World Cup Pathway: New Zealand has secured Oceania’s direct qualification spot for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Cook Islands among the 11 OFC nations that took part in the qualifying campaign. Tourism & Environment: A baseline study says Cook Islands beach plastic pollution is driven by tourism and local habits, prompting calls for targeted waste management and tighter collaboration. Food & Culture Events: “Taste of the Cook Islands” returned to Te Tapora Kai at Punanga Nui Market, spotlighting local favourites like ika mata, mitiore, rukau and varaoa karo, plus live music and cultural demos. Wildlife Protection: Te Ipukarea Society warns feral cats are threatening Rarotonga’s rare seabirds, including ground-nesting species in the island’s cloud forest. Community & Capability: A Legal Policy Development Course in Rarotonga is building skills across government and private lawyers to strengthen law and policy design. Fuel Pressure: Penrhyn Island has burned through its last 100 litres of diesel and is borrowing 5,000 litres from police Te Kukupa II, while restricting power use as fuel prices rise. Sports Spotlight: Cook Islands Rugby League Origin Series kicks off this weekend at Nukupure Park, with Town Blues vs Country Maroons and a pathway toward National Residents selection. Regional Tourism Data: The Pacific Tourism Organisation and Niue Tourism Office shared findings from the 2024 International Visitor Survey, part of the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative. Aviation Connectivity Focus: SPTO highlighted the need for stronger tourism-airline partnerships at the ASPA meeting hosted in the Cook Islands. Cruise Demand: Norwegian Cruise Line extended its South Pacific season, citing strong interest in multi-island, close-to-home cruising.