Wildlife & Cities: A California study using 35,000+ days of camera-trap footage finds bright night lighting shifts predator and prey behavior more than noise—pumas and bobcats show up less in lit areas, while mule deer linger there at night, using light as cover. Pacific Security & Elections: The Cook Islands heads into 2026 elections with relations with New Zealand improving after a new defence and security declaration, easing a prior China-linked diplomatic strain. Ocean Protection: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown points to the Marae moana Act and a massive marine park—plus science-based rules for any seabed mining decisions. Plastic Pressure: Kiribati warns plastic waste is piling up fast, with limited treatment options and high costs for exporting recyclables. Fisheries Governance: New Zealand hosts the 142nd Forum Fisheries Committee officials meeting, with Niue’s Poi Okesene noted for leadership. Niue Culture in Music: An emerging R&B artist with Niuean roots is using Vagahau Niue in his debut EP to help keep the language alive.