NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong, Guangdong hold ceremony to mark 60 years of Dongjiang water supply

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

    HONG KONG, March 31 — A ceremony was held here on Monday to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong, along with the opening of Dancing Water Drops Exhibition.

    The ceremony was co-hosted by officials from the central government, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, and the Guangdong provincial government.

    Addressing the occasion, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee noted that Dongjiang water accounts for 70 to 80 percent of Hong Kong’s drinking water, supporting the city’s economic development and ensuring the well-being of its residents.

    “Dongjiang water supply is not just an engineering project but also a profound symbol of familial ties, encouraging Hong Kong residents to remember the source of water and contribute to the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” Lee said.

    Guangdong Governor Wang Weizhong said that Guangdong province has, over the past six decades, firmly implemented the central government’s decisions and regarded ensuring the safety of water supply to Hong Kong as a major mission.

    Standing at a new starting point, Guangdong province will comprehensively and accurately implement the “one country, two systems” principle with unwavering commitment, effectively manage and utilize the water supply project, ensuring that Hong Kong compatriots continue to have access to safe and high-quality water, thus providing strong support for Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability, Wang said.

    The ceremony also featured a lighting ceremony for the exhibition, which will take place from Tuesday to June 13 at Tamar Park and the Central and Western District Promenade.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Putting the chop on illicit tobacco crops

    Source:

    Illicit tobacco operations are not run by genuine farmers but by organised crime syndicates. These activities divert vital funds from the community and place them into the hands of criminals, who use the profits to fund other serious crimes.

    By staying informed and vigilant, everyone can play their part in keeping the community safe and ensuring a level playing field for legitimate businesses.

    With the tobacco growing season well underway, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is urging the community to be aware of signs that illicit tobacco is being grown, and report it to us.

    How to spot a tobacco plant

    Ever wondered if the plant you’re staring at in a field is a tobacco plantThis link will download a file or perhaps a type of vegetable? Here’s how to tell:

    • Height: A tobacco plant typically stands tall at around 2.5 metres.
    • Leaves and resemblance: Look for large, green leaves that might remind you of kale, cabbage, or even corn.
    • Flowers: Tobacco plants feature long, trumpet-shaped flowers that are pinkish-white.

    Next time you see a plant that fits this description, you might just be looking at a tobacco plant.

    How to spot illicit tobacco activity

    Ever wondered if there’s a secret tobacco operation happening right under your nose? Here are some telltale signs that might suggest the presence of illicit tobacco activity in your community:

    • Construction activities along creeks and rivers on private and public land.
    • Unexplained and potentially unlawful use of water resources.
    • Vans without markings constantly being loaded with cardboard boxes, potentially at odd hours of the day and night.
    • Excessive security measures such as cameras, locks or guards, in seemingly ordinary farms or shops.
    • The sound of machinery running overnight.

    How to report it

    If you suspect that illicit tobacco is being grown or manufactured in your community, report it to the ATO online at www.ato.gov.au/tipoff, or phone 1800 060 062. Community tip-offs are one of our best sources of information.

    A recent raid at a property in rural Victoria, prompted by a community tip-off, led to the seizure and destruction of over 16 tonnes of illicit tobacco. The amount seized is equivalent to the size of a young blue whale and has an estimated excise value of nearly $35 million. This operation, which targeted an organised crime syndicate, highlights the crucial role that community members play in combating illegal tobacco activities.

    The ATO urges everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to illicit tobacco production to the authorities. By working together, we can help protect our communities from the harmful impacts of illegal tobacco operations.

    Visit www.ato.gov.au/illicittobacco and download our infographic (PDF, 490KB)This link will download a file to learn more about illicit tobacco and how we are fighting back.

    Notes to journalists

    ATO stock footage and images are available for use in news bulletins from our media centre.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Bus Stop Films’ first feature Boss Cat to begin production in June

    Source: NSW Government puts trust in NAB to transform banking and payments

    01 04 2025 – Media release

    Boss Cat cast (L-R): Olivia Hargroder, Penny Downie and Julia Savage. 
    Bus Stop Films has announced that its first feature film, Boss Cat, will begin filming in Australia’s Blue Mountains region in June.
    Written and directed by Genevieve Clay-Smith, with major production investment from Screen Australia, Boss Cat will star Olivia Hargroder, Penny Downie and Julia Savage. Olivia is a proud member of the Down Syndrome community, who earlier featured in the short film Sunshine, which Genevieve wrote. Julia made her feature film debut in Blaze, with television credits including The Clearing and Class of 07.  
    Boss Cat will be award-winning stage and screen actress Penny Downie’s first Australian project for many years. With credits including The Diplomat, The Crown and Downton Abbey, Penny said, “I am thrilled to be returning home to Australia to be part of this beautiful film. Genevieve’s script captured me instantly, and I can’t wait to be part of bringing this story to life.”
    Boss Cat is the story of 23-year-old Sonja, a woman with Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) who, after her mother dies, campaigns against the plans of her estranged grandmother to sell the family home and send her away. In order to galvanize the support she needs, Sonja must first channel an explosive temper into something more positive…Krump dance.
    Writer and director Genevieve Clay Smith is a trailblazing filmmaker, renowned for her visionary directorial works which champion diversity and inclusion, including The Interviewer (Winner Short Shorts Film Festival and Asia 2013), Groundhog Night (Sydney Film Festival 2020) and I Am Emmanuel (Palm Springs Int. 2014). Genevieve’s work as the Series Writer and Director of the 26 x 11-episode series Fizzy and Suds (2024), has garnered global attention with three nominations at the 2024 Prix Jeunesse one of those being the UNESCO Prize, intended to honour a children’s or youth programme that convincingly promotes a better under­standing of people, of different cultures and experiences.
    Genevieve pioneered the inclusive filmmaking movement in Australia in 2008 when she co-founded Bus Stop Films, alongside Producer Eleanor Winkler, with the duo winning Tropfest with the short film Be My Brother.
    Bus Stop Films is a female, disability led, not-for-profit social enterprise that uses filmmaking and the film industry to raise the profile of people living with disabilities and other marginalised groups, on both sides of the camera, through education, content creation, advocacy and employment. Through its Accessible Filmmaking Program, Bus Stop Films has, over the past 16 years, produced over 110 short films and supported thousands of workplace opportunities for people with disability through their Bus Stop Employment service.
    Boss Cat will be produced by Deanne Weir, Eleanor Winkler and Bus Stop’s COO/Head of Screen Dianna La Grassa, with executive producers Tracey Corbin-Matchett OAM, Nathan Basha, and Mandela Mathia and co-producer Michele Turnure-Salleo of Feracious Entertainment.
    As a Bus Stop Film’s production, Boss Cat will offer an end-to-end inclusive production pathway, creating distinctive on-screen and production roles for multiple young adults with disabilities.
    A tailored workplace program will be developed to enhance disability employment on the film, considering a candidate’s areas of interest, current skills, previous on-set experience and access requirements. Participants will then be placed in corresponding departments to work and learn, being mentored by the professional crew members.
    Additionally, Bus Stop Films will support the professional cast and crew to feel confident in managing, working alongside and creatively collaborating with participants through the delivery of their Inclusion in Action workshop. The program is part of Bus Stop’s Inclusive Crewing Project, which is funded through a Building Employer Confidence grant from the Australian Government.
    Genevieve Clay Smith said, “I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has championed Boss Cat and helped bring this story to life. It’s a joy to collaborate with an extraordinary team of powerful, diverse women to elevate Bus Stop Films’ inclusive filmmaking to a feature film scale. I hope this film stirs hearts, shifts perspectives, and reshapes what people believe is possible for individuals with disability.”
    Screen Australia Director of Narrative Content Louise Gough said, “Boss Cat is an entertaining, essential story and we’re proud to support this groundbreaking project marking Genevieve’s debut feature. The team’s commitment to inclusive filmmaking – both on and off screen – blends seamlessly with an ultimately joyous, engaging narrative. With collaboration at every turn, the authenticity of this film will resonate deeply, celebrating community, amplifying vital voices, and leaving a lasting impact.”
    Producer Deanne Weir said, “Having followed Genevieve’s career and the amazing work of Bus Stop Films, first under Gen’s leadership and now under the guiding hand of the unstoppable Tracey Corbin-Matchett, I am thrilled to be working with this incredible team to bring Boss Cat to life, and to be a major investor through WeirAnderson Films. This is a film that will delight and entertain audiences across the globe and bring people to the cinema to share a moving ‘feel-good’ experience that we all need right now”.
    Bus Stop Films’ CEO Tracey Corbin-Matchett said, “In our 16th year, Boss Cat celebrates our unwavering commitment to authenticity on both sides of the camera. I’m proud to see Bus Stop’s global leadership in inclusive filmmaking recognised with the strong support for the project and for the intersectional team bringing this beautiful film to life.  I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our many philanthropic partners who have made it possible for us to do the work we do.”
    Minister for Social Services and the NDIS Amanda Rishworth said, “Inclusive and supportive industry organisations like Bus Stop Films are a gamechanger for people with disability. Not only do they provide amazing employment opportunities but they’re an avenue for people with disability to pursue their passions and express their creativity. I am committed to breaking down barriers so that people with disability can pursue their goals and build careers in the industry of their choice.”
    Production credit: Boss Cat is a Bus Stop Films production. Major production investment from Screen Australia in association with Screen NSW and WeirAnderson Films. Madman Entertainment is distributing in Australia and New Zealand. Developed with assistance of Screen Australia and Screen NSW and WeirAnderson Films.
    The production has received philanthropic support and investment from key partners including the Summer Foundation, Sherry-Hogan Trust, The Snow Foundation, Nelson Meers Foundation and Mary-Ann Lopez.
    Boss Cat Media enquiries
    Tracey Mair, TM Publicity
    For Bus Stop Films
    Ph: 0419 221 493 I E: [email protected]
    Media enquiries
    Maddie Walsh | Publicist
    + 61 2 8113 5915  | [email protected]
    Jessica Parry | Senior Publicist (Mon, Tue, Thu)
    + 61 428 767 836  | [email protected]
    All other general/non-media enquiries
    Sydney + 61 2 8113 5800  |  Melbourne + 61 3 8682 1900 | [email protected]

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police catch up with wanted man

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A wanted man with more than 20 warrants for his arrest has been taken into custody following a fleeing driver incident across Auckland this morning.

