NCD Action Plan: The Cook Islands Ministry of Health has launched a 2026–2030 plan with 129 strategic actions to tackle non-communicable diseases across Rarotonga and the Pa Enua, focusing on community and regional partnerships. Reef Health & Youth Learning: Students from Years 7–11 on Mauke and Atiu completed the first field pilots of the Te Reinga Aorangi Marine Citizen Science Programme, blending culture-based education and traditional ecological knowledge with practical reef monitoring skills. Regional Health Capacity: The Cook Islands also showcased its hosting capability at a regional health meeting, highlighting growing local involvement in Pacific health priorities. Pacific Health Challenge: A new discussion on the “global syndemic” in the Pacific links climate change with undernutrition and obesity, warning how shifting food systems and climate impacts are driving higher NCD risk. Policy & Safety Watch: A coroner’s findings in New Zealand highlighted the deadly consequences of drink-driving combined with diazepam, while another coroner case urged more vigilance at motorcycle events. Governance & Costs: Pacific MPs are split over a proposed four per cent council rates cap, as cost-of-living pressure grows—an issue that can affect community services and health supports. Deep-Sea Mining Risks: A report warns Cook Islands and other Pacific governments could face investor-state disputes if they tighten environmental or regulatory rules around deep-sea mining.