Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
A man has died following a crash involving a ute and a motorbike on Parihauhau Road, Parikino this afternoon.
Emergency services responded to the scene around 1:40pm.
The motorcyclist was located deceased, and the occupants of the vehicle were uninjured.
The Serious Crash Unit has completed a scene examination and the road has since reopened.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Cente
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
A person has died on the northern end of Maketu Beach this afternoon.
Emergency services were advised just after 4pm today that an unresponsive male had washed up on the shoreline.
Despite immediate medical attention, he was sadly unable to be revived.
The man’s death will be referred to the Coroner.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
A woman has died following a water incident at the Rakaia river mouth this afternoon.
Around 1pm emergency services responded to the south side of the Rakaia River mouth, following reports a group had become stuck in the river after attempting to cross on quad bikes.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand, Police, and Hato Hone St John responded, with the assistance of a member of the public in a private vessel.
Of the six people recovered, one person was located deceased and one person was transported to hospital in a critical condition by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
A 29-year-old man is before the courts after an item of concern was located following an incident in Hamilton.
On Friday 7 February around 4.05pm, Police were called to a Massey Street address after reports that a man had been seen with a firearm before leaving the area in a vehicle.
A short time later, a Police unit located the vehicle and kept observations before conducting an armed traffic stop on Cambridge Road.
The driver was taken into custody without incident.
A search of the vehicle located two firearms and a collection of ammunition.
On arrival at the Hamilton Central Police Station, staff located an item of concern among the man’s property.
Police took advice from the New Zealand Defence Force to secure the item away from Police staff and any public areas of the station.
The NZDF Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team attended the station and made the item safe.
The 29-year-old man appeared in Hamilton District Court today on multiple charges.
He was remanded in custody to reappear on multiple charges on 11 February.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Media Outreach
The payments to farm owners under BIPPA-protection marks a historic milestone and a critical step in Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process.
Providing an update on the payments, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion, Honourable Professor Mthuli Ncube stated, “I am pleased to announce that the compensation process has begun. We believe that this process is crucial for building trust, honouring our commitments, and ensuring consistency with our Constitution as we address Zimbabwe’s debt challenge.”
The payments towards the compensation of investors under BIPPA protection began in the second week of January 2025. Payments are being made to the claimants’ Bank accounts of choice.
Only claimants from countries with BIPPAs signed and ratified before the 2000 Land Reform Programme are eligible for compensation. 94 farms were approved for compensation. The claimants are from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland and former Yugoslavia.
The Harare-based ambassadors of Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland jointly welcomed the announcement: “The framework established by the Government of Zimbabwe leading to the full compensation of affected BIPPA farmers protected by Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreements, is indeed a historic achievement. We commend the Government’s allocation of funds in the National Budget as of 2024 to make the compensation a reality. Several affected investors have received initial payouts, and an emerging sense of closure exists. It marks a significant milestone, and we consider it a very encouraging step towards a comprehensive and fair settlement for farmers and investors in Zimbabwe, be it in terms of financial compensation or land tenure. Now, it is important for the Government to keep this positive momentum.”
The BIPPA farmers are being compensated for land and improvements on the farms in line with Section 295 (2) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
The President of the African Development Bank Group and the Champion of the Zimbabwe Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution, Dr Akinwumi Adesina said, “The compensation demonstrates the Government’s goodwill and commitment to building trust in the process and improving investor confidence in the country. The progress Zimbabwe has made, the commitment and resilience it is showing, calls for support from development partners to facilitate the country’s effort in implementing on going reforms and to provide the much-needed cushion to particularly the vulnerable members of the population.”
The compensation of these investors is one of the key reforms under the Structured Dialogue Platform on the country’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. Zimbabwe aims to clear its arrears, resolve debt, and unlock new concessional external financing to achieve its development goals. The Government established in December 2022, a Structured Dialogue Platform (SDP) with all its creditors and development partners, to institutionalise engagement on economic and governance reforms to underpin the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process.
