NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik congratulates PM Modi for completing 11 years in office

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Renowned sand artist and Padma awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik, on Sunday, congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his 11 years of leadership, through a sand sculpture with the message “11 Years of Modi Era: A Jan Sevak’s journey to Build Viksit Bharat” at Puri beach in Odisha.

    Pattnaik created the six-feet-high sand sculpture using about five tons of sand to congratulate PM Modi. Students from his sand art institution helped him in making the sculpture.

    He posted on X, “Congratulations to our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji on completing 11 years. Sir, you have shaped history with your leadership and unwavering commitment to the nation. Your vision of a Viksit Bharat continues to inspire us all. Sharing my sand art from Puri Beach, Odisha, dedicated to this milestone.”

    He said, “This message stands not just as a sculpture in sand, but as a symbol of progress, and a shared dream of Viksit Bharat. Over the past decade, under his dynamic guidance, India has witnessed a historic era of growth and renewal – from world-class infrastructure and revolutionary digital transformation to bold economic reforms, grassroots empowerment, and global diplomacy”.

    “People from across the country congratulated the Prime Minister for his 11 years of journey. We express our heartfelt gratitude to our Prime Minister for his tireless leadership, unwavering commitment, and transformative vision that has reshaped the destiny of our Nation,” Pattnaik added.

    Riding on the massive popularity across the country, PM Modi ended the 30-year era of coalition politics in India in 2014.

    PM Modi has recently highlighted various pathbreaking steps taken by his government for the upliftment of people from poverty and its focus on empowerment, infrastructure, and inclusion as well as women empowerment during the last 11 years.

    Notably, PM Modi also has the distinction of being the longest-serving Chief Minister of Gujarat, with his term spanning from October 2001 to May 2014.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PSA welcomes withdrawal of suspension of disability workers at Te Roopu Taurimu

    Source: PSA
    Mediation is set to resume with disability support provider Te Roopu Taurima and the PSA following the withdrawal of a lockout and suspension of workers without pay by the employer, the PSA in return agreed to lift the strike notices.
    Te Roopu Taurima o Manukau Trust is the country’s largest provider of kaupapa Māori-based support for people with disabilities in residential facilities in Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Canterbury.
    “We welcome the withdrawal of the harsh and oppressive suspension and lockout and as a result the PSA also withdraws strike action in support of the collective agreement,” said Fleur Fitzsimons National Secretary Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    Te Roopu Taurima told the PSA it would suspend 38 workers late Friday without pay for six weeks in response to low level strike action taken in support of their collective agreement.
    Last year the trust also locked out Kaitaataki (house leaders for residential disability support) preventing them from working the extra hours they rely on to earn enough to support themselves and their whānau, this forms part of legal action in the Employment Court.
    The PSA and Te Roopu Taurima attended facilitation run by an Employment Relations Authority member recently. The Authority member then provided recommendations to settle the collective agreement.
    “The PSA did not get everything we wanted but nevertheless agreed that we would recommend the outcomes to our members. Te Roopu Taurimu now needs to come to the party and accept the recommendations, this is the basis on which the PSA att

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – Palestine Forum of New Zealand Calls for Safe Passage of Madleen and Urgent Sanctions Against Israel

    Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    The Palestine Forum of New Zealand strongly condemns the violent interception of the Madleen, a civilian aid vessel attempting to deliver essential humanitarian aid to the besieged people of Gaza, by the Israeli military. We demand the immediate safe passage of the vessel and call upon the New Zealand Government to urgently implement meaningful sanctions against Israel for its ongoing war crimes and illegal occupation of Palestine.

    “The Madleen was carrying life-saving aid to a population enduring unimaginable suffering under Israel’s illegal siege. Its interception is a flagrant violation of international law and a direct attack on humanitarian principles,” said a spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand.

    The unlawful blockade of Gaza — now in its 18th year — has turned the region into what human rights organisations have described as the world’s largest open-air prison. The systematic denial of aid, food, water, fuel, and medical supplies is part of Israel’s ongoing campaign of collective punishment against the Palestinian people.

    Palestine Forum of New Zealand reiterates the following urgent demands:

    • Immediate safe passage for the Madleen and all humanitarian vessels to Gaza.

    • The New Zealand Government is to impose targeted sanctions against Israel, including an end to military, economic, and diplomatic cooperation.

    • Support for the Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill and pressure on Parliament to prioritise it for debate.

    • Active support for international legal mechanisms, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, to hold Israel accountable for its war crimes and crimes against humanity.

    “Aotearoa cannot remain silent while innocent people are bombed, starved, and denied medical care. New Zealand has a proud history of standing on the side of justice — from opposing apartheid in South Africa to advocating for nuclear-free policies. It’s time our government showed the same moral courage for Palestine,” the spokesperson added.

    The Palestine Forum of New Zealand stands in unwavering solidarity with the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, the Madleen crew, and the people of Gaza. It will continue to amplify the call for justice, dignity, and the right of return for all Palestinians.

    Maher Nazzal
    Palestine Forum of New Zealand

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: From whisper to warrant: $4.4 million of illicit tobacco seized

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    The Australian Taxation Office (ATO), with support from Victoria Police, has seized and destroyed over 20 tonnes of illicit tobacco from a property North-East of Shepparton, Victoria.

    On Thursday 5 June a search warrant revealed a mature tobacco crop spanning nearly 6 acres, the equivalent of approximately 456 tennis courts. Officers also seized several trays of tobacco seedlings from the property.

    The estimated excise value of the illicit tobacco uncovered under Operation Ocean is $4.4 million.

    ATO Assistant Commissioner Jade Hawkins commended the results of the operation, with the destruction of tobacco crops showing the ATO’s removing illicit tobacco from the community.

    ‘Detecting, disrupting and dismantling the illicit tobacco trade is a priority for the ATO.’

    ‘These operations are run by criminal syndicates, not farmers or producers. They put the Australian community at risk when they use profits from these activities to fund other serious crimes.’

    ‘Involvement in illicit tobacco production is a serious offence. There are hefty penalties for possessing, selling, buying, manufacturing, or producing illicit tobacco, including jail terms for up to 10 years imprisonment.’

    ‘This type of activity takes vital money away from the community and places it directly into the hands of organised criminals who mistakenly think they can sail under the radar,’ Ms Hawkins said.

    Operation Ocean adds to the 90 completed illicit tobacco operational activities between 1 July 2018 and 30 June 2024.

    ‘A wave of illicit tobacco has been stopped in its tracks, with this warrant activity surfacing thanks to a tip-off from the community,’ Ms Hawkins said.

    Community tip-offs are one of the ATO’s best sources of information as they provide crucial information to assist in the fight against illicit tobacco.

    It’s illegal to grow tobacco in Australia without the appropriate excise licence and currently no one is licensed to do so.

    Signs that land is being used to grow, manufacture or produce illicit tobacco include:

    • construction activities along creeks and rivers on private and public land
    • unexplained and potentially unlawful use of water resources
    • vans with no markings being loaded with cardboard boxes, at odd hours of the day and night
    • the sound of machinery running overnight
    • excessive security measures such as cameras, locks or guards.

    If you suspect that illicit tobacco is being grown, manufactured, or sold in your community, you can confidentially report it to the ATO online at ato.gov.au/tipoff, or phone 1800 060 062.

    Visit ato.gov.au/illicittobacco to learn more about the signs of tobacco plants and what to look out for in your community.

    Images

    Notes to journalists

    • Between 1 July 2018 and 30 June 2024, our Illicit Tobacco team completed 90 operational activities. These included 19 Illicit Tobacco Taskforce (whole of government) operations, 31 ATO specific operations and 40 state law enforcement support operations.
    • These operations resulted in:
      • 627 acres of illicit tobacco crops located, seized and destroyed with a total weight of 3,746,240 kilograms
      • 39,224 kilograms of loose-leaf tobacco located, seized and destroyed
      • 21,759,340 cigarettes located, seized and destroyed
      • total estimated equivalent tobacco duty foregone value of above $723 million.
    • From July 2018 to January 2025 there have been 30 convictions by the ATO for illicit tobacco with sentences ranging up to 3 years imprisonment.
    • A high-resolution headshotThis link will download a file of Assistant Commissioner Jade Hawkins is available for download from our media centre.
    • ATO stock footage and images are available for use in news bulletins from our media centre.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Local artists take centre stage in 2025 Art Awards

    Source: South Australia Police

    Anna Speirs has been awarded the top honour at the City of Wanneroo Community Art Awards and Exhibition, receiving the grand prize for her captivating painting, Moonlight Solitude.

    Anna was among 15 talented artists recognised in the 2025 Community Art Awards, sharing in a total prize pool of $19,900.

    There were 135 entries to this year’s awards, which included 88 paintings, 21 works on paper, 13 photo, film and digital pieces and 13 sculptures.

    This year’s judging panel included:

    • Emma Bitmead, Curator of Historical Art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia
    • Paul Uhlman, Associate Professor and Coordinator of Visual Arts and Printmaking at Edith Cowan University
    • Di Cubitt, Sessional Academic and Fine Art Unit Coordinator at Curtin University.

    Sandra Murray, Artistic Director and Lead Curator for Sculpture and Bathers, was the Guest Curator for this Community Art Awards exhibition.

    Mayor Linda Aitken said this year’s Art Awards once again highlighted the depth of creativity and talent within our community.

    “We’re proud to host this exhibition each year, celebrating local talent and providing emerging artists the opportunity to showcase their skills and storytelling methods,” she said.

    “Each piece tells a story and collectively, the exhibition reflects the diversity, imagination and passion of our community.”

    Visit the exhibition on until Saturday 26 July 2025 at the Wanneroo Regional Gallery, open Wednesdays to Saturdays, 10am to 4pm.

    Visitors can take part in the judging of the People’s Choice Award by nominating their favourite artwork, with the winner to be announced by mid-August.

    PRIZES

    City of Wanneroo Open Award (acquisitive)

    Artist: Anna Speirs

    Title: Moonlight solitude

    Medium: oil on wood panel

    Judges’ comments: This is a quiet, reflective work. The medium of oil paint has been lovingly applied with subtle gradations of light. Contemplative, this work draws you in to the space and beyond. A moment of stillness and solitude in a busy world. The window, as a devise in art history, is often used as a bridge between two worlds. In this instance the judges sensed the two worlds between the transition between childhood, adolescence into adulthood and this idea of indiscernible transitions.

    Best City of Wanneroo Resident

    Artist: Jeremy Blank

    Title: Trail Walk to Yanchep

    Medium: iPad drawing, digital print on archival cotton rag

    Judges’ comments: Skilful use of iPad drawing creates layered composition relating to movement through the local landscape. The use of digital medium creates a fluid, embodied composition. Drawing on digital media to create this image, it has the sense of the haptic tradition of mark marking.

    Highly Commended City of Wanneroo Resident

    Artist: Veta Holmes

    Title: Urban view

    Medium: Linoprint on paper

    Judges’ comments: This work appears to come from the graphic novel tradition where the landscape itself holds the drama of the narrative. This is the scene where it’s about to happen. An imminent moment, it has an emotional power. Technically proficient use of lino to create a dramatic scene and compelling image.