    Just before 8am, Auckland Airport Police spotted a vehicle of interest and approached it to speak with the occupants.

    Acting Waitematā East Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Tim Williams, says the vehicle then fled at high speed.

    “Officers have elected not to pursue the vehicle and a short time later Eagle has observed it travelling at speed on State Highway 20.

    “The driver has continued on through Auckland and into the North Shore, where it exited and briefly went into a nearly underground carpark where it’s believed passengers were dropped off.”

    Acting Inspector Williams says the vehicle continued driving dangerously, overtaking traffic, running red lights and driving on the footpath.

    “At about 8.50am the vehicle was successfully spiked on Wairau Road, Totara Vale however, it has continued on driving in a dangerous manner and collided with another member of the public’s vehicle.

    “It’s incredibly lucky no one was injured and the damage was minor.

    “The tyres have then disintegrated and armed units, including Delta, have taken the man into custody.

    “ Other road users should not expect to have their safety put at risk like it was this morning during peak hour traffic, it’s completely unacceptable.

    “Great teamwork and a coordinated approach led to this man being apprehended and held to account for his behaviour.”

    A 38-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court tomorrow facing a number of charges including aggravated failing to stop, dangerous driving, assault with a blunt instrument and possession of methamphetamine.

    Police will be opposing the man’s bail.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Back to basics for public service

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is overhauling the Public Service Act 2020 as part of its ongoing push to get back to basics and deliver value for money to taxpayers, Public Service Minister Judith Collins announced today.
    The New Zealand National Party-ACT New Zealand Coalition Agreement requires the Act be amended to “clarify the role of the public service, drive performance and ensure accountability to deliver on the agenda of the government of the day”.
    “The Public Service Act 2020, implemented by the previous government, added new responsibilities to the core role of chief executives which diminished their responsibility for implementing government policies and making efficient use of taxpayer money,” Ms Collins says.
    “We don’t need to tell the chief executives of the public service which laws to follow. They just need to follow the law – like all other employers.
    “The Act as it stands is impeding the public service from doing its best work, which in is in turn holding back the country from making progress on economic growth and other government priorities.”
    The Public Service Amendment Bill will:

    Clarify the role of the public service;
    streamline chief executive responsibilities;
    reinforce the principle of merit-based appointments;
    improve chief executive and agency performance management;
    utilise and improve tools to reduce silos; and
    better manage risk.

    “In the six years from 2017 to 2023, the number of people employed in the core Public Service grew 34% to 63,117 full-time equivalent employees,” Ms Collins says.
    “Despite this whopping increase, the actual outcomes for New Zealanders went backwards across key areas such as health, education and crime. This is unacceptable.
    “The efficiency, professionalism, and performance of the public service is a key resource for the Government and for New Zealanders, whose taxes pay for it.
    “The changes we are making will bring more discipline to government spending and enable New Zealand’s economy to grow, creating more jobs, higher incomes and money to invest in core services such as schools, hospitals and roads.”
    The Public Service Amendment Bill is expected to be introduced in July.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public Works Act overhaul complete to drive infrastructure growth

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The final stage of reforms to the Public Works Act will introduce bigger and broader land payments, improved landowner engagement and new measures to support disaster recovery, Land Information Minister Chris Penk has announced. 
     
    “The Government has been working through an overhaul of the Public Works Act (PWA) to bring it into the 21st century after an independent review found it lacked clarity and commonsense. Today, I am proud to confirm that review is complete” Mr Penk says.  
     
    “If we want to grow the economy, boost productivity and make New Zealand a better place to live we must fix our pipes, increase the capacity of our schools and hospitals, and build more homes, roads and renewable energy sources. 
     
    “I want to thank the panel members for their expert advice in making the Act more efficient, effective, and transparent. This will help end decades of difficulties which have seen central and local governments struggle to secure land for development. 
     
    “Already announced changes include a dedicated carve-out in the law to provide incentive payments and a streamlined objections process for critical infrastructure. Now, this final set of reforms will modernise the wider system – protecting landowners’ rights while ensuring the Crown and local authorities can deliver for New Zealanders.”

    The final tranche will:  

    Introduce incentive payments: To encourage early agreements on land acquisition, landowners who voluntarily sell their property before a Notice of Intention is issued will now be eligible for an incentive payment of 10 percent of the land value, up to a maximum of $100,000. 

    Update home-loss and land-loss payments: To recognise the disruption caused by acquisition, additional payments will be made alongside the land value and any incentive payments: 

    o    The home-loss base payment will increase from $35,000 to $50,000.  
    o    The land-loss payment amount will increase from $250-$25,000 to $350-$35,000. 
    o    Home-loss payments will now extend to multiple homes on a property, such as farms held in trust with multiple owners residing on the land. 

    Land Acquisition Process Reforms: The process for acquiring land will be streamlined by replacing the initial statutory notice with a more structured engagement process. Before issuing a Notice of Intention for compulsory acquisition: 

    o    Landowners must receive comprehensive information on the acquisition, their rights, entitlements, and an invitation to sell. 
    o    The Minister or local authority must negotiate with landowners in good faith for at least three months (or six months for Māori freehold land). 

    Emergency Provisions: New measures will allow land acquisition following a declared state of emergency to support infrastructure restoration and community recovery, when activated by Order in Council.  

    “Cyclone Gabrielle showed in the starkest light the immense challenges communities face after a natural disaster. When roads, railway lines, water and power stations are wiped out and homes left uninhabitable, we must act swiftly and decisively. This new emergency provision empowers us to reconnect those in need,” Mr Penk says.  

    The Public Works Act Amendment Bill will be introduced to Parliament in mid-2025, with the public invited to provide feedback through the select committee process.

    Note to editors:      

    Information on previously announced Public Works Act changes can be found on the Beehive website: 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: LeddarTech to Demonstrate Advanced ADAS Sensor Fusion and Perception Solutions at Auto Shanghai 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    QUEBEC CITY, Canada, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LeddarTech® Holdings Inc. (“LeddarTech”) (Nasdaq: LDTC), an automotive software company that provides patented disruptive AI-powered low-level sensor fusion and perception software technology, LeddarVision™, for ADAS, AD and parking applications, announces its participation at Auto Shanghai 2025, taking place from April 23 to May 2, 2025.

    LeddarTech will be exhibiting at Booth # 1BG040 in Hall 1.2, where its team will engage with customers and industry partners to discuss its latest advancements in sensor fusion and perception technology. Attendees will also have the chance to take a live demonstration ride in the LeddarNavigator, LeddarTech’s demo vehicle equipped with LeddarVision. This AI-driven low-level sensor fusion software enhances object detection, improves situational awareness and optimizes driving automation. The demo ride offers a firsthand experience of how LeddarVision enhances ADAS performance and vehicle safety in real-world scenarios.

    At Auto Shanghai 2025, LeddarTech will showcase its latest low-level sensor fusion innovations, powered by the Texas Instruments (TI) TDA4 processor platform. LeddarTech and TI’s collaboration optimizes performance and cost, addressing key challenges in the Chinese automotive market, such as the development of “see-through” perception solutions and efficient 5V5R sensor configurations for highway “Navigate on Autopilot” (NoA) applications.

    “China is one of the fastest-growing markets for ADAS and AD technology, and we are excited to showcase how LeddarTech’s scalable and cost-efficient perception solutions help OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers achieve enhanced safety and driving intelligence,” said Clive Szeto, Senior Director of Sales and Business Development, Asia at LeddarTech. “Our collaboration with Texas Instruments and our industry-leading low-level sensor fusion technology make LeddarTech a key enabler of next-generation ADAS solutions in China and beyond.”

    Join us at Auto Shanghai 2025 to experience the future of ADAS technology firsthand. Visit LeddarTech at Booth #1BG040, schedule a meeting with our team or learn more on LeddarTech’s website.

    About LeddarTech

    A global software company founded in 2007 and headquartered in Quebec City with additional R&D centers in Montreal and Tel Aviv, Israel, LeddarTech develops and provides comprehensive AI-based low-level sensor fusion and perception software solutions that enable the deployment of ADAS, autonomous driving (AD) and parking applications. LeddarTech’s automotive-grade software applies advanced AI and computer vision algorithms to generate accurate 3D models of the environment to achieve better decision making and safer navigation. This high-performance, scalable, cost-effective technology is available to OEMs and Tier 1-2 suppliers to efficiently implement automotive and off-road vehicle ADAS solutions.

    LeddarTech is responsible for several remote-sensing innovations, with over 170 patent applications (87 granted) that enhance ADAS, AD and parking capabilities. Better awareness around the vehicle is critical in making global mobility safer, more efficient, sustainable and affordable: this is what drives LeddarTech to seek to become the most widely adopted sensor fusion and perception software solution.

