New appointments bring business expertise to the Employment Relations Authority

January 22, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Two new appointed members and one reappointed member of the Employment Relations Authority have been announced by Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden today.
“I’m pleased to announce the new appointed members Helen van Druten and Matthew Piper to the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) and welcome them to their roles,” says Ms van Velden.
The ERA is an independent body that helps both employees and employers to resolve employment relationship problems and facilitates collective bargaining when difficulties arise.
“Currently, 76 per cent of ERA members have significant experience in the public sector, but only 48 percent in private business. I would like to see a greater balance in the backgrounds of ERA members to bring new ideas, skills and experience – and to better reflect the proportions of public sector and private sector employment in New Zealand.
“Helen van Druten joins the ERA from Restaurant Brands NZ, where she managed their employment relations nation-wide. She brings a depth of experience as well as a small business perspective. She has also managed employment relations with a diverse range of workers in these businesses including youth and migrant workers.
“Matthew Piper most recently worked as General Manager Employment Relations for the Warehouse Group. He has previously worked for commercial law firms, such as Simpson Grierson and Buddle Findlay, as well as gaining extensive private sector experience having been seconded into some of New Zealand’s largest companies.
“Both new appointees will further strengthen ERA’s perspectives and understanding of the private sector. In particular, the practicalities of employment law practice by employers in large and small businesses. Both are skilled in the process of investigations, hearings, and experienced in the ERA and the Courts system.
“I am keen to see them bring fresh ideas and approaches to ERA so that we see fast, fair and flexible resolution of disputes between employers and employees. This will reduce the burden on the Court system and the associated delays and costs experienced by all parties in trying to resolve employment problems.
“I’m also pleased to announce the reappointment of member Rachel Larmer for a further term,” says Ms van Velden.
Rachel Larmer has been a member of the ERA since 2010 and since her appointment has issued a significant number of determinations. Prior to becoming a member, Ms Larmer spent several years as a specialist employment lawyer in Auckland law firm Kiely, Thompson, Caisley.
Editor notes:

Helen van Druten (new appointment) for 4 years commencing 3 February 2025 and ending 2 February 2029.

Matthew Piper (new appointment) for 4 years commencing 7 April 2025 and ending 6 April 2029.

Rachel Larmer (reappointment) for 4 years commencing 4 February 2025 and ending 3 February 2029.

MIL OSI

Teens before the court for Thames offending

LiveNews Publisher

January 22, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attributable to Inspector Mike Henwood, Eastern Waikato Area Commander:

Two people are before the courts following several incidents of dishonesty offending in Thames across the last three weeks.

About 7pm last night, Thames Police responded to reports of people breaking into cars.

With the assistance of a Police dog unit from Hamilton, Police tracked and arrested two offenders nearby.

Subsequent enquiries revealed the offenders were also believed to have been involved in several recent incidents since 8 January. This includes the attempted unlawful taking of vehicles, the unlawful taking of vehicles, two burglaries, and an attempted burglary.

The 17-year-old and 18-year-old young men are due to appear before the Hamilton Youth Court today, on 11 charges related to the incidents.

This comes off the back of another recent arrest of two young people in Waihi, after they were reportedly attempting to break into motor vehicles in the early hours of yesterday morning (Tuesday 21 January). One young person aged 14 is due to appear in the Waihi District Youth Court later this week.

Eastern Waikato Police have identified an increase in dishonesty offending within the wider area over the past few weeks, which is in line with what we typically see across summer months, and have we have altered patrol patterns accordingly.

These arrests are a good step in curbing recent offending; however, we need your assistance to continue to effectively responding to the unlawful activity.

If you witness any suspicious activity, please contact Police on 111 if it’s happening now or via 105 either online or over the phone if it’s after the fact.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

World-Renowned Pianist Lang Lang Debuts at Galaxy International Convention Center with the Macao Orchestra for a Night of Romantic Classics

MIL OSI

January 22, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – On Sunday, January 19, the internationally acclaimed piano virtuoso Lang Lang, alongside the Macao Orchestra, captivated audiences at the Galaxy International Convention Center (“GICC”), one of Asia’s most iconic and advanced MICE destinations, with a grand symphony of romantic classical music. Lang Lang carefully curated pivotal works from his artistic journey and 2025 tour, presenting masterpieces by Chopin and Rachmaninov through both solo and concerto performances. The nearly two-hour sold-out performance concluded with Lang Lang’s heartfelt encore of “Jasmine Flower”.

