This week....China exerts its influence at the Pacific Forum...Pasifica attend the Tangihanga of kiingi Tuheitia in numbers....The Pacific is embracing Starlink...cops going bad in Fiji...Winston Peters on the Samoa Citizenship Bill and the Pacific Music awards.

I'm Don Wiseman and today the Pacific Islands Forum summit, the next stage of the Kiribati election process ....deep sea mining drawing closer, there's upset in PNG after a journalist is shut out of a visit by the incoming president of Indonesia....and a call for spiritual leaders to be sent to NZ with RSE workers.

At the midway point in the Kiribati election newcomers to parliament could hold significant sway.......Concerns are being raised on Guam about a build up in US military assets ....Winston Peters visits the North Pacific and later on......An all-female Pacific-crewed research vessel arrives in Tonga.

Malo e lelei in Tagata o te moana today....the impasse over New Caledonia....we hear from a new woman MP in Kiribati...what can we expect from the Forum summit in Tonga and Palau claims that China is weaponising tourism.

The Kiribati election is drawing close; Fiji's soaring drug issues; The people of Guam are not happy as the US plans its new missile architecture; Google is keen to translate more Pacific languages; RNZ Pacific gets a new shortwave transmitter, and Tahiti's waves rein in Olympic surfers.

This week on Tagata: More violence in PNG; France says it will talk about New Caledonioa in September; Is mining the ocean floor now very close? A media operator in Solomons unjustly targetted by Facebook; How to save the forests of PNG; Is divorce in Fiji putting kids on the street? What Pacifika abuse victims now expect.

Today....the problems with a lack of land for homes in Papua New Guinea...France ships out armoured cars for the securiity forces in New Caledonia. and...questions are raised about invoking custom practice as mitigation in court trials in Samoa.

Ni sa bula vinaka in Tagata O Te Moana this week...Uncertainty continues to hamper efforts to return New Caledonia to normalcy as France heads into its snap election....A significant shift in the Fiji's political landscape is in the offing as time runs out for the FijiFirst opposition party to address constitutional anomalies.....There are concerns in Guam as US military activity on the island ramps up at an unprecented rate...And later on we talk to the director of the theatre adaptation of Tongan comedy Red White and Brass

On Tagata o te Moana this week: Still no clear path forward for New Caledonia a month after crippling unrest in the French Territory; We check in on the situation for New Zealand hostage Phillip Mehrtens in West Papua; New research looks at the cost of service for Pacific communities in Aotearoa; And there is stiff competition in the Micronesian Games underway in Majuro.

The focus in PNG's Enga is on relocating survivors and the surrounding communities; The role of slush funds in the PNG no confidence saga The people of Vanuatu back a constitutional reform its advocates say will end the persistent political instabiliity.

The search for bodies stops at PNG landslide site; The PNG opposition again fails with a push for a vote of no confidence; Rising concern in Guam over missiles; Who are the Pacifica who recognised in the King's Birthday Honours.

Tensions persist in New Caledonia; The scramble to find the victims of the landslip in Papua New Guinea; The New Zealand Budget comes up short for Pasifika; Some landowners in Bougainville are suing Rio Tinto over the Panguna mine, and Tonga's parliament says no to the death penalty for drug crimes.

We go behind the causes of the New Caledonian violence, ....highlight the commemorations of the arrival of the first indentured Indian labourers in Fiji 145 Years ago...the building of the biggest double hulled waka in Fiji ....these and other stories on Tagata o te Moana.

The FijiFirst Party says Frank Bainimarama will remain party leader despite his custodial sentence; The Director of Fiji's biggest sporting event has said they will consider dropping the name and branding of it's sponsor Coca-Cola for next years' 50th anniversary; A new project aims to close the existing gap on Pacific Ocean data.New Zealand Geographic and the Cawthron Institute have launched Citizens of the Sea, aiming to map the health and biodiversity of the Pacific at a larger scale than before; A new Climate Change documentary follows a crew of Pacific climate activists and Australian school students visiting the lands of the Gomeroi people in New South Wales.

Dengue in Samoa; a new approach to elections mooted in Solomon Islands; PNG to look to Africa on how to contain illegal guns; and containing emissions from plastics.

Protests in New Caledonia; Gun violences in Papua New Guinea; Tonga airline review is scathing; New Zealand's MFAT has more to do to make aid spending transparent; Building cultural capability in schools.

The fear Pacific countries are feeling amid the missile build-up; Samoa's quest to right a wrong; The impact of soaring cocoa prices; Tonga happy for China's help; Personhood for whales; A resort owner in Vanuatu shuts down a casino, saying they are unethical, and PNG cricket's on the rise

Violence erupts in Bougainville, the benefits of marine reserve areas are bigger than we may have thought, a call for a re-think on autism, rough waters for a PNG gold refining scheme, the Americans are growing their own kava and Pacifica rugby greats take the spotlight.

This week the horrific violence in Papua New Guinea and the role played by politicians; turtle wars in a Pacific paradise; the Pacific got no deal at the WTO but at least one NGO says it was a lucky escape; the Pacific continues to dominate lists of the most obese nations in the world; and Pacific fest is back on.

Tuvalu appoints a new prime minister Also A new Pasifika theatre show looks at developing healthy relationships And later... Pasifika children in New Zealand continue to live in poverty

We learn about digitising tapa from around the Pacific, Wellington's Pasifika community showcase their cultures, The captains of the Pasifika teams in the Super Rugby franchise are confident they can go far in this year's competition.

Keeping the pacific nuclear-free, in line with the Rarotonga treaty has been a recurring theme this week from the leaders of Tonga, Cook Islands and Samoa to New Zealand's visiting ministers; There are now 23 MPs on the opposition benches in Papua New Guinea ahead of an expected vote of no confidence in Prime Minister James Marape; The Cook Islands' now former deputy prime minister Robert Tapaitau has been removed from parliament;A US academic says the Biden adminstration's failure to fully engage with the Pacific during its first year is what has landed them in the transactional dilemma it is experiencing as it competes with China for influence in the region.

A wrap of the biggest Pacific news stories of the year; New Zealand's Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peter's meets with some Pacific leaders in Fiji; Pacific community advocate giving back to families doing it tough this Christmas; An education researcher concerned over NCEA pass rates in the Cook Islands and Niue; RNZ Pacific Sports Correspondent wraps up pacific sporting highlights of the year; Super Rugby's Moana Pasifika take on the role of South Auckland santa this Christmas.

Coming up first Samoa's health boss says media reports on Covid border restrictions are incorrect Also Frustrations over USP's vice chancellor leads to staff protests. And later we meet the music group that's preserving te reo Maori.

Nations vulnerable to the climate crisis are sounding caution over the launch of the long-awaited global fund; The former prime minister and now opposition leader of Tuvalu would scrap the Tuvalu/Australia treaty if elected as prime minister at the upcoming election; Bougainville negotiator says non-binding referendum claim is wrong; RSE schemes in question; Marshall Islands election result delays; Pacific Games in Solomon Islands has now been officially announced as the largest ever in the history of the tournament; The first-ever Samoan hero has been introduced to the gaming world.

The 17th Pacific Games officially opened in Solomon Islands with a colourful celebration of culture and unity; Cook Islands health advocate on a mission to increase awareness of dyslexia; After 18 months, the longest mural in the South Pacific is finally finished; France's new ambassador to the Pacific focussed on peace and freedom for the region; Pasifika actors dominate in Taika Waititi's latest film, 'Next Goal Wins'; New data reveals an increase in NZ students learning Pacific languages; A Fiji ice cream maker shares orgin secrets of the sweet coconut nectar.

Pacific Games in Solomon Islands kicking off; Outer island community in Fiji reluctant to relocate despite sea level rise; Aitutaki matriarch recalls fond memories of past leaders forum; Cook Island tourism calls on visitors to be climate change conscious; Criminal lawyer explains how NZ justice system fails Pacific peoples; Wellington's Signature choir prepare for upcoming performance.

