Political drama has been playing out in Tonga, with King Tupou the Sixth withdrawing his support of Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni as the defence minister.

Wounded Warriors tells the story of a young father determined to break free from the cycle of violence that's plagued his family.

Today is the national day commemorating the first signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/Treaty of Waitangi in Aotearoa NZ.

Tonga's King Tupou the Sixth withdraws support of Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni as the defence minister. Thousands of Maori and non-Maori New Zealanders in unite solidarity against potential changes to the country's founding document.

A tropical cyclone warning for the Cook Islands has been issued, with gale-force winds expected to arrive the next day.

Amnesty International says the Australian Defence Force has a responsibility to investigate allegations of human rights abuses made against a Fijian military officer it recently appointed as a deputy commander.

Speculation mounts as to whether Tuvalu will switch diplomatic ties from Taiwan to China, as it waits to appoint a new leader.

Cook Islands Deputy Prime Minister, and two former high-level government officials, have been found guilty of misusing $NZ70,000 in taxpayer funds.

Thousands have taken part in a long protest march in New Zealand as the government moves to re-interpret the principles of the Waitangi treaty.

Players from Tahiti, Tonga and Vanuatu make up the Davis Cup tennis team representing Oceania in their away tie against El Salvador.

The search for a new Flying Fijians coach develops into a farce, with one key contender ruled out, and then ruled in again, and PNG's women's soccer coach Frederica Sakette is sacked without warning, less than a week out from Olympic qualifying matches in Samoa. 

Confusion and surprise reign in Papua New Guinea over the sudden dismissal of gold medal-winning national women's soccer coach, Frederica Sakette.

Plans to win a place for a French Pacific team in rugby league's Queensland Cup are gathering momentum, with a Pacifique Treize under-17 squad on a three-match tour of North Queensland.   

In Tonga, getting to school or work on the country's main island Tongatapu can be quite an ordeal, but a long-promised plan to build a new bridge is bringing hope to residents.

Visitor arrivals in the Cook Islands rose 26 per cent last year, and could rise further following the completion of  the first ever five-star hotel in Raratonga.

Scientists in French Polynesia are planning to release thousands of sterilised mosquitoes into the wild in an attempt to fight dengue fever.

Pacific Islands are increasingly imposing taxes on unhealthy foods as they battle a non-communicable diseases, a New Zealand study shows. 

A group of Ni-Vanuatu seasonal workers have launched what's been described as Australia's largest sexual harassment claim against their former employer.

New research shows Pacific babies are dying at a much higher rate than other ethnicities in Aotearoa, New Zealand.

PNG is trying to reassure Australia and the United States it won't jeopardise relations while discussing security issues with China. 

Papua New Guinea has been singled out as the most corrupt country in the region by the agency, Transparency International.

The Papua New Guinea government moves to reassure Australia and the United States it won't jeopardise relations, while discussing security issues with China. Also, Transparency International labels PNG the most corrupt country in the region.

Apia's shoreline has a new addition, but it's not something that's pleasing to the eye.

Taiwan's top representative to Australia has declared he's "quite confident" that Tuvalu won't follow Nauru's lead and switch diplomatic recognition to China.

Papua New Guinea's tourism authority wants a dedicated police squad for the sector following deadly riots this month. 

Uncertainty hangs over the future of the Solomon Islands Institute of Sport, placing 70 jobs at risk.

Samoa will make history this year by becoming the first small island developing state from the Pacific to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting.

A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the future of the Solomon Islands Institute of Sport and its 70 local staff. Also, Papua New Guinea's tourism authority wants a dedicated police squad for the sector, following deadly riots this month.

The Pacific airfield that launched the most devastating bombing missions in human history is about to be brought back to life.

Tonga's head coach mapping a road to the Women's World Cup with a strategy to build a squad around home-grown talent and the best players from the diaspora. 

Documentary delves deep into the emotions of Pasifika rugby stars playing for their countries of heritage at last at the World Cup in France 

Elijah Niko who won a bronze medal with Samoa at the London leg of the World 7s Series last year is continuing his campaign against Lakapi Samoa, claiming that players in the Manu squad are paid poorly and treated harshly. 

Tonga's first professional female soccer player Laveni Vaka believes her twin sister Daviana could join her in America's NWSL after next year's  national draft. 

AI is being incorporated into Cook Islands hi-tech scouting system, as the FA cast their net far and wide in the search for new talent to lift the team up the world rankings  

American environmental NGO The Nature Conservancy says its joint tuna processing venture with the Marshall Islands government is helping keep more fishing revenue in-country.

The island nation of Tuvalu heads to the polls tomorrow to elect a new government.

A two-week state of emergency in Papua New Guinea ended overnight but police say they will continue to be out in force in the capital Port Moresby.

Environmental groups in Palau are outraged by a government proposal to shrink the country's ocean sanctuary to raise money from commercial fishing.

The PNG Government says it will supply around 300 million kina in relief to businesses affected by riots. 

Papua New Guinea Governor for East Sepik Province Allan Bird says he would resign if he was Prime Minister James Marape. Also, the PNG government pledges 300 million kina in relief to businesses affected by riots.

The mysterious death of i-Kiribati fisheries observer Eritara Aati Kaierua has inspired a new documentary.

Papua New Guinea Governor for East Sepik Province Allan Bird says he would resign if he were Prime Minister, and said James Marape should make "tough decisions".

Pacific fisheries experts hope new research will encourage governments to invest more in monitoring illegal and unregulated fishing.

Papua New Guinea's Department of Health is warning people to avoid prescription drugs being sold on the streets following looting in last week's deadly riots. 

