BusinessNZ – Forging international partnerships in energy

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February 10, 2025

Source: BusinessNZ

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.

MIL OSI

Aotearoa Clinical Trials Expands to New Site in Botany, East Auckland, Strengthening Community Access to Clinical Trials

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February 10, 2025

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Source: Aotearoa Clinical Trials

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.

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Appointments – New Chair for New Zealand Taiwan Business Council announced

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February 10, 2025

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Source: Business Central

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.”

MIL OSI

Kids Haven Announces Ongoing Partnership with Children’s Wishing Well to Raise Funds and Support Children’s Futures

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February 10, 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

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.

https://kidshaven.sg/
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/kids-haven-children-furniture
https://www.facebook.com/KidsHavenChildrenFurniture/
https://www.instagram.com/kidshaven_sg

Hashtag: #KidsHaven

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

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

Weather News – Afternoon Thunderstorms and Sunshine – MetService

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February 10, 2025

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Source: MetService

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.

MIL OSI

Next steps for Te Anau Bird Sanctuary

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February 10, 2025

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date: 10 February 2025

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.

For more information: About Us | Great South

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

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Ruth Money appointed Chief Victims Advisor

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February 10, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Government

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.”

MIL OSI

Rental sector guidance for landlords and tenants

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February 10, 2025

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Source: Privacy Commissioner

State houses at Arapuni Hydro Works from Archives NZ record number A1124

The guidance below is for tenants, landlords, and others in the rental accommodation sector to clarify what information may be requested at every stage of the rental process. We have also launched a new monitoring and compliance programme to ensure that rental agencies and landlords stay on the right side of the Privacy Act. Resources for Landlords
Resources for Tenants
Questions?
If you have enquiries about the Privacy Act and rentals please email our Compliance Team. We’ve also included questions for tenants and landlords in our Ask Us database.

MIL OSI

Best spots to enjoy Valentine’s Day in Auckland

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February 10, 2025

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Source: Auckland Council

Love is in the air this Valentine’s Day… and it’s in the water and on the land all across the Auckland region. This year Tāmaki Makaurau is more loved up than ever on 14 February with festivities, walks and outdoor spots that are perfect for expressing aroha. Whether you’re spending time with your romantic partner or are single and celebrating your love for life with friends and family, we’ve got you covered with these dreamy date ideas.

Share your love for the outdoors with your loved ones by exploring Auckland’s parks and trails. The region’s world-class parks have recently been recognised in the Green Flag awards, with eight of the 38 winning parks in Australia and New Zealand coming from Tāmaki Makaurau. To stretch your legs on a longer hike, consider the Green Flag-winning Ātiu Creek Regional Park and Hunua Ranges Regional Park.

There are also many great spots that are particularly picturesque for a sunrise or sunset stroll, including Maungawhau / Mt Eden and Maungauika / North Head. Coastal paths like Tāmaki Drive Coastal Path, Westhaven Path or St Heliers to Achilles Point Path are great waterfront options, and you could even finish your walk by enjoying fish and chips while admiring the view. To find more walks visit the Akl Paths website.

The St Heliers to Achilles Point Path is a 30-minute walk offering views of Rangitoto and is a great spot for enjoying sunrises and sunsets.

If you’re harbouring romantic feelings, get out on the water this Valentine’s Day. Adventurous couples can enjoy testing the waters of their relationship with a gentle paddleboard along Takapuna Beach, St Heliers Beach or French Bay.

The still waters of Takapuna Beach are ideal for paddleboarding.

This year Valentine’s Day also coincides with the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival. Celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake at the Manukau Sports Bowl on 13-16 February. More than 500 handcrafted lanterns will be on display at this free and family-friendly event which is typically held around the 15th day of the first Lunar month at the end of the Lunar New Year festivities.

Wander down lantern boulevard to enjoy more than 500 lanterns at the BNZ Auckland Lantern Festival this Valentine’s Day.

Take a romantic stroll through the ‘lantern boulevard’, grab some delicious food from the many stallholders, watch a cultural performance on the main stage and end the night at 9.50pm with the spectacular fireworks display.

Please note that registration is now required for entry into the festival. Book your free tickets online.

There’s a reason why ‘dinner and a show’ is a classic date night option. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Auckland’s eateries, and enjoying theatre, comedy or a night of entertainment is a great way to make memories with your loved ones.

Auckland Council supports many theatres through funding such as the Regional Arts and Culture grants programme. This Valentine’s Day there’s plenty on stage including queer cabaret show Leather Lungs: Shut Up & Sing at Q Theatre, queer poetic performance and musical soundscape In the Body at Basement Theatre and Little Red Riding Hood-inspired adults-only circus cabaret Devour at Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre.

In The Body, written and performed Redwood Reider is a poetic performance and soundscape at Basement Theatre.

For those that prefer the classics, The Taming of the Shrew is playing in Shakespeare in the Park at The PumpHouse. The performance takes place in the outdoor amphitheatre but if the weather turns rainy mid performance, the production moves inside the auditorium.

Pack the picnic basket, fill the thermos, roll up the blanket and prepare your loved one’s favourite food to dine al fresco in one of Auckland’s parks this Valentine’s Day. There are more than 4000 parks to choose from, including secluded seaside spots such as Secret Cove, Charcoal Bay and Tawhitokino Regional Park (accessible at low tide), as well as gorgeous green spaces like Grey Lynn Park, Murphys Bush Reserve or Pukekawa / Auckland Domain.

If you’re looking to show off your grill skills to your beloved then try Cornwallis, Maungarei Springs Wetland or Shepherds Park – to find other barbecues near you, search for ‘barbecue’ on Auckland Council’s Find a park or beach page.

Barbecue facilities at Maungarei Springs Wetland is the perfect place for a Valentine’s Day picnic.

To really make romance bloom combine your picnic with a walk through the sculpture trail at Sculpture in the Gardens at Auckland Botanic Gardens.

MIL OSI

Three bags full: Sweet arrest in Pukekohe

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February 10, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Three bags choco-block full of stolen items from a Pukekohe supermarket has landed one woman in court.

Yesterday at about 2.45pm, officers were conducting a prevention patrol in the Tobin Street area when a member of the public alerted them to a woman allegedly taking a number of items from the supermarket.

Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says officers approached a woman matching the description and a search of some nearby bushes located three bags filled with items.

“Officers found 10 tubs of mayonnaise, 13 bottles of shampoo and 66 blocks of chocolate stuffed inside the bags.

“None of the items had been paid for and she was quickly taken into custody.”

Inspector Hoyes says CCTV enquiries also assisted in the arrest.

“Offending like this is a blight in our community and we’re pleased this alleged offender will be held to account for her actions.

“We take these matters seriously and our staff will continue to target recidivist retail offenders.”

Police continue to encourage the public to report offending as it happens by calling 111.

Other matters can be reported after the fact by going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 or calling 105.

A 28-year-old woman will appear in Pukekohe District Court today charged with shoplifting.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

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