    Painting Winner

    Artist: Lucy Oosterhoff

    Title: The Binge

    Medium: Mixed media

    Judges’ comments: All kinds of everyday objects, such as a fork or a glass, appear in a state of transformation. One has the feeling that the sitter is undergoing an emotional metamorphosis or change. The use of the light is powerful and skilfully executed. Lucy shows a growing understanding of the painting language, and the judges were highly impressed by her understanding of materials and composition.

    Painting Highly Commended

    Artist: Charlotte Robinson

    Title: Ely

    Medium: Acrylic on canvas

    Judges’ comments: Distorted image shifts our point of view pushing the composition towards abstraction. Part of what is interesting is the distortion of the face and the emotional interplay extending and becoming part of the external environment. The direct handling of the media, incorporating charcoal over acrylic, adds to the expressive qualities.

    Sculpture Winner

    Artist: Angela Delury

    Title: Toby

    Medium: Mixed media

    Judges’ comments: The clever use of recycled materials manifests in a whimsical cross between robot and toy. Drawing on a cinematic tradition of robots, the corner shop and nostalgia for a not-quite-realised past.

    Sculpture Highly Commended

    Artist: Laural Holyoak

    Title: Angler Fish

    Medium: Earthenware clay, underglaze, gold lustre

    Judges’ comments: Bioluminescence is the key factor to the success of this predator fish. Skilful use of medium and glazing has been used to create a compelling yet repelling form.

    Works on Paper Winner

    Artist: Amy Marshall

    Title: The joy of just watching you sleep

    Medium: Pencil, charcoal and water-soluble graphite on paper

    Judges’ comments: Sensitive work. The text reinforces a love of the child by the mother. Here we have a storied landscape of love and great tenderness.

    Works on Paper Highly Commended

    Artist: Linda Fardoe

    Title: Looking up

    Medium: Graphite pencil on Camson paper

    Judges’ comments: The artist writes the landscape with this work. The erasure of lines creates a living, pulsating environment.

    Photo, Film and Digital Media Winner

    Artist: Clinton Price

    Title: Facing the day

    Medium: Film photography

    Judges’ comments: The artist captures a fleeting moment of a fellow passenger on the daily commute, finding transcendence in the everyday.

    Photo, Film and Digital Media Highly Commended

    Artist: Audra de Pina

    Title: Be still

    Medium: Photography print on fine art lustre paper

    Judges’ comments: Range of subtle tones and image of mist, air and deep reflection.

    Youth Winner

    Artist: Isabella Pitt

    Title: Me 3 years ago

    Medium: Oil on board

    Judges’ comments: This painting reveals the turbulence of adolescence the close up topography of the artists face. The combination of brush strokes and tonal shift of paint weave together an interesting surface.

    Youth Highly Commended

    Artist: Allyda Nithasha

    Title: Severed

    Medium: Drawing

    Judges’ comments: Biro drawing appears to describe the emotional state and inner conflict of the sitter to create a compelling image.

    Celebrating Wanneroo Winner

    Artist: Ernie Feldmann

    Title: Dry Creek Bed, Pilbara

    Medium: Watercolour

    Judges’ comments: Lyrical sunrise in the Pilbara with lively gums and patterned earth depicts nature in a state of agitated flux.

    Celebrating Wanneroo Highly Commended

    Artist: Jaqueline Glaser

    Title: The Visitor

    Medium: Acrylic

    Judges’ comments: Lived experience and memory blend with this honest sense of direct observation which verges on naïve visual poetry.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for information following fatal crash

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police investigating a fatal crash on the Desert Road/State Highway 1 on Saturday 7 June are seeking information from witnesses.

    The crash was reported to Police just before 1:10pm.

    We’re interested to hear from anyone who saw a yellow Suzuki Swift travelling southbound on State Highway 1 near Turangi at around 1pm.

    This includes any dashcam or CCTV footage that could assist our enquiries.

    If you have information, please contact Police on 105 either over the phone or online, and reference file number 250607/5123.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “BugHunting Campaign 2025” opens for applications (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    BugHunting Campaign 2025 opens for applications (with photo) 
         Launched in 2023, the BugHunting Campaign aims to assist resource-limited SMEs in enhancing their cybersecurity protection and strengthen Hong Kong’s overall cybersecurity. The campaign this year will run from July to August.
     
         As artificial intelligence (AI) technology rapidly integrates into various business operations, enterprises enjoying greater efficiency also face growing cybersecurity threats. The BugHunting Campaign 2025 will recruit cybersecurity professionals to conduct free vulnerability assessments for local SMEs, by utilising AI-powered technology and a bounty-based vulnerability detection model. Additionally, security audits will also be conducted on their AI applications to prevent data breaches and provide comprehensive defences against emerging cyber threats.
     
         The crowdsourced vulnerability detection platform CyberBay employs a secure identity and credential verification system that aligns with banking standards. All participating cybersecurity professionals must pass technical assessments and background checks to ensure their expertise and integrity. Certified cybersecurity professionals, known as “bounty hunters”, will provide safe and high-quality vulnerability detection services to local enterprises.
     
         The campaign has received an overwhelming response over the past two years, with over 210 SMEs participating. This year, additional resources will be allocated to provide participating enterprises with detailed inspection reports and complimentary one-on-one professional consultation services to address their vulnerabilities more effectively. Enterprises that demonstrate a solid cybersecurity foundation or successfully remediate vulnerabilities within a specified timeframe will be honored with an official BugHunting 2025 digital badge, recognising their commitment to cybersecurity excellence. Furthermore, cybersecurity awareness training will be offered to employees of participating enterprises to enhance their skills and vigilance in preventing data breaches.
     
        Further details of the campaign and registration arrangements are available on the relevant websites (cyberdefender.hk/en-us/bughunting_campaign_2025/ 
    Issued at HKT 11:56

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greens call for safe passage of Madleen and Government to sanction Israel

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party is calling for the safe passage of the Madleen, a civilian aid vessel on course to Gaza, following the Freedom Flotilla being seized by the Israeli Military and urging the New Zealand Government to sanction Israel for its illegal occupation of Palestine. 

    “The Green Party is calling for the safe passage of the Madleen and for the New Zealand Government to step up and sanction Israel for its violent occupation of Palestine and continued disregard for international law,” says Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson.

    “The Madleen was trying to get much-needed humanitarian aid into Gaza, and has been intercepted by the Israeli Military in international waters. This seizure blatantly violates international law and defies the International Court of Justice’s binding orders requiring unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.

    “Weaponising critical humanitarian aid must stop. Shooting at innocent people lining up for kai must stop. Aotearoa New Zealand cannot remain a bystander to the slaughter of innocent people in Gaza.

    “I was on a peace flotilla for Gaza almost ten years ago and it pains me to still see the need for one all these years later. 

    “If we stand for human rights and peace and justice, our Parliament must act. The New Zealand Government must sanction Israel and can do so by supporting Chlöe Swarbrick’s Member’s Bill. All we need is the support of six Government MPs to make this happen.

    “In September, Aotearoa joined 123 UN Member States to support a resolution calling for sanctions against those responsible for Israel’s ‘unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including in relation to settler violence.’

    “Our Government has since done nothing to fulfil that commitment. Our Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill starts that very basic process.

    “The Green Party stands with the Madleen and will continue to fight for the people of Palestine,” says Marama Davidson.

    NOTES TO EDITORS:

    • In 2016, Marama Davidson was a part of the Women’s Boat to Gaza which brought awareness to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and highlighted the crucial role of women in keeping their communities afloat, particularly in post-conflict situations.
    • Standing Order 288 outlines the process for Member’s Bills to bypass the member’s bill ballot (colloquially known as the ‘biscuit tin’), with the support of 61 non-executive members. With 55 Opposition members now officially in support of Swarbrick’s Unlawful Occupation of Palestine Sanctions Bill, the support of just 6 Government MPs are necessary to get the Bill onto the floor of Parliament.
    • On 10th December 2024, Swarbrick wrote to all Members of Parliament asking their support for the Bill to bypass the ballot, and later asked the Prime Minister in the House if there would be any Government policy or position preventing MPs from exercising their democratic right to support the Bill bypassing the ballot. He said that he would have a “good look at the Bill”.
    • In the tenth emergency session of the United Nations General Assembly on 18 September 2024, NZ joined 123 other member states in supporting United Nations General Assembly Resolution ES-10/24 “Advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice on the legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and from the illegality of Israel’s continued presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory”.
    • This resolution affirmed the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice regarding Israel’s actions and presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, called upon all states to comply with their obligations under international law, and, amongst other actions, called upon all States to implement sanctions, including travel bans and asset freezes, against natural and legal persons engaged in the maintenance of Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including in relation to settler violence.
    • This Bill implements a sanctions framework, duplicating the Russia Sanctions Act, to allow sanctions to be imposed by the Government against Israel in response to Israel’s unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.
    • The Bill implements some initial sanctions against Israeli Ministers, Israeli MPs who have supported the occupation, and military leadership, as well as sanctions on assets and services relating to arms and assets and services that are of economic or strategic importance to Israel.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Additional funding to attract 72,000 more visitors to New Zealand

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A new $13.5 million investment in international tourism marketing is expected to deliver an extra 72,000 international visitors to our shores, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.

    “The additional funding into Tourism New Zealand will drive international visitor numbers and will be targeted towards our core markets of Australia, the United States and China over the next few years” Louise Upston says.

    “We know how important marketing is to attract visitors, with around 14 per cent of international holiday visitors directly influenced by Tourism New Zealand’s marketing activity.

    “This is the first investment in the Government’s Tourism Growth Roadmap, which sets out a series of Government initiatives and investments for the Government and industry to work together to double the value of tourism exports by 2034. 

    “International visitors bring billions of dollars into the economy and these markets are the driving force behind our tourism sector.

    “This investment is expected to generate around $300 million in spending, which is a very strong return on investment. International visitor numbers continue to climb and this boost will help drive further economic growth throughout the entire country.

    “Encouraging more visitors means more people staying in our hotels, eating in our cafés, spending in our shops and visiting our attractions. This creates jobs and drives economic growth.

    “We want people to know New Zealand is open for business and we welcome visitors with open arms.”

    Funding comes from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) for 2025/26.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation cracks down on antisocial road user behaviour in Invercargill

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Southern District Police issued numerous infringements and ordered multiple vehicles off the road over the weekend in an operation targeting antisocial road user behaviour.

    In an operation running over Friday and Saturday nights (6-7 June), Police pulled over 161 vehicles, 54 were sent for inspection, issued 12 green stickers and 16 pink stickers. Police were out in force across the Invercargill area, working to disrupt gatherings and target illegal activity.

    The enforcement action was supported by VTNZ, and the operation consisted of Police staff from the Impairment Prevention Team, the Road Policing Group, and Commercial Vehicle Safety Team.

