NCD Action Plan Launch: Cook Islands’ health ministry has rolled out a 2026–2030 Non-Communicable Disease Action Plan with 129 strategic actions, aiming to curb rising NCD rates across Rarotonga and the Pa Enua through community and regional partnerships. Regional Health Challenge: A Pacific-focused piece highlights the “global syndemic” linking climate change with undernutrition and obesity, warning that shifting diets and disrupted food and water systems are driving the NCD burden as Pacific Heads of Health meet in the Cook Islands. Youth Sport & Health: The Ruckstars junior rugby programme is expanding active lifestyles and life skills for Cook Islands youth, using sport as a platform for health promotion and social connection, supported by the Australian High Commission and BSP. Deep-Sea Mining & Policy Risk: A report warns Pacific governments, including the Cook Islands, could face investor-state disputes if they tighten environmental or regulatory rules around deep-sea mining, creating a “chilling effect” on stronger protections. Road Safety After Fatal Crash: A coroner’s findings after a drink-driving crash in Christchurch stress the “terrible consequences” of driving under extreme alcohol levels and with sedatives, urging greater vigilance at events. Community Resilience: An opinion piece argues Pacific social protection should be rooted in local, flexible community systems—built to handle shocks like health crises and severe weather.