Earthshot Prize (Niue): Niue Ocean Wide Trust has been named a 2026 Earthshot Prize finalist for its “Ocean Conservation Commitments,” a long-term endowment model aimed at permanent protection of the Pacific Ocean. Regional Environment: The Earthshot Prize also spotlighted Niue alongside Barcelona in the “Revive our Oceans” category, with finalists chosen from nearly 7,000 nominations worldwide and winners due in November in Mumbai. Pacific Politics (NZ election): Labour is promising expanded visa-waiver travel for citizens of Pacific Islands Forum nations if elected, aiming to cut costs and barriers for Pacific families visiting Aotearoa for weddings, funerals and major cultural events. Security & Ports (Cook Islands): The US says a future military presence tied to a planned Penrhyn port upgrade is “all being negotiated,” while stressing the port project itself is not a US base. Pacific Governance & Tech: Pasifika AI creator Kevyn Wahuzue warns Pacific-focused AI can’t speak for communities without formal mandate, arguing “alignment” may mean less flashy but more accountable systems.