MV Tuitui Moana: Cook Islands’ new cargo-passenger vessel will stay at Avatiu Port for at least two more months before its first Pa Enua voyage, pushing the maiden run back to November. Opposition Office: The United Party is seeking help to renovate the Opposition Leader’s Avarua office, but CIIC has frozen works pending a broader review. Mangaia flying-fox debate: A short rā‘ui reopening for moā kirikiri has reignited questions over whether hunting can be sustained without solid population counts or catch monitoring. HIV regional push: Fiji’s HIV emergency declaration is prompting WHO-backed moves to expand free testing, prevention and treatment, with Pacific leaders urged to strengthen cooperation. Penrhyn port and defence: The US says any military presence linked to the Penrhyn port upgrade is “all being negotiated,” while NZDF begins community infrastructure and health work on the atoll. Cook Islands finance boom: Record growth in Cook Islands trusts is being driven by US demand for asset protection structures, with registrations up nearly 90% in two years. Tourism awards: Voting is open for Te Mato Manava Tūroto’s 2026 People’s Choice Kia Orana Champions, with 12,000+ votes already cast in the first day. Sport: Cook Islands netball misses World Cup qualification after losses in the Oceania qualifier, while Round Rarotonga Road Race entries top 300 ahead of tomorrow’s events.