NCD Focus: Te Marae Ora health secretary Bob Williams urged stronger Pacific leadership at the Pacific Conference on Health and Climate Change, as Cook Islands health planning pushes ahead with the 2026–2030 NCD Action Plan—while one report notes cardiovascular cases rose even as overall new NCDs slowed. Local Health Leadership: A letter to the editor argues credibility starts at home, citing Cook Islands NCD burden (including obesity, diabetes, and poor oral health in children) and calls for health funding to rise to at least 5% of GDP, alongside better support for Pa Enua communities. Public Health in Action: On World Field Epidemiology Day (Sept 7), a Te Marae Ora senior health protection officer explains how field epidemiology supports dengue control, water quality, food safety, sanitation, and border work—turning local surveillance into practical protection. Community & Infrastructure Support: More than 50 NZ Defence Force personnel arrived on Penrhyn for Exercise Tropic Twilight, delivering construction, health services, solar water stills, and hydrographic surveys, with health staff working alongside local medical teams. Health & Climate Education: Te Ipukarea Society and Cook Islands Whale Research ran a two-day humpback whale education programme for Year 7–8 students, linking marine life to healthier ecosystems and ocean stewardship. Governance & Wellbeing: Prime Minister Mark Brown says the incoming Cook Islands Party-led government’s first 100 days will prioritise cost of living and housing, including fuel supply security and a housing review aimed at targeted relief for families.