Cook Islands Election Focus: Opposition parties say they’re not forming any pre-election coalitions ahead of the 12 August 2026 general election, while the ruling Cook Islands Party is counting on continued support from independents. Trade & Local Business: Bank of the Cook Islands Trade Days opened with a record 111 vendors at Punanga Nui Market, celebrating local enterprise as part of Te Maeva Nui. Tourism Support: Te Pa’ata, a new digital programme, is backing holiday home operators with practical tools and expert advice to strengthen resilience. Health Travel Update: The CDC has refreshed its dengue destination list, with the Cook Islands no longer listed, while chikungunya notices also updated. Voyaging & Climate: The Moananuiākea Voyage sail plan is extended by a year as El Niño-driven risks push the crew to adjust routes and timing. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A US-backed deep-sea exploration proposal in the Pacific (including Cook Islands waters) is open for public comment, as rules for commercial mining are still being negotiated. Commonwealth Games: Cook Islands swimmer Jacob Story reached the men’s 200m breaststroke final in Glasgow, while other Pacific medal moments continue to roll in. Travel Rules at Home: Cook Islands travel settings are easing, including RAT use for NZ arrivals and changes to quarantine/MIQ requirements.