Ocean Conservation Funding: The Bezos Earth Fund announced $25m in new grants for Pacific ocean protection, including work in the Cook Islands, Kiribati, PNG, Tonga and Vanuatu, with projects aimed at sustaining more than 625,000 square miles and supporting proposals for high-seas protection under the UN High Seas Treaty. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A Cook Islands youth voice highlights the stakes of proposed polymetallic nodule extraction in the EEZ, weighing jobs and development against cultural and environmental risks. Governance & Data: The Cook Islands agreed national priorities to strengthen geospatial information management under the UN-IGIF, targeting better decision-making for infrastructure, climate resilience and ocean governance. Gender Rights at UN: Punanga Turuturu Vaine (PTI) is heading to Geneva to present a shadow report on gender-based violence for the Cook Islands’ CEDAW review. Public Services & Oversight: Te Mato Akamoeau, the Office of the Ombudsman, marked its 42nd anniversary, reflecting on more than four decades of handling public concerns about government administration. Sports & Community: Tahiti beat the Cook Islands 3-1 in a rare 28-year gap home friendly; meanwhile, Cook Islands women’s traditional dance fitness is drawing women into healthier routines through tamure-based classes.