Tourism Policy: Public consultation is open on the Cook Islands’ draft National Tourism Policy. The Tourism Corporation says the plan should reflect what communities want tourism to contribute to their culture, environment and livelihoods. Cyclone Recovery: Prime Minister Mark Brown has shifted attention to recovery after Cyclone Wati hit the Cook Islands, as the region enters cyclone season. Public Service: Central agencies have aligned government leaders around budget pressures, workforce needs and national goals to guide policy priorities for the year ahead. Regional Development: The Asian Development Bank’s 2026–30 Pacific strategy includes the Cook Islands, with a focus on resilience, infrastructure and stronger local capacity. Infrastructure: Cook Islands officials returned from a New Zealand study tour exploring public-private partnerships and other ways to improve project planning and delivery. Language Funding: A letter to the editor questions the government’s $15,000 allocation to the national language commission, arguing it falls short of the state’s legal duties to preserve Cook Islands Māori. Seabed Mining: U.S. plans to expand deep-sea mining claims in Pacific waters are raising concerns for the Cook Islands and the region.