Parents and drivers urged to keep kids safe as schools start back

January 25, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police are urging families to prioritise the safety of our tamariki who are preparing to head back to school over the coming weeks.

The start of the school year is often an exciting moment for families, and road safety should be front of mind alongside your regular back-to-school checklist.

Inspector Peter McKennie of the National Road Policing Centre says road safety around schools is something to take note of all year round and especially at the beginning of the year.

“We continue to remind parents of the crucial role they play in teaching children about the potential dangers they face when going to and from school.

“Show your kids the safest way to get to school and back home – including the safest places to cross – and practice it with them, so when it comes time to doing it alone, they are confident.

“Teach them to use the marked pedestrian crossings and to look both ways before they cross, and arrange pick-up spots to meet.”

Inspector McKennie reminds drivers to remain attentive on the road, as children can often be unpredictable and appear out of nowhere. This applies both in rural and urban areas, as their differing environments still present similar safety concerns.

Together with our schools across the country, we all want to ensure the start of the school year is a memorable one for all the right reasons.

ENDS

Road safety advice for back-to-school time:

Be alert as children can be unpredictable and dart out onto the road.
Parents set the best example for our young people on how road users need to be safe and smart on our roads.
Be aware that there will be children on the roads cycling to and from school. Give them space and share the road.
The speed limit is 20km/h when driving past a stationary school bus, and you need to reduce your speed below 30km/h when passing schools.
Allow for plenty of time for school drop-offs so you are not rushed, and give the road your full attention.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Often drop off and pick up zones can be crowded before and after school. Suggesting a meeting point further down the road might be a safer option to avoid congestion around the area.
Take the time to show your children the safest route to get to school and back home and practice with them, including the safest places to cross. Remind them to look left and right and look out for cars.
Encourage your child(ren) to use the marked school crossing whether that be a pedestrian crossing, kea crossing or their school traffic wardens.

MIL OSI

Fatal crash, Buchanans Road, Hei Hei

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

One person has died following a two-vehicle crash in Hei Hei this afternoon.

Police were called to Buchanans Road at around 1.40pm.

Sadly, one person died at the scene.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conduct a scene examination.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Serious crash, Buchanans Road, Hei Hei

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Emergency services are responding to a two-vehicle crash in Hei Hei this afternoon.

Police were called to Buchanans Road at around 1.40pm.

Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries.

Buchanans Road is closed between both Vanguard Road intersections and the intersection with Hei Hei Road.

Motorists are advised to take an alternate route and expect delays.

ENDS

MIL OSI

Activist News – No humanitarian visas for Palestinians victims of genocide but plenty of rest and recreation for Israeli soldiers involved in genocide – PSNA

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

Nationwide rallies this weekend will be calling for the government to suspend entry to New Zealand from soldiers in the Israeli Defence Forces.

“New Zealand should not be providing rest and recreation for Israeli soldiers fresh from the genocide in Gaza”, says PSNA National Chair John Minto. “We wouldn’t allow Russian soldiers to come here for rest and recreation from the invasion of Ukraine so why would we accept soldiers from the genocidal, apartheid state of Israel?”

As well as the working holiday visa, since 2019 Israelis can enter New Zealand for three months without needing a visa at all. This visa-waiver is used by Israeli soldiers for “rest and recreation” from the genocide in Gaza.

Israeli Defence Forces actions have resulted in at least 47,000 Palestinians killed – 70% of whom are women and children.

The International Court of Justice has declared Israeli actions a “plausible genocide” Amnesty International, and Human Rights Watch have used the terms genocide and extermination which the latest report from United Nations Special Rapporteur, Francesca Albanese, is entitled “Genocide as colonial erasure”.

Meanwhile the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

All these red flags for genocide have been visible for months but the government is still giving the green light to those involved in war crimes to enter New Zealand.

PSNA has written to the government again in December asking for the suspension of travel to New Zealand for all Israeli soldiers and reservists.

New Zealand has signed the Genocide convention which requires us to prevent and punish the crime of genocide. The government is complicit with its silence.

It’s long past the time for the government to step up.

