NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Research – Democracy at risk – Amnesty International

    Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

    Democracy at risk
    Recent research commissioned by the Helen Clark Foundation raises serious concern for social cohesion in Aotearoa. This research is not alone, with other reports raising similar issues, including a 2024 survey carried out by the OECD that reported only 44% of New Zealanders believed that the political system allowed people like them to have a say in what Government does.
    These reports are part of a broader concerning context. This includes actions by Government showing a disregard for a fundamental part of our constitutional make-up – Te Tiriti. Many communities are facing deeply disturbing attacks, as recently highlighted by the violence encountered at Pride. We’re seeing accountability and transparency challenged through issues like an increased use of urgency by successive Governments and ongoing serious problems with the Official Information Act, to name a few.
    Community plays an important role when it comes to connection and belonging. Aotearoa New Zealand’s many community groups create spaces for people to come together, connect and collectively work to better their communities and broader society. However, so many community groups that can provide these spaces are reporting serious financial strain. Additionally, many people participating in these community groups have suffered personal consequences as a result.
    Lisa Woods, Movement Building and Advocacy Director for Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand, said, “For so long now we’ve been hearing from people who have faced serious attacks because they tried to stand up for human rights and contribute to societal conversations. People are having to take a step back from participating as a result.
    “These are not signs of a healthy, thriving democracy. In fact, this is a risk to human rights across the board,” said Woods.
    It is clear action is required in a number of areas. This starts with getting our foundation right.
    Jacqui Dillon, Executive Director of Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand, said, “Step one for Aotearoa New Zealand is upholding Te Tiriti and the tino rangatiratanga it guarantees.
    “In doing so we can build a strong foundation that provides a place for us all to belong, for respectful relationships to flourish and a just foundation for how we can make decisions together,” said Dillon.
    The Government must recognise there is a problem and work in partnership with communities to explore how we can strengthen our society. For example, how can people and communities be more empowered to influence policy and have a say over their future. This is especially important when it comes to people who will be most impacted by an issue.
    Decision-makers need to consider who needs to be around the table at the earliest stages of policy development and think more creatively about how the policy process can work to truly empower people and communities.
    “When our systems are designed so we can all make a meaningful contribution, we can all benefit in so many ways, including more well-rounded and informed decision-making, stronger communities and feelings of belonging and connection.
    “Our democracy is stronger when there’s space for everyone to take part meaningfully,” said Dillon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Safety changes driven by ACT party ideology – CTU

    Source: Council of Trade Unions (CTU)

    Health and Safety changes driven by ACT party ideology, not evidence, said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Richard Wagstaff.

    Changes to health and safety legislation proposed by the Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden today comply with ACT party ideology, ignores the evidence, and will compound New Zealand’s dismal health and safety performance.

    “It’s disappointing to see the Minister has ignored the widespread consensus on what New Zealand needs to do to improve its poor track record and instead has chosen to carve out small businesses from good health and safety practices,” Wagstaff said.

    “Exempting small businesses from best practice health and safety makes no sense when we know that small business are riskier and need more support.

    “The Government seems to think the biggest obstacle to our poor productivity and health and safety outcomes is too many road cones. It’s no wonder New Zealand can’t get ahead when our leaders in Government seem so out of touch, and have no credible responses to these challenges.

    “Given the massive challenge we have as a country to improve our health and safety performance, it’s astounding the Minister would target the use of road cones and expect WorkSafe to focus its scarce time and energy on creating a hotline.

    “The Minister has been quick to cut support for important issues like modern slavery, and sat on her hands on other important health and safety concerns, like banning engineered stone. It would seem that this Government is more concerned about road cones than either of these issues.

    “What’s worse is that these changes are being justified on the basis of cutting red tape for economic growth. Good business know that proper health and safety is not a compliance cost.

    “On average there is a workplace fatality every week, another 20 are killed from occupational disease, and thousands more are incapacitated by injuries. Nothing in these proposals signals an intent to improve these numbers,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Morwell brigade members welcome new heavy tanker to their fleet

    Source:

    Back L to R: Jeremy Martin, Jai Maher, Aaron Yates, Captain Wayne Draper, ACFO Bryan Russell, Michael Franchetto, Bayley Charalambous. Front L to R: Lynne O’Callaghan, Narelle Douthie, Jarod Rodway

    Morwell Fire Brigade has officially welcomed the arrival of its new heavy tanker through the station doors, which is set to boost firefighting capabilities to serve the local community.

    Brigade members gathered at the fire station on Thursday, 27 March to celebrate the new addition to their fleet, where CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer Bryan Russell had the honour of handing over the keys.

    Morwell Captain Wayne Draper said the brigade was excited to use the new tanker which will put them in a better position to protect the community because of the increased water capacity of 4,000 litres.

    “The new tanker has been great for morale since coming into the station. It’s very user friendly and will be a great benefit to us,” Wayne said.

    “The extra 1,000 litres of water will go a long way out on the fireground.

    “It is also now a lot more comfortable for members to ride in the cab, and the simplicity of the layout has been easier for our volunteers to navigate.

    “Over the past few months, we’ve put a lot of work into adjusting to a completely different truck, as this one is a lot bigger than what we’ve had previously.

    “I’ve been really proud of how well our members have embraced the challenge. We’ve had eight drivers and operators do more than 15 hours of training each to become accredited and they are keen to put their training into practice.”

    CFA Assistant Chief Fire Officer Bryan Russell said the new tanker will not just be an asset for response but also for the safety of the members.

    “It has some fantastic enhancements, with updated crew protection systems and burnover protection, plus full equipment stowage,” Bryan said.

    “The new features also aim to reduce crew fatigue and improve safety and ergonomics including easy-to-read electric monitors and electric rewind hose systems.”

    “Environmentally, we’re reducing impacts through use of recyclable building materials and higher levels of emission controls.”

    The heavy tanker’s 4×4 capability and automatic transmission will also help crews access fires in difficult terrain.

    The new vehicle was funded through the Victorian Government’s CFA Capability Funding package and is one of 48 new tankers being rolled out to CFA fire brigades across Victoria to ensure volunteer firefighters are well-equipped to protect their communities.

    Morwell Fire Brigade has a strong membership of 78, with 31 of them operational, and a strong female presence of six operational, six auxiliary and 14 junior members.

    The brigade has a large response area in the Latrobe Valley area of Gippsland and averages 310 callouts a year.

    • Captain Wayne Draper and Assistant Chief Fire Officer Bryan Russell
    • Credit: Uniform Photography
    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: In Ancient Greece and Rome, who were the harpies, and why did they stink so much?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kitty Smith, PhD Candidate in Classical Greek and Roman History, University of Sydney

    Krikkiat / Shutterstock.com

    Once yelled at women seen to be pestering or annoying – or at feminists questioning and threatening the status quo – “harpy” has long been used as a derogatory term targeting women.

    But have you ever wondered what a harpy was in the first place?

    Much like similar derogatory titles “siren” and “fury”, the term “harpy” is derived from a group of monstrous female figures from ancient Greek and Roman mythology.

    This picture depicts the harpies being driven from the table of King Phineus, a story told in the Argonautica by Apollonius of Rhodes, in which Jason and the Argonauts search for the golden fleece.
    The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Rogers Fund, 1967

    Who were the harpies?

    In Greek and Roman myth, the harpies were a group of animal-human hybrid monsters on par with other such mythological creatures like the sirens, the sphinx, and the centaurs.

    Harpies were commonly imagined as an amalgam of a bird’s body, such as wings and claws, with a woman’s head.

    The ancient story of the Aeneid, by Latin poet Virgil, describes the story’s hero Aeneas encountering harpies on his quest to found Rome, saying:

    Maiden faces have these birds, foulest filth they drop, clawed hands are theirs, and faces ever gaunt with hunger.

    This description matches a common design from Greek and Roman art of birds with women’s heads.

    In Greco-Roman myth, the harpies were typically tasked with meting out justice on behalf of Zeus and other gods by using their great speed from their wings and sharp talons.

    The importance of their claws was likely a result of their name, which was derived from the Ancient Greek word for “snatching” (ἁρπάζω or harpazdo).

    As was common of many mythological figures with hybrid features, the way their animal features were portrayed tended to vary across different media (art or literature), different narrative purposes, and over time.

    Sometimes the claws were emphasised; other times it was their supernaturally swift wings and voracious hunger.

    Harpies were also a common motif in many parts of the Muslim world. This roughly 12th Century statue is from modern-day Iran.
    The Metropolitan Museum of Art/Cora Timken Burnett Collection of Persian Miniatures and Other Persian Art Objects, Bequest of Cora Timken Burnett, 1956

    Enforcers of swift justice

    The harpies were not nice people. They existed in myth to dish out punishments from the gods.

    Their primary target? Phineus, a seer and king of Salmydessus in Thrace, a city believed to have been located on the Western coast of the Black Sea near the modern day Turkish town of Kıyıköy.

    His story is told in the Argonautica by ancient Greek author Apollonius of Rhodes. This tale centres on the journey of Jason and the Argonauts in search of the golden fleece.

    In the story, Phineus is said to have abused his powers as a seer by sharing too many of the gods’ secrets with mortals.

