Explosive Safety: NZDF joined an ADF-led multinational operation in PNG to destroy about 2,200 WWII-era explosive remnants, disposing of roughly 7,550kg across East New Britain’s Gazelle, Kokopo and Rabaul districts to reduce long-running risks to communities. El Niño Water & Power: Port Moresby and Central province residents are being urged to conserve as Sirinumu Dam runs low, cutting hydro generation and forcing extra diesel power while protecting minimum raw water for the city supply. Bird Flu Watch: Australia confirmed a fourth H5N1 case in a migratory seabird (a giant petrel) with no signs of spread to poultry or wildlife yet—raising ongoing regional biosecurity attention for PNG’s poultry import controls. Labour Mobility: Bougainvilleans are continuing to move through Australia and New Zealand’s labour mobility schemes, with an ARoB recruitment hub set to transition to ABG operation—supporting skills and income that can indirectly strengthen resilience. Regional Cooperation: PNG and Solomon Islands signed a new 2026–2030 framework agreement covering development, infrastructure, security, trade and climate-related regional priorities. Blue Economy Research: Undana and ATSEA partner to study dugongs and seagrass ecosystems to support sustainable marine management. Oil & Gas Push: TotalEnergies and Petronas began a major offshore exploration campaign in PNG’s Gulf of Papua, including a frontier ultra-deepwater well. Public Health & WASH: WaterAid and NCDPHA ran WASH FIT training at 9-Mile Urban Clinic to strengthen water, sanitation, cleaning and medical waste practices.