John Minto

National Chair

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

MIL OSI

Fire Safety – Outdoor fires banned in parts of Otago from Monday

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a prohibited fire season for the Lakes and Glendhu Bluffs areas in Otago from 8am Monday 27 January, until further notice.

A prohibited fire season means no outdoor fires are allowed in the district and all fire permits are revoked.

Otago District Manager Phil Marsh says forecast rain did not happen over the last few days, which means conditions are hot and dry enough to be a significant fire risk.

“Even if we do get some rain this week, it won’t have much impact on our dried-out tussock and grasslands,” he says.

“If a wildfire gets going in this environment, and there’s even a bit of wind, it can be really difficult to bring under control.

“We’ve made this decision to prohibit fires to protect the people, property and environment of the Lakes and Glendhu Bluffs areas.”

Phil Marsh urges people to think about the fire risk of activities such as mowing, using power tools, or parking vehicles on long, dry grass.

“When planning your activities, check the forecast fire danger for that day – consider working in the morning, and avoid hot, dry and windy days altogether,” he says.

“We’ve had several unwanted vegetation fires in Central Otago over the last couple of weeks caused by people operating machinery.

“One fire in Gibbston last week appears to have been caused by light magnified through a glass bottle onto dry grass.

“If you’re not sure what the fire risk and restrictions are in your location, go to checkitsalright.nz .

“Enter your address and follow the guidance provided – this is the best way to help us prevent fires in Otago this summer.”

MIL OSI

New podiatry clinic brings much-needed service to Wairoa

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

A new monthly podiatry clinic has been launched today in Wairoa and will bring a much-needed service closer to home for the Wairoa community, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Health New Zealand has been successful in securing a podiatrist until the end of June this year to meet the needs of the Wairoa community. The podiatrist has a special interest in diabetes and will travel to Wairoa with a nurse, for monthly clinics which will be held at Queen St Practice,” Mr Brown says.

“Primary and community healthcare, like this podiatry clinic, play a key role in preventing illness, treating disease early and reducing the impact of long-term conditions. Keeping people well improves their quality of life and reduces the pressure on our hospitals.

“I am aware the community is also working closely with government agencies on addressing access to other healthcare services such as the provision of aged care services for their elderly.”

This six-month initiative funded by Health NZ will be reviewed in June. Further engagement with the community will continue throughout the year, including on the Wairoa Ageing Well Project.

“For the estimated 400 – 600 people in the area with diabetes, as well as those with other issues, having this service on their doorstep will be a great addition to improving the range of timely, quality healthcare that can be delivered locally.” Mr Brown says.

“Investments like this are important to ensure all New Zealanders can access timely, quality healthcare and is made possible by the Government’s record investment of $16.8 billion in health in Budget 2024.”

MIL OSI

SH1 closed following crash, Waikato Expressway, Bombay

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Motorists are advised that State Highway 1, Waikato Expressway northbound is closed at Nikau Road off-ramp, following a crash involving two vehicles in Nikau Road to Mill Road area, reported at around 8.45am.

Emergency services are in attendance, no injuries are reported at this time.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible and expect delays. Check NZTA Journey Planner for updates.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Fatality following crash, Clevely Line, Palmerston North

LiveNews Publisher

January 25, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police can confirm that one person died following a crash at Bunnythorpe, Palmerston North last night.

Emergency services attended the crash involving a car and a motorcycle at the Clevely Line and Railway Road intersection in Bunnythorpe reported at around 8.35pm on Friday 24 January.

Sadly, the motorcyclist died at the scene. No other injuries are reported.

The intersection was closed while emergency services attended and Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination. It re-opened in the early hours of this morning.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

KPMG: Slower than expected interest rate cuts to support bank margins in 2025

MIL OSI

January 25, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Banks should prioritise cost optimisation, data governance, and digital transformation to build a foundation for long-term growth

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 January 2025 – Hong Kong’s banking sector showed signs of recovery in 2024 after a prolonged period of challenges. This positive trend is expected to continue in 2025, with the pace of US rate cuts expected to be slower than many forecasts.

KPMG’s latest report, the Hong Kong Banking Outlook 2025, predicts substantial opportunities for banks that are willing to adapt and innovate, with technologies like Generative AI and virtual assets set to transform operating models. The report provides insights and predictions from KPMG experts regarding the outlook for Hong Kong and highlights key themes for banks to focus on this year, including embracing emerging technologies, staying abreast of ESG trends and keeping pace with regulatory developments.

Paul McSheaffrey, Senior Banking Partner, Hong Kong, KPMG China, says: “2024 marked an improvement for Hong Kong’s banking sector, with signs of recovery emerging after a prolonged period of challenges. Driven by policy shifts in the Chinese Mainland, these developments have laid the groundwork for cautious optimism entering 2025. Some green shoots of recovery have been seen, including an uptick in funds raised on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and positive policy measures in the Chinese Mainland aimed at stimulating consumer demand. Thus, we are more optimistic about the prospects of the Hong Kong banking sector during the year.”

For retail and commercial banks, KPMG believes that the pace of interest rate reductions will be slower than many forecasts suggest, which will help banks preserve their margins. For investment banks, the positive policy measures in China are expected to enhance consumer sentiment, thereby fostering capital raising and M&A activity in China, ultimately benefiting Hong Kong.

Jianing Song, Head of Banking and Capital Markets, Hong Kong, KPMG China, says: “As we enter 2025, the environment faced by banks is becoming increasingly complex. However, we believe that this year will bring substantial opportunities for banks willing to adapt and innovate. Emerging technologies, such as Generative AI and virtual assets, have the potential to transform operating models. Through cost optimization, data governance, and digital transformation, banks can navigate their current challenges and build a foundation for long-term growth.”

Resilience remains a key regulatory focus

Resilience against cyber fraud and financial crime will remain a top priority in 2025 as losses experienced by banks and customers continue to make headlines. Meeting regulatory expectations will be crucial, with a strong focus on implementing existing regulations and new resilience requirements. AI adoption will be become a sector-wide topic in financial crime over the next two years, as authorised institutions and regulators gear up to tackle risks and meet regulatory expectations.

KPMG also expects Hong Kong regulators to launch initiatives to further encourage the use of distributed ledger technology (DLT) in the banking industry. This is driven by the need to build resilience against the operational risks associated with traditional settlement and payment infrastructure. It also addresses the need for banks to adapt their business models in the face of competition from new Fintech market entrants and ‘digital natives’.

Strategic cost optimisation

Geopolitical uncertainty, rising operational expenses and increasing regulatory requirements mean that manging costs will remain a focus in the banking sector. Instead of implementing broad cost-cutting measures, KPMG expects banks to adopt a more strategic approach centered on cost optimization. This involves identifying the root causes of inefficiency and implementing targeted corrective interventions. Automation can be an effective tool in this process, addressing latent inefficiency in core processes across front, middle, and back office. This can lead to increased productivity, reduced cost to serve, an enhanced customer experience and ultimately, a stronger top line.

Digital transformation trends

The pace of digital transformation in Hong Kong’s banking sector is expected to accelerate in 2025. More than one-third of financial institutions are already integrating Generative AI, supported by government initiatives such as the HKMA’s Generative AI Sandbox. Virtual assets have also been ranking high on the digital transformation agenda for banks, with initiatives like HKEX’s Virtual Asset Index Series and HKMA’s Project Ensemble Sandbox accelerating Hong Kong’s tokenisation market development. KPMG expects policy support to continue in this area throughout 2025.

In 2025, Hong Kong banks should prioritise digitising their operations by leveraging resources such as Fintech Connect; expanding their digital-savvy workforce through talent acquisition and upskilling; and future-proofing their digital asset and Generative AI readiness by establishing a robust data governance framework.

Hashtag: #KPMG:

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

About KPMG China

KPMG China has offices located in 31 cities with over 14,000 partners and staff, in Beijing, Changchun, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dalian, Dongguan, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Hefei, Jinan, Nanjing, Nantong, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Wuhan, Wuxi, Xiamen, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. Working collaboratively across all these offices, KPMG China can deploy experienced professionals efficiently, wherever our client is located.

KPMG is a global organisation of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited (“KPMG International”) operate and provide professional services. “KPMG” is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organisation or to one or more member firms collectively.

