Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rt Hon Winston Peters Speech at the US Embassy event celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the United States – Wellington
We’d like to begin by acknowledging distinguished guests here today, the Speaker of the House, the Rt Hon Gerry Brownlee; Ministers, Hon Casey Costello and Hon Scott Simpson; and, Members of Parliament; and the Dean and members of the Diplomatic Corps. Thank you Ambassador for an inspired theme to celebrate your country’s 250th anniversary. In Philadelphia, on July 4th, 1776, the 2nd Continental Congress declared, on behalf of the American colonies, their independence from King George the 3rd. There was a special alchemy in Philadelphia that day. Driven by a repudiation of an intolerable status quo, America’s Founders’ self-belief led them to ignore limits, and defy history to declare a new birth of freedom. They were acutely aware of the price of failure – their heads – for they were committing treason, but the Founding generation of American leaders had a scarcely believable confidence in the righteousness of their cause. And while American independence reads as an historical inevitability today – for as pamphleteer Thomas Paine wrote in Common Sense, ‘there is something absurd, in supposing a continent to be perpetually governed by an Island’ – their revolution was far from assured. Declaring independence is one thing, but defending it altogether another, and on the 4th of July 1776, General Washington was facing the full might of the British armada, now closing in on New York. Washington’s Continental army’s defeat there, followed by its month’s-long retreat southwards revealed the obvious mismatch in military resources. But after defeat and retreat, the General crossed the Delaware River and his counter-attacks in Trenton and Princeton in December 1776 brought the Americans, and their newly declared independence, time. Washington realized that as long as his army was never forced into a major battle, leading to its total defeat, then time, and America’s great space would ultimately break British treasure and resolve. It did, but before the strategy succeeded and victory was finally achieved at Yorktown in 1781 were the terrible deprivations General Washington’s army faced during harsh winters at Valley Forge and Jockey Hollow. Time and again the revolution could have failed, and if the British held every military advantage the Americans held a more decisive advantage, the quality of their leadership. General Washington, alongside Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton and James Madison not only created and secured new political space for their citizens, but they along with their fellow Founders created in 1789 a Constitution that gave rise to a new experiment in republican government. That experiment was every bit as revolutionary as the Declaration that preceded it, for embedded in the Constitution was Madison’s brilliant insight that a large republic would be advantaged in ‘controlling the effects of factions’ over a small one and is widely viewed as the origin of pluralism. After the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, President Jefferson extended the republican sphere westwards, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Over time, the Monroe Doctrine, and then eventual statehoods for Alaska and Hawaii extended the American sphere further westwards, firmly cementing the United States as a Pacific nation – something we need to remind you of, from time to time. Americans have been favoured by their geography, and the riches that lie within bountiful lands. But it is the American people who through their own dreams, ambition and imagination broke this ground to forge the global power whose anniversary we celebrate today. So, when reflecting upon the United States’ 250th and the accumulated triumphs and tragedies of American history, the very best of the national character – or its ‘Better Angels’, as President Lincoln described it in his First Inaugural Address – is revealed. From the Revolutionary era until our modern age, generations of Americans have ignored the limits imposed on them to forge new ground in domain after domain. Thomas Jefferson and James Madison saw historic opportunity when they planted the seed of republican government on such expansive and fertile space as America possessed. For their successors, from Lewis and Clark’s grand traverse to putting man on the moon, to Voyager 1, now in interstellar space, and onwards to the new frontier of AI, the American mind has always been an expansive one. And just as the Revolutionaries of 1776 reinvented what it meant to be an American, in even its most inward-looking times the United States has ultimately emerged closer to Jefferson’s ideal with each reinvention or era of renewal. The United States was forged in bloody revolution and involved in many wars since. New Zealanders and Americans have spilled blood together on battlefields far away from our homes. So, even as tonight we celebrate America’s 250th, we should take a moment to acknowledge those in uniform who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to defend the values we two old democracies share. American writer Pearl Buck, receiving her Nobel Prize for Literature in 1942, said, “One faces the future with one’s past”. The United States has contributed enormously to the shaping of history, since Thomas Paine said simply, in 1776, “tis time to part”. The expansive ambition and competitive energy that has driven the United States and its people has been a singular force in shaping global history. We pray that the lessons of your history will inform the challenges and choices you face in the future. And that America’s future is as enduring as its past. If that future carries forward the character of its Founders – the wisdom of Benjamin Franklin, the idealism of Thomas Jefferson, and the leadership qualities of George Washington – then that future is assured. On behalf of all here tonight, can we please raise our glasses to toast Ambassador Novelly, and to the people of the United States of America on their 250th anniversary.
