Climate & Oceans: SPREP says El Niño can bring both risks and opportunities for the western Pacific, with experts outlining what communities may expect as ENSO shifts between Neutral, El Niño and La Niña. Niue Funding Boost: Niue secured about US$9m (NZ$11m) for a five-year Niue IECI project with UNDP and Conservation International, aiming to protect the Niue Nukutuluea Multiple-Use Marine Park and strengthen long-term conservation funding via the Niue and Ocean Wide (NOW) Trust. Marine Science & Industry: A look at marine biobanks as “insurance” for ocean life under pressure, raising big questions about who controls frozen ecosystems and how stored material could feed future medicines and products. Energy & Costs Across the Pacific: A timeline shows how the fuel crisis drove sharp rises in diesel and electricity costs, pushing Pacific governments toward renewable energy support like solar to reduce future shocks. Innovation & Partnerships: SITI’s Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry met New Zealand leaders at an Auckland China Business Summit, pushing deeper R&D and start-up collaboration with Hong Kong’s AI, life/health tech and fintech focus. Fisheries & Skills: A profile highlights how Pacific fisheries officers link enforcement to livelihoods and sustainability, with training and regional operations strengthening ocean protection.