Critical Minerals Diplomacy: US ambassador Jared Novelly says access to Cook Islands seabed minerals is now a top priority, warning Pacific states about China’s growing influence and potential “debt traps,” as Washington pushes to diversify supply chains for defence and clean energy. Regional Fisheries: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee ministerial meeting wrapped in Wellington, with Niue’s outgoing chair Mona Ainu’u thanked and New Zealand’s Shane Jones set to lead 2026–2027, as ministers align on future Pacific fisheries cooperation. Tourism Skills for Niue and neighbours: The Pacific Tourism Organisation finished a New Zealand-funded workshop in Nadi, training tourism data officers from Niue and others to use survey analysis tools and improve evidence-based planning. Niue Climate & Ocean Funding: Niue secured about US$9m (NZ$11m) for the Niue IECI project with UNDP and Conservation International, targeting climate resilience, ocean protection around the Niue Nukutuluea marine park, and longer-term conservation finance via the NOW Trust. Tokelau Administration: New Zealand foreign minister Winston Peters appointed Andre van der Walt as the next Tokelau Administrator, with a focus on services, resilience, governance, and renewable energy. Culture & Creative Industry: A short documentary on Cook Islands artist Ta’i Paitai, linked to weaving support from a Tupumaiaga a Niue Trust workshop, was selected for the New Zealand International Film Festival.