NZ has two entries through to the finals of the Toronto-based global PR show, the 2016 Comm Prix Awards. Heather Claycomb of Hamilton shop HMC (with Child Matters) is there with The Evolution and success of Buddy Day, and so is Spark PR & Activate’s Mikaila Hutchinson for the TRESemmé 365 Project.

NZ agencies, led by a treble Gold from Colenso/Proximity, scored well at the APAC Effies held Friday night in Singapore. Y&R and Barnes Catmur & Friends Dentsu won a Gold apiece.

Standing out from the crowd has never been a problem for Corona but several unusual activations, led by Grey Lynn-based brand experience agency Spur, have helped put the beer and its lime ritual in the hands, hearts and minds of thousands.

Auckland-based Boyd Public Relations is to open an office in China. Managing director John Boyd and the company’s Auckland-based China specialist Ling Zhao are travelling to Shanghai this week to finalise arrangements and meet their recently appointed country manager.

Tourism Malaysia has this month unveiled its New Zealand incarnation of MORE of Malaysia to Celebrate Every Day campaign via Publicis Malaysia, according to a report in Campaign Brief.

D&AD judging week has come to a close in London, with NZ recording one of its best years ever at this prestigious British show – a 30-Pencil haul and an overall ranking of 5th equal.

Ad blocking appears to be moving into the mainstream in the UK, according to a new report – published on ad site Warc – which estimates that 27% of internet users, or 14.7m people, will install ad avoidance software by the end of next year.

FCB Auckland has won News Works’ inaugural Day of Influence challenge with an “inspired” creative entry for the NZ Fire Service.

The Webby-nominated* Auckland creative digital agency formerly known as Method Studios has moved offices, rebranded and launched a new website – all at the same time.