UN rep says America is committed to climate financing for Pacific, Pacific cacao farmers unlocks potential of their beans, RNZ Pacific's shortwave service turns 75 years old, An act of faith leads Samoan teenager to create golfing history, Moana Pasifika new coaches are optimistic for next Super Rugby season.

Schools in Vanuatu grapple with damages and disruptions in the aftermath of Lola. A long drought has been declared in parts of Tonga. Nauru crowns its new beauty pageant winner.

Schools in Vanuatu grapple with damages and disruptions following Lola; NZ health and defence force tests emergency response; Zero Pacific representation in NZ's next govt; Tonga set for a long drought; Veteran politician takes the top job in Nauru; and Solomon Islands prepare to welcome thousands of athletes for Pacific Games

Cyclone Lola destroys schools and homes in Vanuatu; Remote island in Solomon Islands also battered by Cyclone Lola; Incoming NZ Pasifika MPs share aspirations for parliament; Melanesian youth in New Zealand lead the way in preservation of their unique cultures; An NGO wants Papua New Guinea to realise the country is experiencing an alarming rise in new HIV infections.

Typhoon Bolaven passes CNMI leaving minimal damage, Fiji celebrates 53 years of independence, Researcher warns high cost of living will affect Pasifika children's learning, Freedom of religion in Fiji sparks public debate, Award winning theatre show celebrates Pasifika poets and writers, Museum exhibition in Sydney explores Australia's ties with the Pacific.

Lack of civic education leads NZ school leavers 'ill-equipped'; Pacific climate champion says big countries lack 'ambition'; Flying Fijians overjoyed after historic win over Australia in Rugby World Cup; PNG struggle to bring HIV infection rates down; Delay in plans for Rarotonga's mural project; Medical student aims to improve Canterbury healthcare for rheumatic fever patients; Dunedin chocolate factory pledges support for Pacific koko growers.

Plans to increase health workforce in NZ 'doesn't go far enough' - Dr Collin Tukuitonga; Large scale logging continues in PNG despite Govt opposition; Pacific nations struggling to retain trained nurses; Young Maori and Pasifika performers take the stage for Otago Polyfest; Mana Moana musical showcase heads to Auckland.

The Pasifika community in New Zealand's south island discuss issues ahead of elections; RNZ Pacific reporter speaks out on bribery during MSG trip; We speak with the international advocacy group helping the Banaban community find justice; Australia's new international development policy 'a missed opportunity'; A new gardening club led by a Tongan church emerges in East Auckland's Tamaki area.

New Zealand's major political parties are vying for Pasifika votes come election day; NZ universities sets deadlines to eliminate disparities; A new documentary shows a softer side of Pasifika rugby players.

'Pacific leaders are committed to holding Japan to account': PIF secretary-general, Anti-climatic ending for the Melanesian Spearhead Group leaders meeting, Maui locals want to see the return of tourists, Thousands in Bougainville remain displaced following Mt Bagana eruption, New Zealand's housing crisis persists after four decades, Aupito William Sio exits NZ Parliament after 16 years.

Manus Island murder witness wants justice; Maui fires exacerbates Hawaii's housing crisis; Banaban community seeks apology from NZ govt; Dead humpback whale washed up in Cook Islands; NZ's gender pay gap legislation needs to consider Pacific people.

Maui fire survivors recall terrifying moments in Lahaina, political impasse emerges in Vanuatu's parliament, Fiji leaders adamant that the country is safe amidst travel advisories, Pasifika music stars celebrated in the heart of South Auckland, Women-led initiative delivers water for all in Marshall Islands.

A Solomon Islands newspaper has agreed to promote China in exchange for cash; Cook Islands Language Week for 2023 is in full swing in New Zealand; French president announces plans for the first embassy in Polynesia.

The fate of the deep ocean discussed in Jamaica, former refugee calls for a Royal Commission into Australia's handling of refugees, power and water returns in parts of Guam post-typhoon, breast cancer mortality rates still high among Maori and Pasifika women, Cook Islands filmmaker explores ancestral mountains through new doco and Fiji fast becoming a popular business destination for outsourcing.

Fiji bar owner denies staff are untrained following drowning incident; The International Seabed Authority meets in Jamaica; Bougainville: Mt Bagana eruption threatens crops and rivers; Nauru govt declares detonating WW2 old bomb as 'dangerous'; Bougainville meeting delayed - moderator may be called in; New Zealand and Australia reject claims by the Solomon Islands prime minister; New app launched aimed to help Kiwi men overcome violence.

The significance of Matariki in the Cook Islands; 'What Kiribati language week means to me': Vaitoa Mallon; Pacific Community leaders urges NZ govt to ban dawn raids; IAEA Director adamant Japan's wastewater plan meets 'safety requirements'; Moana Pasifika announces new head coach; TV show launches third season exploring NZ's gospel music scene.

Solomon Islands celebrates 45 years of Independence; Indonesia's Presidents visits PNG amid growing concerns over West Papua; Pacific presence felt at climate summit in London; Number of experts deem Japan's nuclear wastewater plan is 'safe'; Fund to help sorcery victims in PNG 'urgently needed'; Vanuatu beach volleyball team share secrets to their success.

Fiji uni students pardoned in this year's 'compassionate' budget; Tonga Parliament passes budget; Pressure grows for shipping industry to decarbonise ahead of climate summit; Aspiring basketballer could face deportation to Tonga; Woman kidnapped in PNG earlier this year speaks out; 'Race against time'.

High Seas Treaty 'critical' for the world's wellbeing - United Nations; Calls for independence gains traction at UN's decolonisation meeting; Anti-nuclear movements need to return to the table says activist; Experts from NZ, Aust and Taiwan weigh in on Japan's nuclear wastewater project; 'An organisation with staggering debt levels' - Fiji Rugby Union Chair; New Zealand Symphony Orchestra arrives in Tonga for its first Pacific tour.

Outbreak of Influenza in Guam's evac centres weeks on from typhoon; Pacific journo's urged not to be swayed by geopolitical narratives; Fulbright scholar becomes the first Kanak to graduate from Harvard Law School; PNG Minister committs to tabling Bougainville referendum Samoan women's football club captures hearts at league tournament.

Tonga's rugby union coach believes team has serious x-factor for world cup. Fifteen Pasifika people recognised in King's Birthday Honours list. Fiji and NZ strengthen bilateral relations.

Princess Siu'ilikutapu a champion for women's rights; Refugee advocates concerned about 'slow process' for Nauru refugees; Oscar Temaru corruption conviction annulled; Cook Islands 2023 budget increases minimum wage; New disaster warning system in place for Tonga; Samoan journalist captures personal journey of the Tatau.

Coming up...Tokelau went into lockdown on Friday Tokelau after confirmation of their first community case of Covid-19 case; Also..We check in on the recovery effort in the Northen Mariana Islands after Typhoon Mawar; And later on...We sitdown with Iam Tongi the first Pasifika singer to win American Idol.

Pacific leaders are starting to trickle into Papua New Guinea (PNG) ahead of two high level meetings; New Zealand's Pacific package in its annual budget focuses on strengthening the Pasifika workforce; Tongan triplets graduate from Victoria University's law school; Apology for Girmitya descendents a 'major step for unity'; Moetai Brotherson of the pro-independence Tavini Huira'atira party has been elected president of French Polynesia for a five-year term; Medicinal cannabis in Cook Islands likely to be available in June; USP gearing up for "watershed" Lapita conference.

Biden's stop-over in PNG labelled 'muscle flexing'; PNG's Foreign Minister hits back at critics over daughter's Tiktok video; Budget Australia 2023: Billions to go towards the Pacific; Samoan beauty queen determined to improve health system for children; Coe bows out after 30 years in the Niue parliament;

Mixed feelings among Pacific peoples surrounding King Charles' coronation; Dawn Raids: Aupito William Sio calls for urgent change within Immigration NZ; Rebuild from flash floods in Tahiti to cost millions; Fiji night-clubs: Public Consultations on closing times ends this week; Push for more visible democracy in Niue

American Samoa confirms second measles case, Niueans vote this weekend but 30 percent of seats already decided, US to assist PNG government prevent conflict and promote stability in Hela, Fiji concludes its two-day National Economic Summit, Pacific soldiers both past and present honoured in this year's Anzac Day

A new report has revealed Tonga's underwater volcano disaster was more powerful than the largest U.S nuclear test...triggering massive waves; The Cook Islands Parliament has decriminalised homosexuality; We chat with a double gold medal Powerlifting Champion.