Lang Lang Returns to Asia with a Stunning Reinterpretation of Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No. 2 After a Decade.

Presented under the banner of “Galaxy Music Gala: Lang Lang and Macao Orchestra”, the event was organized by Galaxy Macau™, with the Bank of China (Hong Kong) as the preferred credit card partner. It kicked off with Shostakovich’s “Festival Overture” performed by the Macao Orchestra under the baton of the esteemed conductor Lio Kuokman. Following this vibrant introduction, Lang Lang delivered a mesmerizing solo performance of Chopin’s 12 pieces of “Mazurkas”, with expressive technique and enchanting style, Lang Lang brought to life Chopin’s vibrant, Polish folk-inspired music, evoking the joy and rhythm of a traditional village dance. The Macao Orchestra then presented Mascagni’s Intermezzo from “Cavalleria Rusticana”, showcasing their exceptional performance skills under Lio’s direction. The tense and abrupt melodies held the audience in suspense, touching the hearts of every listener.

Lang Lang performed a solo recital of 12 Chopin’s “Mazurkas,” which was extremely infectious and enchanting.

The evening reached its peak with Lang Lang’s extraordinary collaboration with the Macao Orchestra on Rachmaninov’s “Piano Concerto No.2”, enveloping the audience in an atmosphere of profound romance and passion. Lang Lang’s seamless partnership with the orchestra allowed the audience to experience a rich and complex emotional journey through the music, culminating in a breathtaking climax. Many concertgoers, including aspiring young musicians accompanied by their parents, left the venue inspired, with one attendee remarking that the experience lingered in their heart long after the final notes faded.

Lang Lang, together with the Macao Orchestra, jointly performed Rachmaninov’s “Piano Concerto No. 2,” pushing the atmosphere to a climax.

In a heartfelt moment, Lang Lang shared his long-standing passion for Rachmaninov, revealing that this was his first performance of the concerto in Asia in nearly a decade. His fresh interpretation, imbued with new insights and emotional resonance, was a special dedication to the audience in Macau. Notably, this concert marked Lang Lang’s first formal collaboration with conductor Lio Kuokman, a rising star in classical music. Chasing back for his connection to Macau, which began with his first solo recital in 2003, Lang Lang praised the city’s growing cultural vibrancy, particularly with its increasing presence of international orchestras, making it a hub for the high-standard performances. Reflecting on his debut at the GICC, Lang Lang described the experience as particularly special. In such a spacious venue, the sound was focused and immersive, allowing him to feel the collective breath of the audience during his performance.

Witnessed by Mr. Francis Lui, Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, Lang Lang stamped his handprint and gifted it to Galaxy Macau, marking the perfect conclusion to the entire performance itinerary.

As one of the Phase 3 projects at Galaxy Macau, GICC features a world-class event venue, continuing to be a beacon of first-rate arts, sports, and exhibition events from 2023. The “Galaxy Music Gala: Lang Lang and Macao Orchestra” not only enriched Macau’s cultural tapestry but also reinforced the city’s reputation as a “City of Performing Arts,” delivering an unforgettable performance to its audience.

Tons of music fans came in admiration, and numerous young musicians came with their parents to experience the works of the master up close.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

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

CommerceDotCom (CDC) Supports UiTM’s Hydrogen-Powered Urban Concept Vehicle for Shell Eco-Marathon 2025

MIL OSI

January 22, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SELANGOR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – CommerceDotCom (CDC) is proud to collaborate with researchers from the College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), in their research to develop an innovative hydrogen-powered urban concept vehicle. Earlier today, a formal signing collaboration ceremony was held with the College of Engineering to initiate this partnership, marking a significant milestone in empowering the engineering field.

