Deep Sea Mining & Geopolitics: Greenpeace activists occupied New Zealand’s state-owned research vessel Tangaroa in Wellington, protesting deep sea mineral exploration for US firm Glomar and warning NZ could be “complicit” in any push to start mining in the Pacific from 2027. Tourism Industry: Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council re-elected Liana Scott as president for 2026/27, with priorities including workforce and immigration, regulatory reform, and keeping tourism growth aligned with destination sustainability. Outer Islands Infrastructure: Tongareva/Penrhyn wharf plans are framed as a major connectivity boost, with NZ$101.5m funding intention discussed in Palau alongside US and NZ partnership. Local Business & Markets: Cook Islands Investment Corporation has launched public consultation surveys on the future of Punanga Nui Market, following Stage 1 works including Te Tapora Kai and Are Kai Moana. Environment Funding: Bezos Earth Fund announced US$25m in new grants for tropical Pacific conservation, including projects in the Cook Islands, plus support for marine protected area proposals under the UN High Seas Treaty. Health & Skills: Te Marae Ora mammogram screening identified women needing follow-up, while NES celebrated NES director Halatoa Fua and others completing a Master of Environmental Management and Sustainability.