Halo oketa wantok iu here kam lo Tagata O Te Moana from RNZ Pacific me Koroi Hawkins; Papua New Guinea residents thankful to be alive after massive magnitude seven earthquake; Pacific elders condemn AUKUS security pact as going against the spirit of the Blue Pacific continent; And the Vanuatu government expresses disappointment in New Zealand's 'national carrier' for not coming to the aid of Air Vanuatu while its only Boeing 737 was down.

Fiji journalists celebrate as draconian media law is repealed, RNZ's Iliesa Tora recalls period of Fiji media censorship, Increase in mental health support for Vanuatu, Justice non-existent in Kiribati - Sir Ieremia Tabai, Posie Parker counter-protest a 'distraction' for Pacific traditional systems, Pushing Samoan language into mainstream spaces through music.

Indonesian security forces attack West Papuan militant group holding Mehrtens, Vanuatu celebrates its historic climate resolution at the UN, Housing crisis in NZ impacts Pasifika children, A new fisheries app launched in the Pacific, Programme in Kiribati underway to help youth into employment, The legacy of the late Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa widely remembered

Pacific needs to stand up and pay attention to AUKUS - Dame Meg Taylor; 'Hope in the Pacific keeps dwindling due to climate inaction' - Greenpeace; Tonga PM pleased with Pacific Education Ministers conference; Pacific leaders selected for Dawn Raids scholarship programme; Talanoa with 'Red, White and Brass' film director Damon Fepulea'i.

Coming up first -An Australian academic says Pacific countries cannot take Canberra at face value when it comes to AUKUS and its committment to the Rarotonga Treaty. Communities are still without power in Vanuatu after tropical cyclones Judy and Kevin tore through the country about a fortnight ago. Samoa has started a new MMR vaccine campaign to boost its rates following suspected measles cases in the country and A new collection of poetry from Pasifika students across Aotearoa is being published in a book to be released on World Poetry Day next week.

Australian MPs snub chance to close the government's offshore centres for detaining asylum seekers and refugees; Pacific celebrates agreement on High Seas Treaty as a win for ocean protection; And later on; Pacific dance, language and culture celebrated in Auckland as Polyfest returns in full force

Vanuatu lashed by two cyclones in two days and an earthquake! The future political status of the French Territory of New Caledonia could be determined this weekend, And later on - A veteran PNG general pitches Hollywood his account of the Sandline crisis during the Bougainville Civil War.

New Zealand's Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment says over 3800 Pacific islanders working under the Reconised Seasonal Employer scheme in the cyclone impacted Hawke's Bay region have all been accounted for and there are plenty of jobs for them in the short term. Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says he is enjoying the role of being a unifying figure in the Pacific. Mr Rabuka, who was elected to government in December, has been credited for his pivotal role in Kiribati's return to the Pacific Islands Forum. Tonga lost one of its greatest minds last month, with the passing of Sitiveni Halapua. Dr Halapua, who was 73, was an academic who became a politician. The head of the University of the South Pacific's journalism program says there are concerns about an ongoing review of Fiji's repressive media laws but they are giving the new coalition government the benefit of the doubt. Families of four missing Papua New Guinea fishermen that left Hanuabada in Port Moresby over two weeks ago holding out hope for their safe return.

We check in on how Pasifika communities are faring after Gabrielle; We look at the significance of Washington DC locking in the final Compact MoU in Micronesia; We speak with the host of Fair Game a podcast taking a serious look at what Pacific rugby nations are up against inside the World Rugby universe.

An expert in transnational crime and regional security says the record seizure of cocaine announced by New Zealand authorities on Wednesday - while significant is still just a drop in the ocean; An international law expert believes Japan is passing the risk of its upcoming release of treated nuclear wastewater into the ocean onto Pacific leaders; Recent Shark culling in New Caledonian has divided public opinion in the French territory; A conservationist is calling on the Fiji government to revoke a lease for a major development that threatens one of Suva's last remaining mangrove forests; A bill to introduce caning as a form of punishment is stirring public debate on Guam; The Oceania Football Confederation and the Asian Football Confederation have signed an agreement they say will see more matches between countries from the two FIFA regions.

We spoke with Massey University Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Defence and Security Studies, Anna Powles, about the significance of Kiribati's intention to return to the Pacific Islands Forum ahead of its leaders meeting early this year; Aotearoa New Zealand's new Prime Minister says he is committed to strengthening Pacific ties and agrees to look at an overstayer petition launched by Pacific community leaders almost three years ago; It's been a busy first month for Fiji's new coalition government which has set about restructuring the public service hierachy amid constant criticisms from the opposition group; The Cook Islands is seeing if it can import medicinal cannabis without changing any of its laws.The country voted in favour of cannabis being allowed for medicinal use, in a referendum during the 2022 general election; We talanoa with two contributors the 'We Are Still Here' project a unique film that explores the effects of colonisation on indigenous peoples in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific through eight separate stories; The president of Henderson Eels Football Club in Solomon Islands, Hudson Wakio, says the secret behind securing Solomon Islands first ever professional European Football contract for a locally based player is sending the right candidate.

Over 100 activist groups, including Greenpeace, Veterans for Peace, and the Arms Control Association have signed a letter calling on US President Joe Biden to apologise for nuclear tests conducted in the Marshall Islands; Pacific community leaders are calling for swift action over an overstayer petition that was launched almost three years ago; Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban says she hopes the appointment of Carmel Sepuloni as New Zealand's first ever deputy prime minister of Pasifika descent inspires young up and coming Pacific leaders to pursue careers in politics; ; Some Cook Islands tourism operators are struggling financially as they grapple with the country's holiday low season;Tonga's Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni Hu'akavameiliku enters his second year in power after a rocky start to his term;Tennis player Brett Baudinet might have passed the magical age of 40 but he's certainly not slowing down.

We get the latest from Fiji; Tokelau records Covid-19 cases at the border, and we look back at the big news and sports stories for the Pacific in 2022

Hiroshima survivor backs call to halt Japan's plan to dump nuclear wastewater into the Pacific ocean; We take a closer look at potential reasons for a record low voter turnout in the Fiji elections this year as vote counting continues; Pasifika songs with orchestral music has been brought to life just in time for the festive season.

Pacific fisheries observers will be redeployed from next month. Niue officially confirms there's Covid-19 community transmission for the first time. And later on, we talanoa with Aivale Cole, who sung the Samoan national anthem for the Rugby League World Cup final.

At least 20,000 affected by severe earthquakes in Solomon Islands. More concerns raised about the conviction of a prominent Fiji lawyer for contempt of court. We take a look at Moana Pasifika's player roster for the 2023 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Chile boosts Pacific countries committed to phase out fossil fuels at COP27; Canadian ocean miner completes controversial Pacific seabed tests;Toa Samoa have a shot and writing more Rugby League World Cup history in a David vs Goliath final against the Kangaroos.

Pacific leaders call for a climate-change fund at COP27; The Solomon Islands opposition say international aid donors should focus on development not guns; We take a closer look at the three new MPs coming into Tonga's parliament after recent by-elections.

We explore some of the big issues that will be discussed over the next two weeks at COP-27 in Egypt; The family of a murdered Papua New Guinea policeman demand government rein in the lawlessness in Hela Province; And later on - We talk to Niue's first ever commonwealth games medalist after his first ever trip to visit his homeland.

NZ backs conditional moratorium on deep sea mining. Death toll from PNG massacre at 24 on Friday with over 100 injured. As we await the announcement of an election date in Fiji we ask some members of the public for their views are on the upcoming election.

