Fisheries & Sovereignty: Solomon Islands maritime law expert Dr/Prof Transform Aqorau says “Ship Rider Agreements” don’t surrender Pacific sovereignty. He argues enforcement authority stays with the coastal state, with partner countries only providing ships, aircraft, and operational support while authorised local officers carry out the law. The debate follows Prime Minister Matthew Wale signing a Ship Rider pact with the United States, after opposition claims it would “give away” sovereignty. Climate Comfort for Travellers: A Niue-linked heat solution is making waves: researchers are trialling white, solar-reflective roof paint to cut indoor heat during extreme 45°C conditions. The REFLECT project, led by the University of Auckland with partners across India, Burkina Faso, Mexico, Niue, and Fiji, targets cost-effective cooling for vulnerable communities—good news for anyone planning stays in hotter months.