Shipping & Trade: The Cook Islands Government says the first of its two new cargo-passenger vessels will arrive early next week and has assured local operator Taio Shipping the new service won’t compete. Environment & Law: In New Zealand’s Parliament, the Natural Environment Bill advanced to second reading, with ministers citing committee changes aimed at clearer rules and lower compliance costs while keeping the planning system’s core structure. Public Finance Leadership: Auditor-General Dennis Teika Dennis has resigned to become Permanent Secretary for Finance and Treasury, stepping in to address gaps flagged by recent audits and public expenditure reviews. Deep-Sea Economy & Governance: A 26-day NOAA expedition in the Cook Islands EEZ reported new marine life findings and seabed mineral insights, feeding into wider regional debate over deep-sea mining. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Te Ipukarea Society took Cook Islands concerns to the International Seabed Authority meeting, opposing a US company’s exploration licence application tied to the South Penrhyn Basin. Election & Business Confidence: Preliminary results point to Prime Minister Mark Brown’s Cook Islands Party retaining power after the election, with cost of living and governance stability emerging as key themes for voters and the private sector. Regional Diplomacy: The US hosted Pacific leaders and recognised the Cook Islands, promising support for resilient infrastructure including internet connectivity.