Funding Shock for Pacific Arts: Tautai Contemporary Pacific Arts Trust says it has lost its main CNZ funding source beyond 2026, calling the decision “deeply disappointing” and warning it will review what it means for its artists and communities. Sports Growth: The Rising Stars Championship is expanding to include Aitutaki, bringing netball, rugby and volleyball to more schools across Rarotonga and the Pa Enua, with Pukapuka now eyeing a possible 2027 join. Reef Protection Through Culture-Led Learning: Mauke and Atiu students complete the first field pilots of the Te Reinga Aorangi Marine Citizen Science Programme, blending traditional knowledge with hands-on reef monitoring. Ocean Education in Schools: Te Ipukarea Society’s Tere Apii‘anga learning journey is rolling out across Rarotonga schools, linking ocean health to culture, food and wellbeing while tackling issues like plastic pollution and sediment plumes. Health Plan to Tackle NCDs: The health ministry has launched a 2026–2030 NCD Action Plan with 129 strategic actions for Rarotonga and the Pa Enua. Election Update: Mark Brown is set to return as Prime Minister after the Cook Islands Party won 13 of 24 seats, with support from independents giving a strong governing majority. Realm Talks Ahead of Palau: Luxon met Brown, Niue PM Dalton Tagelagi and Tokelau’s Ulu Alapati Tavite in Auckland, with Brown urging Pacific leaders to move from promises to deliverables.