TAGATA O TE MOANA PLEASE NOTE.: For first words and out words plus duration you need to check in the txt box of the programme in Costar. If you don't know how to do that please ask an operator or check with the announcer/operator on before you. Station & Time Broadcast: 2022-10-22 17:30 Code: Tagata HOST: Koroi Hawkins IN: CONCH & Drumming (0:05) (Halo oketa..' at 03 secs... ) OUT: ...Next time moa.... at ..31:45. . .. DRUMMING (0:16) DUR: ...31...mins..55...secs ( next taem moa..31.at ..40.. ) Tagata o te Moana plays just before half past five every Saturday afternoon here on RNZ National. BRIEF TRAIL: A political commentator in Fiji says the upcoming election will be a real test for the country's transitional democracy; The Methodist Church of New Zealand apologises to abuse survivors at Royal Commission of Inquiry hearing; And later on...We talanoa to Dame Valerie Adams one of the world's most celebrated shot put athletes about her new feature documentary "More Than Gold" Tagata (pron Tangata) O Te Moana... with news and issues from the Pacific region.

A political commentator in Fiji says the upcoming election will be a real test for the country's transitional democracy; The Methodist Church of New Zealand apologises to abuse survivors at Royal Commission of Inquiry hearing; And later on...We talanoa to Dame Valerie Adams one of the world's most celebrated shot put athletes about her new feature documentary "More Than Gold".

Despite some hiccups unofficial results from Vanuatu's snap election are coming in and so far show a lot of returned MPs. Two convicted former MPs in Tonga have had their corruption and fraud convictions quashed by the country's Court of Appeal. We talk to one of the organisers of an upcoming Indigenous Film festival in Solomon Islands callled Native lens.

US President Joe Biden outlines commitments to the Pacific at the leaders summit; Five former leaders of Vanuatu are contesting in their country's elections; New Zealand's Pasifika communities welcomes a new strategy to retain their languages.

The Marshall Islands urges the US to settle outstanding issues involving its legacy of nuclear bomb tests; Pacific leaders stand in solidarity at the UN General Assembly calling for more climate action; We check in on Papua New Guinea with the latest on the earthquake disaster response.

Recovery for PNG quake victims expected to take months; Greenpeace slams deep sea mining go ahead from UN madated International Seabed Authority; More Maori and Pacific teachers needed for better education outcomes.

Pacific countries mourn the passing of Queen Elizabeth II; The European Union looks to step up its Pacific economic investment and trade focus.

Coming up, we hear about the work being done to help drought affected communities in Kiribati; Also, Papua New Guinea requests a security treaty with Australia; And, concerns are growing over road safety in Tonga after a spike in the number of fatal car crashes.

From Huawei to Telstra to Vodafone - who is who in Pacific telecoms?; Also...Familiar faces return to Papua New Guinea's cabinet which is sporting two interesting new ministries; And...later on in the program-Samoans celebrate the news that their iconic Vailima beer will continue to be produced locally.

Vanuatu is preparing for a snap-election unless a court challenge is made against the president's decision to dissolve parliament; Tne CNMI is still struggling with a Covid-19 outbreak that started after it reopened its borders in June; We talanoa to a South Auckland busines leader who has just been inducted into the New Zealand Business Hall of Fame.

RNZ Pacific 80th anniversary of Guadalcanal campaign during WWII special: The final result of the Cook Islands election has been released with the Cook Islands Party set to retain power.

PNG parliament to resume again next week as a chaotic election period wraps up; The WWII history of Solomons Islands scouts and coastwatchers is to be included in the country's school curriculum; Pacific Music celebrated in Auckland at the first live in-person Pacific Music Awards since covid; Transparency Solomons condemns govt attack on freedom of speech; Tourism revival boosts Pacific economy - ADB

Outward migration, high living costs and education reform key election issues for Cook Islanders heading to the polls next week;Samoa prepares to welcome tourists back to the islands; Over 200 athletes from 12 pacific Island countries competing in this year's commonwealth games; It is calmer now in Papua New Guinea after days of election related violence; The head of Fiji's National Federation Party calls out Australia and New Zealand for their silence on deterioating standards of democracy in the Pacific; USP vice chancellor says Fiji's non payment of subsidy is hurting the regional institution.

Transparency International in Papua New Guinea are calling for better preparations for future elections; Niue's premier Dalton Tagelagi makes his first official visit to NZ two years after his election;Team Niue enroute to the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham;Freak ocean waves wreak havoc in Polynesia; Govt and business urged to address Pasifika pay gap; A new study has helped solve some of the mystery around the origins Micronesian peoples.

Longterm strategy to address Pacific challenges launched in Suva; The Solomon Islands PM reiterates his stance on having a Chinese military base in his country; Kiribati communities in Aotearoa celebrate their language and culture; And later on in the show NZ environmental and conservation groups unhappy with the national scientific research agency taking on work for a Deep Sea Mining venture.

PNG's election woes continue as key official resigns amid allegations of electoral fraud; Refugees on Nauru were a hot topic for Aus and NZ immigration ministers meeting this week; There is an emerging Judicial crisis in Kiribati as the govt suspends the Chief Justice.

The former Fiji prime minister and Peoples Alliance Party leader, Sitiveni Rabuka, is on the campaign trail in New Zealand. Rugby league fans come out in full force in South Auckland's Otahuhu to rally behind the Kiwis and Mate Ma'a Tonga. Aotearoa celebrates Matariki - it's first indigenous holiday. US and Marshalls aim for compact MOU this year. Pacific rights data shows erosion of freedoms. Pacific rights data shows erosion of freedoms; New Pacific resilience diplomas to be availble in 2023; And Dika Toua elated after hall of fame induction.

Drought stricken communities in Kiribati in for the long haul; PNG women candidates say they are up to the challenge this election; Samoa's prime minister wraps up her first official visit to Aotearoa New Zealand;Tahiti tourism boom as covid-19 restrictions ease; Pacific urged to decriminalise homosexuality.

Pacific Islands Forum rift mended in Suva; NZ govt pressed to call out Indonesia for heavy handed shut down of peaceful protests in West Papua; Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa found guilty of election bribery, again, in Tonga.

China's foreign minister is currently touring the Pacific as Beijing seeks a region-wide deal with nearly a dozen nations; The election of Australia's new prime minister means there's opportunity for changes in its relationships with Pacific nations; Tuvalu mourns the death of its Deputy Prime Minister; The Cook Islands 2022 budget; Researchers finish mapping the mouth of the underwater Tongan volcano that, in January, produced Earth's biggest atmospheric explosion in over a century.

Tonga's deputy pm loses seat after bribery conviction; Samoa court ruling for more women MPs welcomeD; concerns raised for Pacifica students dropping out to work and support their families all that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana.

Coming up first; Top US officials meet with Solomons PM over China security treaty; FLNKS parties in New Caledonia standing firm on decolonisation from France; And Pacific country's are well poised for the return of tourism as borders reopen.

Pacific parliamentarians form an alliance against Deep Sea Mining; Call for strong policies and commitments as Ocean Conference gets underway in Palau; NZR urged to do better by Maori and Pasifika female rugby players; All that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana

Solomon Islands prime minister breaks the silence on security agreement with China; Fiji and New Zealand strengthen their bilateral cooperation arrangements; The Cook Islands government prepares to reopen its borders to the world.

A draft security cooperation agreement, between China and Solomon Islands, has been leaked on social media. In New Zealand, Covid-19 continues to hit Pacific Peoples hard with one of the highest hospitalisation rates due to a high volume of cases Two months have past since a volcanic eruption and tsunami devastated Tonga, leaving three dead and causing over 90 million US dollars in damages.

A cautionary tale for Pasifika families...parents of a child with rheumatic fever are urging adults to take sore throats and rashes in children seriously; Pacific-led social and health providers struggling to get funding support amid the pandemic; And we take a look at what's coming up in another action packed weekend of Super Rugby Pacific

Two months on from the devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami, battling Covid-19 is the biggest issue confronting Tonga. The head of Fiji's women crisis centre says it's "shocking" that two prominent Fijian men are advocating for a convicted rapist to be allowed to play rugby. Gaming harm is impacting a growing number of Pacific youth in Aotearoa.