    This was among the most egregious of crimes in the eyes of the gods, so an especially awful punishment was decided upon.

    Phineus was blinded and given the dubious gift of immortality while still allowed to age endlessly. And worst of all, he was set upon by the harpies.

    Every time Phineus picked up and tried to eat food, the harpies would burst out from the clouds, moving as fast as lightning, and

    with their crooked beaks incessantly snatched the food away from his mouth and hands.

    The harpies brought a further gift for Phineus: their smell. This supernaturally “intolerable stench” could putrefy food, so any scraps the harpies didn’t grab were left rotting on the table. You couldn’t even stand near it, “so foully reeked the remnants of the meal”.

    And while the harpies swooped in and out in seconds, their smell stuck to the rotting food (and probably poor Phineus).

    Some ancient poets add a little extra zest and disgust by also suggesting the harpies may have been defecating on the food, and presumably Phineus.

    Most notable is Virgil in his text the Aeneid who wrote about “foedissima ventris proluvies”, meaning:

    the foulest discharges from their bellies.

    This was likely an exaggeration of their bird-like qualities, used to emphasise how disgusting and monstrous they were.

    Phineus was eventually given a reprieve from the harpies, by order of Zeus, so he could help the hero Jason on his quest for the golden fleece.

    Having completed their job, the harpies then flew to Crete to live in a cave far away from annoying mortals – only being disturbed once by Aeneas on his meandering path to Rome.

    The story of Phineus helped harpies become a metaphor for greed.

    Those compared to harpies could include greedy house-guests overstaying their welcome, people living extravagantly or frivolously, or even family members taking advantage of wealthy relatives.

    Although the harpies were female monsters, the term was not exclusively applied to women, but used to describe groups of greedy people.

    Harpies were often associated with greed. In this Renaissance painting, part of a series depicting the Seven Deadly Sins, a harpy-drawn chariot is being used by Gluttony (who has wings, carries a jug and and wears wine leaves in her hair).
    The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of Mrs. Frederic R. Coudert Jr., in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Hugh A. Murray, 1957.

    Harpies today

    Happily, today the title of “harpy” is falling out of favour as a derogatory term. But the hordes of monstrous, snatching, winged women live on in modern books, games, comics, movies and TV shows.

    From video games with swathes of harpy-like creatures snatching and clawing at the protagonist, like the 2020 video game Hades, to characters in stories inspired by Greek and Roman myth, the harpies are sticking around – like a bad smell.

    Kitty Smith is a member of the Australian Society for Classical Studies.

    – ref. In Ancient Greece and Rome, who were the harpies, and why did they stink so much? – https://theconversation.com/in-ancient-greece-and-rome-who-were-the-harpies-and-why-did-they-stink-so-much-249722

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Markus Wagner, Professor of Law and Director of the UOW Transnational Law and Policy Centre, University of Wollongong

    Since returning to office in January, US President Donald Trump has doubled down on using trade measures – mostly tariffs – to reshape global trade. He plans to impose reciprocal tariffs on what he has labelled “Liberation Day”, April 2.

    The Trump administration claims US producers face higher tariffs and more restrictions abroad than foreign producers when they export to the US.

    The administration also examined tax systems such as Europe’s Value Added Tax and Australia’s GST, import regulations and other factors. It believes – mostly wrongly – these unfairly disadvantage American businesses and contribute to the US trade deficit.

    As with many Trump initiatives, actual tariffs often change significantly between announcement and implementation, if they are implemented at all.

    His reciprocal tariffs have been narrowed to imports from the US’ largest trading partners instead of imports from all countries. There may also be tariffs on specific sectors. Last week, Trump announced 25% tariffs on cars from overseas. At the weekend said he “couldn’t care less” if this made cars more expensive for US consumers.

    Coercive control, revenue and re-shoring

    President Trump has raised a myriad of puzzling arguments in favour of tariffs. They largely fall into three categories:

    The first is the use of tariffs as a coercion tool against other countries. In the first Trump presidency, trading partners were pressured to renegotiate trade agreements such as the renamed but largely identical US-Mexico-Canada agreement.

    Similarly, the Trump administration used the threat of tariffs to gain market access, elicit better trade terms or as a form of weaponised trade to achieve unrelated foreign policy goals.

    Last week, Trump suggested he would consider a reduction in tariffs on China in exchange for a sale of TikTok by its Chinese owner.

    The second category is the use of tariffs as a source of revenue. The Trump administration envisions tariffs to be collected by a yet-to-be-created External Revenue Service. This would form the flip side of the powerful and much-maligned Internal Revenue Service.

    Trump claims tariffs will be paid by the exporting country. This would be in theory to finance future tax cuts. In practice, tariffs are almost always paid by the importer of goods and usually get passed on to consumers.

    There is a potential contradiction between these two rationales. It appears the Trump administration wants to make at least some tariffs permanent. But doing so would almost nullify the use of tariffs as a bargaining chip and coercion tool.

    The final category is to encourage companies to “re-shore” production to the US to avoid tariffs and to support US jobs.

    This would signal a reversal of what 1994 presidential candidate Ross Perot, speaking of the North American Free Trade Agreement, called the “giant sucking sound going south”. Some manufacturing may return to the US. But the high costs of building new factories, re-routing supply chains and uncompetitive US labour costs will hinder large-scale re-shoring efforts.

    A long-term plan?

    The Trump administration’s trade moves can be seen as part of a larger strategy to reshape the US domestic and the global economic system.

    In a recent speech, US Vice-President JD Vance argued for a structural reshaping of the US economy, to increase domestic innovation capacity.

    Vance warned “deindustrialisation poses risks both to our national security and our workforce”. Vance himself sums up this approach by characterising tariffs as a “necessary tool to protect our jobs and our industries”.

    This line of argument overlooks a number of critical factors. Tariffs lead to higher prices for consumers. Unless currencies adjust, the inflationary impact could disadvantage the very people that can least afford it.

    The same is true if other countries respond to US trade measures by responding in kind, as Canada and the European Union already have.

    American farmers and other export-oriented industries will be hard hit. From a strategic perspective, the US position as global leader has suffered a severe blow. Some countries are openly pivoting to its geopolitical and economic rival, China.

    If this scenario comes to pass, the US pullback – an outright withdrawal is unlikely – from the highly integrated international trading system might end up a more chaotic version of the UK’s pursuit of Brexit.

    A step back in time

    The world of liberalised trade that followed the end of the Cold War in 1990 is ending. Countries will turn inwards, prioritising their economic security and resilience. The costs of this turn away from multilateralism and international institutions, however, are not just economic.

    The close economic integration we have witnessed post-1990 has led to reduced uncertainty in international economic relations, increased international security and greater prosperity.

    A return of the “beggar thy neighbour” policies of the 1930s would be a dangerous path, with the world inching closer to the abyss. “Liberation Day” might push the world over the edge.



    Read more:
    What are non-tariff barriers – and why is agriculture so exposed?

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

    – ref. These 3 arguments are part of the long game in Trump’s trade wars – https://theconversation.com/these-3-arguments-are-part-of-the-long-game-in-trumps-trade-wars-252516

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Exploring local Howick Enviroschools

    Source: Auckland Council

    Howick Local Board members recently embarked on an inspiring visit to four local Enviroschools, where they saw firsthand the innovative environmental initiatives being embraced by students and staff.

    Enviroschools is a programme that supports children and young people to plan, design and implement sustainability actions.

    Participating schools range from early childhood through to secondary school and beyond.

    Enviroschools are a key part of the board’s Tō Tātou Taiao/Our Environmental [5.92MB] in its local board plan, with $200,000 in funding supporting the effort. This works alongside other Pest Free Howick initiatives including the annual Pest Free competition, native tree projects for birds, iwi-led restoration of Te Naupata/Musick Point, and Garden To Table.

    Enviroschool tour

    Sustainable Schools Advisor Cate Jessep shares that the purpose of these visits is to highlight the significant outcomes of Howick Local Board’s long-term support for Enviroschools in the area. These visits allow the Board to see firsthand the impact of their investment in helping teachers and principals engage students in real, sustainable learning.

    On Friday 28 March 28, Howick Local Board members, along with new Enviroschools principals and key teachers, visited four local Howick Enviroschools, including Pakuranga Baptist Enviro-Kindergarten, Our Lady Star of the Sea in Howick, Mission Heights Junior College, and Mission Heights Primary in Flatbush.

    Howick Local Board chair Damian Light says, “Empowering our community to take environmental action is a key objective of our Local Board Plan. And our tamariki and rangatahi are critical to the success of this. It’s been wonderful to see firsthand the amazing work that is happening in our local kura.”

    Everyday activities that make an Enviroschool thrive

    Pakuranga Baptist Enviro-Kindergarten is buzzing with exciting activities. From Outdoor Explorers walks to a bee water station, their garden is thriving. The kids engage in 3D mapping, recently explored Ohuiārangi Pigeon Mountain, and participate in local plantings. What’s more, they have regular conversations about caring for Papatūānuku, with composting being a key topic. It’s a fantastic, hands-on approach to environmental learning.

