Religion and Faith – Large Gathering of 16,000 People and Pastors Marks Conclusion of Evangelism Seminar at Shincheonji Jeonju Church

  • : SCJ AUS Canberra
  • : 14/10/2024

  • Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do – The Shincheonji Jeonju Church of Jesus hosted a grand Evangelism Seminar on October 13, attended by approximately 250 pastors and viewed online by over 117,000 people. This event marked the culmination of a 20-day festival focused on the Book of Revelation, a topic often considered complex and challenging.

    Festivities began well before the seminar, with attendees arriving hours early to experience a vibrant atmosphere filled with traditional Korean performances. Military and Nongak bands entertained crowds, creating a festival-like ambiance. Participants lined up for over a kilometer from the Jeonju IC’s ‘Honam First Gate’ to the venue, showcasing the strong interest in the seminar.

    The Chairman of the Shincheonji Church, Man-Hee Lee opened the event by inviting pastors to engage directly with his teachings, stating, “If there is anything wrong with the words I am preaching, please raise your hand and ask questions at any time.” He emphasized the significance of the Book of Revelation, explaining its current relevance and urging attendees to verify its teachings.

    The Chairman reiterated, “The contents of the Book of Revelation should not be arbitrarily added to or subtracted from,” encouraging pastors to explore and learn from the Shincheonji. Following his lecture, the attending pastors expressed their gratitude and many stated that they will relay what they have learnt to their respective churches.

    Attendees echoed the impact of the seminar. A pastor from the Jeonbuk region remarked, “It was impressive to see him strongly say that the Book of Revelation is Jesus’ promise and therefore should not be added to or taken away from it arbitrarily.” Missionary Park, who attended after watching previous seminars online, noted, “The words were shockingly refreshing. I feel like I’ve found a new guide for my future missionary work.”

    The Shincheonji Church of Jesus actively engaged with the local community, promoting the seminar’s purpose and capturing the attention of residents, who photographed the lively street parade. Earlier this month, the church’s Thomas Tribe Branch organized events to spread the message of the Book of Revelation, further enhancing community involvement.

    The Shincheonji Church expressed gratitude to all participants for their support during the 20-day event, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to sharing the fulfilled messages of the Book of Revelation. With many more future dialogue and engagements announced, the church is a representative of the many current and active initiatives in shaping and supporting the religious communities today.

  • CHJN photo
  • : Elaine
  • : Volunteer
  • : canberra.church84@gmail.com
  • : 0415222392

PODCAST PROMO: State of Israel Goes Rogue – Attacks UN Peacekeepers – Paul Buchanan and Selwyn Manning

  • : Multimedia Investments Ltd

  • A View from Afar – In this episode of A View From Afar political scientist Paul Buchanan and host Selwyn Manning analyse how the state of Israel has gone rogue, attacking United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. At this juncture it is clear this is an intentional attack.

    Over the past week Israel Defense Force troops have repeatedly attacked UN peacekeepers who were authorised and deployed to the region by the United Nations Security Council.

    Also last week; the Government of Israel issued a statement notifying the United Nations Secretary General that he was now banned from Israel and was persona non grata. Within a day of that statement, IDF troops had fired on UN peacekeeping positions in Southern Lebanon.

    Since then, the IDF has continued operations that threaten the UN’s presence. And Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has now issued a directive to the UN peacekeeping force to withdraw from the area north of its borders in Southern Lebanon.

    Also, despite the United States Biden Administration cautioning Israel on its attacks on UN personnel, overnight New Zealand time, the United States has deployed 100 US troops on the ground in Israel to operate missile defence systems.

    In this podcast, Paul and Selwyn consider:

    • Why Israel has begun to attack United Nations peacekeepers in the region?
    • Why has the United States deepened its involvement in Israel’s so-called defence?
    • What of Hezbollah, Hamas; are their attacks on Israel a defence or an attacking offensive?
    • What of Iran, what is its position and will it engage in a full-scale war with Israel and what are the consequences should it do so?

    INTERACTION WHILE LIVE:

    Paul and Selwyn encourage their live audience to interact while they are live with questions and comments.

    To interact during live recordings of A View from Afar podcasts, go to Youtube.com/c/EveningReport/

    Remember to subscribe to the channel.