    Southland Area Road Policing Manager Senior Sergeant Scott MacKenzie says district staff pulled together and worked hard over the weekend to curb any illegal behaviour and keep our communities safe.

    “The number of vehicles ordered off the road really surprised us; coupled with the fact that only eight of the 54 vehicles inspected were found without any faults.

    “In total the teams stopped 161 vehicles, of which those with numerous and or serious faults came in at 33.5 percent – one third of all cars stopped should not have been on the road,” Senior Sergeant MacKenzie said.

    “We’ve been very clear – we have no tolerance for this behaviour and the havoc it wreaks in our communities.

    Senior Sergeant MacKenzie said he and his colleagues are “all too familiar” with the devastating impacts that can occur when driving recklessly or at speed, along with the fact that many of these vehicles are unsafe to travel in.

    “We’re the ones having to visit families and deliver awful news about their loved ones being involved in serious incidents resulting in injury or death.

    “That’s what motivates us. We don’t want to be the people having to deliver that news. It’s absolutely tragic, and absolutely avoidable.

    “Police are sending a message to anyone participating in antisocial road user behaviour – we are ready and waiting, and you can expect us to take action.”

    We continue to encourage anyone who witnesses this type of activity to report it to Police.

    Please call 111 if it is happening now, or you can make a report after the fact through our 105 service.

    If you have information you’d like to share anonymously, please call Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Still time to have your say on Western Springs Stadium

    Source: Auckland Council

    There’s still time for Aucklanders to give feedback on the future use of Western Springs Stadium.

    The consultation, led by Auckland Council and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), includes three options and seeks public feedback until midnight on Sunday 15 June 2025.

    The volume of submissions has been very positive, with more than 9,200 already received. More than 1,200 of these have come from each of the Albert-Eden and Waitematā local board areas.

    Max Hardy, Auckland Council’s Director of Group Strategy and Chief Executive’s Office, encourages even more people to take part.

    “It’s great to see strong interest in the future of Western Springs Stadium. We want thoughtful input from a wide cross-section of Aucklanders so that decisions we make reflect the full range of perspectives on how to best use this significant community asset,” says Mr Hardy.

    Nick Hill, Chief Executive of TAU, makes no assumptions about the outcome of this process.

    “Western Springs Stadium is a special player in our stadium network and there’s huge potential there. Once we have the community’s views alongside other important determinants in the decision making process, we’ll be better placed to support the future of the stadium in a way that better serves more Aucklanders for years to come.

    “Please tell us what you think of the options we’ve put in front of you,” adds Mr Hill.

    The easiest way to have your say is by visiting the AK Have Your Say website and completing the online feedback form. You can also give feedback in person at the Central City, Grey Lynn, Little Leys, Mt Albert or Pt Chevalier libraries.

    To support accessibility, key information has been translated into te reo Māori, Simplified Chinese, Samoan, Tongan, Korean, and Hindi. A New Zealand Sign Language video is also available on the website.

    A full analysis of the feedback will be available in late July. The feedback received will help the council to consider this subject again in a public Governing Body meeting on 31 July 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rating Valuation – frequently asked questions

    Source: Auckland Council

    The latest rating valuations 

    What valuation trends do I need to know?

    Two independent valuation providers, QV and Opteon, completed the 2024 valuation process. These companies are experienced property valuers and have worked closely with Auckland Council. The trends they identified tell us:

    • Values for areas further from the city centre have reduced less. These include Hibiscus & Bays, Upper Harbour and Franklin (-4% to -1%).

    • Conversely, properties closer to the city centre generally have above-average reductions (-11 to -14%). These include Puketāpapa, Albert-Eden, Maungakiekie- Tāmaki, Waitematā and Whau (all -14 or -13%).

    • In some areas, reduced demand for properties with redevelopment potential has contributed to larger value declines. These include Māngere Bridge, Henderson, Massey, Glen Innes, Point England and Panmure.

    • Land values have driven changes in CV. For many residential properties, land values reduced an average of -13% and commercial -6%. The reduction in land values reflects reduced development activity since 2021 and, in some cases, potential zoning changes.

    • Some have bucked the trend. Rodney has held its values (average 0% change) and Great Barrier is up (+38%). This is a continuing trend, with residential valuations on Great Barrier up 59% at the 2021 rating valuation. 

    My property’s valuation has reduced. Why?

    The new valuations reflect changes between 1 June 2021 and 1 May 2024. The last council rating valuation in 2021 was close to the market peak, and between then and May 2024 the economy and property market generally trended down.

    Council valuations do not reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes. Valuations just allow rates to be fairly shared.

    Valuers assess a property’s CV by analysing data, such as local sales, property type, location and other property factors. The valuations are not a good indication of what your property would sell for today (the values are based on 1 May 2024).

    Rating valuation and rates

    How does rating valuation impact a property’s rates cost?

    How a property’s CV changes compare to other properties in the region will determine whether a property’s rates increase from 1 July is more, or less, than the average residential rates increase of 5.8%. The new CV will be used to calculate rates for the next rating year, from 1 July 2025.

    Reduced property values mean lower rates, right?

    A change in a property’s CV will not necessarily mean the rates will be higher for an increased value, or lower for a decreased value. Properties with a valuation change higher or lower than the region’s average, will pay a higher or lower proportion of rates.

    Does rating valuation affect the amount of rates council receives?

    Revaluation doesn’t affect the amount of money the council collects from rates – it helps work out everyone’s share of rates. Any increase, or decrease, in the city’s property value does not change the total amount of rates the council collects. The council sets its budget annually following community consultation, using the three-yearly Long-term Plan as the starting point.

    The council decides the rates revenue it needs to provide the services in the budget, after accounting for all revenue sources such as income from fees and charges, and central government contributions. Achieving savings and other initiatives to improve value for money are helping the council to deliver more, without solely relying on rates increases.

    What a new property valuation means 

    Why does the council value properties?

    All councils are required by law to revalue properties inside their boundaries within a maximum of three years. In order to set rates fairly, the council’s registered valuers attribute an approximate value to all properties in the region, every three years. The last rating valuation was in 2021 and used to set rates from 1 July 2022.

    Does rating valuation reflect the current value of a property?

    No, a rating valuation reflects the likely selling price of the property, without chattels, if it sold on 1 May 2024. This historical information is only used for fairly sharing rates between properties. Council valuations do not reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    For an appraisal of current market value, we recommend ratepayers reach out to local real estate agents or registered valuers. There is also a range of online providers of property information based on current market data and recent trends.  

    How are rating valuations completed?

    Valuers assess a property’s CV by analysing data, such as local sales, property type, location and other property factors. The values are not a good indication of what a property would sell for today (the values are based on 1 May 2024).

    Rating valuations allow rates to be fairly shared. Council valuations do not reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    How does it work for an average home?

    For your average stand-alone home, the valuers would look at sales of comparable homes – similar land size, floor area, quality condition and location attributes, such as coastal properties.

    Valuers analysed market sales in areas of Auckland around 1 May 2024, considering similar properties and locations. For example, renovated villas in Grey Lynn are compared with sales of other renovated villas in that immediate area.

    So, a typical residential property would usually move in value along with other similar properties in the neighbourhood. But not all property values in an area will change in the same way – it depends on standalone houses, cross-leases, units and other home types. Values are done by mass valuation, using information held by council and our valuation providers – not by individual inspection.

    Good things to know

    Who completed this year’s valuations?

    Given the scale of the task of valuing 630,000 rateable properties in Auckland, two property valuation partners were involved in Auckland rating valuation: Opteon and Quotable Value.

    How does the objection process work?

    Property owners who want to opt for an objection can do so by 25 July 2025. We encourage property owners to take a look at the process via our website – and consider how the CV for their property compares with the CV for similar properties in their local area.

    Because the rating values are all based on 1 May 2024, looking at more recent sales data might not be relevant when considering an objection. Further information is available online through the Auckland Council website or phone 09) 301 0101.

    If an objection leads to a change in a property’s rating value, council will issue amended rates assessments that reflect any increase or decrease. If a refund is required, any overpaid amount will be refunded (once the objection process is complete).

    What should ratepayers do if they are concerned about paying rates?

    Anyone concerned about paying their rates is encouraged to get in touch as we have a range of assistance available.

    These include:

    • a government-funded rates rebate scheme
    • a rates postponement scheme for residential properties
    • flexible payment options, such as direct debits offering weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly, and annual payment.

    The rates rebate threshold for SuperGold card holders will increase from $31,510 to $45,000 from 1 July 2025. This will make more ratepayers who receive NZ superannuation eligible for a rates rebate.

    This information can be found on the Auckland Council website and our rates invoices also detail the support available. We encourage ratepayers to consider the options.

    This year’s valuation delay 

    Why has the property rating valuation been delayed?

    Ensuring a robust valuation process so ratepayers receive values that accurately reflect market values as at 1 May 2024 is important to the council, so Aucklanders have confidence the values used to determine rates have been accurately calculated.

    Following an audit in September 2024, the Valuer-General advised that the council valuation data required some amendments to ensure it accurately reflects the market as at 1 May 2024, before valuations will be certified and ready for public release.

    The Valuer-General advised that the 2024 valuation data was of a good quality, however some further work was needed for Auckland Council to attain certification.

    In April, the valuation file was resubmitted to the Valuer-General for review once that further work was completed by our valuation partners. The Valuer- General has now certified the 2024 rating valuations which has enabled us to publicly release these to property owners in June 2025.

    Who is the Valuer-General and why are they involved?

    The Valuer-General is appointed by central government and has a statutory responsibility for auditing and certifying all valuations used by councils to set rates.

    Where can I get more information?  

    Further information is available on the Auckland Council website.

    This year’s rating valuation trends is summarised on OurAuckland.

    To discuss your queries further, please phone (09) 301 0101.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rating valuations released to Auckland ratepayers

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland ratepayers will receive new property valuations this week, as Auckland Council prepares to update rates from 1 July 2025.

    The rating valuations Auckland property owners receive this week are based on property market trends and recent sales activity as at 1 May 2024. Therefore, the valuations are not intended to accurately reflect current market value – instead, the information will help enable rates to be fairly shared across Auckland’s 630,000 properties.

    The new rating valuations have been prepared by two independent valuation providers, QV and Opteon. These experienced property valuers have worked closely with Auckland Council to deliver valuations that meet robust standards.

    Auckland Council chief financial officer Ross Tucker said he was pleased to announce that the Valuer-General has now approved the new valuations for release to Aucklanders.

    “As we know, the last council valuations from 1 June 2021 were completed close to the market peak and between then and May 2024 the economy and property market generally trended down. Therefore, as most people would expect, the May 2024 Capital Values (CVs) are lower than the previous 2021 CVs for many properties,” said Mr Tucker.

    The overall CV movements between June 2021 and May 2024, by property type for Auckland, are:

    • industrial +5%
    • lifestyle +4%
    • rural + 4%
    • commercial -5%
    • residential -9%.

    Valuation movements over that period also varied across the Auckland region. Residential properties in centrally located local board areas tended to see a bigger reduction than those further out.