KPMG firms operate in 142 countries and territories with more than 275,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.

In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture license in the Chinese Mainland. KPMG was also the first among the Big Four in the Chinese Mainland to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership, as of 1 August 2012.

Celebrating 80 years in Hong Kong
In 2025, KPMG marks “80 Years of Trust” in Hong Kong. Established in 1945, we were the first international accounting firm to set up operations in the city. Over the past eight decades, we’ve woven ourselves into the fabric of Hong Kong, working closely with the government, regulators, and the business community to help establish Hong Kong as one of the world’s leading business and financial centres. This close collaboration has enabled us to build lasting trust with our clients and the local community – a core value celebrated in our anniversary theme: “80 Years of Trust”.

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

A New Year, A New Beginning LANDMARK Welcomes the Year of the Snake with Nicolai Bergmann’s Flourishing Blooms

MIL OSI

January 25, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 January 2025 – To honour the spirit of the Lunar New Year, LANDMARK presents Flourishing Blooms, a vibrant celebration of artistry and tradition by internationally acclaimed flower artist Nicolai Bergmann. This marks Bergmann’s first major Hong Kong installation, coinciding with the 25^th anniversary of his iconic Flower Box. From 23 January to 8 February, LANDMARK will showcase a captivating floral installation at LANDMARK ATRIUM, awash in vibrant red, a timeless symbol of joy, unity, and prosperity.

Internationally acclaimed flower artist Nicolai Bergmann, known for his distinctive blend of Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics, makes his Hong Kong debut with Flourishing Blooms at LANDMARK. Born in 1976 in Copenhagen, he has established a unique style that captivates audiences worldwide. For this special Lunar New Year installation, Bergmann reimagines his signature Flower Box, trading its classic black for a vibrant, auspicious red. This innovative gift, which has become a beloved classic, showcases his ability to elevate floral design into an art form. The festive red cascades of blossoms create a captivating spectacle at the heart of the atrium, reflecting his ongoing collaboration with leading luxury brands and his role as a prominent representative of Japan in the world of floral artistry.

“My passion lies in discovering new ways to evoke wonder and joy through floral art, pushing the boundaries of its possibilities. The Flower Box is a perfect example of this vision,” says Bergmann. “I wanted to reimagine how flowers can be gifted and displayed, and incorporating the Flower Box into this Lunar New Year installation felt like the ideal way to celebrate this festival. Each box, reimagined in vibrant red for the New Year, is filled with an exquisite blend of flowers, creating a rich tapestry of textures and colours that symbolize abundance and prosperity.”

Flourishing Blooms at LANDMARK invites guests to explore this enchanting floral landscape. Admire the intricate details of the towering Flower Boxes and discover charming details that celebrate the rich symbolism of Lunar New Year. Featuring over 50 types of flowers, the installation is a vibrant tapestry of colour and texture, with cascading blossoms creating a sense of wonder and enchantment.

Guests can also share the joy of the season and take home a piece of artistry by purchasing limited-edition Lunar New Year gifts from Nicolai Bergmann Flowers & Design, available only at LANDMARK from 23 to 26 January. Marking the brand’s first-ever pop-up store in Hong Kong, and the first time these exclusive products have been available for sale here, this is a unique opportunity to acquire a piece of floral artistry. This special edition features a vibrant red box and a unique floral design for this collaboration. In addition to the Flower Box, a selection of auspicious flower arrangements, all designed, produced and sold by Nicolai Bergmann Flowers & Design, will make the perfect Lunar New Year gift, capturing the beauty and artistry of the installation.

“It’s a precious opportunity to share my work with the people of Hong Kong for the first time,” says Bergmann. “I’m delighted to present this installation in Hong Kong and share its message of hope and prosperity with this vibrant city.”

LANDMARK strives to create world-class experiences that captivate and delight visitors. This Lunar New Year, the artistic vision of Nicolai Bergmann transforms LANDMARK ATRIUM into an unforgettable celebration of art, nature, and the spirit of the New Year. Discover the magic of Flourishing Blooms at LANDMARK.