    Additional information about LeddarTech is accessible at www.leddartech.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter (X), Facebook and YouTube.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements contained in this Press Release may be considered forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (which forward-looking statements also include forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws), including, but not limited to, statements relating to LeddarTech’s anticipated strategy, future operations, prospects, objectives and financial projections and other financial metrics. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend” and other similar expressions among others. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: (i) our ability to continue to maintain compliance with Nasdaq continued listing standards following our transfer to the Nasdaq Capital Market; (ii) our ability to timely access sufficient capital and financing on favorable terms or at all; (iii) our ability to maintain compliance with our debt covenants, including our ability to enter into any forbearance agreements, waivers or amendments with, or obtain other relief from, our lenders as needed; (iv) our ability to execute on our business model, achieve design wins and generate meaningful revenue; (v) our ability to successfully commercialize our product offering at scale, whether through the collaboration agreement with Texas Instruments, a collaboration with a Tier 2 supplier or otherwise; (vi) changes in our strategy, future operations, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs and plans; (vii) changes in general economic and/or industry-specific conditions; (viii) our ability to retain, attract and hire key personnel; (ix) potential adverse changes to relationships with our customers, employees, suppliers or other parties; (x) legislative, regulatory and economic developments; (xi) the outcome of any known and unknown litigation and regulatory proceedings; (xii) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, acts of terrorism, outbreak of war or hostilities and any epidemic, pandemic or disease outbreak, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors; and (xiii) other risk factors as detailed from time to time in LeddarTech’s reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including the risk factors contained in LeddarTech’s Form 20-F filed with the SEC. The foregoing list of important factors is not exhaustive. Except as required by applicable law, LeddarTech does not undertake any obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Maram Fityani, Media and Public Relations, LeddarTech Holdings Inc.
    Tel.: + 1-418-653-9000 ext. 623, maram.fityani@leddartech.com

    Leddar, LeddarTech, LeddarVision, LeddarSP, VAYADrive, VayaVision and related logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of LeddarTech Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries. All other brands, product names and marks are or may be trademarks or registered trademarks used to identify products or services of their respective owners.

    LeddarTech Holdings Inc. is a public company listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “LDTC.”

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Using tranquillisers on racehorses is ethically questionable and puts horses and riders at risk

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul McGreevy, Professor, School of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney

    hedgehog94/Shutterstock

    Australia’s horse racing industry is in the spotlight after recent allegations of tranquilliser use on horses so they can be “worked” (exercised) between race days.

    A recent ABC report stated workers in the Australian racing industry allege horses are being routinely medicated for track work at the peril of rider and horse safety.

    Using tranquillisers on horses during training and management may not be illegal but this could breach nationwide racing rules.

    The prevalence of the practice is not clear but many industry insiders report it as common.

    Racing Australia had “recently become aware” of the use of acepromazine for track work and had begun collecting data about the practice, but had not been made aware of any complaints or concerns.

    What medications are horses given?

    Horses may be given a low dose of a tranquilliser, most commonly acepromazine. This makes their behaviour easier to control in certain situations, such as when they’re being examined by a veterinarian.

    This drug must be prescribed by an attending veterinarian, and it can calm unfriendly and apprehensive animals. This could assist with making excited, hyperactive horses easier to control and less likely to buck, rear or put people at risk of injury from uncontrolled flight responses.

    But proprioception – the way horses feel the world around them, notably the ground beneath them – is likely to be compromised. So, from a work health and safety perspective, the risk of tripping and falling is front of mind.

    Other risks to horses from acepromazine can include impaired blood clotting, lower blood pressure, respiratory depression and, in rare cases, permanent paralysis of the penis in male horses.

    A dangerous combination

    In the racing industry, tranquillisers are given to reduce the difficulties that come from riding and handling very fit, young horses that have been bred, fed and managed to be highly reactive and move at very high speeds.

    This combination of selective breeding and only basic training can make them very difficult to control both during trackwork, when speeds of over 60 kilometres per hour can be reached, as well as during routine management.

    Thoroughbreds’ diets, intensive management and relative lack of behavioural conditioning can be a dangerous combination.

    The diets and confinement make them excitable and likely to take off; if they do, the lack of appropriate training makes them difficult to stop.

    What makes race thoroughbreds hard to handle?

    All horses have three fundamental needs – friends, forage and freedom, known as the “three F’s”.

    Friends: horses have evolved to spend time with large mixed groups. They feel safer in these groups and this safety is highly valued: mutual grooming with preferred conspecifics (other equids) can calm them. In contrast, most stabled horses have no choice about who their neighbours are and can usually only have minimal physical interactions. Once out on the track, horses are highly motivated to stay with other horses and are more likely to be distracted rather than to attend to the rider.

    Freedom: horses evolved to move for up to 70% of their day, which is essential for their welfare. In contrast, most racehorses, and indeed many other performance horses, often spend up to 23 hours a day confined in stables. Unfortunately, stabled horses are harder to train and more likely to buck. Prolonged confinement leads to many horses becoming more reactive, a state that increases the likelihood of injuries to riders.

    Forage: horses are trickle feeders that graze on high-fibre, low-nutrient forages for up to 16 hours a day. In contrast, racehorses are fed high-energy diets that can be quickly consumed, leading to risk of digestive disturbances, such as gastric ulcers and long periods during which, confined to their stables, they have nothing to do.

    Modern racehorse management and training often denies them access to these “three F’s”, which leads to behavioural problems that are then sometimes managed by tranquillising the horse.

    Horses are social animals that enjoy grazing and activity.
    Patrick Jennings/Shutterstock

    Lastly, there’s the kind of work racehorses do.

    High-intensity work increases the concentrations of adrenaline and cortisol to support the energy demands of the work. However, this increases the horse’s arousal and reduces their ability to attend to rider cues.

    This can make them hard to control.

    Collectively, these factors create horses that are not having their fundamental needs met. It’s no wonder that, once free of the confinement of their stables, they can become excited and hard to control, putting their riders and even themselves at risk of injury.

    A band-aid solution

    There is no textbook that advises vets on how to diagnose or treat horses that are hyperactive, nor are there any data on how horses can be safely tranquillised before being ridden.

    However, a UK government data sheet for the most common equine tranquilliser globally, acepromazine maleate, states: “do not, in any circumstances, ride horses within the 36 hours following administration of the product”.

    In Australia, racing trainers must keep records of all medications given to horses. Unfortunately, the veterinarians who supply this medication to trainers for use on racehorses are usually doing so without a specific diagnosis or treatment plan.

    Routine use of tranquillisers is a band-aid solution to an industry-wide practice of confining, over-feeding and under-training fit, young horses that have been bred to run.

    If this practice is ever policed, there will likely be enormous repercussions for the sustainability of racing.

    As a first step to addressing this issue, the industry could commit to monitoring and publishing annual data on the routine use of tranquillisers.

    Paul McGreevy has received funding from the Australian Research Council, RSPCA Australia and animal welfare focussed philanthropy. He is a Fellow of the International Society for Equitation Science, a member of the British Veterinary Association and currently sits on the NSW Veterinary Practitioners Board.

    Cathrynne Henshall receives funding from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Welfare Foundation. She is a trustee and council member of the International Society for Equitation Science.

    – ref. Using tranquillisers on racehorses is ethically questionable and puts horses and riders at risk – https://theconversation.com/using-tranquillisers-on-racehorses-is-ethically-questionable-and-puts-horses-and-riders-at-risk-245167

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 100 million milestone leaves NZ increasingly isolated

    Source: ACT Party

    “Data collected by Bloomberg shows the milestone of 100 million doses of Covid-19 vaccine administered worldwide has been passed, leaving big questions for the Government about where New Zealand will stand relative to other countries as the worldwide programme continues,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “If the medical regulator gives the all-clear to New Zealand’s first vaccine today it won’t change anything, we still won’t have any vaccine for months.

    “A very effective spin campaign is being waged whereby commentators well-disposed to the Government tell us we should actually be thankful to be at the back of the queue for rolling out coronavirus vaccines.

    “We’re being told we’ve done so well we can afford to wait, but the opposite is true.

    “Despite well publicised issues with supply, there are almost as many people being vaccinated every day across the planet as there are people in New Zealand – 4.25 million in the latest count – and the figure is rising daily.

    “A week ago in was little more than 3 million.

    “Being at the back of the queue for vaccination means being at the back of the queue re-integrating with the countries we want to travel to, trade with and invest in.

    “It’s inevitable that by the middle of the year there will be essentially open borders between the countries that have moved fastest to vaccinate, and that network will grow exponentially.

    “A Covid-19 vaccination passport will become your ticket to freedom, yet New Zealanders are going to be forced to watch on, locked down in a largely Covid free country.

    “Just how is that a good outcome?

    “Shouldn’t our Government have done a better job of prioritising our recovery from the pandemic?”

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: $10m a month wasted on redundant contact tracing

    Source: ACT Party

    “ACT can reveal that taxpayers are footing the bill for pointless contact tracing that should have been scrapped when Omicron made it redundant,” says ACT’s Leader David Seymour.

    “Written parliamentary questions show the Government is still spending $10.2 million a month on contact tracing, despite contact tracers being unable to reach enough potential contacts or fast enough to ever be of any use in light of Omicron’s higher transmissibility.

    “The Government’s response to COVID has become increasingly costly and ineffective as the virus has evolved they’ve failed to change with it. Now we’re stuck with redundant policies that were designed for a different variant and exist only as a financial burden.