    [embedded content]

    Economic backdrop

    Auckland Council Chief Economist Gary Blick said it is important to note that the last two Auckland rating valuations happened to coincide with markedly different stages of the recent economic cycle.

    “At the time of the 2021 rating valuation, in June 2021, the Official Cash Rate (OCR) had been at an all-time low,” says Mr Blick. “We saw exceptionally low mortgage rates and strong upward pressure on property prices. The 2021 rating valuation reflected those higher prices.

    “In contrast, the 2024 rating valuation in May 2024, occurred when the OCR had been lifted to its recent high of 5.5 per cent. Higher interest rates cooled buyer demand, leading to a decline in property prices.

    “Despite that fall, the median house price as at June 2024 was still above the level just prior to the OCR cut of March 2020, and that remains the case today. The recent economic cycle – with its unusually steep climb and fall – helps explain why some properties have had swings between the two rating valuations.”

    What it means for rates

    The valuations do not change how much the council takes in rates – this is set annually following community consultation. For 2025/2026, Auckland Council has approved an overall average rates increase of 5.8 per cent for residential ratepayers.

    The council has kept the rates increase down, due to the commitment made as part of the council’s Long-term Plan 2024-2034, along with good progress in savings.

    “We are acutely aware of the tough cost of living facing our community and we continue to work hard to achieve council savings and improve value for ratepayers, to help keep rates as low as possible,” said Mr Tucker.

    “Most Auckland ratepayers will see some degree of rates increase from 1 July 2025. However, how a residential property’s CV changes compares to other properties in the region will generally determine whether that property’s rates increase from 1 July is more, or less, than the 5.8 per cent average.

    “If your residential property value has reduced more than the average (-9 per cent) change between the two valuations, you can expect a smaller rates increase than the 5.8 per cent. Conversely, if your property value held up better than the average, then you can expect a larger rates increase.”

    For 2025/2026, the annual rates for an average residential property (CV $1.29 million) will be $4,069. The 5.8 per cent average increase for 2025/2026 will equate to $223 per year or around $4.30 per week.

    Anyone concerned about paying their rates is encouraged to get in touch to access a range of assistance available. This information can be found on the Auckland Council website and rates notices.

    Ratepayers can access their property valuations via the Auckland Council website from Tuesday, 10 June 2025. Formal notices will be posted or emailed from Friday, 13 June 2025.

    Supporting information

    What are the valuation trends from this rating valuation?

    The rating valuations are based on 1 May 2024. At that time, these were the high-level trends for residential properties compared to the previous valuation:

    • Values for areas further from the city centre have held up slightly better (Hibiscus & Bays, Upper Harbour and Franklin range from -4% to -1%).

    • Conversely, properties closer to the city centre generally had above-average reductions (-11 to -14%). These include Puketāpapa, Albert-Eden, Maungakiekei-Tāmaki, Waitematā and Whau (all -14 or -13 per cent). This may be influenced by the varied market, including apartments, multi-units and stand-alone homes, which all have different sales trends.

    • In some areas, reduced demand for properties with redevelopment potential has contributed to larger value declines. These include Māngere Bridge, Henderson, Massey, Glen Innes, Point England and Panmure.

    • Land values have driven changes in CV. For many residential properties, land values had fallen an average of -13% and commercial land is also down -6%. The reduction in land values reflects reduced development activity since 2021 and, in some cases, potential zoning changes.

    • Some have bucked the trend. Rodney held its values (average 0% change) and Great Barrier is up (+38%). This is a continuing trend, with residential values on Great Barrier up 59% at the 2021 revaluation.

    • For storm-affected properties, it is difficult to quantify the overall effect of the 2023 storms on the market due to the number of variables involved. For instance, values in Muriwai have increased by 12%, whereas values in Henderson have fallen by 10%.     

    How are rating valuations completed?

    Valuers assess a property’s CV by analysing data, such as local sales, property type, location and other property factors. The values are not a good indication of what a property would sell for today (the values are based on 1 May 2024).

    Rating valuations allow rates to be fairly shared. Council valuations do not accurately reflect a property’s current market value and should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    How does rating valuation impact a property’s rates cost?

    A change in a property’s CV will not necessarily mean the rates will be higher for an increased value, or lower for a decreased value. Properties with a valuation change higher or lower than the region’s average, will pay a higher or lower proportion of rates.

    How a property’s CV compares to other properties in the region will determine whether a property’s rates increase from 1 July is more, or less, than the average residential rates increase of 5.8 per cent, which was set through the council’s budget process. The new CV will be used to calculate rates for the next rating year, which starts on 1 July 2025.

    Do reduced property values mean lower rates?

    Property values going up do not increase the total rates the council collects, and likewise downward values do not decrease the total rates the council collects. Valuations simply allow the amount of rates to be fairly shared.

    How does rating valuation work for an average home?

    For your average stand-alone home, the valuers would look at sales of comparable homes – similar land size, floor area, quality condition and location attributes, such as coastal properties.

    Valuers analysed market sales in areas of Auckland around 1 May 2024, considering similar properties and locations. For example, renovated villas in Grey Lynn are compared with sales of other renovated villas in that immediate area.

    So, a typical residential property would usually move in value along with other similar properties in the neighbourhood. But not all property values in an area will change in the same way – it depends on standalone houses, cross-leases, units and other home types.

    Values are done by mass valuation, using information held by council and our valuation providers – not by individual inspection.

    What should ratepayers do if they need support with paying rates?

    Anyone concerned about paying their rates is encouraged to get in touch as we have a range of assistance available. These include:

    • a government-funded rates rebate scheme
    • a rates postponement scheme for residential properties
    • flexible payment options, such as direct debits offering weekly, fortnightly, monthly, quarterly, and annual payment.

    The rates rebate threshold for SuperGold card holders will increase from $31,510 to $45,000 from 1 July 2025. This will make more ratepayers who receive NZ superannuation eligible for a rates rebate.

    This information can be found on the Auckland Council website and our rates invoices also detail the support available. We encourage ratepayers to consider their options.

    For more information and frequently asked questions, visit the main Auckland Council website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Busting myths: rates and property valuation

    Source: Auckland Council

    Rating valuation is undertaken every three years, by all councils nationwide. It’s legislated so councils fairly and accurately distribute rates.
    Often, the process prompts a range of questions from our ratepayers – so we’ve busted some of the most common myths, below.

    Myth: My property value has reduced – so my rates will reduce too.

    BUSTED: A change in your property’s CV (capital value) will not necessarily mean your rates will be higher for an increased value, or lower for a decreased value. It’s how your property value moves with the average change, that affects rates.

    To explain… if your residential property’s value change is higher than the overall average change, you will pay more in rates. Valuation changes below the average change will mean rates fall relative to the general increase.

    Myth: The council is taking more rates, as a result of revaluing properties.

    BUSTED: Property rates contribute to about 40 per cent of council funding. Property values help us share that rates revenue fairly across all property owners – the values do not increase or decrease the amount the council receives.

    A council valuation has the sole purpose of enabling rates to be fairly shared across 630,000 properties in our region.

    Myth: My rates increase will be exactly 5.8% this year.

    BUSTED: The average residential rates increase for 2025/2026 will be 5.8 per cent which was set through the council’s budget process. But it’s how the change in your property’s CV compares to the change in other properties that will determine whether your increase from 1 July is more, or less, than 5.8 per cent.

    Myth: Council valuations are a current property value.

    BUSTED: The values are not a good indication of what a property would sell for today. We recommend ratepayers reach out to local real estate agents or registered valuers for an up-to-date appraisal. Rating valuations are only used to fairly set rates.

    The property valuations will reflect the likely selling price of the property, without chattels, if it sold on 1 May 2024. Council valuations should not be used for insurance or mortgage purposes.

    The latest values (based on 1 May 2024) are a historical moment in time. Values are completed by mass valuation, using information held by council and valuers – not by individual inspection.

    Further information

    More information is available on the Auckland Council website.

    The latest revaluation trends for Auckland are summarised on OurAuckland. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for June 9, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on June 9, 2025.

    Israeli forces intercept Gaza freedom aid boat Madleen – cut communications
    Pacific Media Watch Contact has been lost with the Gaza Freedom Flotilla humanitarian aid boat Madleen after Israeli commandos intercepted it in international waters. The commandos demanded that everyone on board turn off their phones, and the boat lost contact with Al Jazeera Mubasher journalist Omar Faiad as well as its live feed, reports the

    NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Tookey, Professor of Construction Management, Auckland University of Technology New Zealand has just been hit by the first big cold snap of 2025 and, like every year, many New Zealanders will be reaching for an extra jumper, slippers and maybe a blanket to try and keep

    2-million-year-old pitted teeth from our ancient relatives reveal secrets about human evolution
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Towle, Research Fellow in Biological Anthropology, Monash University Ian Towle / The Conversation The enamel that forms the outer layer of our teeth might seem like an unlikely place to find clues about evolution. But it tells us more than you’d think about the relationships between

    Curious Kids: Why do dolphins jump out of the water?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Katharina J. Peters, Lecturer in Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong Will Falcon/Shutterstock Why do dolphins jump out of the water? Charlize, age 8, Melbourne Have you ever seen images of dolphins jumping out of the waves and performing impressive acrobatics in the air? Or maybe you’ve seen

    How Trump’s trade war is supercharging the fast fashion industry
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mona Mashhadi Rajabi, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Technology Sydney Jade Gao/Getty Images When US President Donald Trump introduced sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports the goal was to bring manufacturing back to American soil and protect local jobs. However, this process of re-shoring is complex and

    Can Israel still claim self-defence to justify its Gaza war? Here’s what the law says
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University On October 7 2023, more than 1,000 Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel and went on a killing spree, murdering 1,200 men, women and children and abducting another 250 people to take back to Gaza. It was the

    Measles cases are surging globally. Should children be vaccinated earlier?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meru Sheel, Associate Professor, Infectious Diseases, Immunisation and Emergencies (IDIE) Group, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney EyeEm Mobile GmbH/Getty Images Measles has been rising globally in recent years. There were an estimated 10.3 million cases worldwide in 2023, a 20% increase from 2022. Outbreaks

    What can you do if you don’t like your child’s friends?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachael Murrihy, Director, The Kidman Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney Getty Images/ Wander Woman Collective Many parents will be familiar with this situation: your child has a good or even best friend, but you don’t like them. Perhaps the friend is bossy, has poor

    Immortality at a price: how the promise of delaying death has become a consumer marketing bonanza
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amy Errmann, Senior Lecturer, Marketing & International Business, Auckland University of Technology Living forever has become the wellness and marketing trend of the 2020s. But cheating death – or at least delaying it – will come at a price. What was once the domain of scientists and

    Why bystanders defend bad behaviour at work — even when they know it’s wrong
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Zhanna Lyubykh, Assistant Professor, Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University Rather than intervening, supporting targets or reporting the misconduct, bystanders may downplay it, withdraw support or even blame the target, which ultimately reinforces the mistreatment. (Shutterstock) “You always mess things up. Why are you even on