The govts of Australia and New Zealand are being urged to resolve conflicting Pacific foreign policies; Calls for a united front in the fight against non-communicable diseases; And we take a closer look at the latest climate report from the United Nations; All that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana.

The US secretary of state's fly-in-fly-out visit to Fiji is raising some eyebrows in the region; The Fiji government lifts Covid-19 restrictions as part of new strategic direction; And Concern over low vaccination rates in some Pacific countries.

Lack of funding, an outdated common roll and Covid-19 all big issues for this year's national election in PNG; Telecommunications to be restored to Tongan islands most affected by the volcanic eruption and tsunami; And later on in the program; We check in on some of the Covid-19 outbreaks taking hold in countries and territories across the Pacific.

We speak with our correspondent in Tonga about the election of the new prime minister Siaosi Sovaleni; There are mixed reactions in New Caledonia to a controversial independence referendum facilitated by France; And a Pacific survivor of historic abuse in state care wants the New Zealand government to act quickly to bring healing to survivors; All that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana.

The Solomon Islands government appears intact ahead of an imending vote of no confidence; Fiji awaiting genomic sequencing results from Australia on possible Omicron variant cases; West Papuans mark 60 years fighting for self-determination; All that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana.

Lawlessness persists in Solomons as Australian troops touchdown and the opposition leader calls for the PM to step down; The Tongan government is sticking to its decision not to facilitate anymore repatriation flights this year despite pleas from stranded RSE workers; Pacific nations are gearing up for a huge boost after the latest change to World Rugby's eligibility rules; All that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana.

Twelve new MPs have been elected to Tonga's 26 member parliament; Pacific civil society leaders deeply disappointed in the outcomes of COP26 continue to call for radical climate action; Fiji is set to shorten its nationwide curfew hours as the country reopens for tourists; All that and more on Tagata O Te Moana.

The promise of a muscular approach to ensuring that pledges made in the global climate crisis response are kept; Fiji Borders reopen, govt targets 80,000 visitors in 60 days; Preparations are in full swing for the reopening of the Cook Islands travel bubble with NZ in two months; Tongans go to the polls Thursday next week; America Samoa reports a new Covid case; New Caledonia's pro-independence parties double down on referendum boycott; and French Polynesia wins the right to host the 2027 Pacific Games.

The Pacific delegates at COP26 are united in their message - global warming must be limited to within 1.5 degrees. New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta has unveiled the government's Pacific Resilience strategy, updating the Pacific Reset from three years ago. Pasifika in Christchurch are frustrated that the city council has disregarded the voices of the region's Pacific community involving a major project.

World leaders urged to prioritise the survival of humanity over economic growth at COP26; Armed conflict in West Papua has caused a fresh influx of displaced people into PNG; Also, France ups its security presence for New Caledonia's independence referendum; And New Zealand's one way Pacific travel bubble is welcomed ahead of the festive season; All that and more on Tagata O Te Moana.

Experts are warning the pandemic could undo a decades worth of development gains in the Pacific; Pacific Islands Forum welcomes New Zealand's climate aid boost heading into COP26; Also,relief in New Zealand as RSE workers start returning for the summer harvest; All that and more coming up on Tagata O Te Moana.

Is China changing the way it wins over Pacific states?; Cook Islands businesses welcome the start of repatriations from NZ; First RSE workers exempted from MIQ arrive in New Zealand; all that and more Pacific stories coming up on Tagata o Te moana.

We check in on what Pacific leaders have been saing at the UN General Assembly in New York; Papua New Guinea is preparing for a four-week lockdown due to an outbreak of the Covid-19 delta variant; Also Pacific health experts are questioning the government's decision to bring Auckland out of alert level 4; And later in the program we hear about the latest signings for the Super Rugby Pacific side the Fijian Drua.

A resolution is reached in Samoa after a week of political drama that saw opposition MPs banned from parliament; Australia's new security pact with the US and the UK has touched a nerve at the heart of Pacific regionalism. Also Fiji's remote outer islands are on high alert as the Covid-19 outbreak reaches their shores; We hear about global support for a moratorium on seabed mining...and later on in the program; More than 360 Cook Islanders stranded in New Zealand will not be able to fly home until Auckland drops to alert level two.

Fiji's remote communities put on high-alert as Covid-19 spreads; Govt pledges $26m to support Pasifika community in lockdown; Also, more political drama in Vanuatu as the President pardons three former prime ministers; And later on in the program we talk about the newest Super Rugby sides Moana Pasifika and the Fijian Drua who are on the search for players.

The Pacific's coral reef systems and coastal fisheries are set for extinction if wealthy nations don't drastically and immediately cut greenhouse gas emissions; Promising signs in Papua New Guinea's Hela Province as warlords laydown their guns; Fiji's Secretary of Health accepts the new travel restrictions from Fiji to New Zealand, agreeing the outbreak there is out of control; Palau is seeing a steady increase in visitors and settling into their new normal after achieving herd immunity against Covid-19; Special debate held in New Zealand's Parliament to remember and condemn the 1970s Dawn Raids; The coach of the Fiji women's sevens team has been inundated with messages and phone calls from prospective players since their bronze medal win at the Tokyo Olympics.

The chair of the Pacific Islands Forum opens leaders summit with an apology to Micronesian leaders most of whom boycotted the meeting; Fiji democracy under strain during twin crises, locals question silence from regional leaders; Samoa's new prime minister says her cancelling of a major port project that was to be funded by China will not hinder bilateral relations; Pacific countries welcome easier access to New Zealand's Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme;France quashes a Chinese-funded project to build the Pacific's largest fish farm; A new book looks at the migration journey and lives of twelve Cook Islands women in Tokoroa

Samoa's first woman prime minister believes the political crisis, which blocked her transition to power, has caused longstanding damage to Samoa's democracy; The political tussle amid a worsening Covid-19 crisis continues in Fiji; Fiji's former health minister says the nation's health system is collapsing under the pressure of the pandemic; West Papua's struggle to contain Covid-19 are being hampered by indigenous communities' mistrust in Indonesian authorities; New Caledonia's pro-independence groups boosted by the reelection of congress president Roch Wamytan; A Tokelauan/Maori survivor shares his experiences of extensive abuse and differential treatment whilst in state care and in the care of the Salvation Army; We hear from Fiji Sevens coach Gareth Baber talking about defending Fiji's Olympic Champions status.

West Papuans are challenging the constitutionality of a new special autonomy law passed by Jakarta; Tourism operators in Samoa are cautiously optimistic about a proposed travel bubble with New Zealand; and New Caledonians ponder the implications of December's referendum on independence from France.

Fiji's health system is starting to crack under the pressure of an escalating Covid-19 crisis, Samoa Court of Appeal holding urgent hearing on multiple defied rulings to convene parliament;Vanuatu's prime minister Bob Loughman and 18 other government MPs have lost an important appeal case; Workers rights advocates in Fiji have labelled the government's Covid-19 response as being "more of a fire brigade approach"; We speak with the secretary general of the Pacific Islands Forum about regional crises, Covid-19 and Pacific geopolitics; New study finds Pasifika are three times more likely to be hospitalised for Covid-19 than any other ethnic group in New Zealand;Moana Pasifika has been granted an unconditional licence to join an expanded Super Rugby competition next year.

Concern in Fiji as Covid deaths accelerate; New Caledonia has elected its first pro-independence Kanak president; We hear concerns from some ordinary Samoan citizens tired of the political crisis there; Bougainville and Papua New Guinea andvance their independence referendum negotiations; NZ's healthcare system racist towards Pasifika - Report; Pacific banking network shrinking at twice the global rate.

A Samoan academic in New Zealand says despite the caretaker prime minister's defiance, Samoa's political impasse will most likely be resolved next week; It's week 12 of the Samoa political crisis and, and in the latest development MPs are resigning from their seats to force by-elections; Fijians have been warned that unless more of them take the risks of the Covid-19 pandemic seriously, many more deaths will occur; The Deep Sea Conservation Coalition is calling on Pacific Island leaders to place a moratorium on seabed mining; Vanuatu Prime Minister Bob Loughman has defeated a motion of no confidence against him in parliament, but a court ruling has left his government on shakey ground; A high-level roundtable on France's nuclear legacy in French Polynesia will be held in Paris this week.