A lack of rain in parts of the Cook Islands is prompting calls for locals on Rarotonga to conserve water. 

An anti-drug group in Fiji says the recent seizure of three tonnes of methamphetamine by police shows the country's meth problem has become a 'crisis' and investment in rehabilitation services is badly needed. Local police found nearly eight hundred containers filled with the drug in an under-construction home in Nadi.

The people of Taiwan might be the ones most upset by Nauru's decision to cut diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

The power of Tonga's Hunga Tonga–Hunga Haʻapai eruption stunned scientists across the world, but closer to home, the human toll continues.

An anti-drug group in Fiji says the recent seizure of three tonnes of methamphetamine by police shows the country is in crisis.

The role of social media is in the spotlight in Papua New Guinea under a state of emergency, after the rioting and looting last week. 

Devastated businesses fear some of the damage caused by last week's riots in Port Moresby will not be covered by insurance. Shop owners are asking the government to step in, saying the situation should be treated like a natural disaster. 

The CEO of one of PNG's biggest retailers, Brian Bell, says his company was fortunate despite the loss of a massive warehouse during last week's riots, and all the goods inside it.

PNG's opposition leader Joseph Lelang has defended the public servants who protested in Port Moresby and said it was their right to demonstrate over the cut to their pay.He said the protest was the spark that ignited public dissatisfaction caused by the high cost of living and high rate of unemployment in the capital.

Papua New Guinea's national cabinet has called in defence personnel to restore order in the face of major rioting and unrest in the country's capital.A peaceful demonstration at Parliament House in Port Moresby by police, defence and other public servants regarding a payroll dispute later escalated into a dramatic security situation.Shops and businesses in Port Moresby were looted and set alight as thousands of people took to the streets to take advantage of the absence of police.The ABC's PNG correspondent Tim Swanston was at the Prime Minister's office when protesters set fire to a guard house and a security car."We were trapped inside that building for several hours while police and defence arrived and tried to disperse the crowd," he said."They were very angry and demanding to see the prime minister related to this issue over payroll".

Fiji is known for its cultural diversity in the South Pacific with a significant portion of the population descended from Indian labourers.Among this demographic are a minority of Sikhs who trace their origins to free migrants from Punjab.Sikh men are distinguishable by their turbans but it was not until Navjeath Sohata joined the police that the constabulary had its first turban-wearing officer.

The PNG defence force has been called in to try and quell significant unrest in the nation's capital. What began as a demonstration by public servants who were furious over an unepected pay cut turned into rioting across Port Moresby with stores being looted and burnt to the ground. Paramedics said they were aware of many patients with severe burns and a number with gunshot wounds.

Samoa's Ministry of Health is looking to encourage Samoan doctors working overseas to come home to help fill a major shortage of personnel in the country.

More charges have been laid against two health officials in Guam amid an ongoing scandal around public school sanitation.

Archaeologists in French Polynesia have shone a light on early colonial life in the country, finding evidence of a pearl industry and that traditional marae were dismantled to build missionary settlements.

More charges have been laid against two health officials in Guam amid an ongoing scandal around public school sanitation. Last year the Department of Public Health and Social Services allegedly approved sanitary permits for fifteen local schools without carrying out proper inspections. The local director of public health and the chief health inspector have been charged with a range of offences including obstructing governmental functions, official misconduct and tampering with public records.h morning and afternoon to keep-up-to-date on the happenings in the Pacific.

The Fiji Dental Association is warning of dodgy operators who are putting clients' health at risk.

The Fiji Dental Association is warning people of dodgy operators performing cosmetic procedures that can put their health at risk. It's calling out beauty parlours offering cosmetic dental work at bargain prices. The FDA says these parlours aren't licensed and they are using cheap products that can cause physical harm.

Hiking to the top of Papua New Guinea's highest mountain may not be everyone's idea of a holiday, but one doctor made it his Christmas mission to raise money for sick children.

World Rugby insists that the top Pacific island teams can expect more high standard competive action in 2024 and the years ahead, but what's the reality for Fiji, Samoa and Tonga?   

A study from the University of Auckland says low-lying coral atolls can grow as sea levels rise. The study's authors say they're trying to correct misconceptions about low-lying Pacific islands.  

Papua New Guinea has become the latest country in the Pacific to grant a business licence to Elon Musk's satellite internet service Starlink.

Vanuatu authorities are on high alert about a new pest, the fall army worm, which they say is a threat to the agriculture sector with an outbreak on cornfields on Efate Island.

A worm twice the size of a regular caterpillar has emerged in Vanuatu as a potential threat to the country's agricultural sector.

Questions have been raised in Papua New Guinea about a government directive giving MPs control of district funds. 

Research into Australia's development assistance has found that women are benefiting from aid focused on gender equality. 

Prominent Pacific politician Hilda Heine is back as the 10th president of Marshall Islands after defeating David Kabua in a narrow 17-16 vote by the new members of the legislature.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has had a big year with his dream of Solomon Islands' hosting the Pacific Games becoming a reality in 2023.

Debate is raging in Fiji over plans to build a $2 billion casino and hotel with up to 1000 rooms.

Debate is raging in Fiji over a billion-dollar casino proposal with an outcry over the developers saying locals will not be allowed inside.

Tourism operators and politicians are among those calling for Samoa's government to purchase a national aircraft. 

One of Papua New Guinea's largest gold mines has reopened after years of negotiations to ensure the government and other local interests obtained a majority share in the operation.

It’s been a big news year for the Pacific’s largest country including the re-opening of Papua New Guinea’s largest gold mine, security treaties, a foreign currency crisis and viral Tik Tok videos.