    Phil Goff: Israel doesn’t care how many innocent people it’s killing in Gaza
    COMMENTARY: By Phil Goff “What we are doing in Gaza now is a war of devastation: indiscriminate, limitless, cruel and criminal killing of civilians. It’s the result of government policy — knowingly, evilly, maliciously, irresponsibly dictated.” This statement was made not by a foreign or liberal critic of Israel but by the former Prime Minister

    New Zealand’s foreign policy stance on Palestine lacks transparency
    COMMENTARY: By John Hobbs It is difficult to understand what sits behind the New Zealand government’s unwillingness to sanction, or threaten to sanction, the Israeli government for its genocide against the Palestinian people. The United Nations, human rights groups, legal experts and now genocide experts have all agreed it really is “genocide” which is being

    The blow-up between Elon Musk and Donald Trump has been entertaining, but how did things go so bad, so fast?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Henry Maher, Lecturer in Politics, Department of Government and International Relations, University of Sydney A no-holds-barred and very public blow-up between the world’s richest man and the president of the United States has had social media agog in recent days, with each making serious accusations against the

    Gaza plea: RSF, CPJ and 150+ media outlets call on Israel to open Strip to foreign journalists, protect Palestinian reporters
    Pacific Media Watch More than 150 press freedom advocacy groups and international newsrooms have joined Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) in issuing a public appeal demanding that Israel grant foreign journalists immediate, independent and unrestricted access to the Gaza Strip. The organisations are also calling for the full protection

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: MoneyHero Group Expands Digital Asset Wealth Product Offerings in Hong Kong in Strategic Collaboration with OSL

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) (“MoneyHero” or the “Company”), a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia, today announced a strategic collaboration with OSL Group Limited (HKEX: 863) (“OSL”), Asia’s leading regulated digital asset platform, to expand its digital asset wealth product offerings. This collaboration marks a key step as MoneyHero expands its wealth products offerings in Hong Kong to include digital asset-related services provided by Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong (“SFC”)-licensed institutions, aiming to enhance financial wellbeing for consumers in Hong Kong.

    Through this collaboration, MoneyHero users can compare digital asset account products offered by leading SFC-licensed platforms like OSL, alongside insurance, stock, and bank account products, empowering them to make smarter and more informed financial decisions with a broader range of product choices. Hong Kong’s growing interest in digital assets reflects increasing demand for diversified financial solutions. According to data from Investor and Financial Education Council (IFEC)1, a subsidiary of the SFC, 8% of retail investors in Hong Kong invested in virtual assets and related products in 2023, up from just 1% in 2019, while 11% of retail investors showed intention to invest in these products – reflecting the growing direct participation and interest that MoneyHero and OSL are addressing.

    Rohith Murthy, CEO of MoneyHero, said: “We are thrilled to work with OSL, a recognised leader in the regulated digital asset space in Asia. This collaboration reflects our unique value proposition and position as the leading digital acquisition partner for the majority of banks across Greater Southeast Asia, which we are leveraging to extend our offerings into the digital asset space. We are committed to providing our users with comprehensive financial solutions and access to emerging asset classes in a responsible and informed manner. OSL’s strong regulatory compliance and institutional expertise provide valuable support for our expansion into the sector, where we also see significant potential to broaden our offerings in the future.”

    Jack Derong, CMO of OSL, said: “We are delighted to join forces with MoneyHero, an established and trusted platform across Southeast Asia. We believe that providing accessible and regulated pathways to digital assets is crucial for the industry’s sustainable growth. MoneyHero’s extensive user network and transparent and reliable comparison tools will empower a wider audience with the knowledge and access to participate in the digital asset economy with confidence.”​​​​

    About MoneyHero Group

    MoneyHero Limited (NASDAQ: MNY) is a leading personal finance aggregation and comparison platform, as well as a digital insurance brokerage provider in Greater Southeast Asia. The Company operates in Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and the Philippines. Its brand portfolio includes B2C platforms MoneyHero, SingSaver, Money101, Moneymax and Seedly, as well as the B2B platform Creatory. The Company also retains an equity stake in Malaysian fintech company, Jirnexu Pte. Ltd., parent company of Jirnexu Sdn. Bhd., the operator of RinggitPlus, Malaysia’s largest operating B2C platform. MoneyHero had over 290 commercial partner relationships as at 31 December 2024, and had approximately 6.2 million Monthly Unique Users across its platform for the three months ended 31 December 2024. The Company’s backers include Peter Thiel—co-founder of PayPal, Palantir Technologies, and the Founders Fund—and Hong Kong businessman, Richard Li, the founder and chairman of Pacific Century Group. To learn more about MoneyHero and how the innovative fintech company is driving APAC’s digital economy, please visit www.MoneyHeroGroup.com.

    About OSL Group
    OSL Group (HKEX: 863.HK) is a leading global financial infrastructure platform bridging traditional finance and the digital asset economy through blockchain technology. The Group is dedicated to providing efficient, seamless, and regulatory-compliant financial services to individuals and businesses worldwide.

    OSL delivers a comprehensive suite of regulated services through its licensed platforms, including 24/7 OTC brokerage with deep liquidity fiat gateways and competitive pricing; omnibus brokerage solutions enabling traditional financial institutions to integrate digital assets; SOC 2 Type 2-certified custody with up to US$1 billion insurance protection; and compliant retail trading channels; wealth management solutions, including scheduled launches on tokenised treasuries and RWAs; and in preparation for cross-border payment infrastructure via OSL Pay.

    “Open, Secure, Licensed” are the principles OSL lives by. OSL is expanding its compliant infrastructure across Japan, Australia, and Europe, potentially Southeast Asia, powering the next generation of global financial infrastructure.

    For more information, please visit group.osl.com.

    For MoneyHero inquiries, please contact:

    Investor Relations:
    MoneyHero IR Team
    IR@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    Media Relations:
    MoneyHero PR Team
    Press@MoneyHeroGroup.com

    For OSL inquiries, please contact:
    OSL Media Team
    media@osl.com

    Disclaimer

    The Company and its subsidiaries do not hold any license issued by the SFC and do not engage in any regulated activities as defined under the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Chapter 571 of the Laws of Hong Kong). This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to constitute, an offer or invitation to provide any securities, investment, or other regulated services to the public in Hong Kong.

    1Investor and Financial Education Council. (2023). Retail Investor Study 2023. Retrieved from https://www.ifec.org.hk/web/common/pdf/about-ifec/retail-investor-study-2023.pdf

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Astana hosts China-Central Asia Symposium on Public Administration and Dialogue on People-to-People Exchanges – 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    On May 30 local time, the Symposium on Public Administration and Dialogue on People-to-People Exchanges between China and Central Asian Countries – 2025 was held in Astana (Republic of Kazakhstan).

    In the photo: Deputy Director of the CPC Central Committee’s Propaganda Department Hu Heping delivers a speech.

    Hu Heping noted that China is comprehensively promoting the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation through Chinese modernization, and the Central Asian countries are also tirelessly seeking a path of development and revival with their own national characteristics. And on this path of modernization, China and the Central Asian countries are fellow travelers and good partners. The parties need to raise the level of cooperation within the framework of the joint construction of the “One Belt, One Road” (hereinafter referred to as OBOR), support each other in choosing a development path that meets national realities, promote the construction of a more equitable international order, and strengthen international humanitarian exchanges and cooperation.

    In the photo: Director General of the China International Civil Aviation Authority (CICG) Du Zhanyuan delivers a speech.

    Du Zhanyuan said that China and the five Central Asian countries are developing countries. Their exchanges and cooperation in many areas such as public administration have deep historical roots, a solid foundation of public opinion and a wide range of practical needs. Looking to the future, the two sides should focus on issues such as modernization, poverty alleviation and environmental protection, continue to promote ideological convergence and exchanges on the China-Central Asia concept, and strengthen the cultural foundation of the China-Central Asia community with a shared future through mutual enrichment of ideas.

    Pictured: Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan Han Chunlin delivers a speech.

    In the photo: Executive Secretary of the Amanat Party of Kazakhstan Daulet Karibek gives a speech.

    In the photo: Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) Kairat Sarybay delivers a speech.

    In the photo: Vice Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Yevgeny Kochetov gives a speech.

    In the photo: Secretary General of the China-Central Asia format Sun Weidong delivers a video address.

    During the symposium, guests from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and other countries held in-depth exchanges of views on the topic of the event. Jiang Yonggang, Director of the Europe and Asia Broadcasting Center (Renmin Huabao Publishing House) under the Foreign Languages Publication and Distribution Administration of the People’s Republic of China, acted as the host of the event.

    In the photo: guests give speeches

    In the photo: sites of four thematic sections

    In the photo: the event site

    On May 29 local time, a presentation of the Kazakh edition of the 4-volume collection “Xi Jinping on State Governance” was also held in Astana under the auspices of the PRC Foreign Language Publication and Dissemination Office and the National Ethnic Affairs Committee of the PRC. Du Zhanyuan delivered a speech at the ceremony.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rich get much richer, driving inequality and poverty

    Source: Green Party

    The 2025 NBR Rich List makes immediately obvious the need for a fair tax system, says the Green Party. 

    “The rich list is now worth more than one hundred billion dollars, while the Government has chosen to cut support to tens of thousands of the lowest income New Zealanders. It’s time to tax wealth, and build a country where all of us can thrive,” says the Green Party’s spokesperson for Finance and co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “Poverty and homelessness doesn’t come from nowhere. They are created by inequality. Christopher Luxon has put his foot down on the accelerator. By design, the rich are getting much, much richer while the poor are getting much, much poorer.

    “We already know that the wealthiest households are able to arrange their finances to pay half the effective tax rate of regular New Zealanders. That means, proportionally, teachers, nurses, builders and firefighters pay more of their income to support our country’s infrastructure than the billionaires the Prime Minister has chosen to celebrate today.

    “The Greens are ambitious for an Aotearoa New Zealand where everyone has what they need to thrive. We can have free GPs, free early childhood education, free dental care and rapidly reduce climate changing emissions – if the rich pay their fair share.

    “A wealth tax on just the ten wealthiest rich listers alone would pay for free GP care for all New Zealanders.

    “Don’t let the people laughing their way to the bank while everyone else suffers tell you what is possible. We all deserve so much better, and our Green Budget shows how,” says Chlöe Swarbrick.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Myanmar leader exchange congratulations on 75th anniv of diplomatic ties

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Chinese President Xi Jinping and Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing on Sunday exchanged congratulations on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.

    In his message, Xi said that over the past 75 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the “Paukphaw” (fraternal) friendship between China and Myanmar has stood the test of time and grown even stronger.

    Upholding the jointly advocated Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the Bandung Spirit, the two countries have been committed to good neighborliness, deepened mutually beneficial cooperation, and firmly supported each other on issues regarding their respective core interests and major concerns, setting a fine example of friendly exchange between countries, he said.

    Xi recalled his meeting with Min Aung Hlaing in Russia in May, when the two leaders reached important consensus on building the China-Myanmar community with a shared future.

    China attaches great importance to the development of its ties with Myanmar and stands ready to work with Myanmar to take the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties as an opportunity to accelerate high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, jointly implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative and push for solid progress in building the China-Myanmar community with a shared future, so as to deliver more benefits to the two peoples, Xi stressed.

    For his part, Min Aung Hlaing said that Xi’s historic visit to Myanmar in 2020 opened a new chapter in building the Myanmar-China community with a shared future.

    After a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar earlier this year, the Chinese government and people offered humanitarian assistance promptly, fully demonstrating the deep friendship between our two peoples in standing together through thick and thin and helping each other in times of difficulties, he said.

    Min Aung Hlaing hailed his meeting with Xi in Moscow as fruitful, as they reached important consensus on deepening strategic cooperation. He also expressed gratitude to China for its firm support of Myanmar’s efforts to achieve peace and stability, national reconciliation and economic development.

    The Myanmar leader said he looks forward to accelerating cooperation with China across various fields and forging a stronger, more resilient and mutually beneficial partnership.

    Also on Sunday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang exchanged congratulations with Min Aung Hlaing.

    Li said that over the past 75 years, thanks to joint efforts from both sides, significant progress has been made in friendly exchanges and practical cooperation in various fields.

    Li voiced his readiness to work with Min Aung Hlaing to deepen the comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries and advance solid progress in building the China-Myanmar community with a shared future, so as to inject new momentum into respective development.

    Under the guidance of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, steady growth has been achieved in Myanmar-China relations, said Min Aung Hlaing, voicing willingness to work with China to jointly build the community with a shared future so as to better benefit the two peoples.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Myanmar leader says willing to work together to promote building of Myanmar-China community with shared future

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing speaks during the celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Myanmar and China in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, June 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    A ceremony to commemorate the 75th anniversary of China-Myanmar diplomatic relations was held in Nay Pyi Taw, the capital of Myanmar, on Sunday.

    In his speech during the ceremony, Myanmar leader Min Aung Hlaing said that Myanmar is willing to work hand in hand with China, remain steadfastly committed to strengthening the deep bonds of “Paukphaw” (fraternal) friendship between the two countries, and continue its efforts to promote the building of a Myanmar-China community with a shared future.

    Min Aung Hlaing said that Myanmar and China have long enjoyed a tradition of close, friendly, and good-neighborly relations with the “Paukphaw” spirit.

    Over the past 75 years of Myanmar-China diplomatic relations, the friendly ties between the two governments, peoples, and all segments of society have continued to flourish steadily. Cooperation in key sectors, including investment and trade, has seen consistent and remarkable progress, he said.

    Myanmar and China are bound by a deep and enduring commitment to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, a cornerstone of their relationship and a model for modern international relations, Min Aung Hlaing said.

    Myanmar will continue to uphold the one-China principle, and warmly welcomes China’s Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, he said.

    Min Aung Hlaing also expressed gratitude for China’s strong support for Myanmar’s peace, national reconciliation, economic and social development, and its valuable assistance for Myanmar’s earthquake relief efforts.

    Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Ma Jia said that China and Myanmar are connected by mountains and rivers, and their friendly exchanges span thousands of years.

    Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China-Myanmar relations have always been as solid as a rock. The future and destiny of the two countries are closely linked. The two countries continue to write new chapters of their fraternal friendship in various fields, Ma said.

    Ma noted that China will seek an amicable, secure and prosperous neighborhood, follow the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, and share weal and woe with its neighbors.

    China will also continue to consolidate strategic mutual trust, deepen development integration, maintain regional stability, and expand exchanges with Myanmar, Ma said.

    China will continue to support Myanmar’s post-earthquake reconstruction and promote the construction of the China-Myanmar community with a shared future, Ma added. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Jobs at largest US port down by half amid tariff tensions: media

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Jobs at the Port of Los Angeles, the largest and busiest port in the United States, are down by half as U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs cripple trade with Asia-Pacific, local media reported on Saturday.

    Over the last 25 work shifts, only 733 jobs were available for 1,575 longshoremen looking for work, Los Angeles Times reported, citing Gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, adding that the port processed 25 percent less cargo than forecast for May.

    “They haven’t been laid off, but they’re not working nearly as much as they did previously,” Seroka said. “Since the tariffs went into place, and in May specifically, we’ve really seen the work go off on the downside.”

    Seroka attributed the decrease in job opportunities to lower cargo volume moving through the port.

    The Port of Los Angeles has ranked as the largest container port in the United States each year since 2000. In California alone, nearly 1 million jobs are related to trade through the port. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Legacy in action: How Beijing’s dual-Olympic venue powers sport, community

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    From the fierce clashes of Olympic ice hockey to the roar of basketball fans and the graceful arcs of figure skating, Beijing’s National Indoor Stadium has become a model for sustainable Olympic venue use.

    17 years after hosting gymnastics, trampoline and wheelchair basketball events at the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics, and three years after staging ice hockey competitions during the 2022 Winter Olympics, the venue is once again welcoming world-class athletes, with the FIVB Volleyball Nations League (VNL) held at one of the city’s iconic “dual Olympic” venues.

    Martyna Lukasik (R) of Poland spikes the ball during the Pool 3 match between Poland and Thailand at the Women’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 at the National Indoor Stadium in Beijing, China, June 4, 2025. (Xinhua/Luo Yuan)

    At the heart of the stadium’s success lies a simple yet powerful strategy: putting sports first and sharing it with the community. In doing so, it reflects a broader vision of how Olympic legacy can serve both elite performance and public engagement.

    “We’ve always believed that a world-class sports venue must serve athletes, spectators and the city alike,” National Indoor Stadium chairman Wang Yue told Xinhua.

    SMART OPERATIONS, OLYMPIC LEGACY

    Built for the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the National Indoor Stadium underwent major upgrades for the 2022 Winter Games, becoming one of the two ice hockey competition venues.

    During renovations, designers incorporated a dual-size ice rink system, allowing conversion between the standard 60m x 26m Olympic ice hockey field and a 60m x 30m configuration for figure skating and other events. This design foresight laid the foundation for versatile, long-term use.

    Following the Winter Olympics, the stadium returned to its sports-first mission under the Beijing Performing Arts Group, aligning with the city’s call to refocus Olympic venues on athletic development. Since then, it has hosted a growing portfolio of top-tier events and become home to Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) team the Beijing Royal Fighters.

    “Our post-Olympic mission has been to fully return to our core mission – sports. This venue is designed to host elite competitions, and also to welcome citizens in their everyday lives. We’re building a world-class stadium brand rooted in Olympic spirit and open access,” Wang explained.

    The venue’s reputation for professionalism has also been affirmed by visiting teams during the VNL.

    “This stadium has amazing lighting and atmosphere. It makes the players feel like they’re on one of the world’s biggest stages,” said Türkiye head coach Daniele Santarelli.

    China captain Gong Xiangyu echoed this sentiment: “It’s exciting to play here. You feel the energy of the crowd and the history of the place.”

    FROM OLYMPIC SPOTLIGHT TO DAILY USE

    Since its post-Winter Olympics reopening, the stadium has focused on optimizing space and schedule through precise planning. With an annual calendar packed with over 60 major events – spanning volleyball, basketball, ice hockey, concerts and exhibitions – the venue runs on what its operators call a “full-time, full-space” model.

    “We host around 30 professional sports events a year, and the same number of other commercial and cultural events,” said Wang.

    Behind these seamless transitions is a core operation team of fewer than 20 people, who oversee everything from scheduling to logistical coordination.

    “Our team is small but specialized,” Wang explained. “After a concert teardown at night, we can switch the space into basketball mode by the next morning.”

    Beyond major events, the stadium shifts gears on non-match days to serve everyday fitness and public engagement.

    “We offer rhythmic gymnastics and badminton classes in the main hall. The training hall becomes a hub for table tennis and balance-bike lessons,” Wang noted.

    A dedicated ice hockey rink built for the Winter Games now supports both Beijing’s men’s ice hockey team and public skating hours, while outdoor tennis and 3×3 basketball courts are fully booked on weekends.

    “Hosting events isn’t our only goal,” said Wang. “We want local residents to see this as their home stadium. Whether you’re watching volleyball or playing badminton with your children, this is the place for you.”

    “We are positioning ourselves as an Olympic legacy venue that delivers on both elite performance and daily vitality,” he added.

    BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE, PEOPLE-CENTERED MODEL

    With the goal of long-term sustainability, the stadium is developing a diversified revenue model that combines core sports events with concerts, exhibitions, themed retail and dining.

    “Our operations are now basically breaking even,” Wang noted. “We are pushing for a balance between economic return and public benefit.”

    To support this strategy, the stadium is building two flagship sports brands: basketball and ice hockey.

    “The Beijing Royal Fighters plays most of its home games here. We’re also the training base and competition site for Beijing’s city-level ice hockey team,” said Wang, adding these projects help drive identity and fan engagement.

    Wang also emphasized the stadium’s public-service function.

    “More than 1,000 amateur events are held here every year,” he said. “This isn’t a major profit center, but it’s about public value. As a state-owned venue, we must serve the community.”

    The five-day VNL competitions have drawn tens of thousands of fans and ignited a new wave of enthusiasm. Visitors can use match tickets for discounts at restaurants and shops nearby – part of a growing “ticket stub economy” that ties sport with city life.

    “Sport is more than a competition,” said Wang. “It’s a way to connect people, boost local business and enhance urban life. That’s the Olympic legacy we hope to continue.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two before the courts after separate offences

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Stephen McDaniel, Waimakariri/Hurunui Response Manager,

    Two people are before the courts following two separate incidents in the Rural Canterbury area.

    On Tuesday 27 May, Police were alerted to a report of a burglary on Southbrook Road, where a residential property’s front gates had been taken during the day in front of peak traffic.

    After following lines of enquiry, including CCTV footage, Police identified the alleged offender.

    A search warrant was executed at a Christchurch property where Police located the stolen gates partially mounted to the front fence.

    The alleged offender was also located at the property and was taken into custody at the scene.

    A 41-year-old man appeared on 31 May, and was remanded in custody. He is due to reappear in Christchurch District Court on 25 June.

    On Tuesday 3 June, the Canterbury Rural Tactical Crime Unit executed a search warrant at a Swannanoa address in relation to a number of reported stolen vehicles.

    During the search warrant, Police located three vehicles that had been reported stolen.

    A 30-year-old woman was taken into custody at the scene.

    The woman is due to appear in Christchurch District Court at a later date, charged with receiving property.

    We would like to thank the members of the public who provided information in relation to this incident to Police.

    This information is invaluable to our investigations and enabled us to hold the alleged offender to account.

    We thank the public for their continued support and urge anyone to report any suspicious or unlawful behaviour to Police.

    If you see something happening now, call 111 with as much detail as safely possible, or get in touch on 105 if it’s after the fact.

    Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israeli forces intercept Gaza freedom aid boat Madleen – cut communications

    Pacific Media Watch

    Contact has been lost with the Gaza Freedom Flotilla humanitarian aid boat Madleen after Israeli commandos intercepted it in international waters.