A new analysis shows Accident Compensation Corporation or ACC is biased against women, Maori and Pasifika; Pasifika journalists share their experiences about working in mainstream media, following the week the New Zealand government is expected to deliver a formal apology for the Dawn Raids; Vanuatu is to have a literary first this month with the launch of an anthology of women's writing. Sista, Stanap Strong! features work from three generations of women spanning from just 20 to an octogenarian; Fiji was once first in line for a travel bubble with New Zealand and Australia, but now the Pacific island nation is grappling with an escalating Covid-19 crisis; Political tensions are rising in New Caledonia. The decolonisation process under the 1998 Noumea Accord is nearing its conclusion, with a third referendum on independence from France planned in December; The Economist Intelligence Unit has ranked Port Moresby near the bottom in an index of international cities, but the governor of the Papua New Guinea capital has described this as harsh; 'Pacific Studies' proposed to be taught in NZ high schools.

Pasifika high school students report the worst housing deprivation in the country; There's growing suspicion in Fiji that a number of recent deaths caused by Covid-19, have not been officially counted by the health authorities; Creative New Zealand's latest research shows positive attitudes towards the arts have hit an all-time-high; A Niuean church elder has shared his horrid experience in state care this week with the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care; Health authorities in Papua New Guinea are struggling to get people vaccinated against Covid-19; The leader of the FAST Party says there is no way for the rival HRPP to present a Budget under the current impasse.

A health expert in New Zealand is warning against the Fiji government's plan to isolate Covid-19 patients at home amid the escalating cases in the country; United States Congressman from Hawaii, Ed Case, wants his government to work more closely with the nations of the Pacific; Striking Pasifika nurses demanding better connections with Pacific peoples from New Zealand's health system;Pacific and Maori church leaders are stepping up in the battle against misinformation about Covid-19 vaccination; One of New Caledonia's main pro-independence groups is confident it can rally the support needed to become a new country; Pacific contributions to drama, music, education, religion, languages and advocacy have been recognised in this year's Queens Birthday Honours List.

NZ urged to cut defense ties with Indonesia; Questions raised about RSE scheme as more workers approved; Valuing the wealth of PNG's natural environment; Solomons passport renewal service opens in New Zealand; Pacific economies forecast to head back into growth; Rotumans mark 140 years of language and culture.

We check in on the court battles in Samoa's fraught political standoff with a new election on the cards; Concerns in Papua New Guinea that an increase in sorcery accusations may be linked to Covid-19 deaths; Cook Islands travel bubble with New Zealand to open this month;Warnings over Jakarta's move to classify Papuan independence fighters as terrorists; Greenpeace says the New Zealand government should step in and stop its dairy industry from using Palm Oil Kernel Expeller as a supplementary feed.

Doctors in Papua New Guinea say the Covid-19 situation there is only getting worse; The UN children's agency warns the situation in Timor-Leste is dire as the government struggles to cope with the impacts of the recent floods and Covid-19; The leader of the Fa'atuatua i le Atua Samoa ua Tasi, or FAST party, in Samoa, expects a decision from the Supreme court by next Friday on the issue of the sixth woman MP; Human rights activists in Papua fear indigenous civilians will bear the brunt of any retaliation for the killing of a top Indonesian intelligence official; The president of the Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce is remaining optimistic about a travel bubble with New Zealand opening this month; Palau's president says apologies from some Pacific Islands Forum leaders this week is a step in the right direction but he says more action is needed; The Solomon Islands government is being urged to shelve its plans to extend the term of the current parliament by one year; New research looks at health needs for Pasifika Rainbow communities.

Controversial legislation only the tip of the iceberg in Samoan election;Pacific countries press ahead with AstraZeneca rollout; New Caledonia to hold third independence referendum; PNG goes with the devil it knows over large gold mine; Pacific rugby players lining up for Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika teams; Government announces new funding for Pasifika Mental health services; Pacific Trust proposing new location for multi-purpose Pacific venue.

PNG government struggling to convince public on covid response; Covid-19 vaccinations rolled out in Wallis and Futuna; Pacific civil society calls for global ban on deep sea mining;Fijian-Indians challenge NZ govt over ethnic classification;New govt initiative targets lack of Maori and Pasifika midwives; Experts canvass economic options for an independent Bougainville; New Zealand commemorates Pacific service people with war memorial;Pacific netballers keen for regional comp after cancellation of World Youth Cup.

PNG approves vaccine as it struggles to contain Covid-19; Warning against Draft Bill turning Fiji into police state; Tuvalu govt seeking financial immortality on the blockchain; Concerns are raised about changes to policy for having Tongan language in schools; Vale nickel plant in New Caledonia expected to reopen soon; Norfolk Islanders urge Scott Morrison to restore their autonomy;Auckland's heritage to be honoured at arts festival.

Samoa opposition MP calls Prime minister's accusations of treason an election ploy; New claims of sexual abuse by the clergy surface in Fiji;We hear of Pasifika communities contribution to fighting Covid-19, one year on;Aust frees more refugees but they have a tough roade ahead; Entrepreneurship flourishing in Fiji amid pandemic; Sebastien Lecornu says France stands ready for a new accord in New Caledonia; Marshall Islands is leading the region's Covid-19 vaccination roll out.

PNG mourns the passing of 'founding father' Sir Michael Somare; Still no consensus on presidential candidate in New Caledonia; What next for Pacific regionalism?; Marshallese adults likely to be vaccinated by end of June;Fiji worried extended border closures could affect its boating tourism lifeline;One in four Pasifika children living in households experiencing material hardship;Bougainville MP wants to re-awaken community innovation; Player welfare front of mind for PNG Hunters.

Change in New Caledonia government brings hope to Kanak people; Samoa govt accused of negligence ahead of lethal 2019 measles outbreak; Fiji AG accuses deported vice chancellor of breaching work permit; World warned of nutrition crisis: Pacific children hardest-hit; Fiji urges one-way travel bubble with NZ, Aust; Deepsea mining interests move fast on slow-evolving Pacific ecosystem; Tongan community group hope Te Papa exihibition inspired others.

Palau president says Micronesian exit from Forum a wake up call for the Pacific;Forum split could hurt Pacific's global leadership on climate and oceans;Samoa's prime minister has gone public with his desire to re-home the University of the South Pacific;Ocean scientists say the importance of providing Pacific governments with accurate data about the potential impacts of deep sea mining cannot be underestimated;Uncertainty has increased in New Caledonia where the government has collapsed after weeks of tension;Unemployment rate has dropped in New Zealand but Maori, Pasifika and women are still over-represented;Wellington Rugby League sees future in Maori and Pasifika communities.

Palau's president says it is preparing to leave the Pacific Islands Forum; Deported vice-chancellor of regional university says he is still in charge; Tonga passes on New Zealand seasonal work scheme; Digicel's Pacific telecommunications portfolio reportedly poised for sale; A Judge calls for more action on alcohol abuse in Samoa;Amnesty challenges Nauru to walk the talk on human rights situation;New research looks at enhancing sexual education for Pacific communities.

US Pacific states and territories leading vaccination roll-out; Pasifika nous to be tapped for NZ vaccination rollout;Pressure building in New Caledonia as nickel crisis continues AND New research looks at climate change impacts on Pacific urbanisation.

A special edition of Tagata o te Moana taking stock of the damage in Fiji caused by Tropical Cyclone Yasa; Much of Samoa is cleaning up after days of intense rainfall caused widespread flooding; PNG prime ministers survives leadership challenge; Pacific leaders call out Australia's lack of ambition over urgent climate action; Six line up to chase Bougainville regional seat in PNG parliament; Pacific digestive health training continues despite Covid-19 restrictions; Solomons appoints first woman to lead Pacific Games organising committee.