Source: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/
The autonomous machine revolution is no longer a forecast. Drones are surveilling borders, delivering cargo, and flying combat missions. Humanoid robots are entering warehouses and factory floors, and quadrupeds are inspecting pipelines and disaster zones. Every one of these machines moves because of motors. For decades, nearly all of those motors have been built overseas. China manufactures more than 30M more drone motors and robot actuators every year than the U.S. does. For American and other global companies building drones, humanoids, and mobile robots, that dependency isn't just a supply chain inconvenience, it's a structural vulnerability. That is why we are excited to announce Outset's investment in Westmag. The missing layer in the autonomous machine stack Motors are commodity hardware: high-volume, cost-sensitive, and present in virtually every machine that moves through the physical world. A drone has four, a robot actuator has a motor at its core, and a humanoid has thirty or more. That ubiquity is exactly what makes domestic supply so consequential and its absence so limiting. The problem isn't that engineers can't design great motors. The problem is that no one has built the domestic manufacturing infrastructure to produce them at the volumes and cost points the market requires. OEMs today are stuck choosing between a supply chain they can't see into and a domestic alternative that can't yet meet their scale. That tradeoff has been the reality for years; however, the demand is no longer patient. The autonomous machine decade is here, and it arrived faster than domestic supply ever prepared for. A large and urgent market Demand for high-performance motors and actuators across drones, humanoids, quadrupeds, and mobile robots will exceed what the domestic industry has ever produced by orders of magnitude over the next few years. Group 1, 2, and 3 UAS platforms alone represent an enormous and growing volume need. You add the humanoid and quadruped markets, each scaling rapidly, and the addressable opportunity becomes one of the largest manufacturing buildouts in recent memory. The policy environment has sharpened the urgency further. When the FCC moved in December 2025 to restrict the sale of new foreign-made drones and critical components, including motors, it confirmed what drone and robotics OEMs had already been saying privately for years. The demand for a reliable domestic supplier is both immediate and accelerating. Enter Westmag Westmag is building the vertically integrated American motor company: they’re designing, manufacturing, and scaling drone motors and robot actuators from a single integrated platform in South San Francisco. The team designs motors and actuators on a shared architecture, then winds, assembles, and validates them on an integrated production line built around flexible automation and replicable modules. The shared architecture matters, so every engineering investment, manufacturing process, and supply chain relationship compounds across both product lines. Westmag is already shipping against a committed book of orders for hundreds of thousands of units. The roadmap targets annual capacity of more than 30M units before 2030. To get there, the team is investing upstream: in stator steel stamping, rare-earth magnet finishing, and other subcomponent production; to drive cost engineering and deepen control across the full bill of materials. The supply chain is NDAA-compliant by design, anchored in U.S. and allied sourcing, and includes close partnerships already established in Japan. Westmag was founded by David Hansen (CEO) and Jordan Sanders (COO), who bring together product, operations, and scale-manufacturing expertise. The broader team draws from Waterloo, UBC, MIT, and Cornell, amongst others. The founding conviction is simple and sharp: America has never built this category at scale, and that gap is opening exactly when the demand for it is exploding. Why we invested At Outset, we back deep technology companies addressing large, enduring markets led by founders who understand both the engineering and the system they're operating within. Westmag sits at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, national security, and the autonomous machine stack: a critical input to multiple trillion-dollar industries, with no credible domestic supplier at scale. Outset is proud to back Westmag as they build the motor and actuator infrastructure that drones and robots will run on for decades to come. Source: https://outset.ventures/
DataMasque have raised US$4m to solve a critical AI problem: how enterprises can safely use their sensitive customer data to train AI models. Co-founded by Grant de Leeuw and Greg Daniel, DataMasque generates synthetically identical data that removes privacy risks while keeping data valuable for AI training and testing. Since their seed round in late 2023, they have tripled headcount and achieved 6x ARR growth, winning customers like New York Life, ADP, Best Western, and government agencies across three countries. "With a lean team based largely in New Zealand, DataMasque has managed to win highly competitive enterprise deals against far better-resourced global competitors. At a time when companies are trying to work out how to deploy AI safely, we think they’re exceptionally well-positioned. Yes, there are major tailwinds behind the space, but tailwinds alone don't win contracts like the ones DataMasque has secured.” - Bex Gidall, Principal at Icehouse Ventures.