    The commandos demanded that everyone on board turn off their phones, and the boat lost contact with Al Jazeera Mubasher journalist Omar Faiad as well as its live feed, reports the AJ live tracker.

    International Solidarity Movement co-founder Huwaida Arraf confirmed that they had also lost contact with the Madleen.

    Arraf, whose ISM is supporting the Gaza Freedom Flotilla, later said from Sicily: “Just moments ago, communication seemed to be cut.”

    “So, we have lost all contact with our colleagues on the Madleen.”

    “Before that, we know that they had two drones hovering above them that dropped some kind of chemical on the vessel. We don’t know what that chemical was,” she said.

    “Some people reported that their eyes were burning. Before that, they were also approached by vessels in a very threatening manner.”

    So at least for the last hour the Madleen crew had been threatened by Israeli forces.

    “The last we saw, were able to hear from them, they were surrounded . . . by Israeli naval commandos and it looked like the commandos were about to take over the vessel.”

    The Freedom Flotilla earlier posted a message on social media saying “Red Alert: The Madleen is currently under assault in international waters.” It also said: “Israel navy ‘here right now, please sound the alarm’.”

    “Red Alert: The Madleen is currently under assault in international waters.” Image: Gaza Freedom Forum Coalition

    A video posted by Palestinian journalist Motaz Azaiza showed Brazilian activist Thiago Avila on board the Madleen wearing a life jacket.

    “The IOF [Israel Occupation Forces] is here right now, please sound the alarm. We are being surrounded by their boats,” he said in the video.

    “Yes this is an interception, a war crime is happening right now,” he said.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man charged following alleged Paremoremo hit-and-run

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A man has been charged following an alleged hit-and-run in Paremoremo yesterday morning, which left two people injured.

    Emergency services were called to Attwood Road about 7.10am yesterday following a report of a white ute striking two pedestrians.

    The vehicle then allegedly left the scene without stopping.

    One woman sustained serious injuries and another moderate injuries and both were transported to hospital for treatment.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams, Waitematā CIB, says earlier today a person presented to North Shore Police Station.

    “A 39-year-old man has subsequently been charged with failing to stop and ascertain injury and two counts of careless driving causing injury.

    “The investigation remains ongoing, however we would like to thank all the members of the public who have so far contacted Police.”

    The 39-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court on 12 July.

    As the matter is before the Court, Police are limited in providing further comment.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Tookey, Professor of Construction Management, Auckland University of Technology

    New Zealand has just been hit by the first big cold snap of 2025 and, like every year, many New Zealanders will be reaching for an extra jumper, slippers and maybe a blanket to try and keep warm.

    New Zealand’s housing stock has long been criticised for being damp, cold and ill-suited to the climate.

    In the 2018 Census, households were asked about the state of their homes. According to Stats NZ, 318,891 homes in New Zealand (21.5%) were affected by dampness and 252,855 (16.9%) had visible mould larger than A4 size at least some of the time.

    While the World Health Organization recommends a minimum indoor temperature of 18˚C, many homes in New Zealand fall below these thresholds, with some experiencing temperatures less than 16°C.

    Even when homes are built to code, there can still be issues and health risks. A lot of New Zealand’s housing is not fit for purpose – particularly at this time of the year.

    While improving heating and standards is a homeowner choice, for landlords it is increasingly a requirement. Over recent years landlords have faced increasing costs to achieve legal heating, ventilation and insulation requirements within 90 days of a new or renewed tenancy.

    For everyone else, there are ways to make homes more efficient to heat and comfortable to live in. Here are four ways to keep heat in your home this winter – some simple and affordable, while others are more of an investment.

    Insulation is your friend

    Firstly, insulation is our friend in winter. Double glazing is excellent but expensive (between NZ$450/m2 and $1500/m2) and subject to restrictions in heritage buildings. There are other options.

    Secondary glazing with glass, acrylic or applique plastic sheets can be a significantly more cost-effective option.

    Where possible, home owners should be looking at ways to add to thermal efficiency by increasing insulation.

    Walls can be retrofitted with cavity fillers. If your budget can stretch to it, rigid insulation board is also effective. Under the floor and in the roof spaces are favourites for these upgrades. They are relatively cheap improvements to make and generally pay for themselves.

    Target draughts

    Secondly, a warm and dry home requires finding and eliminating draughts.

    For many years, building scientists have sought to achieve airtight homes. An airtight home substantially reduces heat loss in winter.

    Temporary and permanent improvements can be made by buying or making some draught excluders and door sweeps for doorways. But specialist products such as adhesive-backed foam tape or V-strip weatherstripping around door and window frames are also very effective.

    Even just using masking tape during winter to seal the gaps in unused windows can help keep warmth in the home.

    Windows and a compass

    Third, use your window orientation strategically. Invest in heavier curtains (or blinds) that insulate windows. Then use a compass (you probably have a compass app on your phone) to work out which way is north.

    North-facing windows catch the sun during the day, and contribute to thermal gain in a house. South-facing windows are in shadow all day and tend to act as a heat sink, losing energy throughout the day.

    During the day, ensure curtains and blinds are open on the north side and closed on the south side. As soon as night falls, close the curtains to retain maximum heat. Try to keep unused rooms closed off and stick to the naturally warmer spaces.

    Move heat around

    Fourth, use ceiling fans, heat pumps, and dehumidifiers to maximise the available heat in your house.

    Heat will stratify into layers in your house. It is always going to be warmer near the ceiling of each room. Usually, the loft space is the warmest of all through maximum thermal gain during the day.

    Using a ducted heat pump can recycle that heat to the living spaces. Similarly, if you set the ceiling fan to move air around the room you will make the most of what you have. Ideally, run the ceiling fan backwards (clockwise) if it has that option, to create an updraught rather than a downdraught to aid circulation.

    Dehumidifiers are extremely useful in increasing the feeling of warmth in a house. During operation, they release some latent heat while condensing water. Dry air is easier to heat, making your heating more efficient.

    Your home can make you sick

    Cold damp homes can have significant health impacts, including respiratory issues, rheumatic fever and skin infections – particularly for children and vulnerable people.

    Targeting heat loss and dampness can help improve conditions. Will it ensure every home is warm and toasty? No. But these steps can make their homes just a little bit warmer – and healthier – this winter.

    John Tookey does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. NZ homes are notorious for being cold and damp. Here are 4 ways to make yours feel warmer this winter – https://theconversation.com/nz-homes-are-notorious-for-being-cold-and-damp-here-are-4-ways-to-make-yours-feel-warmer-this-winter-257893

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: From Kent State to Los Angeles, using armed forces to police civilians is a high-risk strategy

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Brian VanDeMark, Professor of History, United States Naval Academy

    Smoke and tear gas surround a protester in Los Angeles on June 7, 2025, amid confrontations between immigration rights advocates and law enforcement personnel. Taurat Hossain/Anadolu via Getty Images

    Responding to street protests in Los Angeles against federal immigration enforcement raids, President Donald Trump ordered 2,000 soldiers from the California National Guard into the city on June 7, 2025, to protect agents carrying out the raids. Trump also authorized the Pentagon to dispatch regular U.S. troops “as necessary” to support the California National Guard.

    The president’s orders did not specify rules of engagement about when and how force could be used. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who did not request the National Guard and asserted it was not needed, criticized the president’s decision as “inflammatory” and warned it “will only escalate tensions.”

    I am a historian who has written several books about the Vietnam War, one of the most divisive episodes in our nation’s past. My recent book, “Kent State: An American Tragedy,” examines a historic clash on May 4, 1970, between anti-war protesters and National Guard troops at Kent State University in Ohio.

    The confrontation escalated into violence: troops opened fire on the demonstrators, killing four students and wounding nine others, including one who was paralyzed for life.

    In my view, dispatching California National Guard troops against civilian protesters in Los Angeles chillingly echoes decisions and actions that led to the tragic Kent State shooting. Some active-duty units, as well as National Guard troops, are better prepared today than in 1970 to respond to riots and violent protests – but the vast majority of their training and their primary mission remains to fight, to kill, and to win wars.

    Protests in Los Angeles began after federal agencies conducted immigration raids across the city on June 6, 2025. Local police responded with pepper spray, rubber bullets and tear gas.

    Federalizing the Guard

    The National Guard is a force of state militias under the command of governors. It can be federalized by the president during times of national emergency, or for deployment on combat missions overseas. Guardsmen train for one weekend per month and two weeks every summer.

    Typically, the Guard has been deployed to deal with natural disasters and support local police responses to urban unrest. Examples include riots in Detroit in 1967, Washington DC in 1968, Los Angeles in 1965 and 1992, and Minneapolis and other cities in 2020 after the death of George Floyd.

    Presidents rarely deploy National Guard troops without state governors’ consent. The main modern exceptions occurred in the 1950s and 1960s during the Civil Rights Movement, when Southern governors defied federal court orders to desegregate schools in Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama. In each case, the federal government sent troops to protect Black students from crowds of white protesters.

    The 1807 Insurrection Act grants presidents authority to use active-duty troops or National Guard forces to restore order within the United States. President Trump did not invoke the Insurrection Act. Instead, he relied on Section 12406 of Title 10 of the U.S. Code, a narrower federal statute that allows the president to mobilize the National Guard in situations including “rebellion or danger of a rebellion against the authority of the Government of the United States.”

    Trump did not limit his order to Los Angeles. He authorized armed forces to protect immigration enforcement operations at any “locations where protests against these functions are occurring or are likely to occur.”

    ICE officers and national guards confront protesters outside of the Metropolitan Detention Center in Los Angeles on June 8, 2025.
    Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images

    The standoff at Kent State

    The war in Vietnam had grown increasingly unpopular by early 1970, but protests intensified on April 30 when President Richard Nixon authorized expanding the conflict into Cambodia. At Kent State, after a noontime anti-war rally on campus on May 1, alcohol-fueled students harassed passing motorists in town and smashed storefront windows that night. On May 2, anti-war protesters set fire to the building where military officers trained Kent State students enrolled in the armed forces’ Reserve Officer Training Corps program.

    In response, Republican Governor Jim Rhodes dispatched National Guard troops, against the advice of university and many local officials, who understood the mood in the town of Kent and on campus far better than Rhodes did. County prosecutor Ron Kane had vehemently warned Rhodes that deploying the National Guard could spark conflict and lead to fatalities.

    Nonetheless, Rhodes – who was trailing in an impending Republican primary for a U.S. Senate seat – struck the pose of a take-charge leader who wasn’t going to be pushed around by a long-haired rabble. “We’re going to put a stop to this!” he shouted, pounding the table at a press conference in Kent on May 3.

    Hundreds of National Guard troops were deployed across town and on campus. University officials announced that further rallies were banned. Nonetheless, on May 4, some 2,000 to 3,000 students gathered on the campus Commons for another anti-war rally. They were met by 96 National Guardsmen, led by eight officers.

