Pacific Labour & Agriculture: New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme marks 20 years of orchard and vineyard support, now involving 20,000+ workers from 10 countries; Timor-Leste joins in 2026 after overwhelming demand, with wages reported as low as NZ$26 in some cases. Tonga SDGs & Development: Prime Minister Lord Fakafanua presents Tonga’s second Voluntary National Review at the UN, highlighting progress on clean water, renewable energy, resilient infrastructure and partnerships, while urging faster, more flexible international support for climate and economic shocks. Tonga Health & Care Infrastructure: Construction has started on Tonga’s first integrated aged care facility at Houma, Tongatapu, backed by the ADB, Japan and Tonga, aiming to strengthen social protection as Tonga’s elderly population rises. Tonga Security & Media: Tonga’s Media Association warns that the drug trade is escalating across the Pacific, increasing pressure on law enforcement and putting journalists at greater risk—calling for stronger reporting and journalist protection. Pacific Policy & Regional Trade: MCC says it is positioning Pacific and Fiji partnerships as a transparent alternative to China’s Belt and Road, focusing on infrastructure, policy reforms and private investment. Pacific Environment & Governance: The UN seabed regulator defends its authority as deep-sea mining firms seek to halt investigations, arguing the deep seabed is a shared heritage.