  • : https://www.youtube.com/live/3feU3ZedRlA?si=MLYOIfZFGzHdf3HI
  • : https://eveningreport.nz/podcast-download/1090323/podcast-state-of-israel-goes-rogue-attacks-un-peacekeepers.m4a
  • : Selwyn Manning
  • : Managing Director - Founder
  • : selwyn@milnz.nz
  • : 6421611958
  • : https://milnz.co.nz
  • https://www.youtube.com/@EveningReport

Faith News – Pastors with decades of experience: “I read the Bible literally. Now I’m learning it correctly.”

  • : SCJ AUS Canberra
  • : 01/10/2024

  • The Yeongnam Shincheonji Word Conference Chairman Lee Man-hee, who made pastors pour out their sincere testimonies of faith, said, “I must realize who I am as the Bible says and have faith according to the Word.”

    The response from established church pastors who attended the Shincheonji Word Conference held in the Yeongnam region is enthusiastic. Pastor Cho, who is serving as a senior pastor in Gimhae, said that he came to know the Bible properly after attending the Word Conference.

    After attending the ‘2024 Shincheonji Word Conference’ held in Masan, Pastor Cho confessed, “I have read the Bible many times, but it seems like I read it literally,” and “I feel like I learned the exact revelation that is suitable for this era only after attending the Word Conference.”

    He continued, “ Many pastors of established churches, including myself, have been doing ministry based only on what Bible scholars have said .

    “I think we need to open it up and make an effort to find the right thing,” he added.

    After attending the Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ Word Conference like Pastor Cho, there have been numerous confessions of pastors and church leaders looking back on themselves and their denominations, needing to re-focus their ministry on the Word.

    Pastor Oh, who has been a member of the Presbyterian Church and has been a pastor for 17 years , said; “I was skeptical about the lack of words within denominations and the constant division, but after hearing the words of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, I realized that this is a place that preaches the words according to the Bible.”

    He continued, “ I feel a lot of guilt as a pastor for having taught the word incorrectly, ” and added, “ I hope that pastors of established churches, like me , will open their hearts, learn about the word of Shincheonji, and then make their own judgment.”

    Another Presbyterian pastor, Kim, said, “Korean Christian churches are currently in a state of confusion, and many church members are leaving,” and added “this is a time when we must make an effort in the Word.”

    The response of these pastors is due to the consistent Word Conference by Shincheonji Church of Jesus. In particular, four Word Conferences were held in the Yeongnam region this year alone. In January, they were held in Ulsan and Busan. And last month, they were held in Masan and Busan – the Word Conference held in Masan on the 25th of last month was attended by 16,000 people, including 100 pastors from neighboring regions such as Gyeongnam, and lasted for four days.

    Pastors who have heard the words of Shincheonji Church of Jesus in response to this request from the Shincheonji Chairman are signing MOUs (Memorandum of Understanding) for word exchange with Shincheonji Church of Jesus. As of early last month, the number of domestic churches that have signed MOUs for word exchange with Shincheonji Church of Jesus has reached 727. In the case of overseas churches, a total of 13,053 churches in 84 countries have signed MOUs with Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

    For believers who were unable to attend the event due to physical limitations such as time and location, Shincheonji Church of Jesus supported a live YouTube broadcast. It was reported that approximately 500,000 people watched the live broadcast of the Word Conference.

    A Shincheonji Church of Jesus official said, “I think the biggest change is that pastors are the first to listen to the words of Shincheonji. God’s will is for all of humanity to follow His will and be saved… I hope that pastors will truly understand God’s words and enlighten church members through this opportunity.” He continued; “I hope that people, regardless of denomination or sect, will properly learn and understand the Bible and continue to cooperate through the exchange of words.”

    The Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ Word Convention will be held in Seoul on the 5th, after passing through the Yeongnam region including Busan, and will then be held in other regions.

  • : Alina
  • : Volunteer
  • : canberra.church84@gmail.com
  • : 0415222392

Six Teams from New Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines Advance to Finals of Space for Planet Earth Challenge

  • : SpaceBase Limited
  • : 06/03/2024

  • Auckland, New Zealand – 6 March 2024 – Teams from New Zealand, Australia, and the Philippines have secured their spots in the finals of the prestigious Space for Planet Earth Challenge. These finalists from both the University/Startup and High School categories will compete in an online pitch competition on March 15th, presenting their innovative solutions that leverage space data to address the critical issue of methane emissions and climate change.