    “Enviroschools in Howick have made a significant impact, with over 1,000 students in the Pest Free Howick program, 40 schools reducing waste by up to 74%, and initiatives like the Moth Plant competition, Garden to Table, and carbon footprint programs. Four new schools have joined this year, bringing the total to 33 out of 44 schools in Howick. These efforts are creating a generation of leaders in sustainability, with many students advancing to leadership roles in sustainable careers. This is what we aim to showcase through these visits,” Cate adds.

    Ka mihi ki a Ranginui, ki a Papatūānuku, ka mihi ki te ngao o te wheiao I About Enviroschools

    Enviroschools is a nationwide programme supported by Toimata Foundation and a large network of regional partners. Early childhood centres and schools commit to a long-term sustainability journey, where tamariki/students connect with and explore the environment, then plan, design and act in their local places in collaboration with their communities.

    There are 1,629 enviroschools nationwide of which 343 are in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

    Integrating Enviroschools into school and centre life offers many benefits, including:

    1. Environmental: Promotes healthy spaces, biodiversity, and water quality

    2. Economic: Fosters youth entrepreneurship and reduces waste

    3. Educational: Turns schools into learning hubs for sustainability

    4. Social and Cultural: Reduces litter and vandalism, encouraging community involvement.

    Stay connected

    Sign up to receive our Howick Local Board monthly e-newsletters.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: 2degrees and Nokia accelerate delivery of 5G services and improve network efficiency in New Zealand

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release 

    2degrees and Nokia accelerate delivery of 5G services and improve network efficiency in New Zealand

    • 2degrees and Nokia sign six-year deal to utilize Nokia’s containerized Cloud Native Communication Suite (CNCS).
    • CNCS, through the Nokia Cloud Platform, will streamline network activities, enhance automation, and minimize manual intervention across 2degrees’ network.
    • CNCS will be deployed on the Nokia Cloud Platform, which integrates a full set of Red Hat cloud products, including Red Hat OpenShift.

    31 March 2025

    Espoo, Finland – 2degrees is expanding its Voice Core relationship with Nokia in a six-year deal in which the New Zealand operator will tap Nokia’s containerized Cloud Native Communication Suite (CNCS) to accelerate the deployment of new 5G services and optimize its network resources.

    CNCS makes it easier for operators like 2degrees to deploy multiple vendors’ applications on the same cloud infrastructure, streamline network activities, enhance automation, and minimize manual intervention. 2degrees will utilize CNCS to bring together multiple IMS voice 3GPP functionalities into a single cloud-native network function. It will be deployed on the Nokia Cloud Platform, which integrates a full set of Red Hat cloud products, including Red Hat OpenShift.*

    “We are happy to expand our relationship with Nokia as we continue to modernize our network,” said Stephen Kurzeja, CTIO at 2degrees. “This provides us with a much-simplified Core architecture that enables new monetization and innovation pathways to enhance the subscriber experience and further optimize how 2degrees manages its network with new automation tools.”

    As the industry’s leading hybrid cloud application platform powered by Kubernetes, Red Hat OpenShift is integrated into the Nokia Cloud Platform to provide cloud-native and scalable infrastructure. By integrating with Red Hat OpenShift, operators have the option to scale their 5G network footprint and quickly introduce new services with enhanced capacity, performance, life cycle management, automation, and energy management.

    The modernization will provide 2degrees with reduced infrastructure and carbon footprint, and lower operational costs through streamlined life cycle management. CNCS improves energy efficiency by about 10 percent to 20 percent, relative to a standard IMS Voice Core, according to Nokia data.

    “We are pleased to extend our collaboration with 2degrees with Nokia’s flexible and reliable cloud-native CNCS architecture. This will enable the roll-out of new innovative services more quickly, securely, and without limitations in multi-cloud environments to meet the evolving and more demanding connectivity needs of 2degrees’ customers,” said Wilson Maria, Head of Cloud and Network Services, Oceania at Nokia.

    As part of the agreement, 2degrees will integrate Nokia’s MantaRay Network Management solution for a consolidated network view that optimizes network monitoring and management.

    2degrees already leverages a variety of other Nokia 5G Core networking functions like Shared Data Layer, where data is stored, through NCP, which reflects Nokia’s multi-cloud strategy of providing operators with the infrastructure of their choice.

    Nokia leads the world in 5G SA Core Networks, with 55% of live deployments utilizing the company’s software, according to a compilation of industry data. Nokia ended 2024 with the most 5G Standalone Core communication service provider customers, with 123 in total. The Nokia Core Network portfolio is fully cloud-native across the board, which makes it much easier for operators to run their full 4G/5G Core in cloud-native network functions.

    *Red Hat, the Red Hat logo and OpenShift are trademarks or registered trademarks of Red Hat, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries.

    About Nokia
    At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

    As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

    With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

    About 2degrees
    2degrees is a leading full-service telecommunications provider, committed to fighting for fair for Kiwis and businesses. Since its launch, 2degrees has been on a mission to disrupt the market, standing up for fairness and flexibility in an industry that needed.2degrees is backed by award-winning customer service, and delivers innovative solutions, allowing customers to choose the connectivity options that suit them best.

    Media Inquiries
    Nokia Communications, Corporate
    Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

    Follow us on social media
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business Canterbury welcomes health and safety changes

    Source: Business Canterbury

    Business Canterbury welcomes today’s announcement by Workplace Relations and Safety Minister, Hon Brooke van Velden, that will see significant reforms to health and safety legislation, providing much-needed red tape relief for businesses across Canterbury.
    Business Canterbury Chief Executive, Leeann Watson says, “The reforms represent the most substantial changes to health and safety since the current legislation was enacted in 2015, with a shift towards focusing on critical risks rather than requiring businesses to address all potential risks regardless of likelihood or severity.”
    “The carve-out for small business and a refocus on critical risks are significant steps forward and appropriately use the levers available to government to right-size the rules and enhance health and safety outcomes.
    “It has always been a bit of a head scratcher that small, low risk businesses need to operate using the same principles and rules as large industrial businesses. This has led to complexity and confusion that costs time, energy and money for businesses – without necessarily enhancing safety outcomes.
    “Many businesses feel like they need to have pages and pages of risks in a register to comply with the law – many of which are then impossible to prioritise, or even remember, amongst management and staff.
    “Not all risks have huge consequences on safety and these changes go further in clarifying what is required by businesses. This allows them to really focus their time and energy, and their employees time and energy, on the risks that do have severe consequences.
    Another key issue raised during Business Canterbury’s recent session with members and the Minister was the role of WorkSafe as the primary health and safety regulator.
    “The overwhelming feedback from our members was that WorkSafe’s advisory role should take precedence over its inspectorate or enforcement functions.
    “Businesses want to keep their teams safe and are looking for clear, actionable advice from regulators on what is ‘practicable’.”
    We look forward to further engagement with the Government to make these changes in addition to those announced today.
    About Business Canterbury
    Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the largest business support agency in the South Island and advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers – Review of costly capital rules long overdue

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers welcomes today’s announcement that the Reserve Bank will be reviewing its capital requirements, which have been costing farmers a fortune.
    “The current rules are overly conservative and among the strictest in the world,” Federated Farmers banking spokesperson Richard McIntyre says.
    “That’s why Federated Farmers have been so vocal on this issue and leading the charge in calling for the Reserve Bank to make significant changes.
    “Overly strict banking rules have done nothing but unnecessarily drive up the cost of rural lending and restrict our access to capital. To put it bluntly, they’ve been bleeding us dry.
    “We’re pleased the Reserve Bank has finally seen the light and taken the first steps towards easing some of the pressure farmers have been feeling by announcing this review.”
    McIntyre says he hopes the Reserve Bank will move quickly in carrying out the review and will put in place a system that is less conservative and more supportive of economic growth.
    The current rules – requiring banks to hold enough capital to withstand a one-in-200-year financial event – are costing farmers a fortune, he says.
    “We’re talking about $600 million of unnecessary extra interest payments each year in terms of the total cost to farmers.
    “That’s $44,000 of extra interest payments for your average Federated Farmers member that comes straight off their bottom line.
    “It’s an eye-watering sum of money being drained from our rural communities that could have otherwise been used to grow our agricultural sector.”
    McIntyre says the Reserve Bank must wake up to the damage its policies are doing to farmers, rural communities and the wider economy.
    “Under these rules, we’ve seen the cost of borrowing soar, and it’s become harder for farmers to get loans when they need them.”
    If there are savings to be made from reducing capital requirements, those savings must reach farmers directly, he says.
    “Any savings that result from an easing of the capital rules cannot go into padding out bank profits – we’ll be keeping an eye on that closely.
    “This review should also encourage a closer look at bank behaviour. We need transparency to ensure farmers are getting a fair deal.
    “Today’s announcement is a positive step in the right direction, but we need this review to result in an easing of the rules – and fast.”  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Reducing red tape for small businesses will ensure better health and safety compliance – EMA

    Source: EMA

    Reducing unnecessary paperwork for small, low-risk businesses will allow them to focus on the critical risks that are capable of causing serious injury, death or illness in the workplace, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
    The government has listened to the business community and responded in a positive but measured way with today’s announcement of changes to the Health and Safety at Work Act.
    “Reducing the red tape faced by small businesses will allow them to focus on the things that matter,” says EMA Manager of Employment Relations and Safety Paul Jarvie.
    “While this change in focus will not reduce safety in the workplace, it should reduce time-consuming paperwork and ‘tick-box’ exercises that have little to no direct impact on wellbeing at work.
    “When critical risks are identified, they must be managed comprehensively.”
    The changes will also reduce the amount of reporting small businesses provide WorkSafe for minor injuries or those not itemised in legislation.
    “This will free them up to improve other parts of the business, resulting in increased productivity and wellbeing,” says Jarvie.
    “The other changes announced by the Minister, such as reviews of traffic cone usage and the duplication of legislative coverage, also reduce the costs of compliance and free up resources.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – New Books – The Edge of Everything by MIRANDA LUBY

    An authentic and heartwarming YA novel that asks big questions from the author of Sadie Starr’s Guide to Starting Over

    A grieving girl trying to make sense of the randomness of life, an injured bird and a delicate love triangle When a rare and highly endangered bird flies into Lucy’s bedroom window, she feels it’s a sign. Of what, she’s not exactly sure, but maybe it means she’ll get her life back on track after the sudden death of her brother a year ago.