Source: https://www.icehouseventures.co.nz/
Unites Rocket Lab's leading launch and satellite manufacturing capabilities with Iridium's global network, spectrum, and experience to unlock critical space applications. Adds material revenue scale and is significantly accretive to Rocket Lab's cash flow generation and profitability. LONG BEACH, Calif. and MCLEAN, Va., June 29, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab”), a global leader in launch and space systems and Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) (“Iridium”), a leading provider of global voice, data, and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) satellite services, today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Rocket Lab will acquire Iridium. Rocket Lab will acquire all the outstanding shares of Iridium common stock for $54 per share in a cash and stock transaction. This represents an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion. The acquisition will be one of the most transformative deals in the space industry, joining together two innovative American companies to play a leading role in the U.S. space economy. It merges Rocket Lab's leading launch capabilities and satellite manufacturing with Iridium's global satellite communications network, spectrum, and 500-plus strong partner ecosystem to create a competitive, vertically-integrated space company that designs, builds, launches, and operates its own constellations, delivering critical communications capability to millions of users worldwide. The transaction will give Rocket Lab an immediate foothold in space-based applications, including both proprietary and standards-based satellite Internet of Things (IoT) and direct-to-device (D2D), PNT, and critical safety-of-life services, creating a formidable challenger in the global telecom market. Rather than simply continuing the Iridium network, Rocket Lab will build upon it to scale into untapped markets and pioneer new space-based services to the benefit of global customers. Iridium’s globally harmonized L-band spectrum and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network provide a secure, resilient foundation for reliable satellite communications and PNT services across government, defense, aviation, maritime, and commercial markets. Supporting more than 2.55 million active subscribers worldwide, Iridium delivers highly reliable, weather-resilient connectivity and an alternative PNT architecture for applications where Global Positioning Systema (GPS) and other Global Navigation Satellite Systema (GNSS) are degraded or unavailable. Combining Rocket Lab's launch, spacecraft manufacturing, and space systems expertise with Iridium's global network and L-band spectrum will accelerate innovation, positioning the combined company to support the development and deployment of Iridium's next-generation constellation. This includes direct-to-device (D2D/Iridium NTN DirectSM) services, which will grow into an important new capability for U.S. national security and emergency response, helping to ensure reliable, resilient communications when and where they are needed most, particularly where traditional networks are unavailable or compromised. "This is a defining moment for the space industry and the start of a new era of strategic, accelerated growth for Rocket Lab and Iridium," said Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab. "Iridium has built the gold standard in secure, safety critical global satellite connectivity. It is relied upon by maritime fleets, the aviation industry, governments, and heavy industrial organizations who operate in the most remote off-the-grid locations. By marrying Iridium's deep heritage, trusted infrastructure, and highly sought-after spectrum with Rocket Lab's extensive and proven launch and manufacturing capabilities, we have the capability to unlock entirely new markets. We will go far beyond maintaining a legacy; we are going to build upon it to pioneer next-generation space applications and deliver sought-after capabilities to existing and new customers." “As the worlds of space and terrestrial communications continue to converge, more critical services will depend on space-based capabilities,” said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. “Success will come from those who can bring new innovations to space quickly and sustain them over time as efficiently as possible. We’re excited about being able to accelerate the next generation of IoT, aviation, maritime, PNT, and national security capabilities, and pursue new innovative applications as part of Rocket Lab - a fully integrated, end-to-end space company. That’s an incredible opportunity for our customers, partners, employees, and stockholders.” Transaction Highlights: Strengthens Rocket Lab’s Strategic Vertical Integration: Creates an end-to-end space company spanning launch, spacecraft, spectrum, and on-orbit communications services through a proprietary network. Expected to eliminate third-party launch costs for constellation deployment and replenishment and captures launch margin internally while guaranteeing orbital access as launch capacity tightens, ensuring continuity of service to customers. Unlocks Entry to Space Applications Market: Provides Rocket Lab with immediate access to a proven constellation of LEO satellites and an established global communications customer base, realizing the company’s long-term strategic vision to expand beyond launch services and spacecraft manufacturing into a vertically-integrated space applications company with recurring revenue from satellite services. Provides Access to Globally-Coordinated Spectrum: Adds globally-coordinated L-band spectrum that enables reliable user communications.
Unifies Two Trusted Government Partners: The transaction combines two deeply trusted, long-standing defense partners, combining their specialized strengths to deliver highly resilient, next-generation capabilities directly to the warfighter across denied, degraded, and disadvantaged environments.
Accelerates Growth and New Market Opportunities: Positions the combined entity to deliver next-generation satellite communications, resilient PNT, and emerging defense and commercial space services.
Diversifies Financial Profile with Recurring Cash Flow Streams: In 2025, Iridium delivered $871.7M revenue1, $495M OEBITDA1 or 57% OEBITDA margin1, providing substantial recurring cash flow to fund growth.