As the Pacific prepares to mark the last weekend of the year the region is expected to see good weather on New Year’s Day.

Kiribati citizens will head to the polls next year for the country's general election but a recent by-election has raised red flags. 

Three months after renewing its Compact of Free Association with the United States, Palau is still waiting for funding to be approved.

Three months after renewing its Compact of Free Association with the United States, Palau is still waiting for funding to be approved.

Taika Waititi's new film Next Goal Wins will hit cinemas in Australia on New Year's Day.

The French government has announced it will seek constitutional reform to allow changes to New Caledonia's electoral system. 

The end of this year has been a sweet one for residents of Gunu Village in Fiji which has just completed its first ever honey harvest. 

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says balancing the interests of his coalition partners has been like walking a tightrope.

An Australian think tank is calling for Pacific workers to be given access to national healthcare and for work conditions to be improved. 

A team of Pacific artists have embarked on a two-year journey with a knowledge holder in Rotuma to revive what they call a 'sleeping' tradition.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says his first year in office has been a ‘tightrope’ walk, navigating the interests of the three political parties that make up his coalition government.

Former captain of the Ikale Tahi, Inoke Afeaki, says compensation is not his prime motive for pursuing legal action against World Rugby together with more than 200 other ex-players. What he wants is rule changes designed to protect players from head injuries. 

Melbourne Storm's plan to take an NRL-sanctioned match to Fiji next year is just the start of a relationship that could open up new pathways for young Fijians looking to make their way to the top level of rugby league.

AFL development in Tonga was hit hard by COVID-19, but the sport looks to be thriving again now, with the country's U16 girls team taking out the AFL Oceania Cup.

Coaching American Samoa's hapless soccer team changed my life - Thomas Rongen reflects as his story hits the big screen in Taika Waititi's movie Next Goal Wins   

In Fiji, authorities have issued dozens of warnings to businesses for breaching food standards and selling expired goods.

A new report by the aid agency World Vision has found climate change-related conflict is on the rise, including in our region.

Solomon Islands' music may be popular across the Pacific, but musicians are struggling to earn a living. 

A new report by aid agency World Vision says climate change violence is on the rise across the world, including in the Pacific.

Heavy rain and flooding have affected hundreds of Pacific Islanders working in northern Queensland who've had to stop working because of the bad weather.

Plastic waste is a big challenge for many Pacific countries — not only is it an eyesore if it ends up on streets and beaches, but also an environmental hazard.

Pacific seasonal workers in Far North Queensland are asking families to be patient as major flooding impacts their ability to send money home.

The chair of a review into Fiji's national security says the review will not look to reduce the military's role but provide an opportunity for Fijians to have a say about the armed forces.

The man leading a review into Fiji's national security says the role of the country's military will not be reduced. 

More than 1,000 seasonal workers have been impacted by dangerous flooding in Australia's Far North Queensland.

A gang known as the "wanted boys" were allegedly armed by Bougainville police and carried out robberies for officers, who are now attempting to arrest the men for those crimes.

Tonga Rugby Union's new constitution will put the focus on nationwide representation and gender equity. Meanwhile, the search for the Ikale Tahi's new coach will go on under the caretaker board.   

Big changes are on the cards for the Kaiviti Silktails, with Fiji's best young rugby league players set to take on the cream of the NRL's rising stars in the Jersey Flegg Cup in 2024.

Solomon Islands' Iron Queen to miss out on Olympics, Fiji's Silktails set to mix it with cream of NRL's best young players

Vanuatu's national soccer captain Brian Kaltak had to wait a long time for his big break, but hopes his new academy in his home village next year will make it easier for ni-Vanuatu talent to secure professional deals.

Solomon Islands weightlifting star Jenly Wini says she would like to build on the Pacific Games legacy by establishing a centre of excellence for her sport, but on the downside financial problems have scuppered her hopes of a place at the Paris Olympics

The FRU's handling of the dismissal of Fijjiana XVs coach, Inoke Male, sparks plenty of social media discussion with many asking what did he do wrong? 

Australia's ambassador for cyber affairs Brendan Dowling has warned that the Pacific is likely to face escalating cyber attacks in the future.

Pacific activists have criticised the final climate change agreement at COP 28 as weak and lacking ambition.

A new agreement calling for a transition away from fossil fuel was reached at COP 28 but Pacific countries say they were out of the room when the deal was made.

Papua New Guinea has one of the highest snakebite rates in the world, with 200 incidents reported between January and August.

Bougainville's attorney-general has labelled the Australian government cowardly over its stance on the island's desire for independence from Papua New Guinea.

Bougainville's attorney-general has labelled the Australian government cowardly over its stance on the island's desire for independence from Papua New Guinea.

Three Pacific ministers have attended a high-level meeting on police cooperation between China and Pacific Island nations as Beijing continues its push to cement deeper security ties with the region.

Pacific activists have criticised the final climate change agreement at COP 28 as weak and lacking ambition. 

After the gold medal high of Port Moresby in 2015, PNG has been on a downward spiral, culminating in one of their poorest team performances at the Pacific Games in Honiara. 

The trials and tribulations of the Fiji Rugby Union seem to be never-ending, with fresh crises emerging at regular intervals. 

If you're unfamiliar with the name of the young Vanuatu footballer Nicolas King, you might want to take note.

Wynton Rufer confident he can secure full OFC membership for Tuvalu at last, and the chance to play in World Cup qualifying

Tensions have risen as New Zealand following a decision from the new coalition government to reduce use of the Māori language.

