Transport Regulation Watch: Rarotonga’s new locally built ride-hailing service, Smartie Rides, has launched via an app, but it’s also spotlighting a long-standing gap in the Cook Islands’ transport rules—vehicle-sharing platforms aren’t covered under the Transport Licensing Act 1967, with calls to update the framework. Cost of Living & Housing: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown says cost of living and housing will be top priorities in the first 100 days, including a cost-of-living review focused on practical, targeted relief and progress on the housing policy. Climate Finance Push: Brown is urging the Asian Development Bank to make climate resilience funding easier to access and be lenient on debt servicing, arguing micro-economies like the Cook Islands face extreme disaster exposure. Deep-Sea Skills Building: 23 Cook Islanders have returned from China after a 10-day deep-sea resource management training programme coordinated with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority. Governance & Power Supply: Cook Islands Investment Corporation has announced leadership changes and new board directors for Te Aponga Uira, aiming to strengthen governance for reliable electricity services. Community Impact: Volunteers are holding a working bee at Nikao Cemetery after vandalism damaged and removed headstones, including First World War veterans’ graves.