Chatham Islands Politics: New Zealand’s most remote community held its first-ever election debate, with candidates facing the reality of serving a place that doesn’t see itself as Aotearoa—set against everyday life in Waitangi, from a once-a-week bank to a tight local economy. Border & Travel Tech: A proposed paperless trans-Tasman travel plan could speed up crossings, but experts and travel agents warn the rollout details matter, especially after past biometric delays overseas. Pacific Arts & Museum Culture: Te Papa highlights Pacific Arts items, including cross-cultural Polynesian craftsmanship and barkcloth traditions, reminding readers how island histories travel through collections. Health & Pacific Representation: Labour candidate Henrietta Hunkin-Tagaloa argues New Zealand’s health system should focus on prevention and primary care, drawing on her Pacific roots—her father from Samoa and her mother from Niue. Pacific Life Expectancy: New analysis shows life expectancy gains across Pacific nations, but with uneven progress—some countries improving while others, including Naoero, fall behind. Travel Access (Visa Rules): A roundup for Indian travellers lists 2026 visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa options, including island destinations like Fiji and the Cook Islands.