An alarming increase in new HIV infections in Papua New Guinea has people scrambling to resuscitate dormant programs to prevent the spread of the disease.

Tongan Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni says a loss and damage fund handed down at COP 28 will help absorb the damage from cyclones and rising sea levels, but more investment is needed in health and education. Also, New Caledonia hosts its 10th South Pacific Defence Ministers' Meeting.

A first-of-its-kind protest against deep-sea mining in international waters has ended with activists being ordered to abandon an exploration vessel. 

French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu is in New Caledonia to host the 10th South Pacific Defence Ministers' Meeting.

Jasmin Togo-Brisby is an artist who highlights the history of blackbirding, where Pacific Islanders were brought to Australia to work in slave-like conditions.

The lawyer who blew the whistle on Papua New Guinea's biggest corruption scandal is among the recipients of a prestigious free speech prize.

A community in Vanuatu's capital Port Vila wants the government to ban slipways over environmental concerns. 

The United Nations Climate talks in Dubai are past the halfway mark, and already a loss and damage fund has been set up, with countries committing hundreds of millions of dollars.

This week, world leaders are meeting in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to attend the world's most important climate meeting, COP28.

There's growing concern about sexual violence against women in Fiji after more than 180 cases of rape were reported between January and August this year.

Papua New Guinea's Porgera mine in Enga Province could be cleared to reopen by the end of the year after PNG's government amended the nation's mining act.

Papua New Guinea's Porgera minecould be cleared to reopen by the end of the year, but it's unclear if the government's move to close it in the first place to increase its own stake will pay off. Also, Australian disability advocates call for increase in foreign aid to support Pacific people.

A not-for-profit is calling on Australian academics to volunteer and share their expertise with Pacific universities.

The very first fale constructed outside of Samoa is about to celebrate it's 45th Birthday.

Vanuatu's climate change minister says his aim at this week's climate meeting, COP 28, is to cement an ambitious phase out of fossil fuels.

Calls are growing louder for the transfer to Australia of a group of refugees who have been living in Papua New Guinea.  

The Pacific region has some of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, in the Solomon Islands 64 per cent of partnered aged 15-49 have reported experiencing sexual or physical violence from an intimate partner.

Fears new policies from New Zealand's new coalition government could hurt Maori and Pasifika communities. Also, University of the South Pacific staff express betrayed by re-appointment of Vice-Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia.

Pacific delegates have started arriving in the United Arab Emirates city of Dubai for 28th UN Conference of Parties.

New Zealand's coalition government has finally been sworn in, nearly two months after the country held its elections. 

The University of the South Pacific's staff association says it's members feel betrayed by Vice-Chancellor Pal Ahluwalia and they're disappointed his contract's been renewed.

Samoa has introduced a cap to restrict the number of  workers participating in New Zealand and Australia's labour mobility schemes.

Samoa has become the first country in the Pacific to put a cap on the number of workers taking part in the labour mobility scheme.

An influential bloc of Pacific nations is calling for a decrease in the level of independent monitoring of its lucrative tuna fishery.

Questions are being raised in Papua New Guinea, whether a newly announced parliamentary inquiry into media conduct will be appropriate and independent.

A new cerebral palsy registry is working to change lives in Vanuatu. 

Six countries have expressed interest to host the Pacific Games in 2031 during a Pacific Games Council Assembly meeting. 

The Pacific Games Council say they will be looking to review the number of athletes competing at future Pacific Games saying 5000 is too many.

While Samoa won gold in the men's rugby league 9s it was the post siren on field brawl with Fiji that had people talking

All the latest sports news and views from the Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands 

History maker Roy Krishna is still blazing a trail in Pacific football, and at 36 the fondly called "Wonder Boy" of Fiji football has no plans of slowing down.

The 17th Pacific Games are officially underway in Solomon Islands following the Opening Ceremony in the new national stadium on Sunday night.

Guam basketball is looking to pull off the gold three-peat at the Honiara Pacific Games after winning gold in 2015 and 2019.

The countdown to this weekend's opening ceremony of the 2023 Pacific Games is underway as Honiara looks to host the biggest sporting event in the region.

Paul Ainton is a well known name in PNG rugby, and now the former player has been appointed as the new head coach of the PNG Hunters.

For Solomon Islands long-distance specialist Sharon Firisua, competing in the half-marathon will be a dream come true as she'll get to compete in front of a home crowd, but it will also be a bittersweet goodbye to the sport she has made her name in.

With a ticket to the Paris Olympics up for grabs in the Pacific Games archery recurve competition for first time, teams have been giving it there all with team Samoa hoping to build on their success by claiming an Olympic spot.

The countdown to this 2023 Pacific Games opening ceremony is underway as Honiara looks to host the biggest sporting event in the region with four sports competitions starting today.

Homebirths are becoming more popular among women in Australia, with some choosing that path after a negative or traumatic hospital birth.

A motion of no confidence against the prime minister of Vanuatu has been withdrawn after an intervention by the country's president.

Fiji's main island appears to have escaped the brunt of Tropical Cyclone Mal overnight.

Cyclone Mal has intensified into a category 2 system, with the Fiji Met Service expecting it to maintain its strength as it tracks south west over Fiji. 

An army of workers and volunteers have been working hard to prepare Honiara for the Pacific Games, but widespread flooding hit the country over the weekend, tragically claiming the lives of three children.

Some Pacific delegates are in Kenya this week to discuss what a global plastics treaty could look like.

Calls for a snap election are mounting as Vanuatu faces the possibility of having its fourth prime minister in the space of about three months.

