Critical Minerals Diplomacy: New US ambassador Jared Novelly says securing Cook Islands seabed critical minerals is a top priority, warning Pacific states about China’s growing influence and potential “debt traps,” while pointing to cobalt-rich deposits and pushing for US company involvement in extraction pathways. Fisheries Governance: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee Ministerial Meeting wrapped in Wellington, with Niue’s ministerial leadership noted and priorities set for regional cooperation on the future of Pacific fisheries. Tourism Skills for Niue: The Pacific Tourism Organisation ran a NZ-funded workshop in Nadi to boost tourism research and statistics skills across nine Pacific countries, including Niue, using tools like SPSS and NVivo to improve evidence-based planning. Tokelau Administration: New Zealand has appointed Andre van der Walt as the next Administrator of Tokelau, with a focus on climate resilience, governance, and key sectors like renewable energy and transport. Niue Climate & Ocean Funding: Niue secured about US$9m (NZ$11m) for a five-year climate resilience and ocean protection project (Niue IECI), backing the Niue Nukutuluea marine park and long-term conservation funding via the Niue and Ocean Wide (NOW) Trust. Health & Climate Context: A Pacific-wide bulletin highlights El Niño’s potential upsides for some communities, while a separate global roundup flags obesity as a major Pacific public health burden. Culture & Creative Industry: A short documentary on Cook Islands artist Ta’i Paitai, linked to Niue Trust support, was selected for the New Zealand International Film Festival.