Maritime health access: A Cook Islands police commanding officer described how the Guardian-class patrol boat Te Kukupa II acts as a “water ambulance” for medical emergencies and pregnant patients on outer islands, supporting health and search-and-rescue when flights aren’t available. Women’s health & prevention: A free cervical screening clinic is running in Rarotonga, with outreach continuing at Kavera today and further dates listed for Tepiri, Matavera, Avatiu and Inave. Blood safety: Cook Islands Red Cross and the Health Ministry marked World Blood Donor Day, spotlighting lifesaving blood donations. NCD and alcohol risk: A community push for prevention follows workshop data showing Cook Islands ranks among the highest globally for non-communicable diseases, alongside concerns that 30% of adults drink at hazardous levels. Menstrual wellbeing & sustainability: Te Ipukarea Society and partners delivered a menstrual health session at Tereora College, promoting reusable options like pads, cups and period underwear to cut waste and costs. Rare infection after travel: A New Zealand Medical Journal case report links a severe bloodstream infection in a Cook Islands Māori man to a rare marine bacterium after consuming raw fish. Health leadership milestone: Dr Ailsa Wilson became New Zealand’s first Pacific female orthopaedic surgeon, credited to mentorship and the Dr Joe Williams Scholarship. Environmental health link: A National Action Plan is being developed to tackle plastic pollution, aiming to protect the lagoon and ocean as well as community health.