    The grand prize winners from each category will receive substantial cash prizes of up to $25,000 NZD and mentorship opportunities from SpaceBase Limited.

    The Challenge finalists include:

    High School Level

    • Methane Mavericks – Kyneton High School & Maryborough Education Centre, Newham, Australia
    • Cashmere Space Club – Cashmere High School, Christchurch, New Zealand
    • Usbong Me – University of the Philippines High School, Iloilo, Philippines

    University/Startup Level

    • University of Otago – Dunedin, New Zealand
    • Project AIM: Rizal Technological, Caraga State, and Adamson Universities – Metro Manila and Butuan Cities, Philippines
    • Interstellar Exploration Institute and Macquarie University – Sydney, Australia

    The finalists participated in a three-month online research incubator organized by SpaceBase, where they received comprehensive training on the problem areas, relevant technologies, and the innovation process. After completing the rigorous incubator program on 25 February, the teams submitted their final challenge applications, which were evaluated by a panel of industry and academic experts from the United States, Australia, the Philippines, New Caledonia, and New Zealand.

    “I am very impressed with the calibre this year. Every team has been impressive in one way or another,” said Nicholas Metherall, Challenge judge and Space Challenge Grand Prize Winner 2021-22.

    “The Challenge showcases the remarkable talent and dedication of young minds in tackling Earth’s climate challenges. Their innovative solutions and enthusiasm are vital for a sustainable future, highlighting youth’s crucial role in addressing global environmental issue,” said Prof. Rafael Kargren upon judging the challenge.

    The Challenge Final Pitch and Awards Ceremony will be held online on 15 March from 5:30-7:30 pm NZT. The event will feature welcome addresses from distinguished guests, including the Hon. Judith Collins, New Zealand Minister of Space; Peter Vedder, Senior Director at MethaneSat; Anne Rouault, Science Attaché at the French Embassy in New Zealand; and Host Amy Armstrong from the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and Edmund Hillary Fellow. Representatives from the Australian and New Zealand Space Agencies will present the coveted prizes.

    For more information about the Challenge and the Finalists, please visit spacebase.co/challenges. RSVP for the event at spacebase.co/events.

    The Space for Planet Earth Challenge is made possible through partnerships and sponsorships facilitated by SpaceBase Limited. Sponsors include the Pacific Fund, K1W1, Orbica, AWS, U.S. Embassy in New Zealand, Biome Trust, Rich Bodo through the Gift Trust, Australian Space Agency, New Zealand Space Agency, Auckland Space Institute, Callaghan Innovation, Outset Ventures, Auckland Unlimited, and Auckland Aerospace.

    About SpaceBase Limited:

    SpaceBase Limited is a New Zealand-based space education and consulting social enterprise with a mission to democratize access to space for everyone. SpaceBase is creating equal opportunities to leverage space technologies to solve problems on Earth by catalysing space ecosystems in developing and emerging countries, starting in New Zealand. Since its incorporation in 2017, the organization has collaborated with economic development agencies, local and national governments, and advocacy groups to deliver over 150 educational presentations and workshops, three Pacific and nationwide space and aerospace competitions, and has helped birth space communities and organizations locally and globally.

  • Space for Planet Earth Challenge
  • : https://youtu.be/jJv_Swy9Kdg
  • : Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom
  • : Co-Founder
  • : emeline@spacebase.co
  • : 0224021936
  • : htttps://spacebase.co
  • https://www.facebook.com/SpaceBaseNZ/+https://www.linkedin.com/company/13643678/

Alimetry Secures CPT III Reimbursement Code for the Gastric Alimetry Test and Announces Positive Clinical Study Results

  • : Alimetry Ltd
  • : 12/02/2024
  • Alimetry CPT III Press Release 12th Feb 2024 (1)
  • : Hanie Yee
  • : Chief Commercial Officer, Alimetry
  • : Hanie@alimetry.com
  • : 64021651226
  • : https://www.alimetry.com
  • US Phone Number: +1 (657) 267 1082 | https://nz.linkedin.com/company/alimetry-ltd | @alimetry_ltd

PODCAST – When All the World’s Failings End in Gaza

  • : Multimedia Investments Ltd
  • : 23/10/2023

  • PODCAST: In this the tenth episode of A View from Afar for 2023 political scientist Dr Paul Buchanan and journalist/analyst Selwyn Manning examine the current Israel-Palestine Atrocities.