    “The reality is that most people don’t even report their positive results anyway.

    “$10 million would fund 33 cystic fibrosis patients with Trifakta for a year, 71,000 mental health counselling sessions, and is ten times more than what Hospice NZ needs – but this Government seems to think it is better off spent on empty call centres that are providing no benefit to New Zealanders.

    “ACT says that any COVID restrictions or services that aren’t protecting our health system in any tangible way should just go. They’re a needless expense at a time when reckless Government spending is fuelling out of control domestic inflation.

    “Getting rid of contact tracing would save taxpayers millions and is an important symbol that we’re moving on and getting our way of life back. It should be done immediately.”

    The Written Parliamentary Question can be found here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 1500 empty rooms in MIQ shows Government’s poor planning

    Source: ACT Party

    “ACT welcomes the news that migrant families who have been cruelly separated for far too long will be reunited, but 1500 empty MIQ rooms shows there’s no reason both them and desperately needed workers can’t be here now,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “As of today in MIQ there are 1,500 empty rooms. The Government has been planning the Trans-Tasman bubble for months, it should have planned ahead so those spaces that have been freed up were filled immediately. It’s just poor planning to leave rooms empty while families are torn apart and businesses are crying out for workers.

    “If this really is the Government of “kindness” it would have ensured that families could have been together at the earliest possible opportunity. Stories of parents and children not seeing other for a year, or husbands and wives being separated were completely unnecessary.

    “If this really was the Government of “kindness” it wouldn’t leave business on the brink of collapse because they can’t get workers and it wouldn’t leave fruit rotting on the ground. There is nothing kind about leaving these rooms empty.

    “Just a bit of forward planning would have stopped this from happening. Unfortunately we have a Government that is entirely reactive and doesn’t seem to be able plan anything in advance.

    “This lack of clarity is having a huge mental and economic toll, not just here but in the Pacific Islands.

    “The Government needs to stop playing politics with people’s livelihoods and emotions. It’s time to do the right thing. We have an opportunity now to fill these rooms with people who will make a real contribution to New Zealand, let’s not let the opportunity pass us by.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 24 day isolation rule non-announcement unprofessional and unworkable

    Source: ACT Party

    “New COVID isolation rules for Omicron are unworkable, and the way they were dumped on the Ministry of Health website on a Friday afternoon is unprofessional,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “Late on Friday, rules appeared on the Ministry of Health website to the effect that a person who tests positive must isolate for 14 days, and household members must isolate for a further 10 days.

    “The way this has been announced, or rather not announced, echoes the cancellation of the 20 January MIQ lottery. That lottery was cancelled on the website of the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, that was deleted and later confirmed in the form of a tweet. This is not leadership of communication in the middle of a pandemic.

    “A Government prepared for Omicron would make clear announcements, rather than slipping critical details about isolation onto websites on Friday afternoon. Instead they have buried the rules on the Ministry of Health website with no formal announcement.

    “The rules announced are unworkable, they will lead to a domino effect where a household can be down for a month. The Ministry of Health website says ‘The isolation period for COVID-19 cases in the community is at least 14 days, including 72 hours symptom-free,’ and ‘Your household members will need to remain in isolation for at least 10 days after you have been released as a case. This means they will need to be in isolation for longer than you as the case will [sic].’

    “The effect is that if you test positive, members of your household may have to isolate for 24 days. People who cannot afford that will have a strong incentive not to get tested, defeating the purpose of the policy. If the advice is taken seriously, it will cripple the health workforce and supply chains more generally.

    “New Zealand’s advantage with COVID is that we can learn from other countries, but we are doing the opposite here. Other countries are loosening their isolation requirements to keep hospitals opening and supermarkets shelves full, but we are tightening ours.

    “By contrast, isolation rules in the UK were changed on Monday so that all people in the household of a case can leave isolation after five days if they have negative tests on two consecutive days. They have done this because their previous isolation rules devastated supply chains.

    “In New South Wales, cases are required to isolate for 14 days but critical workers can leave earlier. Unlike New Zealand, New South Wales does not automatically deem household members as close contacts and require them to isolate. It allows people to use their judgement.

    “The Government badly needs to front on this issue. It needs to explain why these rules are put in place, and why it believes the benefits of an isolation regime stricter than any other country bar China is justified. It should release the modelling it has relied on in an open and transparent way, the way this Government once promised to act.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Statement – Freeing the great outdoors from health and safety scope creep – van Velden

    Source: Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden

    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden is announcing further changes to health and safety, as part of the ACT-National Coalition commitment to reform health and safety law and regulations.  

    “This reform refocuses the work health and safety system by getting rid of over compliance, making sure there’s less paperwork and giving businesses, employers and workers clarity on their health and safety responsibilities. We want all New Zealanders to return home safely after every working day,” says Ms van Velden.  

    “For many Kiwis, outdoor recreational activities are a way of life that has been enjoyed for generations. Unfortunately, New Zealand’s work health and safety settings have reduced the appetite to allow these activities, inadvertently creating a culture of fear amongst landowners who are now worried about their legal liability if someone gets hurt,” says Ms van Velden.  

    “Many landowners, managers, councils, farmers and iwi allow access to their land for recreational use out of sheer goodwill. I do not think it is reasonable or proportionate for landowners, managers and iwi to be prosecuted by WorkSafe if someone was to be hurt or injured during the course of a recreational activity just because they are responsible for the land.

    “Today I am announcing a change to the Health and Safety at Work Act that clarifies the law for landowners and will free up private and public land for recreational use.  

    “Landowners will not be responsible if someone is injured on their land while doing recreational activities. Health and safety responsibilities will lie squarely on the organisation running the activities,” says Ms van Velden.

    “For example, a farmer might worry they are responsible for the risks of a horse trekking business on their land. I am making it clear in the law that in this case the health and safety duties sit with the horse trekking business. The farmer would only need to consider the risks from their work where that work is happening in the immediate vicinity of the horse trekking. They are not responsible for risks of the recreational activity itself.

    “We all know that recreational activities aren’t without some risk, and sometimes it’s the risk that makes it fun. I want Kiwis to be able to hunt, fish, hike, climb, mountain bike, kayak and so much more without being caught up in health and safety red tape,” says Ms van Velden.  

    The change will apply to both public and private land, from farms and forestry to school grounds, local council land and regional and national parks.

    This change will not impact private property rights, and it will still be up to the landowner to grant access to their land if they wish.

    Notes: 

    • Managers of land mostly refers to Department of Conservation who doesn’t own land but manages it.  Councils also manage land e.g. reserves 
    • The Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety will announce further changes over the course of this week that were agreed as part of the first tranche of changes.  
    • These legislative changes are expected to be introduced before the end of the year and passed in early 2026.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Night closures next week for State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Night closures, 6-10 April: One week of night closures begin this Sunday on State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill.

    The route is set to be closed to traffic for the nights of Sunday 6 April to Thursday 10 April, from 9 pm to 4 am.

    Road crews will be clearing slip and rockfall debris, replacing signs, and completing paving work and safety barrier repairs.

    The work is part of regularly scheduled maintenance on the route and is designed to ensure the highway remains safe and reliable for drivers.

    Escorted crossings are available for people who need to travel over the Remutaka Hill at night. They can be made on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website.

    Remutaka Hill closure escort booking form(external link)

    Drivers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and make a booking if they need to travel the route at night. The only available detour is a much longer trip via the Paihiatua Track or Saddle Road.

    These crossings are available for light vehicles only. The nature of the work and the limited space on the road mean heavy vehicles cannot be accommodated.

    Night works and full closures are safer for work crews, save on traffic management costs, and also allow the work to be completed faster.

    Traffic volumes on the route are significantly lower at night, meaning the work’s impact on drivers is minimised as much as possible.

    Upcoming closure schedule

    Dates have also been confirmed for planned closures for the second half of this year.

    There will be two single-night closures: one on Sunday 10 August, and the other on Sunday 7 September.

    There will also be two weeklong closures. The first will be the nights of 12 to 16 October. The second will be the nights of 16 to 20 November.

    These dates have been deliberately chosen to avoid clashing with major events in Wellington and the Wairarapa. Regular users of the route are urged to plan ahead for these closures.

    Important information for Remutaka Hill closures

    • Escorted crossings are available during closure nights but must be booked in advance. We always communicate well before planned closures and provide contact details so bookings can be made.
    • Bookings can be made online on the Waka Kotahi website.
    • Bookings are essential – drivers who turn up without one risk being turned away. If you have a genuine emergency on the night, the hill manager will decide how best to help you.
    • The escorted crossings are for light vehicles only. To keep our contractors safe, heavy vehicles cannot be accommodated.
    • Full access is always available for emergency services.

    More information about planned maintenance closures for Remutaka Hill can be found on our website:

    State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill planned night closures – January – December 2025

    Nights closed

    Start 9pm

    Finish 4am

    5

    6 April

    11 April

    1

    18 May

    19 May

    1

    15 June

    16 June

    1

    10 August

    11 August

    1

    7 September

    8 September

    5

    12 October

    17 October

    5

    16 November

    21 November

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Sheffield

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died after the earlier crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian on SH73, Sheffield.

    Diversions remain in place while the Serious Crash Unit examines the scene.