Calls for a snap election are mounting as Vanuatu faces a possibility of having its fourth prime minister in the space of about three months

First it was central defender Alvin Komolong, now PNG Kapuls' captain Raymond Gunemba has gone down with a serious injury that neither his club nor the PNG FA can afford to fix.

Olympic qualification is on the line at the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship, and while Samoa are the favourites Tonga are determined to upstage their Pacific rivals and qualify for the Olympics for their first time.

Shock in Kiribati after it was revealed the men's football team were withdrawn from the Pacific Games just weeks before the competition was due to start. 

Hometown girl Jenly Tegu Wini is out to strike Pacific Games gold again in Honiara, and then switch her attention to coaching next generation lifter Shirmara Wini, her niece.  

Naomi Roberts and her teammates in Fiji's volleyball squad  remember their trip to the Pacific Games in Guam 1999 for more reasons than one. The good part was winning the bronze medal, but not before some unwelcome visitors in their accommodation gave the players nightmares.

The political instability in Vanuatu persists as a motion of no confidence has been lodged against PM Charlot Salwai who only took on the position last month.

West Papuan leaders say they're putting hope in two powerful Pacific prime ministers to hold dialogues with Indonesia over alleged human rights abuses in the region. 

The work of three talented women from Papua New Guinea has been on display at the Paradise Pallette exhibition in Brisbane. 

Golfer Faith Vui has become the first Samoan to win the New Zealand Women's Amateur Championship.

Melanesian countries at the Pacific Islands forum have decided to send Fiji and Papua New Guinea's Prime Ministers to Indonesia to press it on human rights in West Papua.

When Michael Wandul was a young boy in the village, his mother didn't let him go to school. Now, decades later, he's proving you are never too old to get an education - he enrolled in prep when he was only 71 years old, and six years later has graduated from Gantom Primary School in Papua New Guinea.

Pacific and Australian delegates are hopeful they will reach an agreement on a plastics treaty at a conference in Kenya next week.

A government-charted flight carrying leaders and media from across the pacific lands in the Cook Islands for the Pacific Islands Forum. Also, Papua New Guinea deputy prime minister John Rosso heads to Pacific Islands Forum in place of James Marape, who is 'too busy.'

The Pacific region has experienced an increase in ransomware attacks.

A Papua New Guinean whistleblower has returned to his job after raising concerns about alleged malpractice within the country's Climate Change Development Authority.

A government-charted flight carrying leaders and media from across the Pacific has landed in the Cook Islands for the Pacific Islands Forum.

A senior lecturer in defence and security says the absence of multiple leaders will be felt by the Cook Islands at the Pacific Islands Forum.

Final preparations are underway in Cook Islands for the region's most important political gathering the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting — it comes as Pacific Elders Voice state that Australia's COP31 hosting ambitions contradict their climate change actions.

The first woman from Bougainville to ever be elected to Papua New Guinea's parliament says her two priorities are development and achieving independence from PNG.

Final preparations are underway in Cook Islands for the region's most important political gathering, the Pacific Islands Forum leaders meeting.

Now in its third year, the Indigenous Wellbeing conference in Darwin allows attendees to learn and listen to leaders in the Indigenous wellbeing spaces.

Tonga is sending a women's rugby league 9s team to the Pacific Games for the first time, and coach Monica Henry is confident her squad will be in the shake-up for medals.

Pacific Games to head in a new direction in Honiara, with the best boxers from the Pacific, Australia and NZ battling for gold medals and places at the Paris Olympics next year. 

While PNG has dominated conversation about the NRL's 18th team, the Bati's Head Coach Wise Kativerata believes Fiji is the place to go with what he says is a surfeit of young, talented players

Boxing gold medals at the Pacific Games in Honiara will shine more brightly than usual because they'll also guarantee the winners a spot at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

At the Pacific Games in 2007,  there was no basketball team representing FSM, but they flew the flag from the sidelines in the form of referee Ramsie Joab.   

A new study in The Lancet South East Asia journal found alarming rates of bacterial resistance to drugs used to treat babies and children in the Asia-Pacific region.

Civil rights groups in Fiji say they're alarmed that police won't let a march in support of Palestine go ahead.

Concern is mounting in Canberra after Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare announced China is sending additional police to the country to help provide security for the Pacific Games

In Samoa there are concerns about the growing social impact of the abuse of illegal methamphetamines, police say it's become more of an issue since the post-COVID reopening of international borders.

Fisheries leaders from across the Pacific are in Iceland with the hopes of learning how the country transitioned from being dependent on development funding to having a thriving local fishing industry.

A new-short film, In Exile, explores America's nuclear legacy in the Pacific, through the eyes of members of the Marshallese community, who have been in exile for 70 years.

Solomon Islands will host the Pacific Games in a little over a fortnight with thousands of athletes to converge on East Honiara for the events opening. 

In Samoa, there are concerns about the growing social impact of the abuse of illegal methamphetamines, an issue that has become worse since the post-COVID reopening of international borders.

The United Nations agency for children, UNICEF, says around half of the 50,000 people estimated to have been affected by Cyclone Lola in Vanuatu are children.

Nauru's parliament has elected a controversial political figure to be the country's next president and Amnesty International's Pacific researcher says it raises concerns  "for the safety and well-being of asylum seekers".

A top think tank cautions the Australian government to be careful not to burden Pacific countries with debt as it expands it's role as a major lender in the region in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A resolution calling for a humanitarian truce between Israel and Hamas was passed at the UN General Assembly, six Pacific countries voted against it sparking controversy in the region

Fiji's Prime Minister has been accused of breaking away from principles of peace after the country voted against a United Nations resolution to call for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

A new report says Pacific people in New Zealand aren't being given culturally appropriate support in the criminal justice system, worsening outcomes among already vulnerable groups.

