Renewables & Power on Niue: 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) highlighted as putting the island on track for an 80% renewable target, alongside a strong local labour component. Pacific Energy Resilience: ChildFund New Zealand warns Pacific communities already hit by fuel shortages to prepare for a strengthening El Niño, which could mean drought in some places, heavier rain in others, and added pressure on drinking water, food and children’s health. Regional Policy & Diplomacy: The Philippines reaffirmed closer ties with Pacific nations at the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting in Palau, stressing shared challenges like climate change and development financing, and pointing to the Philippine-Pacific Initiative. Education Reform Debate: New Zealand’s NCEA overhaul is under debate after analysis of 8,292 submissions found strong support for improving the system, but many educators, students and families want refinement rather than replacement. Shipping & Mining Disruption: A barge (Manahau) remains detained at Port Nelson two years after grounding at Carters Beach, with repairs and certification still pending, affecting West Coast Bulk Logistics operations.