Transaction Details Under the terms of the transaction, Iridium stockholders will receive $27.00 in cash and a number of shares of Rocket Lab common stock calculated pursuant to an exchange ratio (subject to a collar) for each share of Iridium common stock outstanding at the closing. The collar is banded from $67.50 to $112.50. The transaction has a notional value of $54.00 per share of Iridium common stock, implying an enterprise value for Iridium of approximately $8.0 billion. Complete details on the calculation of the exchange ratio will be in the transaction agreement, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The transaction is expected to be completed in mid-2027, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including approval of Iridium stockholders and required regulatory approvals. The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of Iridium and Rocket Lab. Moreover, each director of Iridium holding shares of Iridium common stock has entered into a voting agreement to support the transaction. As part of the transaction, Rocket Lab has received commitments for a $3.6 billion 364-day senior secured bridge term loan facility from Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo. Rocket Lab intends to fund the cash component of the transaction through a combination of cash from its balance sheet and other debt and equity financing sources. Advisors Deutsche Bank Securities is serving as lead financial advisor and Wells Fargo and PJT Partners as financial advisors, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, P.C. is serving as legal counsel, Goodwin Procter LLP as financing counsel and DLA Piper LLP as regulatory counsel to Rocket Lab. Evercore is serving as exclusive financial advisor, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is serving as legal counsel, Wilkinson Barker Knauer LLP is serving as regulatory counsel, and Joele Frank, Wilkinson Brimmer Katcher is serving as strategic communications advisor to Iridium. Investor Presentation An investor presentation discussing the transaction is hosted on Rocket Lab’s investor relations website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com/ Contacts Rocket Lab: Media Morgan Connaughton media@rocketlabusa.com Investor Relations Patrick Vorenkamp investors@rocketlabusa.com Iridium: Media Jordan Hassin Jordan.Hassin@Iridium.com +1 (703) 287-7421 Investor Relations Kenneth Levy Ken.Levy@Iridium.com +1 (703) 287-7570 About Rocket Lab Rocket Lab is a leading space company that provides launch services, spacecraft, payloads and satellite components serving commercial, government, and national security markets. Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket is the world’s most frequently launched orbital small rocket; its HASTE rocket provides hypersonic test launch capability for the U.S. government and allied nations; and its Neutron launch vehicle in development will unlock medium launch for constellation deployment, national security and exploration missions. Rocket Lab’s spacecraft and satellite components have enabled more than 1,700 missions spanning commercial, defense and national security missions including GPS, constellations, and exploration missions to the Moon, Mars, and Venus. Rocket Lab is a publicly listed company on the Nasdaq stock exchange (RKLB). Learn more at www.rocketlabcorp.com. About Iridium Communications Inc. Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) operates the world's only truly global mobile satellite network, delivering reliable voice, data, and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services anywhere on Earth. Iridium supports safety- and mission-critical operations for diverse markets such as aviation, maritime, government, emergency services, critical infrastructure, autonomous systems, and remote monitoring applications, where connectivity is essential. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, Iridium provides its products and services through an ecosystem of 500-plus partner companies around the world. For more information, visit www.iridium.com. Additional Information and Where to Find It This communication is being made in respect of a proposed transaction involving Rocket Lab Corporation (“Rocket Lab”) and Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium”). In connection with the proposed transaction, Rocket Lab will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes the proxy statement of Iridium that will also constitute a prospectus of Rocket Lab. When the proxy statement/prospectus is finalized, it will be sent to the stockholders of Iridium seeking their approval of certain transaction-related proposals. This communication is not a substitute for the proxy statement/prospectus or any other documents which Rocket Lab or Iridium may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. Rocket Lab may not sell the common stock referenced in the proxy statement/prospectus until the Registration Statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC becomes effective. The preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and this communication are not offers to sell any securities, are not soliciting an offer to buy any securities in any state where the offer and sale is not permitted and are not a solicitation of any vote or approval. ROCKET LAB AND IRIDIUM URGE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE RELATED PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS INCLUDED THEREIN AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors and security holders will be able to obtain these materials (when they are available and filed) free of charge at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Rocket Lab (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on Rocket Lab’s website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Rocket Lab’s Investor Relations Department at investors@rocketlabusa.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Iridium (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on Iridium’s website at https://investor.iridium.com/sec-filings by contacting Iridium’s Investor Relations Department at investor.relations@iridium.com. Participants in the Solicitation Robert H. Niehaus, Louis M. Alterman, Thomas C. Canfield, Matthew J. Desch, Thomas J. Fitzpatrick, L. Anthony Frazier, Suzanne E. McBride, Eric T. Olson, Kay N. Sears, Monique S. Shivanandan and Jacqueline E. Yeaney, all of whom are members of Iridium’s board of directors, and Vincent J. O’Neill, Iridium’s chief financial officer, may be considered participants in Iridium’s solicitation. Information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be included in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents to be filed with the SEC in connection with the transaction. Additional information about such participants is available under the captions “Proposal 1 – Election of Directors,” “Director Compensation” and “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in Iridium’s definitive proxy statement in connection with its 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2026 Proxy Statement”), which was filed with the SEC on April 2, 2026 (which is available at https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001418819/000141881926000022/irdm-20260402.htm), as well as on Iridium’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, which was filed with the SEC on February 12, 2026 (the “2025 10-K”) and certain of Iridium’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. To the extent that holdings of Iridium’s securities have changed since the amounts printed in the 2026 Proxy Statement, such changes have been or will be reflected on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC (which are available at https://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/own-disp?action=getissuer&CIK=0001418819). Information regarding Iridium’s transactions with related persons is set forth in the 2026 Proxy Statement under the caption “Transactions with Related Parties,” as well as on the 2025 10-K and certain of Iridium’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Certain illustrative information regarding the payments to that may be owed, and the circumstances in which they may be owed, by Iridium to its named executive officers in a change of control of Iridium is set forth in the 2026 Proxy Statement under the caption “Severance and Change in Control-Related Benefits,” as well as on the 2025 10-K and certain of Iridium’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. Rocket Lab may also be deemed to be a participant in Iridium’s solicitation; information regarding Rocket Lab will be included in the proxy statement/prospectus and other relevant documents to be filed with the SEC in connection with the transaction. Copies of these documents may be obtained, free of charge, from the SEC or Iridium as described in the preceding paragraph. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements are based on Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s current expectations, estimates and projections about the expected date of closing of the proposed transaction and the potential benefits thereof, its business and industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by Rocket Lab and Iridium, all of which are subject to change. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future events, including future business and financial performance and financial condition. All forward-looking statements by their nature address matters that involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and are not guarantees of future results, such as statements about the consummation of the proposed transaction and the anticipated benefits thereof. These and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in such statements and, therefore, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that may cause such a difference include, but are not limited to: (i) the completion of the proposed transaction on anticipated terms and timing, or at all, including obtaining stockholder and regulatory approvals and satisfying other conditions to the completion of the transaction; (ii) the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, including the receipt by Iridium of an unsolicited proposal from a third party; (iii) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction on a timely basis or at all, including anticipated tax treatment, unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, revenues, expenses, earnings, the integration of the businesses of Rocket Lab and Iridium, synergies, economic performance, indebtedness, financial condition, losses, future prospects, business and management strategies for the management, expansion and growth of Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s businesses; (iv) Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s ability to implement their business strategies; (v) potential litigation relating to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against Rocket Lab, Iridium or their respective directors, managers, or officers, including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (vi) the risk that disruptions from the proposed transaction will harm Rocket Lab’s or Iridium’s businesses, including current plans and operations, or will otherwise divert management time from ongoing business operations on transaction-related issues; (vii) the ability of Rocket Lab or Iridium to retain and hire key personnel; (viii) potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction; (ix) fluctuations in, and uncertainty as to the long-term value of, Rocket Lab or Iridium common stock (including as relating to the risk that any announcements related to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of such stock); (x) legislative, regulatory and economic developments affecting Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s businesses, including actions by government agencies and third parties; (xi) general economic and market developments and conditions, potential changes to international trade relations, geopolitical conflicts and effects from global pandemics, epidemics, or other public health crises; (xii) the evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes under which Rocket Lab and Iridium operate; (xiii) restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that may impact Rocket Lab’s or Iridium’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; (xiv) unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; (xv) risks that any debt or other financing anticipated in connection with the proposed transaction is not obtained or that such financing cannot be obtained on the anticipated timing or terms or unexpected costs or expenses in connection therewith; and (xvi) the other risks and uncertainties, as described in the periodic reports that Rocket Lab and Iridium file with the SEC. These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed transaction, are more fully discussed in the proxy statement/prospectus to be filed with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. Neither Rocket Lab nor Iridium assumes any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities and other applicable laws. Forward-looking statements included in this communication are made as of the date of this communication.
On 3 June 2026, President Trump issued Executive Order 14411, “Strengthening Customs Enforcement”(external link), which will impose changes to US customs regulations and policy for goods entering the US. Federal agencies have been directed to develop new rules and practices, with the first policies due to be implemented within 90 days, i.e. by the start of September. We will keep you updated on how these policies progress and any implementation dates. Key changes envisioned by the administration include: Foreign based importers of record (IOR) will face stricter scrutiny and limits on their use of customs bonds and informal entry; Foreign IORs will be required to submit more documentation at registration, including anticipated import volumes, ownership disclosures, business affiliations, and domestic asset disclosures; and There will also be a ‘good standing’ requirement for importers and increased penalties for non-compliance with US rules; alongside financial penalties, those that lose good standing status will be banned from importing into the US. US Customs and Border Protection has also released further guidance on their enforcement of the US ban on forced labour in imports in “Forced Labor Enforcement Operational Guidance for Importers”(external link). This document provides additional information for importers on compliance requirements to ensure that goods brought into the US are not produced, wholly or in part, with “prohibited convict labor, forced labor or indentured labor”. It is strongly recommended that exporters maintain an up-to-date understanding of regulatory changes affecting exports to the US, ensure documentation is current, and comply with US Customs and Border Protection requirements by working closely with logistics partners, freight forwarders, and brokers to ensure accurate classification (HS codes), origin, and documentation across all shipments.
Source: https://www.mfat.govt.nz/
"Proven American Brands Seeking Master License Partners in New Zealand" United Franchise Group™ (UFG) seeks experienced business partners in New Zealand to develop master license territories for eight proven franchise brands. As a globally recognized leader in franchise development with 40 years of experience, UFG offers entrepreneurs proven business models, strategic guidance, and industry-leading support.
UFG operates more than 1,800 franchise locations across 80+ countries, including New Zealand. Our master license partners benefit from comprehensive training, marketing, and operations support - backed by a franchisee-first philosophy that has helped thousands of entrepreneurs succeed globally. We have developed hundreds of brands spanning high-growth sectors from flexible workspace and B2B services to fast-casual dining.
