Renewables & Energy: Sunergise Group won the 2026 Sustainable Energy Association of New Zealand Trailblazer Award, with its Niue solar-and-storage project (2.79MW solar plus 8.19MWh batteries) cited as key to keeping the island on track for an 80% renewable target, alongside local labour and STEM support. Shipping & Mining: A barge (Manahau) that grounded at Carters Beach remains detained at Port Nelson more than two years later, with repairs and certification still pending after Westland Mineral Sands paused mining operations amid market and shipping/energy volatility. Regional Policy & Climate: Coverage around the Pacific Islands Forum highlights ongoing China–US tensions and criticises Australia and NZ for limited climate action, while other reporting notes Pacific leaders’ push for deeper regional integration and shared development challenges. Education & Skills: New Zealand’s NCEA review shows strong support for improving the senior secondary qualification, but many educators, students and families want refinement rather than replacement—relevant for workforce pipelines across the Pacific.