    Maybe she’ll find some meaning in the randomness of existence and work out her place in it all. Maybe she’ll find a way to stop the wild stunts she’s been pulling with Jacinta just to keep her thoughts from spiralling for a few moments.

    She takes the injured bird to a local wildlife sanctuary, and there she meets Ben. He’s cute, a tiny bit flirty, and he cares as much about the bird’s survival as Lucy does. He could be the distraction she needs. But when unrelated events collide, Lucy realises things are not going to be that simple.

    Miranda Luby’s second novel is a heartfelt portrayal of grief, a tender romance, and a tribute to a very special Australian bird. A celebration of life in all its randomness and wonder.

    Miranda Luby is an author, journalist, copywriter and animal-lover living on Victoria’s Surf Coast. She has won several awards for her short stories, and her journalism features in publications such as National Geographic, BBC Travel and the New York Post. Miranda was shortlisted for the Text Prize for her debut novel, Sadie Starr’s Guide to Starting Over.

    29 APRIL 2025
    YA Fiction
    Paperback, 320pp
    AU $22.99 / NZ $26.00
    ISBN 9781923058330

    Praise for Miranda Luby

    ‘Devastating, honest, surprisingly funny and hopeful. I loved it from the first page.’ – Megan Williams on The Edge of Everything 
    ‘This beautiful and touching story teaches us so many things… Heartwarming, sad, and happy, but most of all a really good read.’ – GLAM Adelaide on Sadie Starr’s Guide to Starting Over

    ‘The characters reveal themselves to be incredibly nuanced…A realistic portrayal of teenage friendship and growth. An enjoyable and enlightening read!’ – Good Reading on Sadie Starr’s Guide to Starting Over.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transporting New Zealand welcomes ferry certainty but warns of risks

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Transporting New Zealand has welcomed the detail provided by Minister for Rail Winston Peters in today’s procurement update about Cook Strait ferries.
    “It is positive that the road freight industry has some certainty around the Cook Strait connection. This includes a Christmas 2029 deadline for delivery of two new vessels, the fact they will be rail enabled, and that combined passenger and commercial vehicle lane metres will increase from 4,380 vehicle lane metres to 4,800 vehicle lane metres,” says Policy and Advocacy Lead Billy Clemens.
    “However, it is frustrating for many of our road freight members that it’s taken so long to get to this point, and that scheduled delivery now sits close to the end of the current fleet’s natural design life.
    “The Government cannot afford further delays. This tight timeframe makes bipartisan support for the current project particularly important.
    “Back in June 2024, the Ministerial Advisory Group on Future Ferry Services on the Cook Strait recommended that a contract for new ships be signed by 1 October 2024 at the latest. It noted this would mitigate the risk that ‘potentially advantageous options could be taken up by other operators and lost to the Crown while KiwiRail works to settle the HMD [iReX] claim’.”
    Transporting New Zealand also warns that procuring rail-enabled vessels will mean the Government has to keep a close eye on the project budget.
    “Transporting New Zealand hasn’t taken a fixed view on rail-enablement vs rail-compatibility, but we have noted that Ministry of Transport advised the Government in December 2023 that the rail-enabled iReX ferries and the associated land-side infrastructure were a key factor in the project’s cost escalation.”
    Transporting New Zealand looks forward to continuing to work with the Minister for Rail, Ministry of Transport, and KiwiRail to ensure a resilient Cook Strait Connection.
    About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
    Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Its members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
    Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech – Samsung To Launch Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, The Most Powerful Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner in the World

    Source: Samsung

    Ground-breaking new vacuum cleaner unveiled at Samsung’s annual global launch event  is now ready to expand to the global market

    AUCKLAND, New Zealand – March 31, 2025 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the global rollout of the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra, the world’s most powerful cordless stick vacuum cleaner, which was unveiled at the Welcome to Bespoke AI global event held this month. Featuring the upgraded AI Cleaning Mode 2.0 and advanced HEPA filtration system, this latest innovation builds on Samsung’s leadership in smart home cleaning appliances.

    “Samsung has proven its next level innovation in the cordless stick vacuum cleaner segment by launching the most powerful model in the world,” said Jeong Seung Moon, EVP and Head of the R&D Team for Digital Appliances Business at Samsung Electronics. “Building on the previous achievement of the Bespoke Jet AI, which was the world’s first UL verified AI-powered cordless stick vacuum cleaner, we’re confident that this new model will be a true game changer in the global market.”

    Clean Thoroughly With Our Most Powerful Suction Power

    The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra boasts suction power of up to 400W to tackle even the toughest cleaning tasks. The HexaJet Motor is the key component that generates high suction power. Its unique Hexagon stator structure with a second-stage diffuser and an impeller with the reduced thickness improve airflow and increase motor efficiency, thus enabling up to 400W of suction power. Plus, the motor allows the vacuum cleaner to run for up to 100 minutes on one battery when using Min mode, so users can clean their whole house in one go.

    Intelligent Cleaning Support Through AI Cleaning Mode 2.0

    The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra also introduces the upgraded AI Cleaning Mode 2.0. By sensing the brush load and vacuuming air pressure, this mode can classify a total of six different cleaning environments using Samsung’s AI Optimum Tech and automatically adjust the cleaning performance. When using the Active Dual Brush, it can recognise whether a carpet is normal or long-pile. The vacuum cleaner senses corners with the Slim LED Brush+, as well. And by adjusting the suction power and brush speed for the different cleaning environments, it uses power more efficiently, reducing battery power use by 21% and increasing manoeuvrability by 8% with performance akin to Mid mode.

    Advanced HEPA Filtration System

    Complementing this powerful and intelligent experience, Samsung has enhanced the filtration system to ensure dust particles are captured when air is expelled from the vacuum cleaner. The Bespoke AI Jet Ultra features a Multi-layered Filtration system that effectively traps fine dust. When air comes in, internal compartments like the cyclone and a metal mesh grille filter catch dust particles in succession. As a result, it achieves a filtration efficiency of 99.999%.

    Another distinctive benefit is that Samsung has implemented HEPA filtration into its Multi-layered Filtration system. With this system, the Bespoke AI Jet Ultra captures dust particles as small as 0.3µm, allowing less dust to escape into the air.

    About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

    Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Africa – Violence and Cholera ravage Northeastern South Sudan, Impacting Western Ethiopia with Outbreak and Refugee Influx – MSF

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

    31st March: A humanitarian crisis is rapidly unfolding on both sides of the South Sudan-Ethiopia border, as escalating violence, displacement and a widespread cholera outbreak are pushing communities to the brink, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) warns.

    Clashes between government forces and armed groups, which initially began in Upper Nile State, now risk spreading to other parts of the country, while across the border, Ethiopia’s Gambella region is experiencing the effects of this violence. According to the United Nations, approximately 10,000 displaced people have crossed into Ethiopia since the beginning of March.

    “We have already witnessed how this violence has fuelled the spread of cholera in several areas, but a larger, escalating conflict could push the entire country into an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe,” says Zakaria Mwatia, MSF Head of Mission in South Sudan. “We urgently call on all parties to the conflict to ensure the protection of civilians, healthcare workers, and medical facilities, and to grant unhindered access for humanitarian and medical assistance, in line with international humanitarian law.”

    South Sudan has been grappling with cholera outbreaks across various parts of the country since last year. The latest wave, which began in Upper Nile State, is now spreading further into neighbouring Jonglei state, the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, and across the border into Ethiopia’s Gambella region, where MSF teams are working to treat patients amid the surge in cases.

    In Upper Nile State, MSF is treating those wounded in the violence and supporting cholera treatment facilities in Ulang, Malakal and Renk counties. In Jonglei State, MSF is responding in Lankien as well as in Akobo, where a 100-bed cholera treatment unit set up by MSF in Akobo County Hospital has treated over 300 patients in just over two weeks. MSF is also responding in Pibor town in the Greater Pibor Administrative area. Since the beginning of March, MSF teams have treated over 1,000 cholera patients across South Sudan and received over 30 patients wounded in the violence.

