Joseph Parker’s world heavyweight IBF title challenge against Briton Daniel Dubois, with the bout attracting global attention.

“Saudi Arabia is expanding investment in foreign bloodstock markets, and we will explore interest in New Zealand which could have significant growth potential for our racing sector.

“And Joseph Parker’s world heavyweight title bout is a unique opportunity to capitalise on promoting New Zealand in the sporting and commercial sectors in the Middle East,” Mr Peters says.

In Beijing, Mr Peters will hold talks with senior Chinese leaders, including Foreign Minister Wang Yi.This will continue a personal connection with China by Mr Peters spanning four decades.

“China is one of New Zealand’s most significant and complex relationships, encompassing important trade, people-to-people, and cultural connections. We intend to maintain regular high-level political dialogue with China,” Mr Peters says.

“We will discuss the bilateral relationship, as well as Pacific, regional, and global issues of interest to both countries.”

Mr Peters will then travel on to Ulaanbaatar, where he will discuss areas of cooperation in agriculture and tourism, as well as mark the 50th anniversary of New Zealand’s diplomatic relations with Mongolia.

Mr Peters will also visit Seoul to meet Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and look at economic opportunities for New Zealand.

Mr Peters departs New Zealand on 20 February and returns on 2 March.

MIL OSI

Free speech failures come home to roost

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: ACT Party

After a rainbow event at Te Atatū Community Centre was stormed and shut down over the weekend, ACT Justice spokesperson Todd Stephenson is calling for cross-party commitment to free speech, freedom of assembly, and the rule of law.

“A group of Kiwis should be able to get together at a private event to share values and ideas. On Saturday, a group was denied that right. Brian Tamaki’s mob used sheer numbers to push past library staff and shut down a rainbow event.

“Activists on the political left have spent years embracing cancel culture, deplatforming, and the thug’s veto. Now their conservative opponents are using the exact same tactics.

“Two years ago, a left-wing mob shut down a transgender-critical event in Albert Park, assaulting some of the attendees. Labour and Green MPs celebrated the success of the thug’s veto – the same MPs who are now aghast at Tamaki’s successful use of the same tactic.

“When it comes to free speech, you don’t get to pick and choose. Parties on both sides of politics need to loudly and consistently stand up for the rights of not just their allies, but their political opponents, to peacefully assemble and speak.

“Supporters of the thug’s veto often justify violence on the basis of safety. Brian Tamaki has suggested children at the Te Atatu event were being put at risk. If you think that’s the case, you should call the Police, not call up your mates to deal out vigilante justice. And if it’s found the speaker isn’t breaking any law, you can use your democratic rights to get the law changed. That’s how things work under rule of law and democracy.”

MIL OSI

Events – Over 100 Firefighters Compete at UFBA National Waterway Challenge

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: United Fire Brigades’ Association

Each year, over 20,000 fires threaten precious homes, businesses, our natural environment and lives across New Zealand. We have seen several large vegetation fires this summer already and they all require one thing – lots of water and brave people to put it there!

Firefighting relies on timing, technical expertise, and teamwork to save lives and property; the branch on the hose, the hose to the pump, the standpipe to the hydrant, and each person playing their part.

Since 1885, the United Fire Brigades’ Association (UFBA) Waterway Challenge has helped firefighters test their hose-running and pump-operating skills in a fun, safe, and competitive environment. The track has 19 different setups covering rural and urban approaches to firefighting.

On Friday 21 and Saturday 22 February at the Tulloch Rugby Park in Mataura, over 130 firefighters from all around the country will be taking part in the Challenge. Including 104 competitors demonstrating their teamwork and firefighting skills that they use to protect property and lives, as they compete in teams against each other and the clock, in the UFBA National Waterway Challenge 2025 (which is held every two years).

Teams of firefighters will be heading to Mataura from both the North and South Islands, from these volunteer fire brigades: Wellsford, Ahuroa, Silverdale, West Harbour, Te Aroha, Morrinsville, Thames, Mayor View, Havelock North, Carterton, Wainuiomata, Westport, Brunner, Greymouth, Rangiora, Rolleston, Balclutha, Lincoln, Cromwell, Kaitangata, Mossburn, Mataura, and Wyndham.

Competitors have trained all year, some are highly experienced and we have some fresh faces ready to take on the challenge.

This event is open to the public, bring the kids along to watch this competitive display of firefighting techniques.