    As we prepared for this podcast, representatives of Arab states have presented a united front at the United Nations, criticising the UN Security Council of doing nothing to protect civilians from Israeli bombing and missile attacks on Gazan civilians and locations.

    Since then, the UN Security Council has considered two resolutions, the latter calling for a pause in hostilities to allow a humanitarian effort to enter Gaza to assist civilians.

    The United States vetoed that Security Council resolution.

    Al Jazeera has detailed that Israel forces have targeted and bombed civilian facilities include Hospitals, schools, residential areas resulting in the deaths of thousands of people, civilians, – around one-third of the deaths are children.

    It remains contested by all sides in this conflict as to who, or what, is responsible for the deadly attack on Gaza Hospital, resulting in the deaths of over 471 people.

    Additional to this, Israel has sealed the borders of Gaza while it prevents food, water and medical supplies from reaching civilians – in breach of international law requirements and laws of conflict.

    Israel ordered Gazan civilians, who wish to get to safety, to get out of North Gaza and move toward the south, to the border with Egypt. But as people fled south toward what appeared to be safety, Israel bombed the southern Gaza region killing more civilians and sealing off that corridor for others who sought refuge.

    As a consequence of the bombing, Egypt responded by sealing the Gaza-Egypt border.

    Humanitarian aid now sits on trucks, waiting, on the Egypt side of the border, while United Nations officials implore Israel and Egypt to allow medical supplies, food and water to get through to those who are injured and dying.

    The Israel Defence Force strikes followed a surprise-attack on Israeli citizens by soldiers operating under the Hamas banner.

    Civilians were slaughtered and others taken hostage, only to be used as bargaining chips and leverage against their enemies.

    Even Palestinian advocacy groups like the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa suggested that breaches of international humanitarian Law, crimes against civilians, have been committed by those Hamas-aligned fighters. But they are clear, as others are too, that crimes against humanity, war crimes, have been committed by Israel, without consequence, as we all give witness to its response which is disproportionate, brutal, and disregarding of the thousands of Palestinian lives that have already been taken.

    That’s the current situation. It is likely to get much worse.

    In this episode, our questions will include:

    What are the world’s leaders doing to stop the carnage?

    Are the world’s nations being drawn into what will be an ever-expanding war?

    Are we witnessing the beginning of a war where on one side authoritarian-led states like Russia, Iran, the wider Arab states, and possibly China stand unified against the United States, Britain, Germany, and other so-called liberal democratic allies representing the old world order?

    Is what we are witnessing, what happens when a global rules-based order, multilateralism and institutions like the United Nations no longer have influence to prevent war, or restore peace and stability, or assert principles of international justice and enforce the rights of victims to see recourse to the law?

    Why has this slaughter become an opportunity for the US and Russia to square-off against each other at the UN Security Council – a body that was once designed to advocate and achieve peace, but has now become a geopolitically divided entity of stalemate and mediocrity?

    Eventually, will humanitarianism prevail? Will the world recognise that all people, the elderly, women, children, people of all ethnicities and religions, that they all bleed and die irrespective of their state of origin, when leaders of all sides, while sitting back in their bunkers, unleash weapons designed to kill as many people as is possible?

    In this episode, Paul and Selwyn examine this most grave situation from a geopolitical vantage point. It may appear as dispassionate, and as so even disturbing, but we will take this approach in an attempt to aide an understanding of why this is happening in Gaza and why it is happening now.

    INTERACTION WHILE LIVE:

    Paul and Selwyn encourage their live audience to interact while they are live with questions and comments.

