Polynesian Voyages Explained: New research links the “Long Pause” ending to a mega-drought in Samoa and Tonga, with wetter islands ahead helping trigger the big eastward migration. Climate & Reefs: Pacific reef risk is rising as El Niño adds extra ocean heat, boosting bleaching danger for Asia and the Pacific’s coral hotspots. Food Security Tech: USP researchers are upgrading taro farming tools (APSIM) to help farmers in Fiji, Samoa and Tonga manage climate stress and rebuild soil health. Community Conservation: Pacific leaders gathered in Rarotonga to push community-led conservation, including customary marine rules like rāhui, as part of climate resilience planning. Health in the Field: Vanuatu launched the HeartCare app so trained community workers can screen heart risk earlier using mobile checks. Aviation Upgrade: Faleolo International Airport’s redevelopment adds modern passenger facilities, including new check-in tech and aerobridges. Critical Minerals Diplomacy: A new US envoy says Cook Islands seabed minerals are a top priority, while warning about China’s growing influence in the Pacific. Tourism Data Skills: SPTO wrapped a workshop in Nadi to boost Pacific tourism stats and analysis capacity using tools like SPSS and NVivo.