Tongareva wharf funding: Cook Islands PM says a safe, reliable wharf at Penrhyn/Tongareva is set for about NZ$101.5m, backed by the US and New Zealand, with feasibility and technical work to follow—an outer-island connectivity boost with big business and logistics implications. Plastic pollution push: Te Ipukarea Society convened 30+ stakeholders (government, private sector, tourism, retail, waste) to align practical actions under its PSIDS Plastic project, focusing on single-use reduction, legislation implementation and a national action plan. Tourism leadership: Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council re-elected Liana Scott for 2026/27, with priorities including workforce and immigration, regulatory reform, and keeping growth sustainable. Health screening results: Te Marae Ora mammogram programme screened 398 women and flagged follow-ups—52 repeat mammograms, 39 ultrasounds and additional biopsies—highlighting demand for specialist care. Environmental grants: Bezos Earth Fund announced US$25m more for tropical Pacific conservation, including projects in the Cook Islands, aiming to scale marine protection under the “Unlocking Blue Pacific Prosperity” plan. Regional business finance: BSP Financial Group shares jumped 8.07% on the ASX, with the bank’s Pacific branch network (including the Cook Islands) continuing to underpin earnings. Governance and policy: Public consultation is underway on the future of Punanga Nui Market, with CIIC surveys for vendors and users to shape proposed market policies.