    To interact during the live recording of this podcast, go to:  Youtube.com/c/EveningReport/

    You can also subscribe to A View from Afar Podcast on:

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  • : https://www.youtube.com/live/NRuObMSC4ns?si=H_b-OpXpYFLY4-HA
  • : https://eveningreport.nz/podcast-download/1084174/podcast-when-all-the-worlds-failings-end-in-gaza.m4a
  • : Selwyn Manning
  • : Managing Director and Founder
  • : selwyn@milnz.co.nz
  • : 6421611958
  • : https://milnz.co.nz
  • https://youtube.com/c/EveningReport/

KEEPING THE DREAM ALIVE: QUEENSTOWN VISIONARIES BRING THE USD $1.5B+ GLOBAL LUXURY HOLIDAY HOME CO-OWNERSHIP WAVE DOWN UNDER

  • : Second Home Co-Ownership
  • : 24/05/2023

  • Move over Uber and Airbnb, the latest sharing economy to boom is the holiday home. It’s no wonder why… Who doesn’t want a multimillion-dollar, luxury holiday home for 1/8th the cost? Here’s how.

    Queenstown, New Zealand – The appeal of owning a holiday home is undeniable. It’s exciting to imagine having a special place in another part of the country or world where you can create amazing memories with family and friends.

    However, the cost can be difficult to justify in today’s market, especially if the home is only used for a few weeks each year. As a result, a global trend is seeing financially astute and environmentally savvy families drastically reduce the cost, responsibility, and environmental footprint of second home ownership through co-ownership.

    In fact, co-ownership has become so popular that an American provider has recently received $1.5B valuation since its 2020 inception and more than 2 million USA holiday homes are co-owned.

    Now, New Zealand/Australian co-ownership experts John and Sharon Russell have launched their latest business venture, Second Home, to help Kiwi and Australian families safely and reliably establish affordable second home co-ownership for themselves at 1/8 the cost.

    The Queenstown visionaries possess 24 years’ experience with co-ownership having introduced syndicated boat ownership to the Australian and New Zealand markets in 1999.

    “We have designed a practical and affordable way to fulfil the dream of owning a holiday home and creating those amazing memories of family holidays that become such a profound part of our lives,” said John and Sharon.

    Second Home brings eight like-minded individuals together to own the title to their dream holiday home, enjoy it exclusively for six or more weeks each year and benefit from any market appreciation, whilst paying only a fraction of the cost.

    Co-ownership significantly reduces the upfront and ongoing costs associated with owning a property and Second Home ensures the property is looked after and managed.

    “We are excited to co-own a stunning property in Queenstown valued at approximately eight times what I have invested, with like-minded families. It’s affordable and flexible, allowing us to spend quality time together in one of the most beautiful parts of the world,” said Peter Hamilton, Second Home owner.

    “Homes are luxuriously furnished, and a personal concierge is on hand to ensure that all is set up for your arrival.  On departure, just lock up and leave and Second Home takes care of the rest.”

    Second Home property locations include New Zealand (Queenstown Central, Jack’s Point in Queenstown, and Wanaka) and Italy (Mercatello sul Metauro and Venice) with the Gold Coast on the horizon.

    From an investment of only NZD$316,000, suitable buyers can co-own one of these multimillion-dollar homes for themselves.

    “So far, the interest and uptake have surpassed our expectations. Our first Queenstown property was so popular and went so quickly, that we secured two more in Queenstown and another in Wanaka.

    “We only just started marketing Jack’s Point last week and two of eight co-owners have already purchased.”

    “In uncertain financial times we have historically seen tremendous interest in the co-ownership model for both boats and holiday properties. During 2007 to 2009 our business Riviera Syndication experienced an increase in sales due to owners still wanting the leisure experience, but also wanting to be cautious with their investments.”

    Co-ownership is also sustainable. “Instead of holiday homes sitting empty for a large portion of the year, we are seeing families embrace co-ownership and reduce their carbon footprint, while also boosting the local economy with more frequent visitors.

    “It’s the perfect way to holiday and invest in real estate at the same time.”

    For more information and full listing details, visit www.secondhome.co.nz or contact John Russell at +64 21 854 597  or jrussell@secondhome.co.nz  or  Sharon Russell at  +64 21 863 759 or srussell@secondhome.co.nz.

    About Second Home

    Second Home is founded by experienced co-ownership pioneers and boutique lifestyle experts John and Sharon Russell, who have over 24 years of experience in co-ownership. They previously founded and operated Boatshare Australia in 1999 and Riviera Syndication luxury yacht co-ownership in Australia from 2007. Their new venture, Second Home, was launched in February 2023 in Queenstown, New Zealand with the aim of making second home ownership more accessible and sustainable through their holiday home co-ownership model.

