ICONSIAM Hosts Spectacular Chinese New Year 2025 Celebration to Commemorate 50 Years of Thai-Chinese Relations

January 17, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

The Chinese New Year Festival has been Recognized as Part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

A 150-Million-Baht (US$ 4.35 Million) Investment to Honor the 50-Year Milestone, Featuring Breathtaking Sculpture Exhibition, Cultural Displays and Performances, and a Vibrant Chinese Street Market.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 January 2025 – ICONSIAM, a global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, developed by Siam Piwat Group, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation, and Charoen Pokphand Group is commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China with unparalleled Chinese New Year 2025 celebration. With an investment of over 150 million Baht (US$ 4.35 million), ICONSIAM is hosting two monumental events to kick off 2025—a groundbreaking “Lancang to ChaoPhraya” sculpture exhibition starting from January 15, 2025. In addition, a grand Chinese New Year celebration, set to captivate millions of visitors from around the world, will feature, for the first time, the enshrinement of 60 Tai Sui deities—guardians of fortune representing all birth years—allowing visitors to seek blessings for the Year of the Snake. Attendees can also enjoy the special “Dragon of Two Lands” performance, symbolizing the unity of the Naga and the Dragon, along with a cultural dance from Changsha, China. The festivities will unfold amidst the “Little China” street market, offering over 35 famous shops from across Thailand with food, travel and shopping for 10 days from January 24 to February 2, 2025. The event is expected to attract over 2 million visitors worldwide.

ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2025

Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd., stated “This year marks a significant milestone in Thai-Chinese relations, celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. ICONSIAM, in collaboration with its partners, presents the exhibition “Lancang to Chao Phraya,” showcasing masterful sculptures that convey the cultural and spiritual connections from the Chinese river to the Chao Phraya river.

The exhibition celebrates this momentous occasion by fostering Thai-Chinese cultural exchange through world-class artwork. Running from January 15 to February 28, 2025, at River Park, ICONSIAM, the highlight of this exhibition is the masterpiece sculpture ‘Chubby Woman with Dragon & Naga,’ created through the first-ever collaboration between Thailand’s National Artist ‘Dr. Preecha ThaoThong’ and a prominent Chinese artist ‘Mr. Xu Hong Fei,’ famous for his iconic “chubby woman” sculptures. This exceptional creation symbolizes the deepening bond between the two nations, offering a complete and profound cultural exchange,” said Mr. Supoj.

Furthermore, ICONSIAM has also joined forces with government entities, including the Ministry of Culture and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as well as private partners such as KASIKORNBANK, SOOKSIAM, and leading Chinese associations, solidifying its reputation as a Global Destination that attracts visitors from around the world for every festival.

“ICONSIAM is investing over 150 million baht (US$ 4.35 million) in celebrating these two significant occasions. Kicking off the first quarter of the year, the events commemorate the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations and the Chinese New Year. It is expected that 2 million visitors, including both Thais and tourists from around the world, will attend the 10-day event, with a projected 20% increase in consumer spending within the shopping complex compared to the previous year,” Mr.Supoj concluded.

The ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2025 Key Highlights Include:

A Grand Performance to Celebrate 50 Years of Thai-Chinese Diplomatic Relations
This grand celebration will dazzle with a spectacular performance honoring the strong ties between the two nations. The auspicious occasion begins with a special performance featuring the majestic “Drums of Prosperity,” followed by the breathtaking “Two Nations Dragon Dance,” symbolizing the union of the Naga and the Dragon, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. Witness an extraordinary cultural performance from Changsha City, a nationally acclaimed showcase from the People’s Republic of China. Enjoy exclusive entertainment activities and surprises, including an exclusive opening ceremony performance by the hottest on-screen duo, Zee and Nunew, on Friday, January 24, 2025, starting at 5:00 PM.
Blessings and Prayers for Prosperity from the 60 Deities of Tai Sui
For the first time ever, the 60 deities of Tai Sui, guardians of fortune representing all birth years from the historic Renwei Temple in Guangzhou, China, over a thousand years old. Each deity corresponds to a specific birth year and is believed to bring good fortune when properly honored. Visitors can pay respects and seek blessings for a smooth and prosperous year ahead.
“Little China” – A Traditional Chinese Walking Street with Over 35 Famous Stalls
Visitors can explore the “Little China” walking street, where they can enjoy a variety of auspicious foods along the Chao Phraya River’s most scenic dragon bend. Notable Michelin Guide restaurants, such as Hia Wan Khao Tom Pla, will offer their celebrated dishes, including crab porridge, salmon salad, and grilled squid. Delight in dishes from nine different Chinese associations in Thailand, such as Hokkien buns, dim sum, and dumplings.
Food for Good Fortune from Thailand’s Four Regions at “SOOKSIAM”
Savor symbolic dishes representing good fortune, including “Roast Pig,” a symbol of abundance and gratitude, “Roast Duck” for wealth and sincere love, and “Longevity Noodles” for long life. Other delicious offerings include “Golden Pork” (crispy pork), and “Steamed Grouper with Lime.” Guests can also enjoy cultural performances such as face-changing mask performance, Chinese dance, a unique blend of Muay Thai and Chinese acrobatics performance, and a Lion Dance are just some of the spectacular performances to enjoy.
A Must-Visit Photo Spot at ICONSIAM’s River Park
Visitors are invited to take photos in the dazzling Chinese lantern displays at River Park, where ICONSIAM has transformed the area into three stunning lantern rooms:
1. Harmonious Prosperity and Longevity: Featuring red lanterns symbolizing prosperity and happiness, adorned with Thai floral patterns.
2. Harmonious Heritage and Future: A fusion of Thai-Chinese heritage, with immersive lighting and the elements of earth, water, wind, and fire.
3. Harmonious Blessings and Fortune: A reflective lantern room featuring auspicious blessings in Thai, Chinese, English, Korean, Japanese, and Arabic.