Location: Tulloch Rugby Park, Mataura Competition date/time: Friday 21 February 0900hrs till 1600hrs (approx.) and Saturday 22 February from 0900hrs till 1400hrs (approx.)

A century of service in Mataura

2025 is also a historic year for the Mataura Volunteer Fire Brigade, as they will be celebrating their centennial (100th year). The brigade’s big celebration will be held in November, and the UFBA is proud to be able to bring our national event to the Mataura community who have supported their volunteer fire brigade for 100 years.

About the UFBA – for over 140 years the United Fire Brigades’ Association has been the leading association representing firefighters in New Zealand. Today our services support over 14,000 firefighters throughout the fire and emergency services sector by providing advocacy, skills-based challenges, workshops and service honours.

MIL OSI

Business – Entries open for new-look ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards

LiveNews Publisher

February 17, 2025

Source: Business Central

Entries open for new-look ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards

The ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards will return this year with an expanded format, building off the success of last year’s sold-out ExportNZ ASB Wellington Export Awards.

This year’s new-look event recognises the efforts of exporters from Wellington to the wider Central region. It will be hosted for the first time in Palmerston North, at the Palmerston North Conference and Function Centre on June 6.

The awards will be hosted on an alternate basis between Wellington and Palmerston North each year.

ExportNZ Central and Hawke’s Bay manager Amanda Liddle says the new format reflects the growth of the export industry across the Central region, including Wellington, Whanganui, Wairarapa, Horowhenua and Manawatū.

“ExportNZ is delighted to be holding the ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards for the first time in Palmerston North this year. The region has a thriving export sector and an important logistics ecosystem which is crucial to the New Zealand export economy. We look forward to celebrating the success of exporters throughout the lower North Island,” said Liddle.

Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith says the event is recognition of a region that punches above its weight.

“We’re proud to host the 2025 Central Export Awards, alternating biennially with Wellington over the coming years. Despite being a powerhouse in primary industries, our city and wider region are often overlooked in the export conversation. Yet we’re at the heart of New Zealand’s food and fibre sector – producing and exporting beef, lamb, poultry, venison, fresh produce, cropping, seafood, dairy, honey, and forestry products worldwide.

“Beyond agriculture, we’re also home to many world-class manufacturers, a growing tech sector, and have a strong international education presence.

“We’re grateful to our partners Central Economic Development Agency, Manawatū District Council, Horizons Regional Council, and the Manawatū Business Chamber for supporting this event and celebrating our exporters’ achievements,” said Smith.

In partnership with ASB, the awards honour the success of Central exporters in international markets.

The Central region is home to many major exporters, responsible for strong overseas trade, cutting-edge research and industry partnerships – making it an ideal location for this year’s expanded event.

ASB Head of International Trade Mike Atkins says:

“ASB is excited to expand our partnership with Business Central in launching the ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards this year. The Manawatū region has a rich history in food innovation and science, backed by thriving primary, technology, distribution, and logistics sectors.

“We look forward to recognising and celebrating the achievements of the region’s exporters, who play an important role in New Zealand’s economic growth agenda,” Atkins said.

Are you leading the way in innovation, championing sustainability, or building a thriving export business?

The ExportNZ ASB Central Region Export Awards welcomes entries from exporters across these categories:

CentrePort Wellington Excellence in Innovation: This award recognises companies that excel in bringing innovative solutions to global markets, encompassing everything from intellectual property and strategy to process implementation and success tracking.
ExportNZ Excellence in Sustainability: This award recognises businesses that have woven sustainability into their core operations, achieving global success while creating positive environmental and social impact.
DHL Best Emerging Business: This award aims to recognise an outstanding exporting business that is in the early stages of expanding internationally, with an annual turnover of $5 million or less.
Gallagher Insurance Best Established Business: This award celebrates success based on net return to the New Zealand economy for more established companies, typically with over five years in export markets and likely annual revenue exceeding $5 million.

The awards are judged by a panel of experienced exporting specialists to ensure a fair and comprehensive evaluation of each entry. This year the judges are David Boyd, Chair of ExportNZ and Founder of Foot Science International; ASB Head of International Trade Mike Atkins; and Paul Brewerton, Customer Manager at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise

ExportNZ welcomes entries from exporters in the following regions:

– Greater Wellington

– Wairarapa

– Horowhenua

– Manawatū

– Whanganui

Whether you’re just beginning your export journey or are an established international player, we encourage you to share your success story. Entries open on the 17 th of February 2025 and will close on the 16 th of April 2025.Tickets are available now.

MIL OSI

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