     

    Useful Links: 

    The Full Story

    How it Works Bullet Points

    How it Works & FAQS

    Photos & Logos

    www.secondhome.co.nz

    Second Home Facebook

    Second Home Instagram

    Second Home LinkedIn

     

    Media Contacts: 

    John Russell +64 21 854 597, jrussell@secondhome.co.nz

    Sharon Russell +64 21 863 759 or srussell@secondhome.co.nz

  • central-otago-wine-tour
  • : Sharon & John Russell
  • : Founders & Owners
  • : sharon@secondhome.co.nz
  • : 6421863760
  • : https://www.secondhome.co.nz/
  • https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091281708431 | https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-home-co-ownership/ | https://www.instagram.com/secondhome.coownership/

SpaceBase “Space for Planet Earth Challenge 2023” seeks applicants from the Pacific region leveraging space technologies to address climate change.

  • : SpaceBase Limited
  • : 18/05/2023

  • Auckland, NEW ZEALAND, [18 May 2023]

    The “Space for Planet Earth Challenge” officially kicks off today and invites students and innovators from New Zealand, Australia, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands to participate. The Challenge seeks innovative ideas to combat climate change in the region.

    Auckland based organiser SpaceBase is calling applicants to specifically use satellite data, in combination with other data sources, to help develop scientific methods to identify target areas of methane emissions around the world.

    “SpaceBase leverages incentive prizes and space-based technologies to solve grand challenges on Earth”, said CEO and Co-founder Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom. “We hope the solutions created will further R&D as well as spark products and services in the realm of methane identification and monitoring in the region.” Methane contributes about a third of global warming worldwide and traps heat 25 times more than CO2.

    The competition is open to two categories: high school level and university/start-up level. Qualified teams will be invited to participate in a three month incubator programme that will include learning about remote sensing and data analysis, as well as design thinking and prototyping. Shortlisted teams after the incubator will be invited to pitch their ideas during the final event hosted in Auckland in March 2024.

    The grand prize winners and finalists will win cash prizes up to $25,000 NZD, mentorships, and more. Proposals to participate in the incubator programme can be submitted online between 18 May and 31 August. Full Challenge applications are due 25 February 2024.

    The Challenge is sponsored through organizations like K1W1 Ventures, Callaghan Innovations, and the Auckland Space Institute. Our partners include the Government of New Caledonia, and the Australian and Philippine Space Agencies. See full list of sponsors and partners on the SpaceBase website.

    For more information on submitting a proposal and other details, go to: https://spacebase.co/challenges/space-challenge-2023 or contact info@spacebase.co

  • Space for Planet Earth Open Now
  • : Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom
  • : Co-Founder
  • : emeline@spacebase.co
  • : 64224021936
  • : https://spacebase.co
  • https://www.facebook.com/SpaceBaseNZ/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/13643678/admin/ | https://twitter.com/SpaceBaseNZ | https://www.instagram.com/spacebasenz/

Christmas crunch: 60% of Kiwis stressed about the cost of Christmas

  • : Banked NZ
  • : 30/11/2022

  • 30 November 2022, New Zealand

    Highlights

    • Kiwis to spend an average of $623 on gifts this year.
    • Women much more stressed about Christmas costs than men.
    • Almost two-thirds would pay more for a sustainable gift.

    The majority of Kiwis feel stressed about the cost of this year’s Christmas, reveals the latest research from personal finance information website Banked.

    A survey of 1,020 New Zealanders found that 60% of Kiwis describe themselves as either a ‘little stressed’ (46%) or ‘very stressed’ (14%) about the expenditure involved with this year’s festivities.

    Women are feeling under more pressure than men, with 70% reporting some level of stress, compared with 49% of men.

    Banked’s Christmas spending report found that Kiwis will spend an average of $623 on gifts this year. Women said they expect to spend $566 on average, while for men that figure climbs to $712.

    “With rocketing inflation and a cost of living crisis to contend with, lots of New Zealanders are really feeling the pinch this Christmas,” says Kevin McHugh, Head of Publishing at Banked.

