Visa & Family Travel: Labour says it would expand visa-waiver travel for citizens of Pacific Islands Forum nations, aiming to cut costs and paperwork that stop Pacific whānau—including Niueans—from visiting family in Aotearoa for weddings, funerals and major cultural moments. Regional Ports & Security: The US says a military presence linked to a planned port upgrade near Penrhyn/Omoka in the Cook Islands is “all being negotiated,” while stressing the NZ$101m project is not a US base and is focused on policing illegal fishing and narco-terrorism—an issue that can shape how Pacific travellers view safety and access. Climate & Tourism Context: Regional coverage also highlights climate pressure and resilience priorities across Pacific communities, underscoring why weather-ready planning matters for travel planning and visitor confidence.