Cook Islands Travel Update: Prime Minister Mark Brown says entry rules are easing for travellers from New Zealand, with Rapid Antigen Tests replacing PCR, a supervised negative test 24 hours before departure, and MIQ no longer required for unvaccinated Cook Islanders and permanent residents; Northern Group Diplomacy & Sport: Australian High Commissioner Susannah Hodson completed historic first visits to Penrhyn, Pukapuka and Nassau, backing community projects like new volleyball courts, street lighting, and school sports equipment via Australian grants and Defence Force Sports; Hepatitis B Awareness: A Cook Islands-focused health reminder from New Zealand highlights hepatitis B as a “silent epidemic” that often goes undetected because it only shows up on a blood test, stressing testing and support to prevent long-term liver harm; Ocean Health for Resilience: A month-long Kaharoa II research voyage delivered the Cook Islands’ most comprehensive baseline data yet on ocean health to support climate resilience and better ocean management; Seabed Mining & Sovereignty: Experts warn deep sea minerals are becoming a new test of Pacific sovereignty as international talks stall over environmental safeguards and governance; Health & Policy Context: A New Zealand election debate is also raising questions about voting rights for permanent residents and how rules could affect Pacific communities.