A leadership showdown is looming in Papua New Guinea with the opposition calling for the PM's resignation;Fiji opposition still reeling from Rabuka's sudden exit from parliament;Tonga is also experiencing some political strife with a no confidence motion in the offing;Australia's high court overules the government's attempt to limit refugees access to the court system;West Papua independence movement is being tested from within;Tuna stocks in the Eastern Pacific are facing an unprecedented threat from unregulated fishing;The black sand beaches of PNG's Madang province are being eyed by a foreign mining company and locals are not happy;The first group of repatriated Tokelauns are looking forward to being released from quarantine on Xmas Day.

Ava ceremony offers glimpse at aspirations of NZ's Pasifika MPs; A call for Pasifika victims of abuse to seek Royal Commission of Inquiry; Several of the Pacific region still contending with concerning covid-19 figures; UN disturbed by violence in West Papua; NZ opens up pathway for trial shipments of Tongan watermelon; Cook Islanders walk around Rarotonga to promote healthy lifestyle; PNG Supreme Court to decide on political standoff; Lack of awareness, stigma hinder HIV fight in Pacific; Pacific peoples urged to take ownership of new data hub.

Scramble for covid vaccine access - how will Pacific countries fare?; Samoa registers a covid-19 case while Guam's high number of infections continues to rise; Isolated Pitcairn not immune from Covid effect; PNG political wrestle thrust into uncertainty as MPs test positive; Staff suspended amid claims of child abuse at prominent Fiji school; RSE workers will be guaranteed a living wage in new border exemption; Pasifika and Maori falling through gaps in NZ Basketball; Virtural Museum aims to spotlight the heritage of the Pacific.

PNG public urged not to get caught up in political crisis; Solomon Islands government moves to suspend Facebook; Samoa sends Covid-19 test samples to New Zealand for final confirmation;Pacific people missing out on life-saving treatments because of border closures;Challenges for Fiji military women highlighted amid push to increase representation;Vale nickel plant sale prompts New Caledonia-wide demonstrations;The Tonga's government has introduced new legislation it says aims to tackle online abuse; A push to have donors send more responsible aid to the Pacific; Fijian Drua look to sail into Super Rugby.

Pacific policing under scrutiny; Education shortfalls blamed for PNG's sorcery-related killings; Pacifica in US continue to suffer badly from Covid; Pasifika community dominate NZMA Manukau graduation;New research focuses on pandemic experiences of Samoan women;Call for change to way NZ administers foreign aid; Pacific disability collective urging for a Ministry for Disabled Peoples;PNG company plans to export chocolate to the world.

Tahiti desperate to avoid lockdown as Covid-19 numbers mushroom; Moana Pasifika, Fiji on course to join Super Rugby in 2022 but another Pacific bid threatens legal action; The Cook Islands prime minister denied his country is gambling by opening up for deep sea mining exploration; US-affiliated Pacificn territories go the polls; New study finds bilingual Pacific mothers less likely to have mental disorders; Mahuta-Aupito to front for Pacific in NZ foreign affairs; Bougainville Panguna human rights breakthrough; Family at forefront for Pacific boxers in 'Fight of the Century'.

Covid-19 death toll rises in French Polynesia; A New Zealand memorial service has been held for Former Cook islands prime minister and doctor, Joe Williams; New Pasifika MPs in NZ's ruling party hit parliament; Pacific countries in new trade deal to set up implementation unit; Tokelauan community in NZ works to keep language alive; Family at forefront for Pacific boxers in 'Fight of the Century'; Pacific nations at forefront of anti-nuclear breakthrough; Tonga's Justice Minister unmoved by criticism of amendment.

Pacific community leaders share their aspirations for the NZ government post-election results; PNG corrections working to prevent deadly prison breaks; A constitutional change in Tonga raises some questions;Marshall Islands slams Chinese 'bullies' at Taiwan event in Fiji; PNG called on to change course away from extractive industries;Prioritising child nutrition crucial to Pacific health and development goals; Cook Islands govt pledges support for national games.

More Solomon Islanders contract Covid-19; Covid-19 outbreak getting 'out of hand' in French Polynesia; Sexual exploitation of children rife in Fiji: reports; Pacific Island culture gains ground during Bledisloe Cup; Call for Pasifika health boost in NZ; Fiji's coups under scrutiny amid independence milestone; The race to be the new Pacific Forum head.

Talks are about to get underway on the next steps for New Caledonia, after last week's second independence referendum as part of the Noumea Accord.

New Caledonia again votes on independence from France;Palau threatens to leave Forum over ciompetition for secretary general's post; Cooks leader steps aside - eyes new goals; SODELPA targets unity as taskforce set up to resolve party conflicts; Environmentalists and coal developer in PNG at loggerheads;Indonesia lashes out at Vanuatu over West Papua at the UN; Bougainville welcome for Rio Tinto willingness to talk.

Bougainville freedom fighter reaches democratic pinnacle; Vanuatu considers new passport for 'honorary' citizens; Improvements in Pasifika mental health space but more needed;China's grants to Solomons could signal change in aid approach - academic; Call for Pacific island states to secure the region's maritime boundaries;Pasifika communities in small town New Zealand want a greater voice; Covid-19 shows the way for Pacific Super Rugby - Wadan Narsey.

A scathing report into the New Zealand government's handling of last year's measles outbreak in Auckland; Efforts to arrest the Covid-19 pandemic in the Marshall Islands community in a hard-hit part of the US appear to be working; Vanuatu's controversial passport sale scheme comes under pressure; Ahead of New Zealand's election, Pacific climate warriors turn to rallying turnout; And, are eligibility rules holding back Pacific netball teams?

Samoa's Deputy Prime Minister, Fiame Naomi Mataafa has resigned from Cabinet; Pacific health leaders warn Covid-19 frontliners are risking life and limb on the job; Life with covid-19 in the community in French Polynesia; Tongan communities in NZ acknowledge language theme during Covid-19; Pasifika opera singers take up training with the New York Met; Rising seas destroy houses on PNG's south coast; NZ aid urged to de-emphasize scholarships in education programme.

Coroanvirus second waves run rampant in French Polynesia and Guam, while here in Aotearoa, the latest outbreak further exposes Auckland's inequalities; We speak to Britain's new minister for the Pacific. A legal stoush over one of PNG's largest mines intensifies, and a Solomon Islands province threatens independence, plus plenty more.

Please stay home' - Guam governor pleads with public; Vaccine trial move tests PNG's relationship with China; Yachties urge more countries to follow Fiji's Blue lanes pathway;Pasifika Covid-19 response gets massive boost; The Bougainville vote over, count start still days away; Fiji PM slammed over broadcast intervention; Solomons govt urges seasonal works to stay on in New Zealand; Oceania Football partners with English FA to help Pacific mentors.

Pacific health leaders concerned for community around Auckland covid cluster; Academic urges Pacific people to check in with each other during lockdown; Fiji declares an outbreak of dengue fever and leptospirosis; Samoa has had enough of lengthy delays in decisions by judges; Eleven killed in yet another prison escape in PNG; Cooks Deputy PM promises changes to water system set up; Asia Pacific Dragons in the running to join Super Rugby.

Guam's governor and her deputy have both tested positive for Covid-19. We have updates from there, Papua New Guinea and Auckland - scenes of worrying spikes; Hopes of a Cook Islands travel bubble fade fast; Renewed calls for action against sorcery-related violence in PNG; And, is more diversity the answer for the beleagured Warriors rugby league team.

A major drug haul in Papua New Guinea is being hailed by authorities in Australia as a victory over trans-national crime; a momentous election for Bougainville is almost underway, election season kicks off with Wellington debate on Pacific travel bubble, Civil society organisations call for changes to Fiji's governance and economic management.

Covid-19 'widespread' in PNG capital; mystery PNG plane crash linked to suspected drug run; Fiji's $US1.7bn Budget comes under heavy scrutiny in Parliament; The ADB offers economic projections for the Islands region; A Samoa chief convited of slavery and trafficking sent to jail; Research on how climate change affects Pacific peoples' identities underway; Big shoes to fill for Solomons new police commissioner; Sense of warming attitudes to women candidates in Bougainville.

