Budget Watch: Niue MPs are grilling the newly re-elected government over its first post-election budget, pointing to a widening deficit and asking why community development and social welfare have been dropped from stated priorities even as spending remains high, with the 2026/27 Appropriation Annual Bill now heading for Public Accounts Committee scrutiny. Culture & Theatre: Auckland Theatre Company debuts “Sons of Vao,” a first Niuean play rooted in one man’s long journey to write, create, and make peace with the past. Sports & Community Support: 13-year-old Braxton Matene has been selected for an America tournament via Hoop 33 Academy, and his family is fundraising (Givealittle) to cover flights, accommodation, and transport. Climate & Food Security: Pacific nations are rolling out an Advanced Warning System to help governments respond to climate-driven shifts in tuna stocks moving beyond national waters, supporting adaptation for fisheries, livelihoods, and food security. Regional Rugby: New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters says Moana Pasifika still has a pathway to survive, ruling out a direct government bailout and urging a sustainable business model as the franchise faces liquidation fears. Tātatau Revival: Niuean-Māori tattoo practitioner Iata Peautolu returns to Niue to run a Tātatau Art Workshop, aiming to document stories and traditions that can shape a deeper Niuean tātatau for future generations. Ocean Conservation Funding: Leaders at the Our Ocean conference are urged to tackle a major ocean conservation funding shortfall, with experts warning the gap is widening as countries push for 30% protection by 2030. Pacific Energy Reality Check: A new look at fuel shocks shows Pacific economies’ vulnerability to oil price spikes, strengthening calls to accelerate renewable energy transitions.