UFG has the following brands available for Master License development for the first time in New Zealand:
• Black Optix Tint®: Premium window tinting, auto styling, paint protection, and ceramic coatings
• Graze Craze®: Charcuterie boards and boxes capitalizing on the fastest-growing food trend worldwide
• Exit Factor™: Helping business owners maximize value and plan their exit strategy
• Transworld Business Advisors®: World's largest business brokerage franchise helping owners buy, sell, and grow businesses
• Intelligent Office®: Virtual offices, meeting rooms, and on-demand workspace solutions, sized less than 1,000m²
• Office Evolution®: Flexible workspace and private offices in suburban markets globally, sized 1,000m² to 1,500m²
• Venture X®: Premium coworking and flexible workspaces for today's businesses, sized from 1,500m²
• The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill®: Fast-casual Mediterranean dining in a booming segment with loyal repeat customers
We seek partners with business development experience, local market knowledge, and the capital to support multi-unit growth. For more information about master license opportunities and investment requirements, please contact Mike Gallagher (mgallagher@ufgcorp.com). https://unitedfranchisegroup.com/
Mars Bioimaging seeking distribution partners, with an initial focus on the East Coast and potentially CaliforniaMars Bioimaging has recently received FDA 510(k) clearance for its portable photon-counting CT scanner, marking a significant milestone in our global commercialisation journey. (MARS Bioimaging)
As we begin our US market entry, we are actively seeking distribution partners, with an initial focus on the East Coast and potentially California. We are looking to engage experienced medtech distributors who can represent and support our product in the orthopedic extremity market.
Our ideal partner would:
Contact our VP – Sales, Steve Attkins, T +64 21979878, E stephen.attkins@marsbioimaging.com
Docu Edge Festival 2006 - 21st year - partnership opportunities.Doc Edge is a not-for-profit charitable organisation serving as New Zealand’s national organisation for documentaries since 2005. It is also an Oscar®-qualifying festival and the premiere Asia Pacific hub for all things documentary.
Auckland | 24 June – 12 July - Screenings and Q&As, Immersive Exhibition, Industry Events & Awards: 29 June – 1 July
Wellington | 15 – 26 July - Screenings and Q&As, Immersive Exhibition
Partnership Opportunities include Festival or film sponsorship, Support for American guests (travel and accommodation), Hosting a screening or networking event around a selected film, Advertising in the festival programme.
Contact: Dan Shanan, Co-founder/ Executive Director/ Trustee dan@docedge.nz
Performing in New Zealand for the first time, American violinist, Gil Shaham, joins Auckland Philharmonia to play Beethoven’s towering Violin Concerto on Saturday 27 June in the Auckland Town Hall. One of the foremost violinists of our time, Gil Shaham is a Grammy Award-winner and was named Musical America’s ‘Instrumentalist of the Year’. His flawless technique combined with his inimitable warmth and generosity of spirit has solidified his renown as an American master. Shaham is sought-after throughout the world for concerto appearances with leading orchestras and conductors, and regularly gives recitals and appears with ensembles on the world’s great concert stages and at the most prestigious festivals. Conductor Antony Hermus - Beethoven Violin Concerto & Prokofiev Cinderella (selections)
Don’t miss this opportunity to see this global violin superstar perform in Auckland. Book your tickets now at www.aucklandphil.nz
Concert details: The New Zealand Herald Premier Series: Gil Shaham Plays Beethoven 7.30pm, Saturday 27 June, Auckland Town Hall,
The concert is quickly selling out but there is a tranche of VIP balcony tickets that are being held so if there are any AmCham members who might be particularly interested attending contact: Melanie Esplin, Director of Development & Campaign Director MelanieE@aucklandphil.nz
Seeking investment support Jacob Douglas - www.jacobdouglas.co.nz I am a 20yr New Zealand racing driver currently competing in the United States as I pursue a career in professional motorsport. My journey in racing began in New Zealand, where I developed through the junior categories winning 4 New Zealand championships before making the move internationally to further my career. Transitioning to the U.S. at age 16 by myself has been a major step, exposing me to a highly competitive environment and allowing me to continue progressing both on and off the track. Motorsport at this level is not only about performance, but also about building strong relationships and representing partners in a professional and meaningful way.
Last season marked an important chapter in my career as I competed alongside IndyCar in the USF Pro 2000 Championship. I totaled up 1 win, 8 podiums and 14 top 5 finishes, and P5 in the championship.
Looking ahead to this year, my goal is to build on that foundation and establish myself as a front-running competitor. I am focused on our goal of winning the championship, and the scholarship into INDY NXT for the 2027 season. Beyond this season, my long-term ambition is to progress through the American open-wheel ladder and ultimately reach IndyCar.
As I continue this journey, I am actively seeking partners who want to be part of a high-performance environment with international exposure. Motorsport offers a unique platform to connect New Zealand businesses with opportunities in the United States, providing brand visibility, networking opportunities, and a compelling story to align with.
I am incredibly motivated for the season ahead and excited about the opportunity to work with partners who share a vision for growth, performance, and success on a global stage. Contact: jacob@jacobdouglas.co.nz
NZ Premium Butter seeking investment We are looking for any American's wanting to Invest and live in NZ.Purchase Price: Land and building values average about $1,190 per square metre, translating to roughly $1.5 million to $3.5+ million 1.2 mill + 3.5 mill =4.7 mill. This would mean that they would be the owner of the Land and Buildings as well as the new equipment we need to purchase until we fully pay for it. The company would also be paying the owner rent so they would have a secure tenant and a secure Blue chip investment.