A state of emergency has been declared for five of Vanuatu's six provinces following Cyclone Lola, which peaked at category five. 

Fiji's government has come under fire over its decision to vote against a United Nations resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in Gaza.

Scientists have discovered two healthy underwater reefs surrounding Galapagos Islands, with one of them spanning 800 metres.

Hungarian President Katalin Novak has travelled to Pityluh Island in PNG's Manus province to pay respect to a slain wartime missionary.

For the first time, a military leader from Papua New Guinea will become second-in-command of one of Australia's combat brigades.

Fiji's government has come under fire over its decision to vote against a United Nations resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza-Israel conflict. 

The curious beast that is the Pacific Rugby League Championships resumes this weekend with what in effect will be two grand final rehearsals. 

The main stadium for the Pacific Games in Solomon Islands has passed its first test, hosting the decisive match in the Telikom Soccer League, and the national athletics championships.

World Rugby has unveiled its grand plan, with confirmation that a global 12-team men's competition will be launched in 2026.

Toko takes the lead as Vanuatu seek to maintain their grip on beach volleyball gold at the Pacific Games  

Sixty years on, the face of the very first Pacific Games in Fiji, 1963, reflects on the role that made her famous across the region 

The main stadium for next month's Pacific Games has had its first real work out, while tickets for the Games go on sale sparking a rise in public interest ahead of the opening ceremony.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka's plans to reshuffle his cabinet have come to a halt as he faces pushback from the law society and his coalition partners.

A deal between the US and Australia will see Google expand an existing commercial project to run undersea cables to the nations of Micronesia, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

Indigenous/Pasifika men in Australia and around the world are four times more at risk of suicide or experience suicidal thoughts

The pioneers of Australian drill music, ONEFOUR, are telling their own story in a new Netflix documentary, "ONEFOUR: Against All Odds".

Tonga's electricity provider says ash from a major volcanic eruption in 2022 is responsible for power blackouts on the main island of Tongatapu.

Vanuatu's business community says damage from Cyclone Lola, the third category-four storm in seven months, will be a big blow to the country's economy. 

Vanuatu's Disaster Minister says Cyclone Lola is yet another example of why climate change should be top of mind for everyone, urging the world to act now. 

Cyclone Lola is lashing out across Vanuatu with the islands of Sanma, Penama, Malampa and Shefa all on high alert

Native-born Hawaiian Matt Jachowski has created a website to connect homeowners in efforts to house locals displaced by the deadly Maui fires.

When Fijian Randy Jale moved to Australia for work, he never imagined he'd end up on a remote tropical island, often considered part of Melanesia. 

Vanuatu is confident of being the first country in the Pacific to eliminate cervical cancer.

Tropical cyclone Lola has strengthened to a category 4 storm and is expected to hit Luganville, Vanuatu's second largest city, with heavy rains and gale-force winds.

Cyclone season has started unprecedentedly early in the South Pacific, with the official naming of Cyclone Lola over the weekend.

Cyclone season has started unprecedentedly early in the South Pacific, with the official formation of Cyclone Lola -- north of Vanuatu-- over the weekend

Pacific aid experts say the fight against climate change and the inclusion of local communities in decision-making should be on top of the agenda for future development planning.

She Is Not Your Rehab is a global movement birthed from a barber shop, aiming to eliminate family & domestic violence. 

The United Nations Population Fund is helping Papua New Guinea prepare for a national census, next year.

Fiji's Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is back in office this week after a successful state visit to Australia, but he'll be busy mending relations with his coalition partners. His government coalition is experiencing cracks in the partnership between the three political parties that rule the country.  A surprise cabinet reshuffle by Rabuka hasn't gone to plan...and within his own party there's some discontent. 

As the Rugby World Cup tournament looks ahead to the finals, Pacific teams look to the future with both Fiji and Tonga looking for a new coach, and complaints over unfair officiating and sub-conscious bias still reverberating.

Today marks the 49th anniversary of Niue's independence in free association with Aotearoa, New Zealand.

New research by the World Bank suggests that PNG's resource wealth has not translated into lower levels of poverty for the Papua New Guinean people.

A new report by the Catholic church's development agency is urging Australia to help women fight discrimination in the Pacific. 

Australia's parliament is on the verge of delivering a key election promise to the Pacific, by opening up a path for permanent residency. 

Papua New Guinea has been described as 'a mountain of gold floating in a sea of oil' because of its abundant resource wealth, but new research by the World Bank suggests that has not translated into lower levels of poverty for the Papua New Guinean people.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has bought the first ticket for next month's Pacific Games, which will be held in the country's capital Honiara.

Pacific Islanders participating in Australia's Labour Mobility scheme will soon be allowed to work in Australia with their loved ones close by.

In the Kingdom of Tonga, owning a gun has never been common, but an uptick in crime and illegally smuggled guns has some people arming themselves to protect their families. 

Fijians PM calls for "Zone of Peace" which would involve Pacific island nations agreeing to refrain from actions that may jeopardise regional stability 

In the Kingdom of Tonga, owning a gun has never been common, but an uptick in crime and illegally smuggled guns has some people in the country worried.

PNG PM James Marape and Solomon Islands Deputy PM Manasseh Maelanga are among world leaders on a state visit to Beijing to focus on the forum's theme: "Together for common development and prosperity."

From Broadway to London's West End, the musical Mamma Mia! has seen audiences in the millions. Now, the global smash hit is heading to Fiji.