The Resolution of BIPPA-protected farms is under the auspices of one of the three Sector Working Groups (SWG) of the country’s Structured Dialogue Platform for Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process. It falls under the Land Tenure Reforms, Compensation for Former Farm Owners, and the Resolution of BIPPAs SWG. This SWG is co-chaired by the Office of the President and Cabinet, Switzerland and the United Nations Development Programme. The other two SWGs are Economic Growth and Stability Reforms, and Governance Reforms.
At the last High-Level SDP Meeting held in Harare on 25 November 2024, His Excellency, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, reiterated the Government’s ownership of the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process, and his commitment to the implementation of reforms underpinning the Process, in line with the country’s National Development Strategy 1.
The resolution of BIPPAs is also part of the country’s engagement and re-engagement initiatives with the international community.
After disbursing the US$20 million from the 2024 National Budget for BIPPA-protected farms, the remaining US$125.9 million will be paid over four years (2025 to 2028) through annual fiscal allocations. Additionally, the Government has allocated another US$20 million in the 2025 National Budget for this purpose.
Table 1: Approved BIPPA Farms for Compensation
| Country | Number of Farms Approved for Compensation | Farmers | Value (US$ millions) |
| Denmark | 6 | 5 | 13.4 |
| Germany | 14 | 7 | 14.0 |
| Netherlands | 46 | 33 | 88.2 |
| Switzerland | 27 | 10 | 27.0 |
| Former Yugoslavia | 1 | 1 | 3.3 |
| Total | 94 | 56 | 145.9 |
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Caption for Images: Sixth High-Level Structured Dialogue Platform on Zimbabwe’s Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution Process held in the country’s capital, Harare in November 2024
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Video Caption: Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Honourable Professor Mthuli Ncube Speaks about Compensation of Investors under Bippa-protection
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Social Media:
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X: @ Zimtreasury
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Parihauhau Road is closed at Parikino following a two vehicle crash off State Highway 4 this afternoon.
Emergency services responded to the crash around 1:40pm.
The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.
Parihauhau Road is closed while emergency services respond, and a scene examination is conducted.
Motorists are advised to take an alternate route.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)
Scoresby, Feb. 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Scoresby, Victoria –
With its new brand purpose, Rubbermaid Commercial Products reaffirms its mission to support the people who keep work spaces clean, safe and productive daily.
Rubbermaid Commercial Products APAC (RCP) recently announced the launch of its new Brand Purpose campaign, showcasing a renewed commitment to supporting the essential services that keep the modern world running. A clean environment contributes to workplace safety, health, and productivity. However, maintaining such an environment requires critical behind-the-scenes efforts using proven techniques and quality products for effective, long-lasting results.
Rubbermaid tools are purpose-built to address the daily challenges in key industries and public spaces. From cleaning classrooms to maintaining hospital hygiene, RCP’s solutions make these tasks easier, safer, and more efficient. Innovative high-tech upgrades such as RFID technology in its popular HYGEN™ launderable microfibre mop pads and cloths help boost inventory management, tracking and loss prevention, making these cleaning essentials even more efficient for facilities.
“Small tools can have a huge impact. A mop that removes germs effectively can prevent illness in a classroom, while a cart that reduces trips to the supply room saves time and energy in a busy hotel. These tools go beyond being just functional, improving workflows and outcomes to help workers perform their roles confidently. Our products support essential industries and are made for work that matters,” said Praj Perera, senior manager at Rubbermaid Commercial.
In schools and offices, Rubbermaid’s durable mops, microfibre cloths, and waste management systems help these premises maintain spotless classrooms, preventing the spread of germs while creating safe spaces for students and workers.
The healthcare environment demands even stricter cleanliness standards. Rubbermaid’s carts and cleaning tools are designed for effective infection control, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Their ergonomic features allow staff to work efficiently without strain, even during long shifts.
Housekeeping is the backbone of guest satisfaction. Rubbermaid’s housekeeping carts set the standard in the hotel industry, combining high storage capacity with compact, manoeuvrable designs. Staff can discreetly access everything they need to clean rooms efficiently, while the durable construction ensures reliability in high turnover environments.
In the fast-paced warehousing industry, time equals money, Rubbermaid carts and bins improve workflows by helping staff transport goods quickly and safely. With sturdy, high-capacity designs, these products minimise downtime and support productivity.
Similarly, arenas and public spaces require quick cleanups to prepare for the next event. Rubbermaid tools, like their easy-to-manoeuvre carts and durable cleaning equipment, help teams work efficiently, saving time while ensuring high standards of cleanliness.
For over 50 years, Rubbermaid Commercial Products has delivered innovative products backed by science and cleaning expertise. We serve several industries and strive to ensure every professional and customer feels safe and comfortable.
RCP makes products that last because the company knows its customers in industries like education, healthcare, hospitality, warehousing, and aged care need tools they can count on. By making products that last, Rubbermaid Commercial helps reduce the need for replacements, saving customers money and ensuring they always have the tools they need to get the job done right.
Rubbermaid housekeeping carts are tough enough to handle daily handling while carrying heavy loads. They stay smooth and quiet, even in busy, demanding environments, so customers can focus on getting the job done. Cleaning tools, such as microfibre cloths, mops and dusters, are built to handle regular washing and tough cleaning jobs without losing effectiveness, delivering reliable results every time despite extensive usage.
For storage solutions, the company develops strong materials to make bins and containers that resist cracking and warping, even when loaded with heavy or awkward items. These units hold up in demanding conditions without the risk of breaking down.
Combining durability, ergonomic design and efficiency, Rubbermaid Commercial products empower workers to take on demanding tasks while minimising risk and maximising productivity. RCP products are designed for the people who keep our spaces clean, safe and productive. From schools to warehouses, these tools are made for work that matters.
About the Company:
Rubbermaid Commercial Products is a leading manufacturer of innovative, solution-based products for commercial and institutional markets in Australia. With a focus on durability and performance, RCP offers a comprehensive range of products across various categories, including cleaning, material handling, waste management, washroom solutions, safety, and food service. Serving key industries such as healthcare, aged care, hospitality, property management, education, and commercial cleaning, RCP is committed to enhancing operational efficiency and promoting sustainability.
To find out more, visit Rubbermaid Commercial Products website to explore solutions built to last.
###
For more information about Rubbermaid Commercial Products, contact the company here:
Rubbermaid Commercial Products
Praj Perera
info@rubbermaidcommercial.com.au
Level 3, 35 Dalmore Drive , Scoresby, Victoria, Australia 3179
– Published by The MIL Network
Source: Media Outreach
LAGOS, NIGERIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2025 – Tolaram, the Singapore-headquartered owners and operators of Lagos Free Zone are proud to announce that the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has committed an equity investment of up to $50 million to support the development of Lagos Free Zone.
The investment, aimed at closing key infrastructure gaps to enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness, will help accelerate the first phase development of the 860-hectare Lagos Free Zone through expanding land development, industrial facilities, and logistics infrastructure. Directly integrated with the Lekki Deep Sea Port, Lagos Free Zone is uniquely positioned to offer an efficient, unified industrial ecosystem that facilitates seamless import and export operations, positioning Nigeria as a critical player in global value chains.
By addressing critical infrastructure bottlenecks and improving connectivity, this investment is expected to open new business opportunities, strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading regional economic hub, and contribute to the long-term prosperity of the nation.
“Tolaram’s businesses have a long-standing history in Nigeria and are deeply committed to unlocking the country’s economic potential. With the critical investments made in Lagos Free Zone, we are not only tackling infrastructure challenges but also creating a conducive environment for local and international businesses to thrive,” said Navin Nahata, Managing Director for Fintech and Infrastructure at Tolaram.
Adesuwa Ladoja, Managing Director/CEO of Lagos Free Zone Company, added, “IFC’s support represents a significant and positive recognition of our vision to establish Lagos Free Zone as a world-class industrial hub. This investment allows us to scale up the existing infrastructure to attract more foreign and local tenants while promoting sustainability and creating economic opportunities for Nigeria. Lagos Free Zone, integrated with Lekki Deep Sea Port, facilitates ease of doing business in Nigeria and supports the Federal Government of Nigeria’s drive for economic diversification and infrastructure development. We look forward to driving growth and delivering lasting impact through this transformative collaboration with the IFC.”
Lagos Free Zone is already home to several manufacturing brands like Kellogg’s, Dano Milk, Colgate, BASF, ADM, and Tata International as well as Lekki Port – Nigeria’s deepest and most advanced port.
30,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs are expected to be created when the Lagos Free Zone is fully occupied, delivering long-term economic benefits to Nigeria. With the Nigerian economy projected to grow by 3.7% in 2026, investments of this nature are vital to ensuring the country’s sustained growth and economic resilience.
Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa, noted, “This investment reflects IFC’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria. Lagos Free Zone is poised to become a transformative hub for industrial activity, driving job creation and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets. We are proud to partner with Lagos Free Zone in building the infrastructure necessary to attract global and local businesses, enabling Nigeria to achieve its full economic potential.”
The investment in Lagos Free Zone also reflects IFC’s commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on green infrastructure. Approximately 15% of the investment is earmarked for climate-related initiatives, including Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE)- certified buildings and climate-resilient infrastructure.
This investment aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms and supports IFC’s broader strategic frameworks, including the World Bank Group’s Nigeria Country Partnership Framework (2021–2025) and its 2015 Climate Action Plan, both prioritising economic diversification, the development of competitive business clusters, and investments in climate-resilient infrastructure.
Hashtag: #Tolaram #LagosFreeZone #LekkiPort #IFC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
Source: Media Outreach
“Make the Moment”: Showcasing Creativity Across Movement, Night, and Portrait
The 2025 theme, “Make the Moment,” celebrates the fleeting beauty of everyday life, turning it into timeless works of art. Participants can submit entries across three categories: Movement, Night and Low Light, and Faces.
“At OnePlus, we believe in empowering our users to create and share memorable moments with their phone cameras,” said Emily Dai, Head of Global Brand and Marketing at OnePlus. “The 2025 OnePlus Photography Awards are a testament to the endless possibilities of mobile photography and the global creativity it inspires. Together, we’re building a gallery of stories and emotions that transcend borders and connect us all.”
The “Movement” category invites photographers to capture the essence of motion, from the energy of speed and adventure to the subtle moments of everyday life. The “Night and Low Light” category showcases the magic of the world after dark, highlighting vibrant cityscapes, starlit skies, and dynamic low-light scenes. Lastly, the “Faces” category invites participants to capture the emotions and stories behind every face, from joyful smiles to heartfelt moments, turning portraits into powerful expressions of life.
“Winning the 2024 OnePlus Photography Awards has been a massive milestone. It’s not just recognition but also a reminder to keep pushing my creative boundaries. It’s motivated me to explore new ideas and stay curious,” said Harisanker Sasikumar, Category Winner of OPA 2024. “To everyone participating in the 2025 OnePlus Photography Awards, good luck. Embrace your unique vision, keep experimenting, and most importantly, have fun with it.”
Open to All: Global Recognition and Generous Rewards
This year, OPA is open to all smartphone users, celebrating creativity with inclusivity and generous rewards. The competition includes two groups: the OnePlus Group, exclusive to OnePlus users, and the Public Group, accessible to all smartphone users worldwide. The judging panel, featuring OnePlus founder Pete Lau, Hasselblad ambassadors, and renowned photographers, ensures diverse and fair evaluations.
The top winner will receive $10,000, while all winners will be awarded the flagship OnePlus 13 and potential collaboration opportunities with OnePlus. Additionally, winning entries and photographers’ stories will be showcased on global platforms like OnePlus and 500px, offering participants worldwide exposure and community engagement.
OnePlus 13: The Ultimate Phone to Make Your Moments
Continuing its partnership with Hasselblad, the OnePlus 13 introduces significant upgrades in mobile photography, empowering photographers of all levels to capture moments like never before.
With its flagship triple-camera system, the OnePlus 13 ensures unparalleled versatility, clarity, and image quality. Innovative features, such as the Dual Exposure Algorithm for dynamic, fast-moving scenes, Night Mode for vibrant low-light shots, and Portrait Mode for stunning, professional-quality portraits, make it the perfect tool for capturing Movement, Night, and Faces. Whether you’re photographing a playful pet, a bustling cityscape, or a beautiful portrait, the OnePlus 13 adapts to your creative needs, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary works of art.
Entries are now open. Visit www.oneplus.com/photography-awards-2025 to submit your stories through the lens and join the global community to celebrate the creativity and innovation in mobile photography.
Hashtag: #OnePlus #OnePlusPhotoAwards #ShotonOnePlus
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
Source: Media Outreach
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2025 – MEET48 officially launches its world-first virtual entertainment, social, music, and dance AIGC creator platform, MEET48.ai, on February 7.
MEET48.ai: Effortlessly Create Idol AI-Agents and AIGC Content with One-Click Intelligence
By accessing MEET48.ai, users can create virtual Idol AI-Agents through simple customization steps. These AI-Agents support various functions, including chatting, live streaming, companionship, and virtual performances.
As the world’s only platform offering efficient AIGC content generation with text-to-music, music-to-dance, AI-powered choreography, and voice cloning capabilities, MEET48.ai enables Idol-Agents to autonomously create multimedia content, including AI graphics, AI songs, and AI virtual dances which can be instantly shared on social media platforms. MEET48.ai also provides a wide range of application scenarios, such as 1-on-1 or group text/voice chats, real-time live streaming, and planned features like animated shows, variety programming, and virtual concerts.
Additionally, MEET48.ai introduces AISHOWBOX, an exclusive AI creation tool that enables users to achieve in-depth creation functions such as heterogeneous 3D image creation, AI-powered choreography, and Idol Agent Group content, significantly enhancing the quality of AIUGC creations.
MEET48 ecosystem creates an exclusive competitive “moat” by integrating a vast array of high-quality entertainment resources
At its initial stage, MEET48.ai has already integrated a large number of exclusive entertainment resources from the MEET48 ecosystem. Over 700 songs and dances from SNH48 GROUP have been added to the asset library, and more than 250 current idols will join to create their Idol AI-Agents.
Under the concept of “AI Reshaping SNH48”, Meet48 will offer virtual images and 3D models of over 700 members from the past decade of SNH48 Group. Users can freely create AI-AGENTs by utilizing AI technology to recreate SNH48 Group’s historical milestones and initiate future growth in the AI era.
Co-create and co-build community consensus, realizing an AIUGC community where “Everyone Can Be a Creator”
MEET48.ai community fosters consensus through a co-creation and co-building mechanism. Users can engage closely with creators, facilitating the generation and dissemination of idol content, which attracts more users to join and generate revenue, creating a virtuous ecological cycle. In the future, MEET48.ai will also integrate with MEET48’s graphical social platform, Metaverse, offering an innovative virtual-spatial intelligent agent interaction experience.
Moreover, AI-AGENT creators can assess their growth through the MEET48 entertainment ecosystem’s Top 5 fan-voted annual popularity competitions, gaining broader exposure through the resource incentives provided by the community.
Historically, a few dominant entities controlled content creation and revenue in the idol economy. However, the Web3 era is gradually dismantling this traditional system. The rapid development of AIGC and AI-Agent technologies heralds the arrival of the AIUGC era, where “everyone can be a creator.” MEET48.ai aligns perfectly with this emerging societal need.
The global entertainment market is on the verge of transformation, and MEET48.ai is poised to become the most influential leader in Idol-Agent and virtual music-dance AIGC within the global entertainment industry.
Hashtag: #MEET48
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