The minimum plant and set up costs are 1.2mill and all this money goes into the business to get it up and running within 6 months.
This amount of Investment allows us to produce 1000kgs per hour and ability to supply both NZ & Australian markets before increasing investment to allow greater capacity and greater dividends for the shareholders. Contact: Ian & Dally Cozens Ph +64 272730365 info@alifeofhealth.co.nz
Students seeking supportArki Hunter I am a recent Auckland high school graduate who has been accepted to Columbia University in New York, where I will begin my undergraduate studies in 2026.
I’m reaching out as I begin preparing for the move to the United States. While Columbia has provided financial aid, I am largely funding the transition myself, and the cost of relocating internationally remains significant. I am currently working and reaching out to organisations that support connections between New Zealand and the United States. Contact: arkisunday@gmail.com
Aiden AndersonI am a student at Baylor University preparing to study abroad in New Zealand this summer. Through this experience, I hope to engage directly with New Zealand’s culture and bring those insights back to my academic and local communities. I am currently seeking financial support to help make this opportunity possible and wanted to inquire whether your organization offers student sponsorships or could connect me with potential partners who do. Contact: Aiden_Anderson3@baylor.edu
Investor migrants using the Active Investor Plus Growth category will soon be able to include a philanthropic component as part of their overall investment in New Zealand.
From 1 June 2026, applicants in the Growth category will be able to include philanthropic gifts of up to 20 percent of their total investment, with the remainder continuing to be invested in higher-growth assets.
“The Active Investor Plus Visa is designed to attract experienced investors who can make a meaningful contribution to New Zealand’s economy and communities,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says.
“The Growth category is focused on investment that supports business growth, innovation and productivity. Allowing a capped philanthropic option adds flexibility, while keeping the category’s focus on strong economic outcomes.
“Over the last year I have met a number of investors, potential investors, and heard from charities, asking for investors to be able to contribute directly to social, environmental, conservation, or cultural good in New Zealand through a philanthropic gift as part of their AIP Visa. While that option is currently available in the Balanced category, it is not available in Growth which attracts the majority of applications.
“This expansion to Growth gives investors the option to support eligible charities or specified Department of Conversation initiatives with philanthropic gifts alongside their investment,” Ms Stanford says.
“Charities make invaluable contributions to our communities and for many a philanthropic gift can make a significant difference in being able to continue their important work.
“I particularly thank Conservation Minister Tama Potaka for his work to drive changes in the conservation space.”
The Growth category minimum investment remains NZD $5 million. Under the new settings, philanthropy can make up to 20 percent of that total ($1m), and the remaining investment must continue to be in acceptable investments.
Eligibility for registered charities to receive philanthropic gifts via the AIP Visa will also be strengthened. Charities must have been operating for at least five years, be a Tier 1-3 charity, and the philanthropic gift must be used to benefit New Zealand and cannot personally benefit the applicant.
“This expansion retains the Grown category’s focus on active investment, while recognising that philanthropy also supports positive outcomes for communities alongside strong economic investment,” Ms Stanford says.
More information on the detailed requirements will be available on the Immigration New Zealand website.
The US Senate has today confirmed Jared Novelly, of Missouri, to be Ambassador to New Zealand, and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Independent State of Samoa, the Cook Islands, and Niue. We look forward to welcoming the Ambassador to New Zealand in the coming months.
Jared Novelly has a distinguished career in business, sports management, and philanthropy. He currently serves as the Principal of Crest Sports and Entertainment, through which he is the Owner and Chairman of The Illawarra Hawks, a basketball team that competes in the National Basketball League for Australia. He is also the Director of Apex Holding Company and Apex Oil Corporation, Inc. in St. Louis, Missouri.
Mr. Novelly has served as a Principal, Owner, and Broker of Saint Albans Realty. He has also served in various positions for Southwestern Bell Wireless as a Customer Care Representative, Assistant Manager, and Regional Manager. Mr. Novelly worked for SBC Wireless/Cingular and SBC Management Services, Inc. as a Director of Internet Operations, Associate Director of Merger Transition and Global Solutions. In living and conducting business throughout the Oceania region over the last seven years, he has developed strong professional relationships across both business and government sectors and a deep understanding of the region’s economic and political landscape, making him well qualified to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to New Zealand, the Independent State of Samoa, the Cook Islands, and Niue.
Mr. Novelly is a native of St. Louis, Missouri. He holds a Masters of Property Development from the University of Technology Sydney in Ultimo, Australia and both a B.A. and B.S. from Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Missouri.
Source: https://www.state.gov/
The American Chamber of Commerce in NZ, a leading voice in fostering robust trade and connectivity between New Zealand and the United States, is proud to announce the official launch of its highly anticipated annual awards program. This year's awards introduce six dynamic new categories designed to recognize and celebrate the innovative businesses and individuals driving the future of the bilateral relationship.
We are delighted to welcome New Zealand legend, Phil Keoghan, as our awards Ambassador. Phil is one of New Zealand’s most successful creative talents on the world stage, earning him numerous awards for his TV shows and films. Phil knows what it takes to succeed in the USA and encourages businesses to enter our awards.
The expanded categories highlight key growth sectors and strategic areas of cooperation, providing a platform to showcase excellence, ingenuity, and success in the transatlantic marketplace.
The new award categories are:
CLICK ON THE RELEVANT AWARD ABOVE TO DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE AWARDS APPLICATION FORM & CRITERIA
We will also present an AmCham member of the Year award.
"These new categories reflect the evolving partnerships and opportunities in with the USA, New Zealand’s second largest trading partner ", said Mike Hearn Executive Director, AmCham.
Mark Foy, Managing Director, New Zealand and Pacific Islands at DHL Express, said, “Recognising the next generation of New Zealand businesses driving growth in one of our most important global markets is why DHL Express remains committed to partnering with AmCham for this awards program. The United States continues to be a key trading partner for Kiwi exporters, and we’re seeing strong momentum from innovative, ambitious companies leveraging international logistics to scale faster. We’re proud to support and celebrate those taking bold steps to expand their footprint and strengthen the vital trade connection between New Zealand and the USA.”
Entries for the awards open on 12th May with applications available on our website www.amcham.co.nz Entries close on 3rd July and winners will be announced at a prestigious gala dinner to be held at Pullman Hotel in Auckland on 17th September - click here for tickets to the dinner.
Lead sponsor- DHL Express Airline sponsor - United Airlines Gold sponsors - ANZ Bank, Insprie Labs, Lockheed Martin New Zealand and SweeneyVesty. Silver sponsors - Ironside McDonald Intellectual Property, Buckley Systems Ltd
Media supporter - The Business. Wine sponsor - Constellation Brands Event Manager and sponsor - Event Revolution
See Phil Keoghan's video
CaloCurb is a New Zealand developed nutraceutical business focused on natural appetite management. Its core product is a plant based, clinically validated GLP 1 activating supplement made from hops grown in Nelson. The hop residue is extracted in Australia and the finished capsules are manufactured in the United States by Lonza. The product is regulated in the United States under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act and holds the required approvals from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). Over the past year the company has secured several significant distribution agreements in the United States across direct to consumer, practitioner and wholesale channels. As a result revenue is forecast to increase materially in the coming financial year. The Challenge CaloCurb operates with a long cash conversion cycle. Raw hops are purchased in Nelson during the seasonal harvest and then shipped to Australia for extraction into liquid form before being exported to the United States for encapsulation and final packaging. Supplier terms require meaningful payments in advance and on delivery, while US customers typically operate on 30 to 45 day terms. Inventory levels also need to remain elevated due to seasonal supply and batch production cycles. As volumes were forecast to increase, the working capital gap was expected to widen. The company required additional funding to support higher inventory levels, increased purchase orders and receivables growth without placing pressure on day to day operations. The Solution To support this next stage of growth CaloCurb worked with the Bank of New Zealand (BNZ) and, with support from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), approached New Zealand Export Credit (NZEC) for a Loan Guarantee. NZEC partnered on a fifty-fifty risk share basis with the bank, enabling approval of the company’s first significant working capital facility. The guarantee process was streamlined and a decision was made within five working days of submission. The facility was structured around receivables and confirmed purchase orders, aligning funding with export sales growth while addressing the bank’s credit considerations. The Result So Far With the facility in place CaloCurb is able to bridge its extended cash conversion cycle and release working capital tied up in receivables and purchase orders, allowing the business to fund larger inventory positions and scale confidently in the United States. The structured, fit-for-purpose working capital support has allowed the business to pursue its current growth trajectory while maintaining disciplined financial management and supply chain stability. “As we scaled our US distribution, it was important to establish a working capital facility aligned with our export growth and supply chain cycle. Following an introduction from NZTE, BNZ worked with NZEC to structure a facility that provides the flexibility and headroom required to support our expansion. The process itself was efficient and commercially focused. The facility has given us the confidence to pursue sizeable opportunities for continued growth in the United States market knowing we had the working capital support.” Sarah Kennedy, Founder & CEO, Calocurb® “NZEC backing Calocurb’s working capital facility has been a big enabler, providing confidence and meaning the team has been able to focus efforts on aggressively driving sales and marketing efforts in the U.S. It’s a great example of NZEC removing roadblocks to support an innovative business to grow faster in a competitive category.” Terry Teoh, Regional Manager and Customer Manager, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise “Working with NZEC allowed us to provide CaloCurb with a facility tailored to their growth plans. The process was streamlined and commercially focused, giving us confidence to support their expansion into the US market.” Dean Harris, Trade Specialist, BNZ Partnership Banking “Highly innovative companies like Calocurb need access to trade finance to stay nimble, capture growth opportunities and fulfil larger orders. It was great to work alongside Calocurb, NZTE and BNZ to help position the business for its next stage of growth.” Nitin Chib, Senior Business Originator, New Zealand Export Credit.
Source: https://exportcredit.treasury.govt.nz/
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