    “Many will be worrying about their personal finances when they should be able to wind down and appreciate some well-earned time off with friends and loved ones.”

    Banked’s research also found that sustainability is an important consideration for Kiwis when buying gifts. Almost two-thirds (65%) say they would be willing to pay more for a gift if it was sustainable, such as one that involved zero waste or was made from recyclable materials.

    Younger people are even more interested in sustainable gift-giving, with 76% of those aged 18-24 (falling into the Gen Z age group) stating that they would be willing to pay more for a sustainable gift.

    Conversely, under half (49%) of those aged 55 and older say they would be willing to pay extra for a gift if it was sustainable.

    “Sustainability is a vital issue and it’s pleasing that so many Kiwis are willing to support it, even if it costs them a little extra at the checkout,” says McHugh.

    See Banked’s NZ Christmas Spending Report 2022.

    Top ways to save this Christmas

    Don’t feel obligated to spend beyond your means – “Christmas is an expensive time and many feel pressure to spend money that they don’t have,” says McHugh.

    “Don’t feel an obligation to buy gifts you’ll struggle to afford or take part in every costly social event. Put your wallet and your wellbeing first.”

    Secret Santa or group gifting – “Arranging a Secret Santa is a great way to cut costs. It can also be lots of fun and lets you focus on getting a great gift for one person.

    “Chipping in with others for a group gift is another excellent way to save, plus it makes it possible to purchase an otherwise unaffordable present,” says McHugh.

    Set a budget (and stick to it) – “It can be easy to overspend at Christmas. But by setting a budget and keeping track of your spending, you’ll make managing your finances over the festive period much easier,” advises McHugh.

    ENDS 

    About Banked

    Banked is a financial information and deals website that has the goal of helping New Zealanders make the best decisions on the products they need.

  • : Kevin McHugh
  • : Head of Publishing
  • : hello@banked.co.nz
  • : 642108881973
  • : https://banked.co.nz/

Media Giants Call on Biden to Drop Charges Against Assange

  • : Aotearoa 4 Assange
  • : 29/11/2022

  • Five of the world’s leading news outlets have sent an open letter to US President Joe Biden asking him to drop the charges against Australian Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.

    The letter states the charges against him set a ‘dangerous precedent’, relating to receiving and publishing classified material that revealed war crimes, torture, and environmental crimes. Assange is currently in a maximum security prison in London, and hundreds of doctors warn he could ‘die in jail in the coming months’.

    The New York Times used a photo of the Human Chain around British Parliament on October 8th, that New Zealander Matt Ó Branáin inspired. Ó Branáin welcomed the statement from the top Media brass saying ‘Joe Biden cannot run from this any longer. It would be a huge mistake to allow this disastrous prosecution to fall under his legacy. Free Speech is integral to the US identity and international respect.’

    Ó Branáin renewed calls for Jacinda Ardern to intervene diplomatically with Joe Biden and Rishi Sunak, saying ‘the case imperils not only Global Press Freedom, but New Zealand journalists working or travelling abroad, the integrity and safety of our troops, and the broader New Zealand public’s right to know. Staying silent on this is complicity, and will not age well, especially if he dies in prison. The public awareness of the significance of this case is growing every day.’

    The letter signed by five major media outlets states:

    ‘This indictment sets a dangerous precedent . . . Holding governments accountable is part of the core mission of a free press in a democracy. Obtaining and disclosing sensitive information when necessary in the public interest is a core part of the daily work of journalists. If that work is criminalised, our public discourse and our democracies are made significantly weaker. . . It is time for the U.S. government to end its prosecution of Julian Assange for publishing secrets.’

    Publishing is not a crime.

    The editors and publishers of:

    The New York Times
    The Guardian
    Le Monde
    DER SPIEGEL
    El Pais’

  • matt-chain
  • : Matt Ó Branáin
  • : National Co-ordinator of Aotearoa 4 Assange
  • : matt.o.branain@A4A.nz
  • : 4915231631792
  • : https://www.a4a.nz/
  • https://www.facebook.com/groups/a4assange | https://twitter.com/A4Assange | https://www.instagram.com/aotearoa4assange/ | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Lgvm4ob5_kUS6NIaEXwvg