    Motorists should please continue to avoid the area.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: QCI’s Andrew Cardno to Speak on “Predicting the Future: How AI & Analytics Will Revolutionize Tribal Gaming” at the Indian Gaming Association Trade Show

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, Calif., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) is pleased to announce that Andrew Cardno, Chief Technology & Growth Officer (CTO) at QCI, will be presenting at the Indian Gaming Association Trade Show on April 3rd at noon in San Diego, California. His session, titled “Predicting the Future: How AI & Analytics Will Revolutionize Tribal Gaming,” will delve into how artificial intelligence and data analytics are rapidly transforming the gaming industry, particularly within tribal gaming operations.

    Session Description

    AI and data analytics are transforming the gaming industry, offering powerful tools to predict player behavior, optimize operations, and enhance engagement. This session explores how tribal gaming can harness AI-driven insights while balancing innovation with privacy and cultural identity. Attendees will learn how predictive analytics will shape the future of iGaming, sports betting, and casino operations.

    Key Discussion Points

    • How AI-driven insights are reshaping tribal gaming operations
    • Leveraging predictive analytics for player retention, engagement, and profitability
    • Balancing innovative technologies with cultural identity and privacy concerns
    • Future projections for iGaming, sports betting, and casino operations

    Expert Insights

    “Tribal gaming stands on the precipice of unprecedented transformation through AI and analytics,” said Andrew Cardno, CTGO of QCI. “We look forward to showcasing how predictive modeling and data-driven insights can help tribal gaming enterprises remain competitive while preserving their cultural heritage.”

    “We are thrilled to have Andrew Cardno share QCI’s forward-thinking approach at our trade show,” said Victor Rocha, Conference Chair for the Indian Gaming Association. “His expertise in AI, analytics, and the tribal gaming market will provide an invaluable perspective to operators, regulators, and stakeholders alike.”

    For more information on Andrew Cardno’s session or to register for the Indian Gaming Association Trade Show, visit www.indiangaming.org

    ABOUT The 2025 Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention
    As the premier events for the tribal gaming community, the Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention and Mid-Year Conference & Expo deliver the insight and strategies you need to rise to the top of the competitive gaming industry landscape. There’s no better opportunity to meet industry leaders, access cutting-edge trends and celebrate a proud tradition of success. For more information visit: www.indiangamingtradeshow.com.

    ABOUT QCI
    Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI) has pioneered the revolutionary QCI Enterprise Platform, an artificial intelligence platform that seamlessly integrates player development, marketing, and gaming operations with powerful, real-time tools designed specifically for the gaming and hospitality industries. Our advanced, highly configurable software is deployed in over 250 casino resorts across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Latin America, and Europe. The QCI AGI Platform, which manages more than $35 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, stands as a best-in-class solution, whether on-premises, hybrid, or cloud-based, enabling fully coordinated activities across all aspects of gaming or hospitality operations. QCI’s data-driven, AI-powered software propels swift, informed decision-making vital in the ever-changing casino industry, assisting casinos in optimizing resources and profits, crafting effective marketing campaigns, and enhancing customer loyalty. QCI was co-founded by Dr. Ralph Thomas and Mr. Andrew Cardno and is based in San Diego, with additional offices in Las Vegas, St. Louis, Dallas, and Tulsa. Main phone number: (858) 299.5715. Visit us at www.quickcustomintelligence.com.

    ABOUT Andrew Cardno
    Andrew Cardno is a distinguished figure in the realm of artificial intelligence and data plumbing. With over two decades spearheading private Ph.D. and master’s level research teams, his expertise has made significant waves in data tooling. Andrew’s innate ability to innovate has led him to devise numerous pioneering visualization methods. Of these, the most notable is the deep zoom image format, a groundbreaking innovation that has since become a cornerstone in the majority of today’s mapping tools. His leadership acumen has earned him two coveted Smithsonian Laureates, and teams under his mentorship have clinched 40 industry awards, including three pivotal gaming industry transformation awards. Together with Dr. Ralph Thomas, the duo co-founded Quick Custom Intelligence, amplifying their collaborative innovative capacities. A testament to his inventive prowess, Andrew boasts over 150 patent applications. Across various industries—be it telecommunications with Telstra Australia, retail with giants like Walmart and Best Buy, or the medical sector with esteemed institutions like City Of Hope and UCSD—Andrew’s impact is deeply felt. He has enriched the literature with insights, co-authoring eight influential books with Dr. Thomas and contributing to over 100 industry publications. An advocate for community and diversity, Andrew’s work has touched over 100 Native American Tribal Resorts, underscoring his expansive and inclusive professional endeavors.

    ABOUT Victor Rocha
    Victor Rocha holds the distinguished position of Conference Chairman for the Indian Gaming Association, while also leading Victor-Strategies as its president. As the owner and publisher of Pechanga.net, he has been deeply engaged in the political landscape of U.S. tribal gaming since 1998. Rocha’s outstanding contributions to the industry have been recognized through numerous accolades, such as AGEM’s 2023 Peter Mead Memorial Award Honoring Excellence in Gaming Media & Communication, the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development’s 2015 Tribal Gaming Visionary Award, the American Gaming Association’s 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award for Gaming Communications, Raving’s 2012 Casino Marketing Lifetime Achievement Award, the National Indian Gaming Association’s 2002 Outstanding Contribution to Indian Country, VCAT’s 2001 Catalyst Award, and Global Gaming Business Magazine’s 2000 “40 Under 40” list.

    Contact:
    Laurel Kay, Quick Custom Intelligence
    Phone: 858-349-8354

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 03.31.2025 Sen. Ted Cruz Introduces Bill to Promote On-Site Energy Generation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act. By promoting on-site energy generation, the bill decentralizes electricity sources and strengthens grid resiliency during periods of high demand or extreme weather.
    Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “I am committed to making Texas the number one place for Bitcoin mining. The FLARE Act incentivizes entrepreneurs and crypto miners to use natural gas that would otherwise be stranded. This bill takes advantage of Texas’s vast energy potential, reinforces our position as the home of the Bitcoin industry, and is good for the environment. I call upon my colleagues to expeditiously take up and advance this legislation.”
    This bill is endorsed by The Digital Power Network.
    Hailey Miller, Director of Government Relations & Public Policy for The Digital Power Network said, “The Digital Power Network strongly supports the introduction of the FLARE Act by Senator Cruz. This critical legislation will help eliminate unnecessary flaring and venting of natural gas while unlocking new opportunities for energy innovation in the United States. By providing permanent full expensing for infrastructure that captures and utilizes flared gas, the bill creates strong incentives for industries, including Bitcoin mining, to turn wasted energy into productive use cases that strengthen the grid and drive economic growth.
    Bitcoin miners are uniquely positioned to help reduce emissions by harnessing stranded and wasted energy sources, and the FLARE Act ensures that American energy producers have the tools to deploy cutting-edge solutions that make our energy markets more efficient and resilient. We commend Senator Cruz for his leadership and look forward to working with Congress to advance this bill into law.”
    Read the bill text here.
    BACKGROUND
    The Facilitate Lower Atmospheric Released Emissions (FLARE) Act makes permanent the 100% bonus depreciation for equipment used to intake natural gas and transforms it into electricity, and other productive uses. Additionally, the language prohibits entities owned by China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia from utilizing this cost recovery option. The bill reduces emissions by incentivizing the conversion of otherwise stranded natural gas into usable energy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Freeing the great outdoors from health and safety scope creep

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden is announcing further changes to health and safety, as part of the ACT-National Coalition commitment to reform health and safety law and regulations.  

    “This reform refocuses the work health and safety system by getting rid of over compliance, making sure there’s less paperwork and giving businesses, employers and workers clarity on their health and safety responsibilities. We want all New Zealanders to return home safely after every working day,” says Ms van Velden.  

    “For many Kiwis, outdoor recreational activities are a way of life that has been enjoyed for generations. Unfortunately, New Zealand’s work health and safety settings have reduced the appetite to allow these activities, inadvertently creating a culture of fear amongst landowners who are now worried about their legal liability if someone gets hurt,” says Ms van Velden.  

    “Many landowners, managers, councils, farmers and iwi allow access to their land for recreational use out of sheer goodwill. I do not think it is reasonable or proportionate for landowners, managers and iwi to be prosecuted by WorkSafe if someone was to be hurt or injured during the course of a recreational activity just because they are responsible for the land. 

    “Today I am announcing a change to the Health and Safety at Work Act that clarifies the law for landowners and will free up private and public land for recreational use.   

    “Landowners will not be responsible if someone is injured on their land while doing recreational activities. Health and safety responsibilities will lie squarely on the organisation running the activities,” says Ms van Velden. 

     “For example, a farmer might worry they are responsible for the risks of a horse trekking business on their land. I am making it clear in the law that in this case the health and safety duties sit with the horse trekking business. The farmer would only need to consider the risks from their work where that work is happening in the immediate vicinity of the horse trekking. They are not responsible for risks of the recreational activity itself. 

    “We all know that recreational activities aren’t without some risk, and sometimes it’s the risk that makes it fun. I want Kiwis to be able to hunt, fish, hike, climb, mountain bike, kayak and so much more without being caught up in health and safety red tape,” says Ms van Velden.  

    The change will apply to both public and private land, from farms and forestry to school grounds, local council land and regional and national parks. 

    This change will not impact private property rights, and it will still be up to the landowner to grant access to their land if they wish. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson leads defense to SCOTUS of President Trump’s efforts to deport violent Tren De Aragua gang Read More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson co-led a coalition of 27 attorneys general in defending the Trump administration’s recent actions to combat Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. The attorneys general are also calling for a stay of the district court’s recent Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) that halts President Trump’s actions to address this violent and dangerous newly designated foreign terrorist organization, and that the Supreme Court will rule overall to vacate the district court’s decision.   

    “Labeling Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization makes it crystal clear—these aren’t just criminals, they’re terrorists operating as an arm of the Venezuelan government,” said Attorney General Wilson. “Yet, instead of supporting President Trump’s rightful authority to secure our nation, the district court is trying to tie his hands. Let’s be clear—this isn’t ordinary crime slipping through the cracks. It’s a full-scale invasion by foreign terrorists, and ignoring it puts American lives in grave danger. The Supreme Court must reaffirm that protecting our nation is the President’s constitutional duty. If they don’t, we aren’t just risking chaos—we’re leaving the door wide open for even greater threats.” 

    The brief asserts that the district court’s temporary restraining order should be stayed for two main reasons: it jeopardizes public safety across the United States and our national security, and it fails to properly recognize the President’s constitutional and statutory authority to protect national security.  

    Attorney General Wilson stresses that the district court’s decision undermines the President’s constitutional and statutory authority. President Trump acted within his rights under the Constitution and the laws of the United States, particularly through the powers granted by Article II. These powers provide the President with the robust authority to act against foreign threats, including transnational criminal organizations like Tren de Aragua.  

    South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson co-led the brief with Virginia. Joining the brief were the states of Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. 

    You can read the full brief here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Hāpai Te Hauora Launches “That’s Us” Campaign for World Smokefree May

    Source: Hapai Te Hauora

    Today, Hāpai Te Hauora launched the “That’s Us” campaign, calling on all New Zealanders who smoke to sign up and take the first step toward quitting this World Smokefree May.
    The “That’s Us” campaign encourages whānau, hāpori, and individuals to unite and commit to a smokefree future. With a focus on persistence, the campaign invites those who smoke to seek support from their local Stop Smoking Service and sign up to quit, whether it’s for the first time or after previous attempts.
    Key Messages of the Campaign:
    • It’s always the right time to Start Again: It’s never too late to try quitting again. Research shows that people typically need an average of seven attempts before successfully quitting for good, and “That’s Us” reinforces that every attempt counts.
    • Stronger Together: The power of community support is central to success. By signing up together, we can help each other stay motivated and reach our Smokefree goals.
    • Our Choice, Our Future – Smokefree Aotearoa: The choices we make today will create a healthier, Smokefree future for our whānau, our hāpori, and Aotearoa.
    Jasmine Graham, National Tobacco Control Manager at Hāpai Te Hauora, says, “World Smokefree May is the perfect time to take action. If people stay smokefree for just four weeks, they are four times more likely to remain quit for good. Whānau making the decision to quit this May are best positioned for success when they connect with their local Stop Smoking Service (SSS). These services provide tailored support, resources, and guidance to help people stay on track with their quit journey.”
    Sign up now to quit this World Smokefree May and be part of something bigger. Together, we can achieve our Smokefree 2025 goal.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Energy – Rising power costs puts health at risk

    Source: Asthma and Respiratory Foundation

    With a hike in power prices and cooler nights on the way, energy poverty is about to become more widespread in New Zealand.
    Energy poverty – where a household is not able to afford power to provide a healthy home – it can pose serious health risks, especially for those living with respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD.
    Asthma and Respiratory Foundation Chief Executive Letitia Harding says she is deeply saddened that so many New Zealanders are in this position.
    “Cold, damp homes significantly worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and COPD, leading to more hospital visits and poorer health outcomes overall.
    “It’s heartbreaking that people have to choose between heating their home and protecting their health.”
    From today, April 1, the average household power bill will increase by about $10 per month.
    Many families are already facing desperate choices, with Consumer NZ estimating that last year, 140,000 households had to take out a loan to pay their electricity bills, and 38,000 households were disconnected because they couldn’t pay their electricity bill at least once.
    Energy poverty is not just a financial issue but a public health crisis, Ms Harding says.
    “The health system is spending over $38 million per year treating illnesses linked to cold, damp housing.
    “Poor indoor air quality and inadequate heating contribute to respiratory flare-ups, infections, and hospital admissions,” she says.
    “Māori and Pacific communities, who are overrepresented in low-income households, are disproportionately affected.”
    Phil Squire, Fair Energy Manager at Toast Electric (New Zealand’s only not-for-profit electricity supplier), says that while insulation and heat pump products can make housing in Aotearoa warmer and healthier, people need to feel confident about using heating without feeling worried about unforeseen power costs.
    “The reality is, without access to affordable power, Kiwis in low-income situations are reluctant to turn on any heating for fear of unexpectedly high energy bills.”
    The optimal healthy temperature for a home is 18-21 degrees, Mr Squire says.
    “So at Toast we do everything we can to help whānau feel educated on how to use their heating efficiently, feel confident to turn it on, and ensure their home has adequate insulation and other items like lined curtains and draught stopping to keep that heat in.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Bothamley Park wastewater pipes upgrade completed – Porirua City Council

    Source: Porirua City Council 

    More than 3km of ageing wastewater pipes in Bothamley Park have been replaced with larger, more resilient pipes in a project that started in December 2022. These pipes will help to prevent around 40,000 cubic metres of raw sewage – enough to fill 16 Olympic-sized swimming pools – from entering the Kenepuru Stream and Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour each year.
    The upgrade is part of the work Te Rā Nui – Eastern Porirua Development (a partnership between Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities, Porirua City Council and Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira) is doing, and will benefit all of Porirua.
    Porirua City Mayor Anita Baker says getting the project across the line took a real partnership approach.
    “For Council, it’s part of the wider upgrade of our major strategic assets, along with the wastewater storage tank being built near the railway station and the new drinking water pipes being laid along Waitangirua Link Rd. All this work will help protect our harbour, improve our environment and increase our resilience during events like earthquakes,” says Mayor Baker.
    Te Rā Nui Project Director Will Pennington says the new pipes are longer lasting and double the size of the old pipes (almost a metre wide) and have been designed to support current and future generations.
    “The network upgrade created opportunities to enhance Bothamley Park and there are now fewer visible pipes. Around 1.8km of walking and cycling track has been resurfaced, more native plants added, and the Champion St carpark resealed,” says Mr Pennington.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: MYANMAR CHILD ACCOUNT: ‘It was terrifying’ – Children prepare to spend Myanmar New Year festival in shelters following earthquake – Save the Children

    Source: Save the Children

    YANGON/BANGKOK, 31 March 2025 – On the morning that Myanmar’s 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck, 16-year-old student Yoon May- was having lunch at home in Mandalay and contemplating having a nap when she suddenly felt dizzy. 
    “I couldn’t process what was happening. I just ran. I barely escaped. The moment I stepped outside, bricks started falling from the ceiling. We all ran to the open field near our house. “This was the first earthquake I had ever experienced. It was terrifying.” 
    The earthquake on 28 March – the most powerful one in a century to hit Myanmar – caused extensive damage to infrastructure, as well as disrupting electricity and telecommunications services across the country. 
    More than 1,700 people have now been confirmed dead, and at least 3,400 people have been injured. Many others are still missing, and there is a high likelihood that the death toll could be significantly higher. [1] 
    The earthquake happened ahead of Myanmar’s New Year celebration, a traditional water festival known as ‘Thingyan’, which normally occurs in mid-April and is a time of festivity for four to five days, particularly for children. 
    This year, there will be no such celebrations for children and families affected by the earthquake. 
    “I had just finished my exams and was looking forward to celebrating Thingyan with my friends and visiting my aunt’s house. But now, all I want to do is cry. I’m so lucky I didn’t fall asleep-I’m not a light sleeper. If I had, I don’t know what would have happened.” 
    Yoon May’s family home was badly damaged, and her family have been left without water and electricity. They are now living in an open field, with only a mosquito net to protect them. 
    “I haven’t been able to sleep at all. Last night, we received an alert that another aftershock could hit between 1 am and 3 am. And it did.” 
    Hospitals, both public and private, are overwhelmed with people seeking medical care and many people have sought shelter in monasteries, football fields, and open spaces for fear of aftershocks. 
    Save the Children and our partners are providing lifesaving aid in earthquake affected areas in Myanmar with an immediate need for water, food and health care services for children and their families. We aim to provide cash to families so they can buy food, medicine and other essentials as well as access to clean water, essential hygiene and sanitation items and health services. 
    Save the Children has been working in Myanmar since 1995, providing life-saving healthcare, food and nutrition, education and child protection programmes.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business groups call for publication of council voting records – BusinessNZ