    Ruach Riek Chuol was admitted to MSF hospital in Ulang with injuries he sustained in the violence. “My goods and property for my business were all burned inside the house,” he says. “Everything was destroyed in the fire, including the house where I was.”

    In Ethiopia’s Gambella region, MSF in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has treated over 560 cholera patients since the start of the response in early March, in its Cholera Treatment Centre and units (CTC/CTUs) in Mattar, Moan and Burbeiye with a capacity of 100 beds. MSF is also running oral rehydration points and conducting water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and community-based activities including door-to-door cholera awareness and water purification efforts, reaching over 5,000 people across multiple locations. In addition to cholera treatment, MSF teams have also provided medical care to 160 patients wounded in the clashes in South Sudan.

    “I came here because back home in Nasir, people are being killed,” said a South Sudanese mother who recently arrived in Burbeiye, Ethiopia. “There was nothing to eat, and when we arrived at the areas where we took respite, my kids became sick. There were no health facilities that we could run to.”

    The situation is rapidly deteriorating as thousands fleeing violence in South Sudan are crossing the border to seek safety. In Wanthoa Woreda, a new encampment in Burbeiye has emerged almost overnight, with over 6,500 new arrivals reported by local administrators — many of them women, children, and the elderly, arriving after days of travel.

    “The displaced people are arriving in Gambella with little more than what they can carry,” said Joshua Eckley, MSF Head of Mission in Ethiopia. “Our teams are responding to the cholera outbreak and providing care to those arriving exhausted and in poor condition. There are significant needs, and without additional support, the situation could worsen.”

    This crisis comes at a time when South Sudan and Ethiopia are facing major reductions in donor funding, including the recent USAID cuts. While MSF does not accept funding from the US government, the cuts in the humanitarian and health assistance would severely reduce capacity of other organisations to respond to such crises.

    “In places like Akobo in Jonglei State, the cholera response has been highly impacted by funding cuts, including closure of critical health services,” says Zakaria. “A number of mobile clinics have already shut down following US funding cuts, and some organisations that supported health facilities, including cholera treatment units, have suspended all activities. This is part of a broader trend across the country.”

    The healthcare system in South Sudan suffers from chronic underfunding, shortages of skilled health staff, medicines and supplies, and has limited capacity to respond to emergencies. The country, already struggling to meet its own medical and humanitarian needs, is further burdened by the arrival of over one million people fleeing war in neighbouring Sudan. Urgent support is needed to provide safe water, implement widespread cholera vaccination campaigns, and reinforce treatment capacity for both cholera patients and trauma cases.

    “Disruptions in cholera treatment services, combined with reduced actors’ capacity to support oral vaccination campaigns, heighten the risk of further spread. We urge donors to allocate emergency funds for emergency response in South Sudan and neighbouring Ethiopia amid this escalating crisis,” Zakaria adds.

    MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF has been working in Haiti for over 30 years, offering general healthcare, trauma care, burn wound care, maternity care, and care for survivors of sexual violence. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU scientists have used a CT scanner to study ancient bone knives for the first time beyond the Urals

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    In the Laboratory of Nuclear and Innovative Medicine Physics Department of NSU Research is being conducted on archaeological finds from the collections of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences using a computer tomograph. Until recently, this device was used by the laboratory’s research staff in preclinical studies of neuron capture therapy to examine animals and solve similar problems. However, the technical capabilities of the computer tomograph allow us to study not only biological but also non-biological objects. Currently, computer tomography is being performed on composite bone and horn tools from the late Pleistocene-early Holocene.

    Composite tools – in this case knives, arrowheads and spearheads – made using insert technology. They are a horn or bone base with grooves cut along the edges, into which cutting elements are successively attached – sharp, elongated knife-shaped stone plates. They are fixed in the grooves using glue of plant or animal origin: resin, tar, bone glue, honey or clay. Such tools appeared in Eastern Siberia about 15 thousand years ago and in a short time became widespread throughout its territory.

    The project of the junior researcher at the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the SB RAS Ekaterina Bocharova, who received the support of the RNF grant (No. 25-79-30002), is aimed at a comprehensive study of composite bone and horn tools using the most modern methods, among which computer tomography is important. At the moment, the study has no analogues in Russian or foreign archaeological studies. Scientists seek to obtain fundamentally new information about the technology for the manufacture of composite tools with stone inserts, their use and repair. Researchers plan to reconstruct these processes using modern methods such as three -dimensional scanning and CT. The data obtained during the project will allow you to study at a higher scientific level to study the technological and cultural features of the archaeological complexes of the late Pleistocene – the initial holocene in Eastern Siberia, as well as to explore the mobility of the ancient population and the processes of transmission of technologies and ideas. But for this, it is necessary to obtain high -quality models of the inner surface of the grooves of the studied tools, which is possible only with the help of high -precision three -dimensional scanning and computed tomography. More recently, this was not possible, since the conduct of research of non -biological objects on computer tomographs, which have medical centers, medical institutions and clinics, is prohibited at the legislative level. Last year, a laboratory -class microtomograph appeared at the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the SB RAS, but very small samples can be explored on it. Bone knives with 15 cm long for him are too large.

    – When we started preclinical studies on a computer tomograph in the framework of neutron -grinding therapy and hyperthermia on animal models, there were proposals to use this device to study non -biological objects – various archaeological artifacts and bone structures. Scientists of the Institute of Archeology and Ethnography of the SB RAS proposed conducting computed tomography of bone and stone tools from their funds. Such studies in our laboratory were carried out for the first time, but their quality turned out to be quite high. Now we have in joint plans – large -scale work on in -depth tomographic research of archaeological finds that have been accumulated by scientists of the IAET of the SB RAS for many decades. The benefits of these works are mutual: employees of the NSU Lihs master new competencies, and archaeologists receive a unique opportunity to study ancient artifacts using tomography. Of course, many medical institutions are equipped with computer tomographs, however, their use is prohibited at the legislative level to study non -biological objects. In our case, there are no such restrictions: our tomograph is the only one in Siberia and the Far East, permitted for scientific research. We are ready to cooperate with scientists who need this method. The strategy and concept of our Center for Tomographic Studies of the NSU is to eliminate this gap in science-in providing researchers with the opportunity to use CT-methodics to study artifacts and other objects that previously remained outside the tomographic analysis zone, ”said Vladimir Kanygin, head of the LEGU, NSU.  

    Researchers at the tomography department of the NSU Laboratory of Mathematical Analysis believe that it is much easier to work with non-living samples. There is no need for anesthesia, the introduction of a contrast agent, or the work of anesthesiologists, which is necessary when studying animals.

    — The samples are placed on the tomograph table in the order determined by the archaeologists: either as individual objects or as part of a composition studied as a whole. Then, together with the archaeologists, the obtained data is analyzed — mainly with the aim of studying the internal structures and identifying changes that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Ultimately, we provide a full information package, including three-dimensional reconstructions created by our equipment, — Vladimir Kanygin explained.

    Tomographic studies provide scientists with valuable information about archaeological objects that cannot be obtained using other research methods. The image of the object is scanned in three projections. It can be rotated, zoomed in, zoomed in, and broken down into fragments. The physical parameters of the image can be used to determine the material it is made of — stone, bone — or at least get as close to the answer as possible.

    — In the process of scanning objects, we obtain thin-section images based on X-ray examination and then create its reconstructions — both two-dimensional and three-dimensional — allowing us to see finer internal structures without damaging the samples. Based on this data, we can say what substances or their combinations a particular structure consists of, whether it is monolithic or folding, whether there is an adhesive composition that holds its parts together, or they are held due to the tightness of the fit. We can also reliably establish the shape and size parameters of the grooves of composite tools, examine internal microcracks and their direction. Based on this data, archaeologists will be able to establish the purpose of the object: household, hunting, combat or ritual. It is even possible to determine whether the weapon was used in battle, or was lost immediately after production, — explained radiologist, senior lecturer at the Institute of Medicine and Medical Technologies of NSU Lyubov Vasilkiv.

    Composite insert tools, according to scientists, are considered universal because their owner, when going hunting or into battle, did not have to carry several monolithic stone tools of similar purpose with the expectation that they would break. Instead, he could carry many small and light pointed replaceable stone plates, and quickly repair the tool as needed, replacing broken inserts with new ones.

    — Tools with replaceable inserts gave ancient people more mobility. Such tools were more convenient to use than simple stone knives or tips. As part of the project, we take a new look at composite tools. Using tomographic images, we will be able to look “inside” the object: accurately determine the shape of the groove and track its changes along the entire length, as well as measure, for example, the depth of the grooves or the angles of convergence of the sides. This data will help us determine how and with what tool the groove could have been cut. In addition, we plan to make replicas of such tools and try to model different options for their use. And then compare CT images of experimental and archaeological tools: what microdamages occur and from what action. The use of new, digital methods allows us to obtain new information about how the tool was made and how it was used, — said Ekaterina Bocharova.

