SPREP Pacific Environment: The Fifth SPREP Executive Board Meeting in Apia backed SPREP’s work and approved its 2027 supplementary programme and budget, with Cook Islands represented on the board. U.S.-Cook Islands Ties: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly met caretaker PM Mark Brown to discuss closer cooperation on ocean science, maritime security and economic opportunities. Education Debate: A South Auckland principal pushed back on plans to add walls to open-plan classrooms, arguing his bilingual unit works in open spaces while the Government says walls will fix noise and distraction. Cook Islands Politics: Preliminary election coverage shows the Cook Islands Party on track for a powerful fifth term, while Democratic Party leader Tina Pupuke-Browne vows an “honest campaign review” after the party lost all seats in preliminary results. Maritime Safety: Police are investigating the death of a 68-year-old tourist after her kayaking trip ended in capsizing off Arorangi; a medical report is expected and the case will go to the Coroner. Deep Sea Research: NOAA’s 26-day expedition in the Cook Islands EEZ returned with new findings on marine life and seabed minerals, including possible new specimens. Sport (Dakar 2026): CISNOC confirmed Cook Islands will send athletes to the Dakar Youth Olympics in beach handball, swimming and triathlon.