Papua New Guinea authorities scramble to contain a covid-19 outbreak in the capital; Covid-19 surging among Pacific Islanders in the US; An economist notes that Fiji over-reliance on tourism hasn't been addressed by the government's new budget; Fiji opens up to boats in a bid to get some tourism rolling; New modelling aims to improve cyclone predictions; Bilingualism concerns over NZ plan for Pacific education; Otago student developing Pacifica fitness programmes.

Tributes for the former longtime premier of Niue, Sir Toke Talagi, who died this week after a lengthy illness; The Cook Islands and New Zealand appear to be closer to a travel bubble - but no date's been set yet; The harsh economic effects of the coroanvirus pandemic really start to bite; Saving Samoa's Manumea; And, the politics of dance.

Nuclear waste dump in Marshall Islands deemed safe by US government; PNG laws to stop violence against women need enforcement, NGO's; Released Balikpapan Seven member says he will keep speaking out about injustice; Spotlight on Samoa corrections system after one inmate was found to have been kept in jail for nearly five years longer than he should have been; ILO works with unions and employers to support redundant workers in Fiji;New Zealand robotics firm X-craft is trialling an autonomous seacraft to police the Pacific's fisheries; The first ever Pacific art gallery space has officially opened this week in New Zealand.

Lives on the line for observers of the lucrative Pacific fishery; a humanitarian crisis emerging in Fiji due to the pandemic; Unlocking the potential for off-field roles for Pasifika in NZ rugby; Fiji govt targets growing drug threat; Canadian company touts seabed as path to green transition; Te Papa appoints first Pasifika head of Pacific/NZ cultures and histories; Bougainville elections could bring fresh impetus to post-referendum process.

Fiji attempts to frontfoot a Pacific travel bubble with it's own Bula Bubble - but the reaction's been mixed; A group of absconding Air Force personnel upset Guam's progress in eliminating coronavirus; Tonga announces it's largest ever deficit; Slow progress in tackling racism towards Papuans; A three-horse race to become secretary-general of the Pacific Islands Forum.

Coronavirus setback dampens enthusiasam for a New Zealand travel bubble into the Pacific; NZ covid-19 border slip-up highlights 'unfair' system for Pasifika; The struggle for Marshallese to cope with Covid in the US; Suspension controversy comes to a head at the University of the South Pacific; Fiji's police and the culture of fear under the spotlight; Crucial identity and immigration reckoning for the Cook Islands; Court convicts Papuans for treason after anti-racism protests; Cook Islands Prime Minister Henry Puna announces he will stand down in September; Solomons police probe amid Malaita stoush with Honiara over China ties; A rising Hip Hop star launches a new track to highlight gambling issues in the Pasifika community.

Anger that Australia is in line for a New Zealand travel bubble before the Cook Islands, whose people are New Zealand citizens. Crisis at the University of the South Pacific: A vice-chancellor is suspended, students protest, and governments accuse Fiji of a takeover. A PNG athlete shares her story of domestic violence; The Polynesian Panthers speak on Black Lives matter, and the latest from the race for the Bougainville presidency.

A dire warning from Tuvalu's prime minister, who says that without more international help,some Pacific economies may collapse; We hear about the ordeal faced by two Marshall Islands fisherman who spent 42 days adrift at sea; And, we check in on a wild political week in Papua New Guinea, Bougainville and Fiji - where benches have been shuffled, parties ousted and careers ended.

With many Pacific countries having had no cases of Covid-19, just how likely is a travel bubble with New Zealand? Fiji's main opposition is suspended for three months; A raft of constitutional reform bills before Samoa's parliament sparks a backlash; And, both Niue and Kiribati have upcoming elections.

This week the threat from Covid-19 came closer to home in the Pacific, with the first confirmed cases reported in French Polynesia; the West Papua National Liberation Army has been launching attacks against the operations of a major gold and copper mine, run by US company Freeport McMoran, in its war against the Indonesian state; the Cook Islands will host its first pride day this weekend, as the country's LGBT community gears up for battle to have homosexuality removed from the Crimes Act; the Norfolk Island administrator is stressing the island will not run out of food as it struggles with shipping issues; Niue has become the world's first Dark Sky Place following the International Dark-Sky Association's approval of the island's application for the protection of its sky, land and sea; the practice of traditional tattooing is seen by many in the Pacific as the sole domain of men - but that's not the case everywhere; The first full season of Global Rapid Rugby kicks off this weekend with teams from Fiji and Samoa hoping the competition can be a springboard for players hoping to push for higher honours.

The Covid-19 global outbreak is hurting economies in the Pacific; New Zealand's government to focus on supporting democracy in Fiji elections; where to next for the American Samoa caucus after Michael Bloomberg's withdrawal from the US Democratic Presidential Candidate race; Maori and Pacific babies bigger but leaner; jailbreaks and disease outbreak reflect dire state of PNG prisons; Solomon Islands launches new guidelines for counsellors moving to curb social media abuse.

Papua New Guinea's prime minister warns against rushing into the Bougainville independence process; Bougainville's president keeps trying for a third term; The once immovable Gaston Flosse's bid for a political comeback in French Polynesia appears to be over; The latest on coronavirus measures from around the Pacific; Growing concern about drug trafficking, getting more indigenous voices into climate change discussions, And, making tatau safer.

Papua New Guinea's prime minister James Marape has embarked on a four-day state visit to New Zealand, saying he wants to elevate the relationship between the two countries; the attack on Manus Island refugees by an angry mob in Port Moresby has raised questions about refugee security in Papua New Guinea; two government MPs in Solomon Islands have lost their seats after being found guilty of bribing voters; the Fijian government has been accused of "wrecking the trade union movement" in the country; an Australian aid group says the government's change of focus on Pacific aid is a 'strategic misstep,' rehabilitative programmes top the list for reforms within Kiribati corrections system; Vanuatu's political leaders expect another fragmented parliament to emerge after the upcoming general election. But while Charlot Salwai has notched the rare success of lasting a full term in power, the caretaker prime miniser has the unwelcome distraction of facing a perjury charge; New Zealand Rugby is appointing a Pasifika Engagement Manager who will be tasked with giving the country's Pacific Island community more of a voice in how the sport is run.

PNG gun buyback proposal not the answer, says former army head; How will RNZ youth proposal impact Pacific Media Network?; Indonesia urged to allow probe into displaced Papuans; Vote buying and cross-border registrations mar Solomons 2019 election - ANU; Fijian student happy to be out of Wuhan; Pacific criminalisation of homosexuality decried in NZ; EU to strengthen Pacific's fight against climate change.

A fortnight on from Cyclone Tino, Tuvalu's still reeling. Half the population has been affected, its government says, while in Niue, businesses are struggling without the island's only wharf; As the Wuhan coronavirus spreads further, Pacific countries take extra steps to tighten their borders; 7000 plaintiffs in Papua New Guinea plan to sue a mining company for billions; A health provider tackles social isolation in Christchurch's Pacific community; A new theatre production in Auckland hopes to break down subjects considered taboo in many Pacific families; And, Fiji cricket mourns the untimely death of its former captain.

Samoa's preventative measures against the new coronavirus outbreak is affecting travellers; Papua New Guinea has again maintained its position as the most corrupt country in the Pacific according to last year's global rating; Bougainvilleans hold high expectations for independence after the referendum; Drug-related domestic violence is on the rise in Tonga; And new tech will bring Tsunami detection times down from hours to minutes in the SW Pacific;Environmentalists in the Cook Islands says a government assessment of Rarotonga's new water system is to narrow; A master carver in Bougainville is encouraging young people to remember their roots; And New Zealander Vern Cotter has been appointed the new head coach of the Fiji national rugby team.

The Marshall Islands health system struggles to cope with the country's worst-ever dengue outbreak; Samoa's measles crisis wanes, but questions remained unanswered; PNG defends itself from a damning human rights report; A noted Cook Island environmentalist sets up a new foundation; A Tongan scientist looks to boost Pasifika interest in STEM subjects; We celebrate 30 years broadcasting to the Pacific.