    For the research, the scientists formed a sample of composite tools from the late Pleistocene-early Holocene industries of Eastern Siberia from several sites: Kazachka, Ust-Keul, Ust-Edarma (Northern Angana), Ust-Kyakhty-3 (Transbaikalia). For comparison, composite tools from the early Holocene complex of the Kaminnaya site (Altai), the Chernoozerye site (Western Siberia), the Gorbunovsky peat bog sites (Middle Trans-Urals), as well as materials from museum collections will be studied.

    — The use of computer tomography in archaeology in Siberia has not yet become widespread, which opens up great opportunities for technological research. Since inanimate objects are being studied, new tomographic approaches can be developed, various scanning modes can be tested, and device options that are rarely used in medical research can be used. As practice has shown, a number of available tomograph modes allow such studies to be carried out with technical novelty, which makes them especially valuable for archaeological science, — said Vladimir Kanygin.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Three more years for Interislander ferries

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Winston Peters is shopping for smaller ferries after Nicola Willis torpedoed the original deal, which would have delivered new rail enabled ferries next year.

    “Instead of scoring two ferries for $551 million, Winston Peters has informed us he will progress with two smaller ferries but has no contract, or costs,” Labour transport spokesperson Tangi Utikere said.

    “Ultimately this deal will include the ongoing costs associated with the cancellation of iRex, which continue to rise. Additional costs of $1.16 billion could have been avoided if Nicola Willis hadn’t botched the deal – including cancellation of the original deal and ongoing maintenance of the current ferries.

    “Due in 2029, all we know is that the ferries are smaller than those Winston Peters was involved with negotiating in the first place. That must have been a hard pill to swallow for the Minister for Rail.

    “Now we are shopping for smaller ferries, and a whole lot of cash has been sunk at the bottom of the Cook Strait. That’s all down to the Minister of Finance.

    “All Winston Peters has announced today is that New Zealanders will be waiting another three years for ferries and still have no idea how much they’re going to cost.

    “The ships still aren’t sailing but the money sure is. Nicola Willis has the opposite of the Midas touch,” Tangi Utikere said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s transport industry sees growth momentum in first two months

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s transport industry maintained its growth momentum in the first two months, with increases in key indicators such as freight volume and port cargo, according to the Ministry of Transport.

    Total freight volume during the January-February period reached 8.03 billion tonnes, up 4.8 percent year on year, with road and waterway freight increasing 5.7 percent and 3.9 percent, respectively.

    Cargo throughput at the country’s ports ticked up 2.3 percent from a year ago to hit 2.67 billion tonnes, with cargo throughput from domestic trade up 2.4 percent year on year.

    During the first two months, inter-regional trips across the country jumped 4.9 percent year on year to hit 12.29 billion, according to the ministry.

    The ministry data also showed that fixed-asset investment in the transport sector remained stable, standing at 366.5 billion yuan (about 51.08 billion U.S. dollars) during the period.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Foreign auto brands seize growth opportunities in China

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    An increasing number of foreign-funded enterprises are seizing development opportunities in China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) sector by boosting investment, expanding their market presence, and advancing projects, research and cooperation.

    The global automotive industry’s shift from internal combustion vehicles to NEVs has opened new opportunities for both China and Germany, said Helmut Stettner, CEO of Audi FAW NEV Co., Ltd.

    “We see that the switch to electric mobility is accelerating in China, especially in the premium market. Despite some challenges, it continues to offer significant growth potential for Audi. We want to and will participate in this development,” he added.

    In March, German carmaker BMW partnered with Chinese tech giant Huawei to develop an in-car digital ecosystem specifically tailored for the Chinese market. Tesla’s Megafactory in east China’s Shanghai, the first of its kind built by Tesla outside the United States, also exported its first batch of Megapack energy-storage batteries this month.

    “China’s NEV market holds immense potential, continuously improving business environment and complete, efficient industrial and supply chains, which are the key factors driving foreign auto companies to invest and deepen their presence in the Chinese market,” said Gao Yuning, deputy dean of School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua University.

    In 2024, China’s production and sales of NEVs both exceeded 12 million units, solidifying the country’s leading position in the global market. China has established a comprehensive industrial chain, supplying 70 percent of the world’s battery materials and 60 percent of power batteries.

    In recent years, the Chinese government has created a favorable development environment for the NEV market through policies and measures such as purchase subsidies, extensive charging infrastructure, and the construction of intelligent connected vehicle demonstration zones.

    Data from the Ministry of Commerce showed that over 60 percent of vehicles purchased under the automobile replacement and renewal subsidy policy in 2024 were NEVs. As of Dec. 19, 2024, foreign brands accounted for more than 35 percent of the vehicles purchased through the policy.

    The open-mindedness of Chinese consumers toward new technologies and innovation, coupled with their focus on intelligent networking technology, has created new avenues for reform and business opportunities for foreign car companies.

    According to a Tesla salesperson in Changchun, northeast China’s Jilin Province, in the past, customers paid more attention to cruising range and cost performance, but now they look at the intelligent configuration of vehicles, such as smart cockpits and automatic parking.

    An increasing number of foreign car companies in China believe that developing new models tailored to the Chinese market is key to their future success. They are focusing on integrating smart driving, car networking and green solutions that align with the preferences and habits of Chinese consumers to achieve market breakthroughs.

    Among them, Volkswagen Group signed a strategic cooperation agreement with China’s First Automobile Works (FAW) in March to introduce 11 new models specifically tailored for the Chinese market, starting in 2026.

    “Our enduring partnership with FAW is a strong pillar of our success in China. Aligned with our ‘In China, for China’ strategy, we are further advancing FAW-VW’s product portfolio covering all powertrains, with a strong focus on NEVs, to meet evolving customer needs,” said Ralf Brandstaetter, chairman and CEO of Volkswagen Group China.

    The steady development of the Chinese economy and China’s continuous high-level opening-up are the biggest sources of confidence for foreign investment to boost their presence in China, Gao Yuning said. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Rocket crashes after liftoff in Europe’s 1st mainland commercial orbital launch

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    A German-built rocket launched from Norway’s Andoya Spaceport crashed and exploded shortly after liftoff on Sunday, marking the first commercial orbital launch from mainland Europe.

    The Spectrum rocket, developed by German startup Isar Aerospace, lifted off at 12:30 p.m. local time (1030 GMT). Around 30 seconds into the flight, it began to tilt before falling back to the ground and exploding. A loud bang was heard during the live broadcast of the event, and video footage showed the 28-meter-tall, 50-ton rocket crashing near the launch pad at Nordmela on the island of Andoya.

    No injuries were reported. Andoya Space, which operates the launch facility, said a crisis team had been activated and it was working closely with emergency services and Isar Aerospace to assess the situation. “Safety during operational activities is Andoya Spaceport’s highest priority,” the company said in a press release.

    The launch had faced several previous delays due to adverse weather conditions. Both Andoya Space and Isar Aerospace said they will provide updates as more information becomes available.

    Following the crash, Isar Aerospace issued a statement, saying that the launch had met its set goals and “the launch vehicle fell into the sea in a controlled manner.”

    “Our first test flight met all our expectations, achieving a great success,” said Daniel Metzler, CEO and Co-founder of Isar Aerospace. He emphasized that the mission provided important data and experience for future flights.

    “Now it’s time to analyze all data, learn, iterate and be back on the launch pad as soon as possible,” he added.

    Metzler also affirmed his company’s ambition “to serve customers from around the world to bring their satellites into space and to help Europe solve a major blind spot in its security architecture: access to space.”

    Before liftoff, Andoya Spaceport Operations Director Jon Harr described the event as “an important milestone” not only for Norway but for European space activities as a whole. However, Isar Aerospace had cautioned that no company has ever succeeded in achieving spaceflight in its first test launch.

    Andoya Spaceport officials stressed that such incidents are part of the development process for new space technologies. “Making this work day after day, with so many actors involved, is demanding,” Harr said.

    “Today’s maiden flight has not been launched nominally. But that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a success,” said Walther Pelzer, executive board member of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and director general of the German Space Agency at DLR.

    He stressed the importance of today’s test, noting that it allows the team to detect errors and adapt quickly – “exactly what we expect from agile companies.”

    The project, known as “Going Full Spectrum,” had been in preparation for months. Sunday marked the final day of an initial 10-day launch window. Previous attempts had to be aborted due to high winds.

    Headquartered near Munich, Germany, Isar Aerospace was founded in 2018 and now has over 400 employees from more than 50 nations. Sponsored by private funding from international investors, it builds and operates launch vehicles for transporting small and medium-sized satellites as well as satellite constellations into Earth’s orbit.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rail-enabled ferries a victory for common sense

    Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand

    The Maritime Union has welcomed today’s announcement from Minister of Rail Winston Peters the two new Cook Strait ferries will be publicly owned and rail enabled, meaning that they can carry rail wagons.

    Maritime Union of New Zealand National Secretary Carl Findlay says the union had strongly argued for this outcome to the Minister, and the decision was a victory for common sense.

    He says rail-enabled ferries ensure the long-term viability of both the national rail network and the Cook Strait ferry connection.

    Mr Findlay says the developments around reduced expenditure on the new terminals and port infrastructure will be closely watched by the Union

    He says today’s announcement was probably the best that could be expected in the circumstances given the cancellation of iRex by Finance Minister Nicola Willis.

    Mr Findlay congratulated the membership of the Maritime Union including the crews of the Interislander ferries for their strong support for the Union campaign Our Ferries, Our Future.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Hong Kong mobilizes aid for victims of Myanmar’s deadly earthquake

    Source: China State Council Information Office 2

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has announced that it has earmarked 30 million Hong Kong dollars (3.86 million U.S. dollars) from the Disaster Relief Fund for emergency relief projects following the 7.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on Friday.
    Meanwhile, various sectors in Hong Kong have been making donations to support earthquake relief, including the Hong Kong Red Cross, which has allocated 200,000 Hong Kong dollars (25,712 U.S. dollars) to assist Myanmar and is currently providing emergency tracing services to help individuals in Hong Kong to locate family members who have lost contact due to the earthquake.
    Additionally, the HKSAR government has dispatched a 51-strong search and rescue team to Myanmar, equipped with approximately 9 tons of supplies to aid in the search and rescue operations in the earthquake-affected areas. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Appointment of Chair-elect for Mainland Group – Fonterra

    Source: Fonterra Co-operative Group

    Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd today announces the appointment of Elizabeth (Liz) Coutts ONZM as Chair-elect of Mainland Group, the proposed divestment entity of Fonterra’s global Consumer business.  

    An internationally recognised director and executive, Liz is currently Chair of ASX and NZX-listed companies EBOS Group Ltd (ASX/NZX:EBO) and Oceania Healthcare Limited (ASX/NZX:OCA), as well as private telecommunications company 2degrees Group Limited.  

    In the event of an initial public offering (IPO) for Mainland Group, Liz would be the Non-Executive Chair of the Board, presiding over the go-forward growth strategy.

    Fonterra Chair Peter McBride says the Co-op is pleased to have appointed Liz to head the Mainland Group Board.  

    “Liz has a proven track record of over 20 years as a Board Director, Audit Committee Chair and Board Chair across sectors. She brings extensive governance experience from both large private and public companies, and her leadership will be invaluable should we pursue a public listing for Mainland Group,” says Mr McBride.

    This appointment follows Fonterra’s announcement in February of the selection of René Dedoncker as CEO-elect and Paul Victor as CFO-elect of Mainland Group.

    Fonterra continues to pursue both a trade sale and IPO as potential divestment options for its global Consumer and associated businesses.  

    Over the coming weeks, it will be assessing non-binding indicative offers from potential purchasers and has recently completed meetings with prospective investors as part of the IPO process.  

    “This divestment is firmly grounded in an understanding of how Fonterra best creates value for farmers and New Zealand, both today and for generations to come.”  

    “We are thoroughly testing which divestment option will return the best value to farmer shareholders, while providing an ownership structure that allows our Consumer brands to continue to grow. A divestment remains subject to approval from Fonterra’s farmer shareholders and we will be putting our chosen option to them for a vote in due course,” says Mr McBride.  

    Fonterra continues to target a significant capital return to be made to farmer shareholders and unit holders following the divestment.

    About Fonterra  

    Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer,foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: School phone ban one year on: our student survey reveals mixed feelings about its success

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cara Swit, Associate professor, School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury

    DavideAngelini/Shutterstock

    One year after the government banned cellphones from schools to help students focus and reduce distractions in class, we’re beginning to see how it has been implemented and how successful it’s been.

    As part of that process, our new research asked young people about the ban. Unsurprisingly, they had a lot to say.

    Schools around the world, including in Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, China and parts of the United States, have implemented similar bans. The guiding principle everywhere has been to help students do better in school.

    When New Zealand’s ban came into effect in April 2024, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said it was time to cut the distractions so kids could learn and achieve.

    But studies have shown these bans often don’t work as planned. For example, recent research from the UK involving over 1,200 students found no significant difference in academic grades or wellbeing between schools with strict phone bans and those with more relaxed policies.

    With so many questions at the time of the ban about how it would be enforced, we wanted to hear what was going on in schools and what young people really thought. We spoke to 77 young people aged 12 to 18 from 25 schools around the country. Some liked the bans, some didn’t and some weren’t sure.

    Mixed feelings

    Many students had mixed feelings about the bans. Some admitted the bans helped reduce distractions and gave them a break from using their phones. As one explained,

    otherwise, we’ll be on our phone all day, all afternoon, all night, and it won’t be healthy for our minds.

    But other students said the ban had created new problems.

    First, some students felt stressed and anxious when they couldn’t contact their parents or caregivers during the day. Second, they said the rules weren’t always clear or fair. Some teachers were strict, others weren’t. And sometimes, teachers used their phones in class, but students couldn’t.

    That perceived double standard – where teachers can use phones but students can’t – left many of our respondents feeling frustrated and unfairly treated. In some cases, it even made them more secretive about their phone use. One student said,

    Even though we’re not allowed to use our phones, everyone is sneaky and uses it anyway.

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the cellphone ban would cut distractions so kids could learn and achieve.
    Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

    A lack of consultation

    A lot of students said they weren’t asked what they thought before the bans were introduced. They felt as if adults made the rules without asking them or listening to them. One of our interviewees said,

    It feels like they just ban everything, thinking it will fix the problem.

    Many didn’t understand the purpose of the ban, especially since they still have to use laptops and other technology in class.

    Recent research found more than 80% of students in Aotearoa New Zealand say technology in class is distracting – not just phones.

    Already, some students have found clever ways around the phone ban. At one Auckland school, students started using walkie-talkies instead of phones to stay connected with their peers.

    Examples like this show bans don’t always change behaviour the way they’re intended to. It can simply make students feel as though adults underestimate how tech-savvy they really are.

    Young people as active problem solvers

    The young people in our research offered some alternatives to the ban.

    Many suggested allowing phones at break and lunch times. That way, they could stay connected without interrupting class. They also said adults needed to model healthy digital habits, not just set the rules.

    Based on student responses, it does appear that learning and teaching how to use phones in healthy ways would be more helpful than banning them altogether.

    Research from the Digital Wellness Lab supports this balanced approach, emphasising skill building over restriction. But for this to work, adults need support too. Teachers and parents need training and resources to help guide young people – and should also be surveyed on how they feel about the ban.

    Banning phones doesn’t fix the bigger issue of helping young people to use technology safely and responsibly. If schools really want to support students, they need to move beyond one-size-fits-all rules.

    Our research shows young people aren’t just passive users of technology. They’re active problem solvers. They want to be part of the conversation – and part of the solution.

    This would involve replacing top-down bans with meaningful conversations involving young people and adults to build fair and practical digital guidelines, where everyone benefits.

    Cara Swit received funding from The Oakley Mental Health Foundation, InternetNZ and the University of Canterbury’s Vision Mātauranga Development Fund to conduct this research.

    Aaron Hapuku received funding from The Oakley Mental Health Foundation, InternetNZ and the University of Canterbury’s Vision Mātauranga Development Fund to conduct this research.

    Helena Cook received funding from InternetNZ, Oakley Mental Health Foundation and UC Vision Mātauranga Development Fund.

    Jennifer Smith received funding from Internet New Zealand and The Oakley Mental Health Foundation.

    – ref. School phone ban one year on: our student survey reveals mixed feelings about its success – https://theconversation.com/school-phone-ban-one-year-on-our-student-survey-reveals-mixed-feelings-about-its-success-252179

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: In pics: Ethnic charm of young dancer glows on stage of Pamir Plateau

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Amangul Wapik (R) and her brother prepare milk tea for guests in Sarijilga Village of Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 21, 2025.

    The cultural performance troupe of Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County is renowned for its efforts in preserving local culture, creating and performing art, and facilitating cultural exchange and cooperation. Aside from giving art performances during important festivals and conducting regular performances for tourists, the troupe also engages in artistic exchanges in rural areas and communities, enriching the cultural lives of local residents.

    Amangul Wapik, a 25-year-old dancer, joined the troupe in 2019. “Dancing is my passion. I particularly enjoy the joyful and carefree feelings on stage,” Amangul said.

    With assistance from the troupe, she has gradually developed her own performance style, blending modern and traditional dance elements through extensive training and practical performances.

    From March to October each year, the troupe primarily focuses on tourism-related performances due to the rapid development of the local tourism industry. Amangul and her colleagues always give passionate performances, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of their hometown. (Xinhua/Hu Huhu)

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – RBNZ expands access to the Exchange Settlement Account System

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    31 March 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua is opening access to its Exchange Settlement Account System (ESAS) following a comprehensive public consultation.

    On 27 March 2025 the Reserve Bank Board approved revised access criteria for the ESAS, the payments and settlement system used by banks and other approved financial organisations.

    The new access criteria were informed by a multi-year review of ESAS access. The review included two public consultations, the most recent in November 2024.

    The new criteria will open ESAS eligibility to more non-bank entities in two phases:

    First, to licensed non-bank deposit takers (NBDTs) in New Zealand; and
    Second, to other entities that meet the access criteria. This may include payment service providers, overseas deposit takers and operators of designated Financial Market Infrastructures (FMIs).

    “The revised policy and criteria allow ESAS access and use to be broadened while protecting the safety, efficiency and integrity of this vital system,” RBNZ Payment Services Director Steve Gordon says.