    There was confrontation in the air as student anger over Nixon’s expansion of the war blended with resentment over the Guard’s presence. Protesters chanted antiwar slogans, shouted epithets at the Guardsmen and made obscene gestures.

    Archival footage from CBS News of the clash between campus anti-war protesters and Ohio National Guard troops at Kent State University on May 4, 1970.

    ‘Fire in the air!’

    The Guardsmen sent to Kent State had no training in de-escalating tension or minimizing the use of force. Nonetheless, their commanding officer that day, Ohio Army National Guard Assistant Adjutant General Robert Canterbury, decided to use them to break up what the Department of Justice later deemed a legal assembly.

    In my view, it was a reckless judgment that inflamed an already volatile situation. Students started showering the greatly outnumbered Guardsmen with rocks and other objects. In violation of Ohio Army National Guard regulations, Canterbury neglected to warn the students that he had ordered Guardsmens’ rifles loaded with live ammunition.

    As tension mounted, Canterbury failed to adequately supervise his increasingly fearful troops – a cardinal responsibility of the commanding officer on the scene. This fundamental failure of leadership increased confusion and resulted in a breakdown of fire control discipline – officers’ responsibility to maintain tight control over their troops’ discharge of weapons.

    When protesters neared the Guardsmen, platoon sergeant Mathew McManus shouted “Fire in the air!” in a desperate attempt to prevent bloodshed. McManus intended for troops to shoot above the students’ heads to warn them off. But some Guardsmen, wearing gas masks that made it hard to hear amid the noise and confusion, only heard or reacted to the first word of McManus’ order, and fired at the students.

    The troops had not been trained to fire warning shots, which was contrary to National Guard regulations. And McManus had no authority to issue an order to fire if officers were nearby, as they were.

    Many National Guardsmen who were at Kent State on May 4 later questioned why they had been deployed there. “Loaded rifles and fixed bayonets are pretty harsh solutions for students exercising free speech on an American campus,” one of them told an oral history interviewer. Another plaintively asked me in a 2023 interview, “Why would you put soldiers trained to kill on a university campus to serve a police function?”

    Doug Guthrie, a student at Kent State in 1970, looks back 54 years later at the events of May 4.

    A fighting force

    National Guard equipment and training have improved significantly in the decades since Kent State. But Guardsmen are still military troops who are fundamentally trained to fight, not to control crowds.

    In 2020, then-National Guard Bureau Chief General Joseph Lengyel told reporters that “the civil unrest mission is one of the most difficult and dangerous missions … in our domestic portfolio.”

    In my view, the tragedy of Kent State shows how critical it is for authorities to be thoughtful in responding to protests, and extremely cautious in deploying military troops to deal with them. The application of force is inherently unpredictable, often uncontrollable, and can lead to fatal mistakes and lasting human suffering. And while protests sometimes break rules, they may not be disruptive or harmful enough to merit responding with force.

    Aggressive displays of force, in fact, can heighten tensions and worsen situations. Conversely, research shows that if protesters perceive authorities are acting with restraint and treating them with respect, they are more likely to remain nonviolent. The shooting at Kent State demonstrated that using military force in these situations is an option fraught with grave risks.

    This is an updated version of an article originally published Aug. 27, 2024.

    Brian VanDeMark does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. From Kent State to Los Angeles, using armed forces to police civilians is a high-risk strategy – https://theconversation.com/from-kent-state-to-los-angeles-using-armed-forces-to-police-civilians-is-a-high-risk-strategy-258468

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Avoid the area of State Highway 26/27 Tatuanui

    Source: New Zealand Police

    At approximately 12.15pm on Monday 9th June at the roundabout with State Highway 26/27, Tatuanui, Matamata-Piako District.

    A truck has rolled and is partially blocking the roundabout.

    Motorists are requested to avoid the area if possible, take an alternative route or delay travel.

    A recovery of the stricken truck is underway, but will be at least two hours, approx 3pm, until the road is clear.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Prestigious award for experienced brigade captain

    Source:

    Sharon Merritt AFSM has received the prestigious Australian Fire Service Medal in this year’s King’s Birthday Honours for her outstanding service to CFA and the community.

    Sharon has been a CFA member for 28 years, initially as a volunteer firefighter and then a staff member for more than 15 years. Since 2003, Sharon has served as captain of Macclesfield Fire Brigade, showing exceptional leadership in a specialised large animal rescue brigade.  

    Sharon is a qualified sector commander, strike team leader, crew leader, and Level 3 fire behaviour analyst and safety officer. She has responded to many significant incidents at the local level, interstate and overseas deployments. She was a Level 3 incident management team safety officer during the 2019-20 Victorian fires and was a strike team leader and sector commander during the 2009 fires. 

    “I spent most of the 2019-20 fire season away from home,” Sharon said. “I was everywhere and saw all of Gippsland. I was surprised by the scale of the fires. They covered huge areas over a long period of time. It was incredible. 

    “As a safety officer I was in the field and in incident control centres. My role was to look after the safety of firefighters, both physical and psychological. It was a challenge dealing with a wide range of safety issues. A particular challenge was making sure crews could safely get to Mallacoota on a single road that was impacted by hazardous trees.”    

    She recognised the specialist response needed for large animals in distress, including during bushfires and floods, and she was integral in developing the brigade’s large animal rescue unit, one of only two in Victoria. This type of rescue needs specialist knowledge and understanding of large animals as well as considering the needs of the surrounding community.  

    “Our brigade had responded to horse rescues for the past 15 years, as there are a large number of horses in our area and they can get stuck in a lot of places,” Sharon said. “The number of rescues increased over the past 10 years, but we didn’t have the correct equipment to deal with them. Luckily, equipment was donated to the brigade by riding schools.  

    “Brigade members were trained in large animal rescue by overseas’ experts, we did accredited training, and it grew from there.”  

    In addition to large animal rescue, Sharon has been an advocate for educating horse owners about effective management practices during bushfires. Moreover, her work has played a significant role in mitigating the risks associated with the interaction between emergency services and the equine community in the challenging and dynamic conditions of a bushfire.  

    Sharon was the first woman in District 13’s Dandenong Ranges Group to become a captain. Under her leadership, the number of women firefighters in Macclesfield Fire Brigade has doubled. 

    She is passionate about mentoring women in CFA, providing operational training (including one-on-one General Firefighter training) to women staff in District 13.  

    Sharon led the brigade during the planning and construction of the new Macclesfield Fire Station, which was completed in 2010, and was instrumental in acquiring the land for it.  

    As a qualified trainer/assessor, Sharon is endorsed to train members in General Firefighter, Suppress Wildfire, Respond to Isolated Structure Fire (Low Structure), Hazmat Awareness, and Crew Leadership.  

    She is also a volunteer structural and wildfire fire investigator and was recently part of the team that investigated the significant Yering Golf Club fire.  

    “I started investigating fires in 1998 and I have conducted more than 600 investigations as a volunteer. I’m fascinated by the science and determining the cause – I’m interested in why things happen. I’ve also been to court several times as a witness.” 

    For 12 years, she worked as a CFA staff member as a vegetation management officer, focusing on bushfire risk management through prevention and mitigation efforts. Her expertise in developing and implementing fuel management plans across District 13 included cultural and ecological fire management. As a qualified Level 3 burns controller, she played a crucial role in community preparedness. 

    “I conducted burns every year for 12 years in District 13,” Sharon said. “I remember a planned burn near Silvan Reservoir that was particularly effective. About two years after the burn there was a lightning strike on the burnt ground. Although it caused a fire, it was brought under control quickly. Also, if the area hadn’t been previously burned, the fire would have showered Monbulk with embers and caused more fires. The planned burn worked and there were no embers.”      

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: AFSM honour for fire services impact

    Source:

    Colin Brown AFSM is a dedicated and highly experienced firefighter and emergency services leader with more than 40 years of service to CFA and Fire Rescue Victoria.

    His longstanding career exemplifies outstanding leadership, innovation and service in firefighting, emergency management, aviation operations and community engagement. Beyond his distinguished service in frontline firefighting, Colin has played a pivotal role in shaping strategic emergency management frameworks, mentoring future leaders, and championing inclusivity.

    Colin is a current volunteer member of Warrandyte Fire Brigade, a fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) Commander at CFA District 13, and a former CFA Deputy Group Officer of Seymour Group. He is also an accredited wildfire and structural fire investigator and has mentored prospective investigators undergoing training in the past.

    “As a teenager growing up in The Basin, there was little to do to occupy my time,” Colin said. 

    “The local fire brigade was near my home and hearing them regularly respond to incidents prompted me to join. Once I became a member, the camaraderie within the brigade and a sense of helping the community led me to pursue a career as a firefighter.”

    Across his more than four decades of service, Colin has made a significant contribution in the protection of life and property at major fires including Dandenong Ranges fires (1967, 1997), Ash Wednesday (1983), Black Saturday Fires (2009) and the Cambarville fires (2019-20).

    He also managed emergency response as Incident Controller for complex fires including Dutson Downs Bombing Range (1999), Hazelwood Power Station (2000) and Maryvale Paper Mill (2001), and provided strategic leadership during the Victorian Alpine Fires (2002-03), Emu Track Fire (2003), the 2019-20 fires (in both Victoria and NSW) and numerous other large-scale emergencies. Additionally, he has been involved in multi-agency emergency operations, working alongside Victoria Police, CFA, DELWP and other emergency services.

    “One of the incidents that stands out for me is the Longford gas explosion in 1998. It was my first day as a CFA Operations Officer and I was asked to lead the CFA Fire Investigation team in determining its cause,” Colin said.

    “I was then privileged to be asked by ESSO Australia to support the Longford team to obtain their licence as a major hazards facility.”

    Colin’s expertise and leadership during catastrophic events has led to significant advancements in township protection plans, improvements in Incident Control Centres and the creation of the highly successful Your Emergency Services (YES) program in the Yarra Ranges.

    Following the Black Saturday Royal Commission, Colin worked with 21 CFA brigades across the Dandenong Ranges and surrounding areas on an EMV-led project to provide community alert sirens in emergencies through existing CFA and purpose-built sirens. This project is now in place and has been used to alert these communities to emergencies since its implementation, improving public safety outcomes.

    Colin is also a champion of diversity in emergency response operations. His commitment to training, mentoring and inclusivity has led to advancements in fire aviation operations and fire investigation, including endorsing the first accredited woman CFA Air Observer and managing the development of a joint agency training manual between CFA and DELWP.

    “Receiving the AFSM is very humbling, and I am privileged to be honoured by this significant award,” Colin said.

    “CFA is a fantastic organisation. It allows you to challenge yourself and contribute to protecting your community. It provides you with opportunities to develop diverse skills, including leadership and teamwork, outside of your normal day-to-day life.

    “I have also made many friends and acquaintances over my 45 years of service to the organisation and the community.”

    Colin’s dedication, visionary leadership and commitment to safeguarding communities has enhanced firefighting and incident management in Victoria. His contributions continue to shape best practice, mentor future leaders and inspire excellence in firefighting and emergency management.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –