Attribute to Inspector Lincoln Sycamore, Hawke’s Bay Area Commander
Police are pleased to report no significant issues following a tangi for a senior member in the Mongrel Mob in Hawke’s Bay today.
An operation to monitor the behaviour of those involved was carried out by Police, monitoring the tangi as well as the procession to the cemetery.
One person was arrested for displaying gang insignia and two people were warned for obstructing a public way.
Police worked with the whānau and gang leaders leading up to the tangi to minimise the impact to the community, while also allowing mourners space to grieve.
We would like to thank the members of the public for their patience.
Police encourage the public to report any instances of unlawful activity on the roads to us, so we can take appropriate action.
Please contact 111 if it is happening now or report other matters to Police by calling 105 or making an online report here.
The company has also launched its thinnest robot vacuum cleaner, DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI, and ultra-compact window cleaner WINBOT MINI, offering a wider range of options to tackle diverse household cleaning needs.
Customers who shop on ECOVACS’ official stores such as Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop and mass retailers can enjoy attractive discounts and free gifts worth up to $379.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2025 – Leading global robotics and smart household appliance company, ECOVACS, today proudly unveils three innovative new models: DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI, DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI, and WINBOT MINI, designed to meet the varied cleaning needs of modern households. From floors to windows, these latest innovations underscore ECOVACS’ dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology and top-tier cleaning solutions for modern homes. All three models are available for purchase today on the ECOVACS e-store, Shopee and Lazada, and leading electronics stores – Best Denki, Courts, Harvey Norman and Gain City
DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI, the latest offering under ECOVACS’ flagship X-Series features the revolutionary OZMO ROLLER Instant Self-Washing Mopping Technology that tackles a common concern with robotic vacuum cleaner: spreading dirt and germs while cleaning, especially with stubborn stains. This industry-first and innovative mopping system eliminates cross-contamination worries with high-speed, high-pressure cleaning, and instant mop self-cleaning. The award-winning model uses an array of 16 clean water nozzles to deliver fresh water back to the mop to keep the mop renewed after the wastewater is scraped off, eliminating cross-contamination and making your floor truly hygienic. With 200 rotations per minute, the system applies concentrated pressure to effectively prevent streaks and importantly easily remove tough stains while leaving floors dry faster all in a single mopping pass.
As the flagship model, the DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI boasts the highest suction power of 18,000Pa and comes with latest ZeroTangle 2.0 feature – up to 0% hair tangles in the main brush.
It is also equipped with the upgraded TruEdge 2.0 Adaptive Edge Cleaning Technology and TruEdge 3D Edge Sensor, allowing the roller mop and side brush to extend dynamically by adapting precisely to different types of edges and corners to achieve up to 100% cleaning coverage.
Complementing the cleaning technology and sensors, is the upgraded AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology for precise object recognition and enhanced real-time path planning capabilities. The DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI is able to intelligently choose the most efficient cleaning path especially during sudden environment changes as such moving people or pets.
ECOVACS DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI: FUSS-FREE FULL-COVERAGE CLEANING
The DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI offers an extremely powerful all-in-one cleaning experience, designed to easily navigate under furniture and into hard-to-reach areas for deep-cleaning with its hallmark 81mm ultra-thin profile. Equipped also with the new TruEdge 2.0 Adaptive Edge Cleaning, the DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI offers up to 100% edge-to-edge cleaning with no missed-out spots.
Powered by a 6400mAh battery, the DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI offers up to 180 minutes of continuous cleaning. Advanced features like AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology and TrueMapping 2.0 intelligent navigation coupled with a new-and-improved ZeroTangle 2.0 Anti-Tangling technology guarantee that no hair is stuck in the main brush – for a true handsfree maintenance experience.
The DEEBOTT50 PRO OMNI comes with an all-in-one, compact and powerful OMNI Station that offers self-cleaning and maintenance, providing the ultimate convenience. It is also the world’s first and only sweeping and mopping robot vacuum to receive the prestigious German TÜV Rheinland privacy security certification – a trademark of trust and quality.
ECOVACS introduces the WINBOT MINI, its most compact robotic window cleaner, designed for spaces ranging from apartments to homes with multiple glass panels. Combining powerful cleaning performance with a sleek, space-saving design, the WINBOT MINI makes cleaning narrow, hard-to-reach windows easier and safer than ever before. Equipped with an Ultrasonic Atomisation Spray Technology that helps loosen dirt and stains with ultra-fine mist particles, the WINBOT MINI ensures efficient cleaning with minimal water usage and exceptional streak-free results.
Beyond its impressive cleaning capabilities, the WINBOT MINI adopts WIN-SLAM 3.0 algorithm that helps the robot automatically plan the most efficient cleaning path with three customised modes to meet the needs of all modern family. In the event of a power outage, the blackout protection keeps the robot attached to the window for over 30 minutes while sounding out an alarm. Its dual intelligent sensors also constantly monitor its surroundings and tracks the robot’s orientation, ensuring a safe and worry-free cleaning.
AVAILABILITY, PRICING & LAUNCH PROMOTIONS
Device
Launch Date
Price
Launch Promotions
T&Cs apply, while stocks last
ECOVACS DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI
Available from 14 February on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop and Mass Retailers
$4,299
Launch special @ $1,899.00 + First 50, Tineco iCarpet Spot Cleaner (worth S$379)
ECOVACS DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI
Available now on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop and Mass Retailers
$3,499
Launch special @ $1,399.00 + Laifen SE Lite Hair Dryer + 1 Year Accessories Pack (Total Worth S$237.90
ECOVACS WINBOT MINI
Pre-order starts on 14 February on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok Shop and Mass Retailers
Launch special @ $499.00 + Accessories Pack (worth S$49)
The BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) recently hosted a delegation responsible for India’s electricity market to find a more sustainable energy future, together.
The delegation of commissioners, responsible for regulatory bodies in 26 regions across India, and New Zealand energy sector leaders explored key challenges, opportunities, and areas for potential collaboration in energy transition.
BEC Executive Director Tina Schirr says although New Zealand and India are vastly different in size, we share many of the same energy challenges.
“The conversation reinforced that energy transition is not just a technical challenge – it’s an economic and social one too. Growth and sustainability must go hand in hand, and international cooperation is critical in achieving this balance.
“India has experienced significant economic growth since the turn of the century. There is real opportunity for us to work closer together – particularly in workforce development.
“India produces more than one million engineering graduates each year, with deep expertise across energy-related fields. New Zealand will need a skilled workforce to meet its decarbonisation goals.
“India has the expertise and the capacity. Closer collaboration on workforce solutions could be a win-win for both countries.
“BEC remains committed to fostering international partnerships to support a secure, sustainable, and equitable energy future.”
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.
Auckland, New Zealand – February 10, 2025 – Aotearoa Clinical Trials is pleased to announce the opening of a new, third site in Botany, East Auckland, expanding its reach and further cementing its commitment to the local community. This new standalone site will allow the clinical trial organisation to provide enhanced access to a diverse range of participants, while strategically supporting the Counties Manukau region’s rapidly growing population.
Why are clinical trials important to this community?
“Research is incredibly important as it provides pathways to addressing current health challenges. In Māoridom, research is akin to the role of a tohunga (expert or healer)-it represents foresight in the face of illness. As Māori, we all possess the taonga (treasure) of rangatiratanga (sovereignty and leadership); we have this foresight. I believe that my living data today is far more valuable to helping prevent disease than data collected after my death. You can’t solve a problem by only knowing that I died in my 50s from diabetes. It could have been prevented if I had been tested earlier. I believe that if I give the system my blood today, it will help them develop interventions, because prevention is better than cure”. Kaumaatua Robert Clark.
With significant growth in housing developments, infrastructure projects, and shopping centres, Botany is one of Auckland’s most thriving and dynamic areas. It is home to a vibrant, ethnically diverse community, making it an ideal location for Aotearoa Clinical Trials to continue its mission of bringing essential clinical research closer to the people it serves.
“We are excited to announce the expansion of our clinical trials into the Botany region,” said Ed Watson, CEO of Aotearoa Clinical Trials. “As we build our presence in East Auckland, we are not only responding to a clear need in the community but also aligning with our broader strategy to reach more individuals from diverse backgrounds, especially within Counties Manukau, one of New Zealand’s most multicultural regions. This site will play a crucial role in improving access to medical research for communities that need it the most.”
The Botany site will be staffed by a dedicated team of clinical investigators, who bring extensive experience in conducting high-quality clinical trials across various therapeutic areas. By offering increased access to a wide range of participants, the Botany location will help accelerate advancements in medical research while improving healthcare outcomes for local communities.
Aotearoa Clinical Trials’ expansion to Botany is part of a larger strategy to build deeper connections within the community through decentralised clinical trials (DCTs) and thereby providing access to participants in their communities. The organisation has plans to also collaborate with Pukekohe Hospital, extending its reach even further across the Counties Manukau area.
The addition of the Botany site brings a new level of convenience and access to East Auckland, which, in turn, will further strengthen the network of clinical trials available to the surrounding regions.
About Aotearoa Clinical Trials
Aotearoa Clinical Trials is a leading provider of clinical trial services in New Zealand, offering world-class research across many therapeutic areas from Phase I to Phase IV. With a focus on providing greater access to diverse populations, Aotearoa Clinical Trials partners with healthcare providers, sponsors, and local communities to deliver vital research that improves patient outcomes.
Experienced Wellington business and marketing consultant Chris Tse has been elected Chair of the New Zealand Taiwan Business Council.
Chris replaces Charles Finny who stood down from the role at the most recent Council meeting. Charles was elected Chair in 2018.
Chris Tse is the Executive Director of Apexfresh, a business and marketing consultancy with expertise in the food, health and technology sectors. Chris has over 30 years’ experience in doing business with Taiwan, including a period living and working in Taipei. He has been a member of the executive committee of the NZ Taiwan Business Council since 2018.
The New Zealand Taiwan Business Council represents the interests of New Zealand businesses that trade or invest with Taiwan. Taiwan is one of New Zealand’s largest trading partners.
“I am honoured to take on the role of chair of the New Zealand Taiwan Business Council and follow in the footsteps of Charles Finny, who has been instrumental in developing trade and business linkages between New Zealand and Taiwan over many years. I look forward to building on the strong foundation that has been laid and creating new opportunities for growth, innovation and collaboration for New Zealand companies looking to do business in Taiwan” Chris Tse said.
Charles Finny says: “I am delighted to be passing the baton to Chris. He and his family have been involved in trading with Taiwan for many years. Seven years is a long time to be performing this role. The relationship with Taiwan is in excellent shape so it is the perfect time for this leadership change.”
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 February 2025 – Kids Haven, a kid’s furniture provider, is pleased to announce the continuation of its partnership with Children’s Wishing Well, a charity supporting children and families in need. Building on their successful collaboration in 2022, both organisations are now working together on a long-term fundraising initiative with another children’s art workshop planned for March 2025.
Kids Haven is partnering with Children’s Wishing Well
Ongoing Fundraising Campaign
In 2024, the company launched a fundraising campaign within its showroom to raise funds for Children’s Wishing Well. The campaign includes the sale of keychains and plushies to support the Children’s Enrichment Programme (CEP), with all proceeds going directly to the charity. The CEP provides children with opportunities to attend various enrichment classes, including fencing, arts, and public speaking workshops. To facilitate donations, the company has set up a Giving.sg account, enabling customers to donate conveniently. The platform also tracks the total funds raised, ensuring transparency throughout the campaign.
In addition to running the fundraising campaign, Kids Haven has also raised awareness for the programme and the charity organisation. The company has displayed posters in its showroom, featured a website banner, and shared a YouTube video on its channel to provide the public with information about the beneficiaries and the CEP.
Past Collaboration and Long-Term Commitment
Kids Haven first partnered with Children’s Wishing Well in 2022 for a workshop that introduced children to various roles within the furniture industry. The workshop provided hands-on experiences in areas such as delivery and design. Following the positive response from the event, the company decided to strengthen the collaboration by establishing a long-term partnership focused on lasting impact.
Additionally, the company has collaborated with Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s Corporate Purpose Internship Programme to hire interns who are familiar with community engagement initiatives. These interns oversaw the company’s partnerships with charity organisations, including Children’s Wishing Well, and explored further opportunities to give back to society.
Future Plans and Upcoming Workshop
In March 2025, the company will host a workshop for children from Children’s Wishing Well, which would include art activities and games. Artwork created during the session may be considered for future product designs, with proceeds from those items donated to the charity. This workshop follows the company’s commitment to integrating community involvement while aligning with its mission of providing quality children’s furniture.
“Our partnership with Children’s Wishing Well reflects our commitment to supporting initiatives that benefit the community,” said Jeremy Teo, Co-Founder of Kids Haven. “This fundraising campaign aligns with our goal to contribute meaningfully to children’s well-being through sustained collaboration.”
For more information about their ongoing fundraising campaigns, visit the websites of Kids Haven and Children’s Wishing Well.
Covering period of Monday 10th – Thursday 13th February – MetService is forecasting an active start to the week about the central North Island, with the risk of thunderstorms and showers dwindling through the week as high pressure moving in from the west squashes any further rain that could dampen our dry soils.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch, issued this morning (Monday) for the Central North Island, is valid from 3pm-10pm Monday. MetService Meteorologist Katie Hillyer warns “While the dry grounds will welcome some rain, falling all at once isn’t ideal and poses a greater risk of surface flooding and hazardous driving conditions.”
These thunderstorms are expected to be slow moving, meaning they sit over an area for longer and pose a risk of localised downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h.
For tomorrow (Tuesday), showers and thunderstorms are on the menu again, this time reaching up into the upper North Island, but are currently at a lower risk of being severe. However, MetService advises to keep an eye on the forecast as we get closer to the time.
Eastern areas of both islands are continuing to see the cooler temperatures they have seen for much of the summer already, with some showers associated with a weak front moving northwards.
“Even with the return of high pressure, southerly winds will keep the east coast cloudier and cooler until later this week. However, for spots like Central Otago temperatures are set to creep back towards 30°C for the end of the week” says Hillyer.
During Wednesday and into Thursday we start to see the scattered showers clear and temperatures warm as this high pressure system really takes hold of New Zealand, giving very little respite to the areas that need some watering. Looking forward to the weekend, this settled weather likely continues as this high pressure digs its heels in.
There have been some expressions of interest in the facility from other parties, and DOC will further investigate these opportunities alongside key stakeholders.
Great South Southland Regional Development Agency will support DOC in the evaluation process given their involvement with Te Punanga Manu over the years.
The sanctuary will keep operating as usual while alternative management options are explored further.
The review found work at Te Punanga Manu, although important for conservation, is not critical to the advocacy or protection of the species it houses – and is therefore not considered high priority biodiversity work for DOC.
The sanctuary also requires substantial investment in infrastructure and staffing to make it sustainable, says DOC’s Southern South Island Operations Director Aaron Fleming.
“One example is the takahē enclosure, which needs significant investment, with 2023 costings sitting around $100,000.”
DOC faces its own financial challenges and must prioritise its investment into conservation – which means it is not currently in a position to fund the upgrades needed at Te Anau Bird Sanctuary/Te Punanga Manu.
“Locally DOC’s high priority biodiversity work also needs investment, such as critical infrastructure to maintain predator-free Fiordland islands that are home to critically endangered species, including kākāpō, tīeke and mohua,” says Aaron.
“We know Te Punanga Manu is much loved by the Te Anau community and visitors alike, which is why alternative models to fund and operate the sanctuary will be considered.”
Currently Te Punanga Manu holds a small number of South Island takahē, kōwhiowhio/blue duck, pāteke/brown teal and Antipodes Island kākāriki.
“The well-being of manu will continue to come first no matter the outcome of the review,” says Aaron.
“We will keep the community, sponsors and stakeholders informed as things develop.”
Background information
DOC started the review of Te Anau Bird Sanctuary/Te Punanga Manu o Te Anau (Te Punanga Manu) in June 2024 and completed it in October 2024. The review assessed its current condition, purpose and sustainability. The decision to withdraw from management was made in January 2025.
Great South was established as the Southland Regional Development Agency in March 2019. Committed to driving economic, social and cultural growth, Great South has a clear mandate to leverage opportunities for Southland in the areas of economic and business development, tourism and events.
Ruth Money MNZM has been appointed New Zealand’s Chief Victims Advisor, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. “Ms Money is already an outspoken and energetic victims advocate with a proven track record of driving change. She has been a full-time volunteer since 2012 following a successful business career, and has extensive experience across the many and varied components of the justice system. She is committed to the view that society can and must do better for victims. “The advice provided by Ms Money over the next two years will be essential in ensuring there are 20,000 fewer victims of violent crime by 2029, while keeping the needs of victims at the forefront of our justice system. “I would like to acknowledge the work of Dr Kim McGregor in the role of Chief Victims Advisor over the past nine years, and I wish her well in the future.”
