Workforce Boost: University of Auckland nursing teams delivered advanced clinical training to 15 Cook Islands nurses in Rarotonga, building on six months of collaboration to strengthen the local health workforce. Referral Access Update: Te Marae Ora’s Patient Referral Policy 2026 expands eligibility—covering permanent returning Cook Islanders (no 12-month stand-down), contract expatriate workers after six months, and Permanent Resident certificate holders. Eye Health Partnership: Te Marae Ora and Christian Blind Mission NZ signed a Health Collaboration Agreement to set up a Refractive Error Vision Centre at Rarotonga Hospital and strengthen rehabilitation, disability inclusion, and workforce capacity. Regional Health & Mobility: TMO broadened health support for permanent returning Cook Islanders, PR holders, and expatriate workers, aligning services with the new referral policy. Maritime Health Link: Cook Islands fisheries officer Saiasi Sarau took part in back-to-back regional surveillance and disaster-response training, supporting safer seas that protect community livelihoods tied to health. Election & Community Dialogue: The Cook Islands National Youth Council launched a youth-led candidate dialogue series to help young people ask questions and shape election conversations. Public Debate on DSM: Te Ipukarea Society called for open, election-period discussion on deep-seabed mining so voters can understand impacts on the ocean and future wellbeing. Tourism Recovery With Health Upgrades: An ADB grant signed to support tourism recovery includes strengthening Rarotonga Airport and health systems, including upgrades to health facilities and medical waste treatment.