The public is invited to experience this breathtaking celebration and take unforgettable photos from today until March 15, 2025.

Be part of the Chinese New Year celebration at the “ICONSIAM A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025: A Festive Celebration of 50 Years of Thai-Chinese Relations” from January 24 to February 2, 2025, at River Park, ICONSIAM. Stay updated via ICONSIAM’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/ICONSIAM/ or on ICONSIAM’s official LINE account: @ICONSIAM. For further inquiries, please call 1338.

Hashtag: #ICONSIAMCNY2025 #ICONSIAMaProsperousChineseNewYear2025 #ICONSIAM

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

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

Serious crash, SH2, Waihi

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Emergency services are responding to a two vehicle crash on State Highway 2 near Tauranga Road, Waihi, Hauraki District.

Emergency services received the report about 5:40pm.

Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries.

The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

SH2 is blocked and diversions are in place at the intersections of SH2, Trig Road South and Waihi Beach Road.

Motorists are advised to take the alternative route.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Don’t be foiled: Police reminder ahead of SailGP racing

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police are reminding the public about airspace restrictions in place over parts of the Waitematā Harbour, with SailGP racing over the coming days.

Keen photographers and videographers are being reminded about temporary restrictions in place between 17 and 19 January.

Those restrictions are in place over the racecourse on each day between 4 and 7pm.

Helicopters will be flying about the course on either side of those times as well.

Police Operation Commander, Inspector Jason Homan, says this means no drones or other aircraft can operate within the restricted exclusion zone.

“We are asking Aucklanders to comply with these restrictions given there will be helicopters flying at low altitude capturing the race action.

“If a drone were to operate in this environment it poses significant safety implications for everyone concerned.

“We would like to advise the public that regardless of whether they are certified to operate a drone, under Civil Aviation rules they still cannot fly within an exclusion zone.”

There are significant penalties that apply for those found to be breaching CAA rules.

Inspector Homan says: “We hope that common sense prevails, and that everyone has a good time and enjoys the event safely.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Fire Safety – Fire risk increasing in dry Manawatū-Whanganui weather

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is calling for people in the Manawatū-Whanganui area to take extra care not to spark fires this weekend.

Manawatū-Whanganui Community Risk Manager Kerry O’Keefe says fire danger is increasing across the region due to the hot, dry conditions and brisk winds.

“We’ve had several large preventable wildfires already this summer, including beach fires and other fires in Taihape, Whanganui and Levin areas,” he says.

“There’s also one still burning now on forestry land at Parewanui near Bulls.

“Our team is continuing to monitor the weather and vegetation conditions closely, and with the vegetation in the area drying out, there’s more potential for fires to get started and get out of control.

“While we are still in an open fire season – where permits aren’t required – we ask people to be careful about where and how they light fires.

“Before starting a fire, you must go to checkitsalright.nz first to find out if you can, and what restrictions apply. There’s also information and guidance about using fires safely.

“We’re also asking people to take extra care with any activities which generate heat or sparks – such as welding, lawn-mowing, using chainsaws, or parking hot vehicles on long, dry grass.

“These can easily start fires which are hard to stop.”

MIL OSI

Name release – SH 2, Wairoa crash

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police can now release the name of the person who died following a crash on State Highway 2, Wairoa on Sunday 12 January.

He was 14-year-old Kaos Brown from Wairoa.