A group of Pacific leaders say they're disappointed a referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament has failed.

Pacific leaders have expressed disappointment after Australia voted against altering its constitution to create an Indigenous voice to Parliament over the weekend.

Environmental changes and resistance to pesticide is causing a surge in mosquito-related disease in Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.

A Tokelauan vaka, a Rotuma suru headdress and a Fijian chiefly ceremonial costume are some of the works in a new Pacific exhibition at the Australian museum in Sydney.

New Zealand's centre-right National Party claimed victory at the New Zealand election which saw a swing against Labour.  

Concerns about the safety of Samoa's colourful old wooden buses have once again become a talking point in the capital Apia. 

The Flying Fijians have bowed out of the men's Rugby World Cup after losing to England 30-24.

The Torres Strait region voted strongly in favour of establishing a Voice to Parliament, and locals in the area still coming to terms with the result of Saturday's referendum.

The showdown between the Flying Fijians and England in the World Cup quarter finals on Monday morning is being hailed by some as the biggest Pacific rugby match in history.

With only two days to go for New Zealand's general elections, parties are doing everything they can to get votes in.

The high cost of living, healthcare and housing are some of the top concerns for Pacific Islanders in New Zealand as the country heads to the polls. 

The high cost of living, healthcare and housing are some of the top concerns for Pacific Islanders in Aotearoa/New ahead of the general election.

Authorities in the Northern Marianas are assessing the damage after the group experienced gusts of up to 120km/h. 

For New Zealanders of Pasifika background with large families, the costs of attaining Australian citizenship might appear daunting.

Authorities in Northern Marianas are assessing the damage caused by Typhoon Bolaven which generated winds of up to 120km/h.

The company behind a controversial plan to set up a gold and copper mine near the iconic Sepik River in PNG has been urged to publicly release information about its proposed dam.

The head of a Pacific Christian delegation visiting Israel say they’re safe despite the outbreak of violence in the country.

More than 200 Pacific Islanders who travelled to Jerusalem for a religious festival have found themselves in the middle of a bloody war that has claimed hundreds of lives.

More than 200 Pacific Islanders have found themselves sheltering in a war zone after travelling to Israel for a religious festival last week. 

Vanuatu's new Prime Minister Charlot Salwai, who is the country's third in a month, has told Pacific Beat he plans on uniting a divided parliament and will be looking at new legislation to end political instability.

Fiji have qualified for the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals, knocking out the Wallabies in the process.

Climate campaigner and social activist Reverend James Bhagwan has welcomed Australia’s return to the UN’s Green Climate Fund.

Vanuatu's new prime minister has vowed to unite parliament and end political instability. Charlot Salwai became the country's third prime minister in a month his predecessor was ousted in a no-confidence vote. 

Ikale Tahi coach, and former Wallaby, Toutai Kefu says the final pool round match against Romania at the Rugby World Cup will be his last as Tongan coach;

The exhibit called 'Tidal Kin' at the Chau Chak Wing Museum tells Pacific stories in Sydney through archival material, their descendants and community. 

Excitement is building in Solomon Islands over the imminent opening of the revamped Munda International airport. It's believed the new international airport will improve connectivity between Western province, the rest of the country and the region.

In Solomon Islands a lot of attention is understandably focused on the upcoming Pacific Games and the developments in Honiara to host the event.

Spirituality plays an important role in Pacific life, but the arrival of self-proclaimed prophetess Lily Java in Fiji has raised plenty of eyebrows. 

Traders in Manus put their lives on the line in pursuit of betel nut, which doesn't grow on the island. Also, A showdown looms in Vanuatu, with MPs to decide if Prime Minister Sato Kilman will keep his job.

A showdown is looming in Vanuatu, this Friday MPs will decide if the country's recently appointed Prime Minister Sato Kilman will keep his job.

On Santa Catalina in eastern Solomon Islands, they have a special way of dealing with disputes and settling grievances. 

Traders in Manus are putting their lives on the line in pursuit of betel nut, which doesn't grow on the island.

A new UN report has found a number of Pacific countries are vulnerable to human trafficking. 

Controversial contracts have overshadowed the Pacific Games, after a multimillion-dollar contract to supply toilet paper was awarded to a barbershop.

Papua New Guinea's second largest city will begin welcoming international flights, after the opening of a new airport terminal near Lae. 

Money transactions can still take days to carry out in some parts of the Pacific. But the development of a new 'SuperApp' in the Cook Islands is looking to change that.

He made his name as the Fresh Prince of Bel Air, but for the next month Papua New Guinea's New Ireland Province will be home to Will Smith.

Palau's president Surangel Whipps Jr recaps his experience at the recent US-Pacific Forum Leaders Summit, which Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare described as a lecture. Also, Papua New Guinea's second largest city Lae, opens a new airport.

A war wreckage expert in PNG has potentially located the final resting place of Joe Biden's uncle, Ambrose Finnegan, who was lost during World War Two.

Palau's president Surrengal Whipps Jr recaps his experience at the recent US-Pacific Forum Leaders Summit, which Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare described as a lecture. 

Sato Kilman was elected Vanuatu's Prime Minister only a month ago, and already the veteran politician is facing a major challenge to his power. 

A United Nations committee found the Australian Government violated Torres Strait Islanders' human rights, and said they should get compensation. 

Tonga's first ever dance crew, Onion Squad, has competed at the World Supremacy Battlegrounds and International Street Dance championships in Sydney.

All eyes are on Vanuatu's Supreme Court and then Parliament as Prime Minister Sato Kilman attempts to fight off challenge from opposition. Also, we investigate what political bodies exist in the Pacific that help Indigenous peoples to be heard.