Hafidz Bin Ahmad Zehnun, VP of Corporate Planning & Communication, at CDC (center), with the UiTM team and their hydrogen-powered vehicle at the flag-off in UiTM Shah Alam for Shell Eco-Marathon 2025 in Doha, Qatar

This collaboration builds upon a strong legacy of success. In 2014, CDC partnered with UiTM’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering on the Eco-Planet team, which secured first place in the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Urban Concept category at the Shell Eco-Marathon Asia in Manila, Philippines. That same year, UiTM’s Faculty of Electrical Engineering, under the Eco-Sprint team, emerged as champions by securing first place in the Prototype category, further solidifying UiTM’s reputation for excellence in green innovation on an international stage.

Ten years later, in 2024, the research collaboration has come full circle. Led by senior lecturer Ts. Dr. Mohamad Farid Misnan, postgraduate student Syed Mohd Harussani and UiTM research team, with over a decade of experience in the Shell Eco-Marathon (SEM), is embarking on an exciting new chapter. The team’s latest innovation in fuel cell technology, an urban concept electric vehicle named the UITM-CDC H2 Truck, is set to redefine efficiency and sustainability in the Urban Concept category at SEM 2025, scheduled to take place from February 8–12 in Doha, Qatar. With this renewed partnership, CDC is proud to support UiTM in innovating research the UITM-CDC H2 Truck and showcasing their expertise on the global stage at SEM 2025.

According to Ts. Dr. Mohamad Farid Bin Misnan, “SEM 2025 is more than just a competition; it’s a platform for showcasing the complete research quadruple helix model and the potential of sustainable technology. Our participation not only reinforces UiTM’s reputation for innovation but also highlights our local Malaysia’s capability to lead advancements in green technology.

CommerceDotCom: Championing Sustainable Innovation
CDC’s involvement underscores its dedication to fostering environmentally friendly technologies and driving meaningful progress in clean energy. By supporting the development of the UITM-CDC H2 Truck, CDC aligns with initiatives that prioritise innovation, sustainability, and future-ready solutions.

“CommerceDotCom is proud to support UiTM’s research efforts to bring Malaysia’s engineering talent to the global stage,” said Hafidz Ahmad Zehnun, Vice President of Corporate Division. “Collaborations like this reflect the importance of industry-academia partnerships in creating a greener future.”

This project exemplifies the power of partnerships between academia, industry, and future engineers. As a strategic collaborator, CDC, alongside Myrenergy Sdn Bhd and Racing Boy, provides the resources and expertise needed to refine the UITM-CDC H2 Truck’s design and performance capabilities. With the support of committed partners like CDC, this initiative highlights how collaboration can inspire future generations of engineers and innovators while driving meaningful change.

Revolutionising Sustainable Transportation
The UITM-CDC H2 Truck is a groundbreaking hydrogen-powered vehicle designed to operate entirely on clean hydrogen energy, eliminating harmful emissions. Tailored to diverse applications, such as logistics, deliveries, and community services, the truck reduces reliance on fossil fuels and supports sustainable business practices.

With its lightweight build, optimised aerodynamics, and zero-emission operation, the UITM-CDC H2 Truck paves the way for cleaner cities and a healthier environment for future generations, showcasing the potential of hydrogen technology in sustainable transportation.

https://www.commercedc.com.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/commercedotcom
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558998332392
https://linktr.ee/commercedotcom?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaqK_wjdLeBcQz-2JZUTwexew9Tp-2fM0R7X9z6Wtg6E1l57SB-WiosEk8_aem_4uioACZs95nXiljWVoufTg

Hashtag: #commercedotcom #Innovation #Technologies #UiTM #SustainableTransportation #ShellEcoMarathon2025

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

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

Business – CH4 Global and Mitsubishi Corporation partner to accelerate adoption of methane-reducing cattle feed supplement in Asia-Pacific markets

LiveNews Publisher

January 22, 2025

Source: CH4 Global

Partnership aims to introduce Methane Tamer™ in Japan and expand in Australia while exploring scaled production opportunities across Asia

ADELAIDE, South Australia – CH4 Global, Inc. today announced it has entered into a strategic partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation to accelerate the adoption of CH4 Global’s methane-reducing cattle feed supplement across key Asia-Pacific markets.

The multi-pronged partnership will focus on expanding commercial sales of CH4 Global’s Methane Tamer™ in Australia including the development of new product forms. The companies will also collaborate to validate and introduce Methane Tamer in Japan, where approximately 4 million cattle, including calves and breeding stock, represent a significant opportunity for methane emissions reduction.

Additionally, the partnership will explore opportunities for scaled production of Asparagopsis seaweed, the key ingredient in Methane Tamer, to supply Asian markets. The companies will evaluate potential production sites in South East Asia, leveraging Mitsubishi’s extensive regional expertise in the aquaculture and agricultural segments.

“This partnership with Mitsubishi Corporation marks another significant milestone in our mission to achieve gigaton-scale emissions reductions by 2035,” said CH4 Global Co-Founder and CEO Steve Meller.

“Mitsubishi’s deep experience in agricultural products and services and strong presence across Asian markets makes them an ideal partner as we work to expand the reach of our innovative methane reduction solution.”

Methane Tamer, CH4 Global’s flagship product innovation, is a proprietary feed supplement that harnesses the power of Asparagopsis seaweed to reduce enteric methane emissions from cattle by up to 90 per cent when used as recommended. The product addresses one of the largest sources of methane emissions globally, as methane is more than 80 times more potent than CO2 in trapping heat over a 20-year period.

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies will begin immediate collaboration across multiple workstreams, including regulatory pathway development for the Japanese market, feed formulation work in Australia, and feasibility studies for scaled production facilities in South East Asia.About CH4 Global

CH4 Global is on a mission to deliver gigaton-scale emissions reductions over the next decade using whole dried Asparagopsis seaweed — the safest and most effective way of targeting livestock methane. The company’s flagship product, Methane Tamer™, leverages Asparagopsis to reduce enteric methane emissions in cattle by up to 90 per cent. Through its innovative EcoPark cultivation system, CH4 Global is scaling rapidly to meet global demand, ensuring profitability throughout the supply chain without relying on subsidies. With operations in Australia and New Zealand, CH4 Global is pioneering a new era of sustainable animal agriculture; to learn more, please visit www.ch4global.com.

MIL OSI

Reds Launch Second Official Retail Store in Indonesia

MIL OSI

January 22, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SURABAYA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – Liverpool FC continues to strengthen its international presence in Asia with the official opening of its second retail store in Indonesia.

LFC legend Emile Heskey led the official opening of the club’s new official retail store in Surabaya and hosted a meet & greet with fans on Saturday 18th January. He also spent time with the Official Liverpool Supporters’ Club- BigReds -afterwards at a live screening of LFC’s Premier League fixture with Brentford.

Located in the nation’s second-most populated city within Pakuwon Mall, the new store launch follows the club’s successful debut store opening in Jakarta in July 2024 at Pondok Indah Mall 2.

The launch event included a host of activities aimed at “inspiring belief” and fostering a sense of belonging amongst LFC fans, including a visit from the club’s official mascot, Mighty Red.

Mighty Red arrived after a brief stop in Jakarta where he hosted a community event alongside the Inspiration Factory Foundation (IFF) for underprivileged children.

The new Surabaya retail store, which was identified as a key location in collaboration with the club’s official retail partner, PT Kanmo Weston Retailindo, will echo the innovative design concept of the club’s flagship store in Liverpool’s city centre at Liverpool ONE showcasing the rich architectural history of Liverpool.

Fans visiting the new store can explore the full range of replica kits, exclusive Liverpool FC fashion and accessories, as well as unique souvenirs.

Lee Dwerryhouse, senior vice president of merchandising at Liverpool FC, said: “We have over 28 million LFC followers in Indonesia, and it’s great to bring our LFC brand closer to our supporters so they can feel a part of the club. This latest store opening extends our portfolio in Asia and underscores our ambitious plans to grow our international presence in key markets.”

Manoj Bharwani, co-founder and managing director of Kanmo Group: “Following the successful opening of the first Liverpool FC Store in Jakarta last year, we have been delighted by the overwhelming enthusiasm and positive response from the club’s loyal fans in Indonesia.

“Building on this momentum, we are excited to further expand Liverpool FC’s presence in Indonesia with our new store in Pakuwon Mall, Surabaya. We are confident that this initiative will deepen the bond between the club and its passionate fanbase in the region. We would like to thank Liverpool FC Retail team for trusting Kanmo Group for this expansion.”

This Surabaya opening brings Liverpool FC’s total number of retail locations to 18 globally, with an additional store planned for 2025 in Denmark, reflecting the club’s commitment to connecting with its passionate fan base around the world.

Rajbir Chopra, sales director, Weston Corporation added: ” The past few months have been incredibly exciting for us with the successful opening of our store in Jakarta. With the opening of our second LFC store in Surabaya, we are confident that this momentum will only continue, helping us to strengthen our connection with the fans in Indonesia.

“We are committed to building a long-term relationship with LFC’s Indonesia fanbase and offering more coveted merchandise from their favourite club!”

Hashtag: #LFC

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

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

Weeks before New Year, Octa broker helps flood victims in Kelantan, Malaysia

MIL OSI

January 21, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – In December 2024, Malaysia suffered devastating floods that affected 10 states and left more than 147,000 without roofs over their heads. Among the areas affected by the disaster, Kelantan was the hardest-hit state, with at least 93,000 people fleeing their flooded homes and seeking refuge.

To help the flood victims of Kelantan live through these trying times, Octa broker joined forces with its local partner, Azeehan. Octa sponsored the provision of basic necessities, including food, drinking water, hygiene amenities, towels, pillows, blankets, and house cleaning tools. By distributing these emergency kits, the broker aimed to support flood victims in their hour of need and make it a little bit easier for them to come back to normal life when the water subsided.

‘After a natural disaster such as this, thousands of people are driven from their homes. Sometimes, they lack even the most basic means to sustain themselves. This is why we really appreciate Octa supporting the local communities of Kelantan. This charity effort will be a great help to our displaced members in enduring the floods,‘ Azeehan commended.

Octa hopes that the New Year will bring benevolent weather to Malaysia, making it possible for the people of affected communities to return to their homes as soon as possible.

Hashtag: #Octa

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

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

Hang Lung Signs HK$10 Billion Five-Year Syndicated Loan Facilities

MIL OSI

January 21, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) (“the “Company” or “Hang Lung”) announced that it has successfully signed a five-year HK$10 billion loan facilities (“the Facilities”) with a consortium of more than 10 international, Chinese and local banks. The Facilities received an encouraging response from the banking community, demonstrating strong confidence in Hang Lung’s long-term prospects.

Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties (fourth from the left), and Mr. Kenneth Chiu, Chief Financial Officer of Hang Lung Properties (fifth from the left), with bank representatives (from left to right: United Overseas Bank Limited, Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, and DBS Bank Ltd.) at the closing ceremony of Hang Lung’s five-year syndicated loan facilities

The proceeds from the Facilities will be used to refinance part of the Company’s debt and provide additional working capital to support the Company’s business development.

Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties, said, “The strong demand of the Facilities underscores Hang Lung’s solid credit profile and the market’s trust on our business model. We are committed to utilizing the funds from the Facilities effectively to fuel sustainable business growth. We sincerely appreciate the robust endorsement from the banking sector.”

Mr. Kenneth Chiu, Chief Financial Officer of Hang Lung Properties, said, “Securing this strategic financing will strengthen our financial position, and empower us to implement disciplined capital management while pursuing growth. Furthermore, it will strengthen our banking relationships, bolstering our financial resilience in an evolving market.”

Hang Lung’s five-year syndicated loan facilities received an encouraging response from a consortium of more than 10 international, Chinese and local banks

The Facilities are backed by:
Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited
DBS Bank Ltd.
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation Limited
United Overseas Bank Limited
Agricultural Bank of China Limited Hong Kong Branch
The Bank of East Asia Limited
China Minsheng Banking Corp., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch
China Zheshang Bank Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch
Hua Xia Bank Co., Limited Hong Kong Branch
Chong Hing Bank Limited
Hang Seng Bank Limited
First Commercial Bank Ltd.

Hashtag: #HangLungProperties

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

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

Greenpeace – Trump exit from Paris Agreement means NZ must rally with world to save climate

LiveNews Publisher

January 21, 2025

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace is calling on Christopher Luxon to commit to a strong new climate target in light of Donald Trump’s announcement that he will pull the United States out of the Paris Agreement.

Greenpeace spokesperson Amanda Larsson says, “With wildfires raging in Los Angeles, it’s astounding that Trump is immediately weakening American climate ambition. But it isn’t surprising, given that denying climate change has long been his brand.

“In contrast, Christopher Luxon and his climate minister, Simon Watts, have repeatedly emphasised their commitment to the Paris Agreement. To date there has been a large gap between words and action. Now is their moment to walk the talk by committing to a strong new climate target, backed with policies to make it happen.”

Under the Paris Agreement, New Zealand is required to submit a climate target, known as a nationally determined contribution (NDC), by 10 February, ahead of a November climate conference in Brazil. Each NDC must represent an increase in ambition on the last, which was submitted in 2021.

“With Trump deserting the global fight to save our grandchildren’s future, other nations will need to courageously fill the gap – including New Zealand,” says Larsson.

Greenpeace is calling on the Government to significantly strengthen its climate target, in particular the goal to cut methane emissions. This is what the independent Climate Change Commission advised in its report at the end of last year.

The dairy industry is New Zealand’s worst climate polluter and a major source of methane emissions. But, to date, the most polluting industry in the country has been off the hook for its emissions.

“If we significantly reduce methane emissions now, we can pull a climate emergency brake and prevent the worst effects of the climate crisis,” says Larsson.

“That means cutting cow numbers and supporting farmers to transition to more ecological, diverse and plant-based farming practices.

“Not only is this change necessary for the climate, freshwater and animal welfare, but it’s also what our global trade partners are expecting from us – just as the US will find that their trade partners still expect action to cut climate pollution despite their withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.

“Momentum is building on climate change, and people all around the world are standing up to call for urgent action. If our governments won’t do what’s needed, people will use the courts, protest and other means to stop big polluters,” says Larsson.

“Trump has withdrawn from climate agreements before, and the rest of the world moved on regardless. Make no mistake, the fight to prevent climate disaster is resilient and stronger than any one single country. Leaders can either jump onboard or get left behind.”

MIL OSI

Fire Safety – Manawatū-Whanganui Coastal Zone moves into restricted fire season

LiveNews Publisher

January 21, 2025

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

The Manawatū-Whanganui Coastal Zone will be moving to a restricted fire season at 6am on Wednesday, 22 January, until further notice.

A restricted fire season means anyone planning on lighting an open-air fire will need a permit. You can apply for a permit at www.checkitsalright.nz.

This zone follows SH1/SH3 to the coast and includes:

– All beaches within the Zone

– Levin, Foxton, Sanson and Bulls townships and Whanganui city

The attached map highlights the zone, but if anyone is planning on lighting a fire, they should go to www.checkitsalright.nz and enter their address to check.

Declaring the change in season, Fire and Emergency New Zealand Manawatū-Whanganui District Manager Nigel Dravitzki says this area has not had any rain recently and warm temperatures exceeding 23 degrees. Windy weather has dried out vegetation.

“Long-term the forecast shows continuing higher temperatures and winds,” he says.

“We’ve seen more fires escaping recently, including the one at Parewanui which we had crews at for four days.

“Putting a restricted season in place allows us to discuss and educate the fire permit holder on their fire, which will increase our chances of preventing further fires from breaking out.

“People should visit www.checkitsalright.nz to check the fire risk conditions. Even if you are not in the restricted zone, it may still be too dangerous to light a fire. If in doubt, don’t light.”

MIL OSI

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