Midwifery Boost: Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health says its intern midwives have completed a six-month Midwifery Internship Programme, strengthening maternity care capacity at Rarotonga Hospital. Maternal Health Staffing: TMO also reports it has strengthened maternal health services with a new cohort of midwives, aiming to improve continuity and support for mothers and babies. Public Health in Action: On World Field Epidemiology Day (Sept 7), senior health protection officer Tereapii Nimerota explains how field epidemiology turns surveillance into real protection—covering vector control, water quality, food safety, sanitation and border control—highlighting dengue response work. Health & Climate Leadership: Te Marae Ora health secretary Bob Williams attended a Pacific Health and Climate Change conference in Nadi, backing a Pacific Network action plan for 2026–2028 to protect the health and wellbeing of more than 14 million people across the region, including the Cook Islands. Whale Education & Wellness Links: Te Ipukarea Society and Cook Islands Whale Research ran a two-day humpback whale learning programme for Araura College students, using the whales’ return to teach about marine ecosystems and community awareness. Local Governance & Costs: Cook Islands PM Mark Brown says the incoming government’s first 100 days will focus on cost of living and housing, including fuel security and progress toward a National Housing Strategy 2030. Food Support Accountability: A Labour MP says the Social Development Minister must apologise after more than 8,000 emergency food support applications were declined using an incorrect code, raising concerns for people facing urgent hardship.