Four other people were injured in the single vehicle crash, and have since been released from hospital.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

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Road reopens, SH29, Lower Kaimai

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

State Highway 29, Lower Kaimai, has reopened following a crash this morning.

One person received critical injuries and was airlifted hospital. The injured person was travelling in a vehicle with two other occupants, both of whom were taken to hospital by ambulance with moderate injuries.

The sole occupants of two other vehicles involved were uninjured.

Police would like to thank motorists for their patience.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

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Discover ‘Stanley House Project’: A Coastal Living Dream Realised

MIL OSI

January 17, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 January 2025 – Habitat Property, Hong Kong’s award-winning specialist in unique luxury properties, is thrilled to announce the details of its latest project, ‘Stanley House Project’. After more than four years of careful planning, ‘Stanley House Project’ is now ready for construction. Victoria Allan, Founder and Managing Director of Habitat Property, has secured permits and approvals, sparing buyers the time, expense, and effort required to navigate this intricate process. Located on Stanley Link Road overlooking Tai Tam Bay and just minutes from the golden sands of Stanley Beach, this ambitious residential development will be a once-in-a-lifetime ownership opportunity.

(Left) The current property on 30 Stanley Link Road. (Right) ‘Stanley House Project’ represents the highest standard in contemporary design adapted for a coastal living experience. Across the 3,269 square feet, the design will bring a stunning integration of indoor and outdoor living areas, while the elevated terrace brings ample relaxing space. It puts views, privacy, interconnectedness, and comfort all in one place. * For visualisation only

Personally owned and curated by Victoria, ‘Stanley House Project’ comprises an iconic waterfront site with approved architectural plans in place, allowing prospective buyers to build their own luxurious dream complex. With nothing like this available on the market, the complex will be perched above a five-vehicle carpark and will span over 3,269 square feet of internal living space, and also feature a sea-facing swimming pool, a spacious terrace of 2,420 square feet^{^[1]} and a roof terrace of 357 square feet ^[1] .

The Apex of Waterfront Design

As envisioned by Victoria and renowned Australian Interior Design and Architecture studio K.P.D.O., ‘Stanley House Project’ represents the pinnacle of luxury waterfront living, prioritising the marriage of sophistication, comfort and security. Each of the three levels with full sea views and impressive 3.5-metre ceilings, all connected by an indoor lift. The integrated living and dining areas will organically engage with the home’s 2,777 square feet exterior space ^[1] , and the elevated swimming pool will blend effortlessly with Tai Tam Bay, offering complete privacy. ‘Stanley House Project’ will be the epitome of bespoke coastal living at its finest.

‘Stanley House Project’ is the culmination of Victoria’s long-term vision to create a singular luxurious residential experience. It is ultimately a labour of love, demonstrating her property foresight and architectural acumen. Leveraging knowledge gleaned from over two decades as one of Hong Kong’s leading property professionals, Victoria purchased her own home on one of the plots in 2010. Eight years later, she acquired the adjacent plot to combine the two. Securing the permits for the consolidation, proposed complex and approvals for a pool, terrace, and land lease modification took over four years.

After acquiring the consolidated site with GFA (Gross Floor Area) of 4,359 square feet , the new owner can either retain or demolish the existing structures. From there, the new owner can build their own dream home or utilise the existing plans of ‘Stanley House Project’ for a three-level complex envisaged by Victoria in partnership one of Australia’s most esteemed architects,K.P.D.O.The architecture captures and distills the very best elements of Australian coastal living, representing a major departure from the typical Hong Kong home. Having undertaken an S16 planning application to relax the site coverage to 33%, the design features rare lateral living space spanning nearly 60 feet, directly facing the sea view, that will open seamlessly to 2,420 sf of external terrace ^[1] and entertaining area with private pool & BBQ area. These plans maximise the plot’s gross floor area, the superb Southside location, and Stanley’s sophisticated lifestyle.

‘Stanley House Project’ will strive for a seamless connection between the generous, open interiors and the spacious, accommodating outdoor areas. Overlooking the magnificent Tai Tam Bay and mere steps from Stanley Main Beach, the location of ‘Stanley House Project’ is perfect for those looking to balance coastal tranquillity with modern convenience. * For visualisation only

“As a long-time resident of the Southside, I’ve always dreamed of creating a truly exceptional beachfront property that captures the essence of this beautiful coastline. ‘Stanley House Project’ is the realisation of that dream, a labour of love meticulously planned and designed to offer an unparalleled luxury experience. This is more than just a complex; it’s a legacy, a testament to timeless elegance and refined taste,” said Victoria Allan, Founder and Managing Director of Habitat Property.