    Source: BusinessNZ

    As councils consider their spending and rates decisions for the coming year, and as October’s local authority elections draw closer, business groups are calling for greater transparency on how councillors vote.
    “It is time for councils to make it easier to show how their elected members vote at each meeting so the public can make an informed choice at the elections on who should – or should not – get their vote,” said Matt Cowley, Chair of the Local Government Business Forum, a group of business organisations that have a vital interest in the activities of local government.
    “Over the past two years local government rates have been rising at an eye watering pace. Rates increased by 9.6% for the year to December 2023 and by 12.0% for the year to December 2024. These were the biggest increases in decades.
    “Councils across the country are now considering their spending and rates for the upcoming 2025/26 year. Some are consulting on their plans, but others will simply adopt their rates increase at a council meeting. More double-digit increases seem likely, despite overall inflation being only around 2%.
    “The transparency around council decisions is murky. Although council meetings are mostly open to the public and decisions are recorded, including votes, it is not easy to understand how individual councillors voted on the issues put to them. Media coverage of council business has become patchy as struggling news outlets scale back on their reporting. Councils like to play down division so they rarely if ever note dissenting votes in their media statements.
    “For the public it is mostly only by sifting through meeting reports and minutes that they can work things out. That takes understanding of council processes and considerable patience navigating council websites and finding the relevant parts of reports that are sometimes hundreds of pages long. You really have to know what to look for.
    “This makes it very hard for people to understand what positions councillors have been taking, which is bad for democracy. It is likely to contribute to low voter turnout at local elections and risks capture by council bureaucrats and by highly motivated interest groups.
    “It shouldn’t be this hard. In fact, there is a council that shows what is possible.
    “In February Wellington City Council launched new functionality to its website to make it easier to locate information around voting records and meeting data. In 2024 the project won an award for Web, Digital and Communications Project of the Year at the Association of Local Government information Management. Other councils should look at how they can take this approach.
    “That might take a while, so in the meantime when councils adopt their rates for the coming year, their media statements should clearly state who voted for and who voted against the projects that drove the rates increases.
    “We also hope councils will explore AI tools to evidence the truth of councillor statements against their voting actions.
    “These initiatives should help ensure the public is in the most informed position to decide who to vote for or not vote for,” Mr Cowley concluded.
    About the Local Government Business Forum
    The Local Government Business Forum comprises organisations that have a vital interest in the activities of local government. Its members include Business New Zealand, Federated Farmers of New Zealand, New Zealand Forest Owners Association, New Zealand Initiative, New Zealand Business Chamber, the Retirement Villages Association of New Zealand and Infrastructure New Zealand. It was established in 1994 to promote greater efficiency in local government and to contribute to debate on policy issues affecting it.
    The Forum’s members are each significant representatives of ratepayers in their own right but the Forum’s perspective is to advance community welfare through the advocacy of sound public policy. We believe that local government can best serve the interests of the community and ratepayers by focusing on the efficient provision of public goods at a local level.
    The Local Government Forum advocates policies that create a positive economic environment. Recognising the significant role of local government in private investment decisions, the Forum regularly produces publications addressing crucial issues relating to the performance of local government and legislative developments in that sector.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy efficiency will help homes, businesses temper electricity bill shocks starting today

    Source: Ecobulb

    Homes and businesses must relook at energy efficiency as a way to minimise electricity bill shocks from April 1, an energy efficiency expert says.

    “Power prices are headed in one direction – up – as Transpower and lines companies from today  start increasing their network charges to fund improved capacity and resilience of their networks,” said Chris Mardon, managing director of Ecobulb.
     
    Electricity retailers will be passing on larger lines’ charges along with other increases, such as the higher cost of generation.
     
    Dr Mardon said a typical power bill in Wellington will increase 12 percent or $24 a month tomorrow, from $2,296 a year to $2,580 a year[1].
     
    “This is considerably higher than the Commerce Commission estimate that Wellington bills would rise on average $6 a month[2] excluding GST.
     
    “While $6 might be the increase for the lines’ component of the bill, the total bill is what people care about, and the bottom-line is considerably higher.”
     
    “As the weather cools, and people start using more power at higher prices, they’ll be wondering what they can do about it. One option is to invest in more efficient appliances such as LEDs, efficient shower heads and heat pump water heaters, which benefit homes and businesses wanting to save money,” Dr Mardon said.
     
    Many New Zealand households could save over $1,000 a year by switching out key household appliances for more efficient options.
     
    One of the positive changes from April 1 is the possibility for lines companies to spend money on supporting energy efficiency, which is a regulatory objective under the Commerce Act.
     
    “We’ll be watching closely to see when, where and how much lines companies allocate their $91.9[3] million of funding to support energy efficiency.”
     
    Meanwhile customers should be looking at their own options to reduce their power consumption through energy efficiency.
     
    “Rolling out various low-cost energy saving measures to 1.5 million New Zealand homes could save kiwis $1 billion a year in power, with a four-month payback based on energy savings,” Dr Mardon said.

    [1] A customer using 7,200 kWh a year; lines charge increasing to $1.50/day from $1.20 a day, variable charge increasing to 23.57 c/kWh from 21.66 c/kWh.  GST then added.
    [2] Default-price-quality-paths-for-electricity-distribution-businesses-from-1-April-2025-Final-decision-Reasons-paper-20-November-2024.pdf page 109
    [3] EDB-DPP4-Final-decision-Reasons-paper-Attachment-D-Innovation-and-section-54Q-incentives-16-December-2024.pdf page 13

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Hāpai Te Hauora Launches “That’s Us” Campaign for World Smokefree May

    Source: Hapai Te Hauora

    Today, Hāpai Te Hauora launched the “That’s Us” campaign, calling on all New Zealanders who smoke to sign up and take the first step toward quitting this World Smokefree May.
    The “That’s Us” campaign encourages whānau, hāpori, and individuals to unite and commit to a smokefree future. With a focus on persistence, the campaign invites those who smoke to seek support from their local Stop Smoking Service and sign up to quit, whether it’s for the first time or after previous attempts.
    Key Messages of the Campaign:
    • It’s always the right time to Start Again: It’s never too late to try quitting again. Research shows that people typically need an average of seven attempts before successfully quitting for good, and “That’s Us” reinforces that every attempt counts.
    • Stronger Together: The power of community support is central to success. By signing up together, we can help each other stay motivated and reach our Smokefree goals.
    • Our Choice, Our Future – Smokefree Aotearoa: The choices we make today will create a healthier, Smokefree future for our whānau, our hāpori, and Aotearoa.
    Jasmine Graham, National Tobacco Control Manager at Hāpai Te Hauora, says, “World Smokefree May is the perfect time to take action. If people stay smokefree for just four weeks, they are four times more likely to remain quit for good. Whānau making the decision to quit this May are best positioned for success when they connect with their local Stop Smoking Service (SSS). These services provide tailored support, resources, and guidance to help people stay on track with their quit journey.”
    Sign up now to quit this World Smokefree May and be part of something bigger. Together, we can achieve our Smokefree 2025 goal.
    For more information and to sign up, visit worldsmokefreemay.nz 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Pātaka opens vibrant new season – Porirua

    Source: Porirua City Council

    The autumn season of exhibitions opened at Pātaka over the weekend with three new exhibitions that will run through to 6 July.
    Lovers & Castaways takes the 1980 book “Contemporary New Zealand Painters” by Jim and Mary Barr as its starting point and focuses on that decade as an important time for art in New Zealand. The exhibition brings together more than 50 works made in the 1980s – and drawn from the Arts House Trust Collection – and highlights what concerns were prominent for artists in that decade. This exhibition features works from well-known artists, including Gretchen Albrecht, Nigel Brown, Tony Fomison, Dick Frizzell and Ralph Hotere.
    Hemi Macgregor’s solo exhibition, Waiora, draws on geometric structures, patterns and processes in the natural world to explore our relationship with sky, water, earth and seasons. Working across painting, sculpture and installation, Macgregor’s work looks at the spiritual elements that connect humans to the external worlds of te taiao, te taimoana, te taiwhenua and into tātai tuarangi (the cosmos).
    In Toloa Tales, new video works by Tāmaki Makaurau-based artists Edith Amituanai (Aotearoa, Sāmoa) and Sione Tuívailala Monū (Aotearoa, Australia, Tonga) explore what it means to return to an ancestral homeland. In 2023, both artists returned to Samoa – Monū to celebrate a friend participating in the Miss Sāmoa Fa‘afafine Pageant and Amituanai to visit family.
    In Toloa Tales, the artists share their own kind of “return” – through personal stories, exchanges and tender moments of everyday life – and examine some of the ways the Pacific diaspora maintain their identity and culture after migration to countries like Aotearoa, Australia and the United States.
    Later in the season, Arca Arcade “Round One” opens on 12 April and runs until 22 June.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Duckworth, Kelly Introduce Legislation To Increase Employment Opportunities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    March 31, 2025

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL-02) reintroduced two bills to expand and increase access to employment opportunities for underserved youth. The Helping to Encourage Real Opportunity (HERO) for Youth Act and the Assisting in Developing (AID) Youth Employment Act will increase federal resources for communities seeking to create or grow employment programs and provide tax incentives to businesses and employers to hire and retain youth from economically distressed areas.

    “To invest in our future, we must invest in the next generation.  Increasing youth employment opportunities can address poverty and crime across Illinois while setting up our state’s youngest residents for a brighter future,” said Durbin.  “Congresswoman Kelly, Senator Duckworth, and I are reintroducing the HERO for Youth Act and the AID Youth Employment Act to boost federal resources for youth employment programs and incentivize businesses to hire, retain, and mentor youth.”

    “Far too many young Americans live in neighborhoods that lack good job opportunities and struggle with all-too-commonplace violence and danger,” said Duckworth.  “It doesn’t have to be that way, but it’s not going to get better unless we work together to do something about it. I’m so proud to join Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Kelly to reintroduce these bills that would help open up new economic opportunities for every American, no matter where they live or what community they grew up in.”

    “Our youth is our future,” said Kelly.  “I’m proud to partner with Senators Durbin and Duckworth once again to introduce two pieces of legislation that will invest in economic opportunities for our youth.  Better job options can help break a cycle of poverty and address roadblocks that prevent young people from reaching their full potential.”

    For many young people, lack of job experience is a prohibitive disadvantage for potential employers, which perpetuates vicious cycles of unemployment and poverty in their communities, further limiting potential for further economic growth.  In 2022, 13 percent of youth between the ages of 18-24 were neither employed nor in school, and Native American, Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander, and Black youth, as well as youth with disabilities, were disproportionately impacted.  Barriers to employment at a young age have devastating consequences on the long-term employment prospects of opportunity youth, including lower lifetime earnings, higher rates of incarceration, and opioid addiction. 

    There is clear evidence of a correlation in communities where high rates of poverty, gun violence, and chronic unemployment among youth are prevalent.  A 2017 study found that among youth participating in Chicago’s youth summer employment program, violent crime arrests decreased by nearly 33 percent.  Providing employment opportunity to youth can have a considerable impact in lowering recidivism and violent crime among youth while improving their long-term health, and economic and educational outcomes. 

    When youth are provided a pathway to employment and the workforce, employers benefit too because they are able to train and hire skilled workers.  It is estimated that between 2022 and 2032, there will be an average of 20 skilled roles with job openings for every one new worker. 

    The HERO for Youth Act would encourage the business community to become a partner in addressing youth unemployment by hiring underserved youth who reside in communities with high rates of poverty. Specifically, the bill would provide a Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) of up to $2,400 for businesses that hire and train youth ages 16 to 24 who are out of school and out of work and youth ages 16 to 21 that are currently in foster care or have aged out of the system. The legislation would expand the summer youth program under WOTC, which provides a tax credit to businesses that hire for summer employment youth ages 16 to 17 who are enrolled in school and live in highly distressed rural and urban communities known as Empowerment Zones, by doubling the amount of the credit to $2,400 and expanding the program to include year-round employment.

    The AID Youth Employment Act will make it easier for local governments and community organizations to apply directly for federal funding to create and expand summer and year-round employment programs for young people.  The legislation would establish a five-year competitive grant program for youth summer employment that also incorporate access to trauma-informed mentorship as well as job coaches.  The program would provide planning grants of up to $250,000 for 12 months or implementation grants of up to $6 million over three years.

    The HERO for Youth Act has been endorsed by National Grocers Association, National Small Business Association, National Recreation and Park Association, National Association of Convenience Stores, National Youth Employment Coalition, Young Invincibles, Food Industry Association, Youth Guidance, and Critical Labor Coalition.

    The AID Youth Employment Act has been endorsed by Young Invincibles, Youth Guidance, and Chicago Urban League.

    A one-pager for the HERO for Youth Act can be found here.

    A one-pager for the AID Youth Employment Act can be found here.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police investigating Roseneath deaths

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Detective Inspector Haley Ryan:

    Police are making enquiries after two people were located deceased in a residential address in Roseneath overnight.

    About 10pm last night, Police received a request for a welfare check for a concerned family member who had not heard from their loved ones.

    On arriving at the property, Police located two people deceased.

    A scene examination is underway at the property today and enquiries into the circumstances of their deaths are ongoing.

    I want to provide assurance that there is no ongoing risk to the Roseneath community. 

    The Roseneath community can expect to see a high presence of Police while our enquiries are carried out. 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Māori economic growth plan aimed at boosting jobs and incomes

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Tōia mai te waka, ki te urunga te waka, ki te moenga te waka, ki te takotoranga i takoto ai te waka! 

    Creating jobs and boosting incomes is at the heart of a renewed Government Māori economic growth plan, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says. 

    “Today, the Government is releasing the ambitious Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori framework to boost Māori economic development.

    “The framework has three main prongs: increasing infrastructure investment, accelerating exports and unlocking the potential of whenua Māori. This may expand or change in the future.

    “The Māori contribution to the overall economy is growing fast, from $17 billion GDP in 2018 to $32 billion in 2023, and almost doubling in valued asset base. However, it continues to suffer from infrastructure deficits, barriers to accessing finance, and unproductive land laws.

    “To address this, we will work together across Government and connect to the Government’s broader Going for Growth agenda. That’s why the Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori framework has an initial focus on three key areas:
     

    • Increasing targeted infrastructure investment to drive employment and sustainable growth.
      For example, investment in Parininihi ki Waitōtara incorporation to accelerate work exploring the potential of a large-scale solar farm, capable of supplying over 8,500 homes. And the recent mahi tahi between the Government and Māori leaders at the Investment Infrastructure Summit.
    • Accelerating Māori business exports.
      For example, establishing a means to recognise traditional knowledge in the IP system that protects Māori point of difference and property rights.
    • Unlocking the growth potential of whenua Māori.
      For example, making targeted improvements to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 to simplify planning and related processes, encourage greater development opportunities and reduce red tape.

    “To progress this mahi, Te Puni Kōkiri has released a public discussion document to encourage ideas and feedback on improving Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993.

    “Māori land is often under-utilised, so we intend to make the Act more efficient, streamlined, and easier to navigate, with the aim of removing legislative barriers to economic development. 

    “It’s important that we hear from Māori landowners, whānau, hapū and iwi about these changes and I really encourage people to provide their feedback.”

    Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori has been released alongside a discussion document for public consultation on proposed changes to Te Ture Whenua Maori Act 1993.

    The discussion document is available on the Te Puni Kōkiri website. Consultation closes on May 23 2025.

    Ko te whāinga a te mahere whakatupu ōhanga Māori he whakarea i ngā tūranga mahi me ngā whiwhinga utu

    Tōia mai te waka, ki te urunga te waka, ki te moenga te waka, ki te takotoranga i takoto ai te waka! 

    Kei te ngako o te mahere whakatupu ōhanga Māori a te Kāwanatanga hou ko te waihanga tūranga mahi hou me te whakapiki ake i ngā whiwhinga utu, te kī a te Minita Whanaketanga Māori Tama Potaka. 

    “Nō te rangi nei, e whakarewa ana te Kāwanatanga i te anga pae tawhiti Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori hei hiki ake i te whanaketanga ōhanga Māori.

    “E toru ngā marau matua o te anga: ko te whakapiki i te whakapaunga ki te hanganga, ko te whakahohoro ake i ngā hokotai, me te huaki i te pitomata o te whenua Māori. Ka whānui ake, ka rerekē rānei tēnei ā ngā tau e tū ake nei.

    “Kua tere te piki haere o te takoha a te iwi Māori ki te ōhanga katoa o te motu, mai i te $17 piriona GDP i te tau 2018 ki te $32 piriona i te tau 2023, ka mutu, i tata tonu te whakatōpūtanga o te uara o te puna rawa. Heoi anō, nā te korenga o ētahi o ngā āhuatanga hanganga e tika ana, mai i ngā tauārai aukati pūtea tatū atu ki ngā ture whenua hua kore, kei te raru tonu, kei te raru tonu.

    “Hei whakatikatika i tēnei, ka mahi tahi mātou puta noa i te Kāwanatanga me te tūhonohono ki kaupapa whānui a te Kāwanatanga Going for Growth . Koia te take e aro tuatahitia ana te anga Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori ki ngā wāhi matua e toru:

     

    • Te whakapiki ake i te whakapaunga pūtea ki te hanganga hei kōkiri i te whakapikinga o ngā tūranga mahi me te whakapūmautanga o te whakatupuranga.
      Hei tauira, ko te whakapaunga pūtea ki te kaporeihana o Parininihi ki Waiotōtara ki te whakatere ake i ngā mahi tūhura i te pitomata o te pāmu kōmaru nui tonu, e āhei ana ki te whāngai hihiko ki ngā kāinga neke atu i te 8,500. Me te mahi tahi o nā noa nei i waenga i ngā manukura o te Kāwanatanga me te iwi Māori ki te Hui Taumata mō te Whakapaunga Pūtea Hanganga.
    • Te whakatere ake i ngā hokotai pakihi Māori.
      Hei tauira, ko te whakaritenga o te ara hei āhukahuka i te mātauranga o neherā ki te pūnaha IP hei whakamarumaru i ngā tūāhuatanga ahurei me ngā motika rawa o te Māori.
    • Te huaki i te pitomata tupuranga o te whenua Māori.
      Hei tauira, ko ngā whakatikatika i arotahitia ki Te Ture Whenua Māori 1993 ki te whakangāwari i ngā hātepe me ngā tukanga whai pānga, te whakatenatena i ngā arawātea whakawhanake, me te whakamarino i ngā wai karekare o te hunga kātipa.

    “Hei kauneke haere i tēnei mahi, kua whakaputaina e Te Puni Kōkiri te tuhinga matapakinga mā te iwi whānui hei whakatenatena i ngā ariā me ngā urupare e pā ana ki te whakapaitanga ake i Te Ture Whenua Māori 1993.

    “He nui ngā wā kāore i kaha te whakamahia o te whenua Māori, nō reira ko tō mātou koronga kia pai, kia kakama ake te whakahaere, kia ngāwari ake hoki te whakatere, me te whai kia whakakorea ngā tauārai ā-ture ki te whakawhanaketanga ā-ōhanga. 

    “He mea nui kia rongo mai mātou i ngā kaipupuri whenua Māori, ngā whānau, ngā hapū me ngā iwi i ngā kōrero mō ēnei huringa, ka mutu, kei te tino whakamanawa au i ngā tāngata ki te whakahoki mai i ā rātou kōrero urupare.

    Kua whakaputaina ko te Going for Growth with Māori | Tōnui Māori ki te taha o te tuhinga matapakinga mō te rūnanga tūmatanui e pā ana ki ngā huringa ki Te Ture Whenua Māori 1993 kua whakatakotoria.

    E wātea ana te tuhinga matapakinga ki te paetukutuku o Te Puni Kōkiri. Ka kati te matapakinga ā te 23 o Haratua, 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –