The Changing Face of Hospitality: Skills, Sustainability, and the Future of Dining Marisa Bidois’s departure as CEO of the Restaurant Association of New Zealand marks more than just a leadership change; it signals a pivotal moment for an industry grappling with ongoing challenges and emerging opportunities. While Bidois acknowledges improvements, her regret over the persistent … Read more
Petone: From Hidden Gem to a Blueprint for Future High Streets? For years, Petone, nestled at the southern edge of the Hutt Valley, was a well-kept secret. A quick drive from Wellington, it offered a quieter pace and a taste of authentic New Zealand life. But something’s been happening. Petone isn’t just remaining charming; it’s … Read more
Recent investigations have determined that a mass die-off of eels in the Waiatai and Ikanui streams was caused by a natural blackwater event, exacerbated by unusually warm temperatures and heavy rainfall in early January. The event resulted in critically low oxygen levels, making survival impossible even for resilient species like tuna. What is a Blackwater … Read more
FMA Chair Under Scrutiny: A Sign of Shifting Expectations for Public Sector Leaders? The recent investigation into Financial Markets Authority (FMA) chair Allan Stobo, stemming from concerns around a planned trip to Estonia, isn’t just about one individual. It’s a potential bellwether for a changing landscape of expectations surrounding the conduct of those in public … Read more
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, and National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Eduardo Guillen recently inspected irrigation infrastructure in Bulacan province, highlighting the potential of renewable energy to reduce costs for farmers. Inspecting Solar-Powered Systems The inspection on Thursday, January 29, 2026, included visits to the Kapatiran Solar Pump Irrigation System in … Read more
Leaders from the Department of Education, the Commission on Higher Education, and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority have committed to implementing the National Education and Workforce Development Plan 2026-2035. The plan was released by the Second Congressional Commission on Education, known as Edcom 2. Report Submission and Key Findings On January 29, the … Read more
New Zealand’s Hydrogen Future: From Solar Farms to Green Shipping Lanes The recent opening of Hiringa Energy’s solar-to-hydrogen farm in Ruakākā marks more than just another renewable energy project. It’s a tangible step towards a future where New Zealand could become a significant player in the global green hydrogen economy. This project, fueled by a … Read more
The Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) have committed to a unified approach to address the country’s learning crisis. This pledge followed the formal turnover of the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II)’s Final Report to President Marcos on January 29. A Roadmap … Read more
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines has assumed the Chairship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations–Business Advisory Council (Asean-BAC) for 2026, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. outlining key priorities for the term. The President announced Thursday that the country will focus on enhancing trade and investment, strengthening regional supply chains, and fostering business opportunities throughout … Read more
Hawke’s Bay Wine Country Faces a Reset: What’s Behind the Liquidations and What’s Next? The recent news of liquidations impacting Te Awanga Estate, Hawke’s Bay Wine Co., and related businesses has sent ripples through New Zealand’s vibrant wine industry. While the immediate cause is financial distress – with debts totaling millions – the situation highlights … Read more