The site has a guide price of HK$238 million which includes fully paid land premium. In addition, Habitat Property has provided an estimate^{^[2]} of HK$45 million for the demolition of the current buildings and construction of ‘Stanley House Project’, which would take approximately two years. Habitat Property will serve as one of the sales brokerages of the property on 30 Stanley Link Road site.

^{^[1]}This is not included in the saleable area.

^{^[2]} The estimate is subject to change based on fluctuations in material and building costs, as well as final selections made.

Hashtag: #HabitatProperty

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

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

Eagle-eyed camera ops help nab burglars

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Attributable to Inspector Phil Gillbanks, Rotorua Area Prevention Manager

Police are extending our thanks to local council camera operators in Rotorua and Tauranga after their eagle eyes assisted Police in the arrest of five young people early this morning, following an attempted burglary in Rotorua.

About 2am Police received a report of an attempted burglary at a store on Amohau Street, after an alarm activation alerted Rotorua Lakes Council CCTV operators to the incident.

Police observed the vehicle as it fled on Amohau Street and signalled for it to stop. It did not stop and instead drove dangerously and at speed, on to Fairy Springs Road and out of town. A pursuit was abandoned due to the manner of driving.

The vehicle was then sighted by Tauranga City Council CCTV operators in Tauranga, where Police in the area successfully spiked the vehicle, and it came to a stop near Paraone Koikoi Drive.

The alleged offenders exited the vehicle and fled on foot, but did not make it far before being located and arrested with the assistance of a dog unit.

Five youth, aged between 15 and 17 were due to appear in the Tauranga Youth Court today.

This good result comes after a similar burglary incident involving a commercial premises on Ruapehu Street, Taupo on Monday 13 January. Four alleged youth offenders aged between 15 and 17 were arrested after fleeing the scene in a vehicle after using that vehicle in an attempt to gain access to the premises.

CCTV was once again utilised here to sight the vehicle, before it was successfully spiked near Clayton Road. The suspects fled from the vehicle on foot. They were located and arrested with the assistance of a dog unit.

These two incidents are not believed to be linked.

The arrests across these two incidents outline the coordination between Police and local councils across multiple towns and areas in an attempt to apprehend offenders.

The use of CCTV footage continues to be an asset to investigations and serves as an extra tool for Police, one that helps us maintain a strong partnership with our local councils.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Northland News – Entries open for Whakamānawa ā Taiao – Environmental Awards

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: Northland Regional Council

Applications are now open for the sixth Northland Regional Council Whakamānawa ā Taiao – Environmental Awards which recognise individuals, groups and organisations helping to protect and improve Northland’s environment.

Council Chair Geoff Crawford says the 2025 awards are the first since the transition to a biennial event. (The previous awards were in 2023.)

“Holding the awards every two years allows entrants valuable time between award cycles to continue their mahi in protecting and enhancing the environment and strengthens their awards application in the process.”

Chair Crawford says entering the Environmental Awards helps tell the story of the environmental work happening in Northland and shows that collectively we are making a difference.

Award categories include:

Environmental action in the community

Environmental action to protect native life

Environmental action in water quality improvement

Environmental action in education

Environmental leadership

Youth environmental leader

Kaitiakitanga

Environmental action in business

Environmental action to address climate change

Entries opened 15 January and close Sunday 30 March 2025.

“Finalists will be announced in May and the winners announced at the awards ceremony on Thursday 26 June.

Chair Crawford says people interested in learning more about the awards – including previous winners – can visit: awards.nrc.govt.nz

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Northland News – Water conservation urged as dry summer continues

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: Northland Regional Council

Northlanders and visitors to the region are being urged to conserve water as a dry summer continues.

Northland Regional Council Chair Geoff Crawford says parts of the Far North and Kaipara Districts have been under water restrictions since late last year and the region has only got drier since then.

“That – coupled with an influx of the tens of thousands of visitors we’re expecting over Northland-Auckland Anniversary weekend and Waitangi week – all puts pressure on our water supplies.”

Chair Crawford says the regional council, which monitors river flows, groundwater and manages resource consents to take water, is urging everyone to play their part and do what they can to conserve water.

“Water shortages affect everyone – albeit in different ways – with farmers and water tank users needing to pay to top up their supplies. That water has to come from somewhere.”

“Rainfall is the key to it all…we’ve been hoping for it and while some areas have had some rainfall in recent weeks and some further rain is predicted in the coming week, unfortunately it has not fallen across the whole region and has not been enough to top up our rivers.”

While the region waits for rain, Chair Crawford urges people to use water sensibly and notify any leaks to their local district council.

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