Climate & Water Security: SPREP says El Niño conditions are now established, with Western Pacific likely to turn drier and drought risk rising—while Central/Eastern areas, including the Northern Cook Islands, may see above-normal rainfall—prompting calls for proactive water planning. Ocean Stewardship: Te Ipukarea Society attended the inaugural State of the Pacific Ocean convening in Suva, where leaders and indigenous practitioners pushed for ocean protection rooted in Pacific values, tackling climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and ocean governance. Plastic Pollution Action: The Cook Islands National Environment Service is supporting a National Action Plan under the Pacific Ocean Litter Project to cut plastic entering land and lagoons/ocean, strengthen waste management and recycling, and shift procurement toward reusable alternatives. Regional Fisheries Cooperation: Cabinet endorsed an MOU to strengthen sustainable management of South Pacific albacore tuna, bringing Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa and Tonga together for science-based fisheries and coordinated advocacy. Public Health & Travel Risk: Dengue activity is elevated across the Pacific, with outbreaks reported in multiple countries and territories; the Cook Islands is among locations seeing cases. Fuel Shock & Resilience: Pacific leaders at the Peace and Security Dialogue warned the fuel crisis is now an economic security threat, urging stronger regional cooperation and faster energy transition. Local Environment & Community: A Tereora College session with Te Ipukarea Society and partners promoted menstrual health and reusable products to reduce plastic waste.