Pacific health resilience: A new regional push for stronger social protection systems is framed as “coconut-rooted” community care, aimed at helping families cope with climate shocks, energy costs and health crises. Deep-sea mining risk: A report warns Pacific governments, including the Cook Islands, could face costly investor-state disputes if they tighten environmental rules—raising fears of a “chilling effect” on health and protection policies. Cost-of-living and services: Pacific MPs are split over a proposed 4% council rates cap, with concerns it could strain funding for roads, pipes, rubbish collection and community facilities. Global syndemic focus: Coverage highlights how climate change, undernutrition and obesity are driving non-communicable diseases across the Pacific, with Heads of Health meeting in the Cook Islands this week. Community sport for health: The Ruckstars junior rugby programme in the Cook Islands is expanding youth activity, confidence and health promotion through safe, inclusive sport supported by Australian and BSP funding. Local safety and health: Cook Islands Police confirmed a 68-year-old tourist died after a kayaking incident near Arorangi; a medical report will go to the coroner.