Support for Māori economic development projects

February 5, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

A major infrastructure upgrade at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, supported by $10.2 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund, is progressing well with some new facilities opening in time for the 185^th Waitangi Day commemorations this week, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.

The Ministers also today announced $7.1m funding for Māori economic development projects in Northland and Taranaki.

“The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a nationally significant site for all New Zealanders and it is important they are maintained at the highest level,” Mr Potaka says.

“The grounds are also the No.1 tourism destination in Northland and each year the number of visitors increases, boosting the local economy. More than 160,000 people visited last year, including about 50,000 on Waitangi Day 2024. The infrastructure improvements will ensure the grounds are fit for purpose year-round.”

Mr Jones says it was clear the facilities and buildings at the Waitangi grounds were reaching the end of their shelf life and needed upgrading.

“I am pleased that work has cracked on in time for this year’s events, and that all-important bathroom facilities and carparking is in place.”

The remaining upgrades at Waitangi are expected to be finished by November 2026. The total cost of the upgrades is $10.65m.

The Ministers announced the funding in November last year, along with $10.1m for infrastructure improvements at Rātana Pā near Whanganui.

Today the Ministers also announced $7.1m in grants from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) for enabling infrastructure in three Māori economic development projects in Northland and Taranaki.

“We understand access to capital is a particular barrier for Māori entities and businesses, and the RIF aims to be a potential source of investment in Māori-led regional infrastructure projects that have merit, and it is proven funding cannot be found elsewhere,” Mr Jones says.

“It is often difficult for Māori to borrow against collectively owned whenua (land) and some Māori entities have lower levels of assets that can be used by lenders as security collateral. Investing in the Māori economy is important for lifting the New Zealand economy as a whole.”

Research from Business and Economic Research Limited and the Ministry for Business Innovation and Employment shows the Māori economic contribution to the New Zealand economy grew from $17 billion (6.5 per cent of GDP) in 2018 to $30b (8.4 per cent) in 2023.

“These three grants from the RIF will provide these communities with the funds needed to unlock potential Māori economic development opportunities while supporting growth and resilience in these regions,” Mr Potaka says.

The three projects are:

Te Kao Community Microgrid (Te Tai Tokerau) project will receive a $3m grant to construct a solar- and wind-powered microgrid connected to a community battery in Te Kao village to provide a consistent low-cost energy supply to the community and local businesses.
Ngā Wāhi Tapu o Pukerangiora (Taranaki) will receive $2.8m to build tourism infrastructure at Pukerangiora Pā, a site of significance to increase cultural tourism opportunities.
Waimamaku Community Solar Resilience Programme (Te Tai Tokerau) will receive $1.3m to install solar power and batteries to multiple businesses and community facilities to provide consistent and reliable power.

In September the Government provided a $5.8m grant to improve water infrastructure at Parihaka in Taranaki, a place of passive resistance, peace, and shelter during the New Zealand Land Wars.

MIL OSI

Road closure, SH39, Ngāhinapōuri

LiveNews Publisher

February 5, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

State Highway 39 is closed following a crash near Ngāhinapōuri.

Emergency services attended the crash involving three vehicles, reported at around 2.20am. Critical injuries are reported.

Serious Crash Unit are conducting a scene examination.

The road is closed and diversions are in place, motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

KPMG to celebrate “80 Years of Trust” in Hong Kong

MIL OSI

February 4, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

KPMG in 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. It started operations in Hong Kong in 1945. In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in the Chinese Mainland. In 2012, KPMG became the first among the “Big Four” in the Chinese Mainland to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership.

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 organization 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.

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.

Opening of He Kura Toi Tangata: 50 years of the Waitangi Tribunal

LiveNews Publisher

February 4, 2025

Source: New Zealand Governor General

Toitū Kāhui tangata

Ka Haea te ata,

ka Hāpara te ata

Ka korokī te manu

Ka wairori te kutu

Ko te ata nui, ka horaina

Ka Taki te umere,

He po, he po, he ao

ka awatea.

E koro, ….Matiu,

Kua tatū mai ō rahi ki te whakanui i te kaupapa o te rā, arā , Te Taraipiunara o Waitangi rima te kau tau ki muri, whakaara mai ai.

Hoki wairua mai!, Hoki wairua mai!

Hoki wairua mai!

Koutou, tātou kua tatū mai i runga i te reo karanga o te rā,

Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tātou katoa

[Be alert for this is a gathering of great significance. As the dawn breaks, and we hear the birds call, we move from the time of darkness to the new era of enlightenment. Each new dawn enables us to embrace new knowledge, to be inspired by the possibilities that rise in front of us.

Matiu(Rata) We have arrived to celebrate 50 years of the Waitangi Tribunal, which was begun under your watch. Return in spirit to embrace your people, as we celebrate its journey.]

To one and all gathered here today, greetings.

I specifically acknowledge:

Distinguished members of the judiciary, including the Honourable Chief Justice Helen Winkelmann, Chief Justice of New Zealand, and

The Honourable Chief Justice Debra Mortimer, Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia,

Ministers of the Crown,

Members of Parliament,

Ngati Kawa, Ngati Rahiri, Ngati Hine and Ngati Kuri representatives,

Bishop Te Kitohi Pikaahu and Dame Claudia Orange.

I am truly honoured to take part in the opening of this exhibition commemorating the first 50 years of the Waitangi Tribunal.

How fitting that He Kura Toi Tangata begin its tour of Aotearoa here in Waitangi – te pito te whenua – where Te Tiriti, the foundational document for the Tribunal’s work, was conceived in its English and te reo Māori iterations – and was signed by rangatira, as well as my earliest antecedent in this role, Captain William Hobson.

Kō ngā tahu ā ō tapuwai inanahi, hei tauira mō āpōpō. The footsteps laid down by our ancestors create the paving stones upon which we stand today.

Retrospectives challenge us to consider and compare how we were in the past, with how we are today. This exhibition will prompt us to reflect on the impacts and achievements of the Waitangi Tribunal over the past 50 years, and the ways they are woven through our story as a nation.

From its small beginnings; to the gradual additions to its powers, Members and support staff; to its ground-breaking reports – the Tribunal has become a vital forum for the airing of concerns about a wide range of issues; for the seeking of redress for past wrongs; and for exploring the meaning of Te Tiriti as it pertains to the contemporary world.

The Tribunal has achieved so much, whether it be in greater public awareness of Te Tiriti and te ao Māori, in contributions to legislative development and new institutions, and of course, in the Treaty Settlement process.

Tonight, I particularly want to pay homage to those claimants who spent many decades of their lives toiling on behalf of their hapu or iwi – often at great personal cost – and sometimes not living long enough to see the resolution of those claims.

In addition, I want to acknowledge all who have been involved in working with the Tribunal, including those behind the scenes. Sir Doug Graham observed that the Treaty Settlements in the 1990s would not have been possible without the Tribunal’s research and deliberations – which, incidentally, included research undertaken by our current Minister of Justice, the Honourable Paul Goldsmith, during his time with the Tribunal. The research done by, and presented to the Tribunal over its 50 years is an immensely valuable resource for all New Zealanders.

On behalf of the people of New Zealand, I thank Members – past and present – for their willingness to grapple with complex histories and contentious issues, and to make recommendations that have often been at the leading edge of the practical application of te Tiriti. As Sir Doug said: “They have done their country proud”.

I hope the more difficult moments were balanced by moments of intense satisfaction – whether it be enabling histories to be heard and recorded for posterity – or providing a forum for debate about emerging societal, cultural or environmental issues.

There is so much to learn from the lessons of history uncovered during the Tribunal process. The Tribunal’s recommendations have, in turn, become part of the historical record.

If Matiu Rata could have been with us tonight, how proud he would have been to celebrate his legacy with you all – and to honour the people who played their part in taking the Waitangi Tribunal forward on its journey.

Congratulations to everyone here tonight who has been involved in the Tribunal process to date, as well as all those involved in the making of this powerful and timely exhibition. I am delighted to now formally open He Kura Toi Tangata: 50 years of the Waitangi Tribunal, 1975-2025.

MIL OSI

IQ Dynamics Unveils HRiQ to Streamline Onboarding with Smart Solutions

MIL OSI

February 4, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 February 2025 – IQ Dynamics, a leading enterprise software provider, is proud to offer HRiQ, an advanced HR management software designed to revolutionise employee onboarding processes. HRiQ offers smart workflow solutions that enhance efficiency, ensure compliance, and elevate the new hire experience.

HRiQ™ combines accelerated automation, powerful augmented analytics, and flexible HR capabilities to optimise workflows and reduce the time spent on administrative tasks. The software empowers HR teams to create tailored onboarding experiences that align with organisational goals, improve compliance, and provide new hires with a seamless, engaging introduction to the company. Its digital dynamics experience enhances day-to-day HR operations, while its intuitive design ensures that both HR personnel and new employees can navigate the platform with ease.

Among HRiQ™’s latest advancements is the Onboarding and HR Workflow module, which is quick, effective, and innovative in assisting HR professionals to alleviate and streamline their work processes across various HR domains. By leveraging advanced technology and a commitment to user-centric design, HRiQ™ by IQ Dynamics empowers organisations to create efficient HR ecosystems that support sustainable growth and enhance employee engagement. IQ Dynamics has established itself as a trusted provider of enterprise-grade talent development platforms and HRMS software. With a strong focus on innovation, the company consistently delivers solutions that address the multifaceted challenges faced by HR professionals.

Early adopters of HRiQ™ have already reported a significant reduction in onboarding time and an increase in employee satisfaction, thanks to its seamless integration and personalised workflow capabilities. HR teams can also gain valuable insights through augmented analytics, helping them refine strategies and drive continuous improvement.

Hashtag: #IQDynamics

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

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

Monash University Malaysia Launches SEADS to Promote Online Safety

MIL OSI

February 4, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 February 2025 – Monash University Malaysia marked a milestone with the launch of the Southeast Asia Research Centre for Digital Tech and Society (SEADS). The launch of SEADS was inaugurated by the Honourable YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister of Youth and Sports, in a ceremony committed to promoting a safer digital future.

From left: Professor Duncan McDuie-Ra (Head of the School of Arts & Social Sciences), Associate Professor Emma Baulch (Director of (SEADS) and Deputy Head of School (Research) at the School of Arts and Social Sciences. , YB Hannah Yeoh (Minister of Youth and Sports), Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman (President and Pro Vice-Chancellor, Monash University Malaysia), YB Michelle Ng Mei Sze (ADUN Subang Jaya).

Speaking of the role of SEADS, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Dr. Adeeba Kamarulzaman, President and Pro Vice-Chancellor, of Monash University Malaysia emphasized that the center is not just about celebrating digital advancement but ensuring technology works for the people, not against them. She also highlighted SEADS’ commitment to collaborating with corporations, policymakers, and communities to foster ethical and inclusive digital transformation.

One of the event’s highlights was a fireside chat between YB Hannah Yeoh and Professor Meera Sivasothy from the School of Arts and Social Sciences. The discussion titled “Creating a Safe Internet for Young Malaysians” explored issues related to the regulation of online spaces in Malaysia and their implications for young people. “Greater coordination and data sharing within government agencies is essential to making better-informed decisions regarding online harm”, emphasized Hannah Yeoh. Prioritizing comprehensive research and leveraging the Southeast Asia Digital Society framework, stakeholders are urged to understand the scope of online harm before enacting policies or regulations.

In response to questions on whether Malaysia should follow Australia’s lead in banning social media access for individuals under 16, YB Hannah Yeoh expressed skepticism about its feasibility. She highlighted enforcement challenges, noting, “In Malaysia, people often share phones within households, making such regulations difficult to implement.”

Addressing the issue of online trolling in sports, Yeoh underscored the importance of maintaining the principles of sportsmanship. “Online behavior should mirror the values we cherish in sports. Respect, fairness, and integrity must be upheld, whether on the field or online,” she stated.

Yeoh also discussed the often-blurred lines between online and offline spaces, challenging societal perceptions about digital consumption. “We frequently criticize children for spending extensive hours on their phones, but we must also consider adult behaviors—like working in two-hour blocks without breaks—as part of the problem. To secure a better future, we need collective efforts in understanding and addressing these concerns,” she added.

As Malaysia navigates the complexities of digital engagement, fostering an informed, collaborative approach is pivotal to safeguarding all citizens in an increasingly interconnected world.

Associate Professor Emma Baulch, Director of SEADS and Deputy Head of School (Research) at Monash University Malaysia’s Schools of Arts and Social Sciences said, “Online spaces are where young people live—relax, socialize, shop, get informed and sell things. Given the rapid pace of change in these environments, more fundamental research is needed to take stock of how changes affect us for better or for worse.” Baulch added,” Universities are a key piece of the puzzle in building an inclusive digital future. At SEADS, we don’t just publish research articles but we co-design them with collaborators in civil society, government, and industry to drive meaningful changes.”

SEADS’ research falls under three themes:

Online harm and safety, including online gender-based violence and the harm caused by deepfake imagery;
Data justice, including research on digital identities, data centers, and threats to data privacy; and
Digital inclusion, including the inequalities of access and affordability that persist as increasing numbers of people come online.

SEADS will partner with industry, policymakers, and civil society to ensure research on these topics informs public conversations, attitudes, and practices, as well as policy development. These research priorities reflect Monash University Malaysia’s commitment to address critical societal issues that impact our community. Through initiatives like SEADS, Monash University Malaysia continues to undertake the research necessary to drive impactful change, bridging academics with real-world solutions to address the pressing challenges of our time.

Hashtag: #MonashUniversityMalaysia

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

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

Remains located, identified as woman missing since March

LiveNews Publisher

February 4, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attribute to Waikato Western Area Commander Inspector Will Loughrin:

Police can confirm the remains of a woman missing since March 2024 have been found in the Pureroa Forest in Waikato.

Police were alerted to the discovery by a local hunter on Monday evening, 27 January.

Police can now confirm the remains are those of 79-year-old Judy Donovan.

Judy was laying bait with a group in the forest on 23 March last year when she became separated.

That afternoon, Search and Rescue teams, including Land Search and Rescue, Police Search and Rescue, and dog units, were deployed to the area.

The search for Judy was suspended in April last year after a large-scale, weeks-long search. The choice to suspend a search is always a tough one. It involves the assessment of a number of factors, including consultation with survivability experts.

In May, Police and a cadaver dog deployed to the area again, however, they were unable to locate her.

Judy’s family has been advised of the discovery, and they are being offered support at this incredibly emotional time.

A post-mortem examination has been completed along with the formal identification process.

As the matter is with the Coroner, we are unable to provide further comment.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Government Of The Republic Of Botswana And De Beers Conclude Negotiations On Rough Diamond Sales Agreement

MIL OSI

February 4, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘ Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo-American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com. – Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Cristiano Ronaldo Life Museum Set to Open in Hong Kong: A Celebration of a Football Legend

MIL OSI

February 4, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Tickets to immersive cultural attraction set to honor football icon’s inspiring career go on sale from 5th February

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 February 2025 – The highly anticipated Cristiano Ronaldo Life Museum is set to open its doors in July 2025 at K11 Art & Cultural Centre (6F, Kunsthalle), K11 MUSEA in Tsim Sha Tsui. The grand opening will feature several international celebrities, marking a monumental celebration of the football legend’s illustrious career. This state-of-the-art museum celebrates Cristiano Ronaldo’s career and the power of ambition, passion, perseverance and hard work; a beacon of inspiration for fans and visitors.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Featuring state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and motivational storytelling, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum offers an immersive experience designed to inspire greatness. The Cristiano Ronaldo Museum is designed to be a place where visitors not only celebrate the accomplishments of a global icon but also reflect on their own aspirations. Aimed at empowering youth and dreamers, the museum features motivational content and inspiring quotes to encourage visitors to unlock their full potential. The museum will be the first of its kind in Asia and aims to attract over 12 million visitors to Hong Kong, providing significant exposure for the city as a global tourist destination.

This initiative presents a unique opportunity for Hong Kong to unite and spread happiness throughout the city. The CR7^® LIFE Museum will naturally inspire collaborations across Hong Kong’s hospitality sector, food and beverage outlets, retail businesses, tourism agencies, and the MTR. These synergies are expected to foster a collective movement called “HONG KONG UNITED,” encouraging all sectors to embrace and welcome tourists from around the globe. This organic connection aims to create a positive ripple effect, benefiting the entire city.

Tickets for the museum will go on sale on February 5, 2025, coinciding with Cristiano Ronaldo’s birthday, allowing fans worldwide to partake in this historic opening. Early bird ticket buyers will unlock exclusive benefits at merchandise stores, offering unique opportunities to enhance their CR7^® LIFE Museum experience.

On February 5, a grand celebration will take place at the K11 MUSEA promenade to honour Cristiano Ronaldo, a global icon whose impact transcends the world of football. As part of this unique event, attendees can expect extraordinary surprises that promise to make the occasion truly unforgettable, reflecting the unparalleled legacy of this legendary figure.

In addition to the museum, two flagship merchandise stores will open in Tsim Sha Tsui and on Hong Kong Island between March and April 2025. Spanning over 3,000 square feet each, these stores will be the first of their kind in the world, offering exclusive Cristiano Ronaldo signed merchandise and memorabilia.

The opening of the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum at K11 MUSEA promises to be a landmark event in Hong Kong’s cultural landscape, offering an unparalleled experience for fans and visitors alike.

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

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

Arrests and impounds following poor driving in Auckland

LiveNews Publisher

February 4, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police have made arrests and seized vehicles after reports of dangerous driving through parts of south Auckland today.

Just before 11.30am, the public began reporting dirt bikes blocking a Manurewa intersection at Great South and Weymouth roads.

Police have established the movements were part of a funeral procession moving from Manurewa to Pukekohe.

“A group of vehicles were observed heading south on State Highway 1 driving in an unsafe manner,” District Shift Commander, Senior Sergeant Nick Ewen says.

“The Police Eagle helicopter deployed and monitored the driving behaviour from overhead.”

Police staff on the ground intercepted the vehicles in the Pukekohe area.

Senior Sergeant Ewen says three people were arrested on the roadside, with four vehicles also being impounded.

“Those arrested will be facing driving-related offences in court,” he says.

“Counties Manukau staff have also impounded a further two dirt bikes at an address.

“This is a great outcome, and it sends a message that Police and the wider community will not accept dangerous or unsociable behaviour on our roads.”

Senior Sergeant Ewen says Police would like to hear from any members of the public as enquiries continue.

“If you witnessed the driving behaviour or have dashcam footage, we need to hear from you,” he says.

If you have footage or information to assist Police, please call 105 using the reference number P061507502.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

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