Appendix

LANDMARK x Nicolai Bergmann Flowers & Design collaborated Lunar New Year Flower Box

Pop-up Floral Cart Operation Time:
23 January: 1pm to 6pm
24 to 26 January: 11am to 6pm

Location: Ground Floor, LANDMARK ATRIUM (next to the installation)

Merchandise Details

Joyful Red Flower Box (Small)
HK$880

Joyful Red Flower Box (Medium)
HK$1,180

Abundance in Bloom – Flower Arrangement (Small)
HK$1,700

Abundance in Bloom – Flower Arrangement (Large)
HK$2,280

Exclusive Privileges for Visiting Tourists

This Lunar New Year and Valentine’s Day, LANDMARK invites visiting tourists to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, with rewards totaling over HK$18,000. From 23 January to 16 February 2025, redeem your rewards as you shop, dine, and celebrate at LANDMARK.

Spending Requirement (HK$)	Exclusive Privileges
No spending required	HK$100 Dining Reward X 1 with a minimum spend of HK$500. HK$200 Shopping Reward x2 with a minimum spend of HK$5,000. HK$800 Shopping Reward X 2 with a minimum spend of HK$20,000.
Upon spending HK$40,000 or more (up to 3 invoices)	Exclusive dining experience for 2 guests (Valued at over HK$2,600) Amber: Savour modern French finesse at the 2 Michelin-starred and green-starred Amber, featuring a curated four-course lunch menu with a selection of the restaurant’s signatures for 2 guests. Ami: Four-course Tasting Lunch for 2 persons (Monday to Saturday). Café LANDMARK: Nestled in the heart of Hong Kong, savour the exquisite tea set for 2 guests while embracing the opulent surroundings with effortless elegance. Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong: Legendary Afternoon Tea for 2 guests at Clipper Lounge or Café Causette. Enjoy access to our luxury salon with two complimentary BESPOKE Salon Lounge Passes. This reward is valid until 31 August 2025.
Upon spending HK$100,000 or more (up to 3 invoices)	Receive an HK$5,000 Shopping Reward with a minimum spend of HK$20,000 for your next purchase. This reward is valid until 31 August 2025.
Upon cumulative spending RMB￥40,000 or more with Alipay CN (within 7 days)	Receive up to RMB￥8,000 additional Shopping Reward. Promotional period: from 23 January to 22 March 2025.

Terms and conditions apply. For more details, please visit the campaign site:
https://www.landmark.hk/en/whats-on/happenings/cny2025-tourist-promotion/

Hashtag: #LANDMARK

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

About LANDMARK

LANDMARK represents the epitome of top-tier luxury shopping and lifestyle experiences. Drawing from a rich heritage which began in 1904 – LANDMARK today is the luxury shopping destination of Hongkong Land’s Central portfolio including 4 iconic connected buildings, LANDMARK ATRIUM, LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, LANDMARK CHATER and LANDMARK PRINCE’S. LANDMARK offers approximately 208 of the finest stores and restaurants, all seamlessly linked by pedestrian bridges. From high fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery, from luxury living to beauty and grooming, from international cuisine to authentic gourmet dining, LANDMARK brings the ultimate shopping experience to the discerning customer.

About Hongkong Land

Hongkong Land is a major listed property investment, management and development group. The Group focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. Its mixed-use real estate footprint spans more than 850,000 sq. m., with flagship projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. The Group’s Hong Kong Central portfolio represents some 450,000 sq. m. of prime property. The Group has a further 165,000 sq. m. of prestigious office space in Singapore mainly held through joint ventures and five retail centres on the Chinese mainland, including a luxury retail centre at Wangfujing in Beijing. In Shanghai, the Group owns a 43% interest in a 1.1 million sq. m. mixed-use project in West Bund, which is due to be completed in 2028. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.

About Nicolai Bergmann

Born in 1976 in Copenhagen, Nicolai Bergmann is one of the most recognizable flower artists who has established a unique style that blends Scandinavian and Japanese design concepts. With flower design at the core of his practice, Nicolai Bergmann continues to expand his work, especially in the fashion and design fields, collaborating with many leading luxury brands. He is also one of the most well known flower artist to represent Japan.

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

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