    ESAS application process

    Licensed NBDTs in New Zealand have requested access to the ESAS to hold reserves to meet prudential liquidity requirements.

    While every application will be carefully and individually assessed, the way licensed NBDTs in New Zealand intend to use the ESAS, and their regulation by RBNZ, mean their application process will be less complex than other non-bank entities and can be expedited.

    We are working to finalise details and information for potential applicants so we can open the application process as quickly as possible.

    As soon as practicable in the coming weeks, we will publish submissions from the second ESAS access review consultation, the revised access policy and criteria, and information for phase one applicants to begin the application process.

    We will provide another update, and revise ESAS content on our website, when more information is available.
     

    More information

    Existing information about ESAS and the access review on the RBNZ website: Exchange Settlement Account System – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=0cd9396071&e=f3c68946f8

    Information about FMIs on the RBNZ website: Financial market infrastructures – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=6a2771c173&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport Sector – Delay in replacing Cook Strait Ferries major risk for industry and economy

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    The first results from the 2025 National Road Freight Survey show that 79 per cent of road freight industry participants agreed or strongly agreed with the statement that “the delay in replacing the Cook Strait ferries is a major risk for the road freight industry and New Zealand economy”.
    The survey, undertaken by Research NZ on behalf of national road freight association Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand, was open to road freight company owners, managers, drivers and staff across the country. 196 industry participants took part in the survey, that closes at midday today (Monday 31 March).
    Transporting New Zealand Advocacy and Policy Lead Billy Clemens says the survey results highlight the importance of the Government’s upcoming announcement on Cook Strait ferry procurement and achieving meaningful progress on getting replacement vessels operating.
    “Transporting New Zealand and our members are looking for the forthcoming announcement to provide certainty around the procurement process, and a timeframe for when we can expect replacement vessels and the necessary landside infrastructure.
    “We recently met with Minister Peters, the Minister for Rail, and reiterated our position that competition must be maintained across the Cook Strait connection, there must be capacity for the forecast growth in the domestic freight task, and maintaining the frequency of services must be a priority.
    “The results of the National Road Freight Survey confirm what we’ve been hearing consistently from our members and industry sector groups – the Cook Strait connection is a real priority for the road freight industry.
    “Approximately $30 billion in freight crosses the Strait each year, so it is essential to have a safe and resilient connection between the islands. This is particularly vital for carriers who carry livestock and other time-sensitive freight. It’s also particularly important to the Mainland, with most freight travelling south.
    “Back in June 2024, the Ministerial Advisory Group on Future Ferry Services on the Cook Strait recommended that a contract for new ships be signed by 1 October 2024 at the latest, noting this would mitigate the risk that ‘potentially advantageous options could be taken up by other operators and lost to the Crown while KiwiRail works to settle the HMD [iReX] claim’.
    “The road freight industry needs to see some real progress being made on procurement.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Employment – Exhausted Bupa aged care workers take a stand against proposed cuts

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    On Tuesday, New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) BUPA members will be making a stand on behalf of their communities over fears planned restructuring will harm the safety of residents.
    The rally is part of a response to proposed nationwide changes by BUPA and other major aged care providers which will cut nurses’ and caregivers’ hours and increase workloads – putting the health and safety of elderly and frail residents at risk.
    NZNO delegate and aged care worker Epenesa Mutimuti says staff at aged residential care facilities across the country are in shock that at a time when New Zealand is in dire need of health care workers, and they’re under tremendous pressure, aged care providers are proposing cuts to care time.
    “The Government’s failure to adequately fund aged residential care is leading to providers to make impossible decisions that hurt both residents and workers, including Bupa.
    “Cutting back nursing and caregiver hours at aged care facilities puts the health and safety of vulnerable residents at risk.
    Epenesa Mutimuti says many workers are being forced to reduce their hours, which will leave them unable to afford essential living costs. Others are being made redundant after many years of loyal service.
    “In the 20-plus years I’ve been working in aged care, these are the worst conditions I’ve come across. We have no time to see to residents anymore.”
    Residents, their families and staff were not consulted when proposed changes to staffing were made by the employer, she says.
    “Staff feel their feedback, and that of residents and their families on the impact of quality care and health and safety has not been fairly considered.”
    The main rally takes place from 3.30pm at the corner of Park Road and Carlton Gore Road in Newmarket, Auckland.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Wet weather and warmer nights ahead – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 31st March – Thursday 3rd April – As another month with below-average rainfall comes to a close, MetService is forecasting a wet and warm second half of the week. This is as a large weather system approaches from the Tasman Sea, bringing with it much-needed rainfall to parched areas of Aotearoa New Zealand.

    By the last day of the month, parts of Northland, Auckland, Bay of Plenty, and Waikato have received less than half of their typical March rainfall.

    MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane comments, “It would seem that March is carrying the baton, continuing the legacy of a dry 2025 so far. Many will be looking for rain about now, and this week holds one of the more promising rain-bearing weather systems we have seen in a while.”

    While the start of the week sees settled weather prevail—apart from the odd shower for some spots—Wednesday into Thursday marks a shift to wetter conditions as a large weather system moves across the country. Western and northern parts of both the North and South Islands may see heavy rain, while strong northerly winds are also possible, particularly for the North Island.

    “Whether the rain and wind arrive late Wednesday or Thursday, the second half of the week will be the one to watch. Keep an eye on the MetService website for Severe Weather Watches or Warnings issued in the coming days, as well as more information about any potential impacts,” Makgabutlane advises.

    Western parts of the North Island have been relying on spotty showers that have only brought patchy rainfall. This weather system looks to bring more widespread wet weather. It will take more than this one system to make a meaningful difference to the current dry situation. However, it is a step in the right direction.

    Warm, humid nights are also in store later this week as a moist, northerly airflow covers the country. Overnight temperatures in the mid to high teens can be expected for many, a stark contrast to the recent low single digits that brought frost to some areas. Auckland can expect nighttime lows of around 18°C for most of this week, while Christchurch will only drop to 15°C on Friday morning—its warmest overnight temperature in over a month.

    “The last time much of the country saw overnight temperatures this warm was mid-February with a similar system from the Tasman Sea. The result will be very different feeling weather compared to the cold fronts from the southwest that have been the norm recently,” Makgabutlane says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gambling and Health – Māori Communities Exploited by Gambling Companies Hiding Behind Influencers

    Source: Hapai Te Hauora

    Online casinos are illegally targeting Māori through influencer content – and Hāpai Te Hauora is backing the DIA’s crackdown as a crucial first step in protecting our communities.
    Recent reports have revealed a surge in Māori influencers being used to promote online casinos – a tactic that directly exploits Māori communities already disproportionately impacted by gambling harm.
    “These gambling companies are knowingly using Māori influencers to reach Māori audiences. It’s not just harmful – it’s calculated, it’s manipulative, and it shows they have no regard for the wellbeing of our whānau,” says Jason Alexander, Hāpai Te Hauora Chief Operating Officer.
    Māori make up just 17% of the population, but account for over 30% of gambling harm. These companies know that – and they’re not just ignoring it, they’re exploiting it.
    “What’s really worrying is that these same companies – the ones illegally targeting our people now – could be operating legally here as early as next year,” Alexander says. “Their current behaviour shows exactly how little they care about whānau. If this is how they act before regulation, what will they do once they’re in the system?”
    “This isn’t just about breaking the law – it’s about protecting our whānau. Gambling harm is already ripping through our communities. We can’t let social media become another weapon in that fight.”
    Hāpai Te Hauora is calling for:
    • A complete ban on gambling advertising in Aotearoa – including influencer marketing
    • Education for influencers on the harm these promotions can cause, and accountability for those who continue to participate
    • Investment in Māori-led, whānau-first solutions to reduce gambling harm.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cooks Strait Ferries – Port Marlborough welcomes government announcement on new ferry decision

    Source: Port Marlborough

    Port Marlborough is pleased to acknowledge the Government’s announcement today with the news that cabinet has confirmed the plan for two new rail ferries to enter service in 2029.
    For the past 15 months following the cancellation of the iReX project, Port Marlborough has collaborated with government to develop options that will ensure a resilient and future-proofed Cook Strait connection. 
    This has been a complex process, involving many iterations and interactions with multiple stakeholders to allow Ministers to make a decision with best information available. 
    We are committed to delivering outcomes that align with our long-term vision of driving success for Marlborough and facilitating the key industries of Te Tau Ihu.The Cook Strait ferry connection is essential to New Zealand’s transport network, enabling the movement of more than 1 million passengers, 3 million lane metres of freight (equivalent to around 500,000 TEU), and 400,000 private vehicles each year between the North and South Islands.Port Marlborough’s strategic approach is focused on sustainable infrastructure that supports long-term regional prosperity and national connection.
    Rhys Welbourn, Chief Executive of Port Marlborough said:
    “This is a significant step forward in progressing a solution for Cook Strait that serves the whole country. Now we have certainty over the type of ferries that will arrive, we can progress with detailed design and commercial negotiations to ensure we have the right infrastructure that meets the needs of our customers, supports our community, and protects the unique environment we operate in.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –