Men’s Midlife & Menopause Awareness: Cook Islands women’s group Te Marū o te Vaine is launching a Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness event with evidence-based talks and support for perimenopause and menopause on Aug 14, livestreamed to the Pa Enua. Public Health & Safety: Police report a 33-year-old man remanded after an alleged domestic bush-knife threat, plus a Matavera crash where alcohol is believed to be a factor and a tourist incident with minor vehicle damage. Deep-Sea Mining & Health of the Ocean: Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) raised Cook Islands concerns at the International Seabed Authority meeting, opposing a US company’s push for seabed exploration in the South Penrhyn Basin. Bird Flu Preparedness: Pacific governments are seeking New Zealand guidance on H5 avian influenza as it spreads in Australia and New Zealand, with a focus on protecting vulnerable seabirds and endemic species. Election & Community Wellbeing: A Cook Islands election analysis highlights low turnout—about 40.9% of the roll not voting—framing it as a wider health-of-democracy issue, alongside campaign debates on cost of living and water tariffs. Digital Inclusion: Internet governance expert Maureen Hilyard says digital inclusion is a human issue tied to education, health, and family connections—lessons drawn from Cook Islands connectivity work.