Suluafi Brianna Fruean is urging countries to get behind nations like Tuvalu and Vanuatu to sign a fossil fuel non-proliferation treaty.

The Flying Fijians are on track to a quarterfinal appearance at the Rugby World Cup after defeating Georgia 17-12 on Sunday morning.

A Kanak independence candidate in New Caledonia has won a seat in the French senate - the first time the FLNKS party has had such a position.

Climate Change is one of the most important public health threat the world is facing. But what impact is it having on kids?

The United States military has begun trialling a new live-fire training range on the Pacific Island of Guam.

There was a touching moment at the US Pacific Leaders Summit when president Joe Biden shared a personal story about his family's connection to Papua New Guinea.

Pacific leaders reaffirm commitment and relations with the US, as the US Pacific Leaders Forum Summit comes to a close. Also, The United States military trial a new live-fire training range on the Pacific Island of Guam.

Short-term layovers have turned into indefinite stays for passengers, as Air Vanuatu remains grounded.

A "sorry situation" is how Papua New Guinea's Information and Communications Technology Minister describes the country's copyright laws.

Ebay is a global brand name - one many people in the Pacific would be familiar with. But in Fiji, scammers are using to fleece investors.

A Chinese Training vessel makes port in Port Moresby, just hours after Washington held a summit for Pacific Island leaders overnight on Monday. Also, Pacific leaders give their take on Australia's upcoming Voice referendum.

In a few weeks, Australia will hold an historic referendum on whether to recognise its First people in the constitution.

Hundreds of travellers across the Pacific are left stranded after Vanuatu's national airline cancels a string of flights over the weekend. Also, Pacific leaders prepare to commence talks at the US Pacific Forum Leaders Summit.

Pacific leaders are in Washington DC this week for the U-S Pacific Forum Leaders Summit hosted by President Joe Biden. 

In Samoa, the brutal treatment of an elderly man who was beaten, tied to a stick by his wrists and ankles and carried like a pig through his village has shocked the nation.

Hundreds of travellers have been stranded in Vanuatu after the country's sole international aircraft was grounded due to mechanical issues.

One Pacific leader who will be attending USPresident Joe Biden's Pacific leaders summit is Tongan Prime Minsiter Siaosi Sovaleni. 

US President Joe Biden will host a summit with Pacific Island leaders this week where climate change, economic growth, sustainable development, public health and illegal fishing will be discussed.

Australia is pushing for a digital transformation of the Pacific's health sector, and to do so, it is set to establish a so-called Pacific Health Information Support Hub.

The mid-year deadline passes, as negotiations drag on to finalise a security deal between Australia and PNG. Also Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare declines an invitation to attend a Pacific leaders summit hosted by Joe Biden in Washington.

Manu Samoa could all but secure a place in the knockout stage of the Rugby World Cup with a win over Argentina. Also, former Gold Coast Titans coach Justin Holbrook prepares tp take charge of a PNG team for the first time as the PM XIIIs fixture returns to Port Moresby.

President Surangel Whipps Jr from Palau is the first Pacific leader to address the delegates at the UN General Assembly.

Vanuatu may have a new Prime Minister, but the fallout from last month's change in government is continuing. 

Escalating violence in West Papua has humanitarian organisations deeply concerned about the safety of civilians in the area.

There's calls for humanitarian intervention in West Papua after escalating violence claimed the lives of teenagers. Also, Vanuatu's opposition boycotts parliament in a bid to block a motion aimed at suspending the former speaker of parliament.

The Pacific's largest university is aiming to improve collaboration with some of Australia's leading tertiary institutions. 

Fiji's win over Australia has signalled the growing strength of Pacific Island teams against tier-one nations.

Conservationists are unconvinced by James Marape's promise to stop deep sea mining.

Opponents of deep-sea mining remain sceptical that Papua New Guinea's government's recent ban on seafloor resource projects marks the end of the controversial 'Solwara One' project. Also, A court has orders a stop to the culling of bull and tiger sharks in New Caledonia.

A court has ordered a stop to the culling of bull and tiger sharks, despite recent attacks.

Health professionals from across the region recently met in Cook Islands to chart the progress made in fighting NCDs.

Fiji's Rugby World Cup hopes are alive following a historic win over Australia.

A popular Fiji song lays bare the cost of the Pacific Labour Mobility Scheme has on families

Vanuatu's Prime minister Sato Kilman Livtuvanu says overseas seasonal work is handicapping the country.

Fiji breathes new life into its Rugby World Cup campaign after defeating Australia 22-16 overnight. Also, changes to the Solomon Islands voter registration drives people back to the provinces to register.

Timor-Leste's new Prime Minister will begin a six-day trip to China this week

Changes to the Solomon Islands Voter Registration has driven people back to the provinces to register.

A Samoan PHD candidate is researching whether traditional Samoan food can improve the health of people in the Pacific.

All eyes are on Samoa and Tonga, who are gearing up for their opening matches at the Rugby Wold Cup this weekend. Also, a Rugby World Cup referee comes under further fire for his treatment of Fiji.

PNG's Minister for Internal Security Peter Tsamalili said tribal conflict in Enga dates back centuries.

Images of motherhood were among those evoked from small states during submissions to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.

Tuvalu's government makes a bold proposition, asserting it will continue to exist as a country, even if the island succumbs to rising sea levels. Also, authorities in Fiji race to find the cause of a diarrhoea outbreak in Ba.

Fiji authorities are racing to find the cause of a diarrhoea outbreak in communities around Ba.

Tuvalu has made a bold proposition, asserting that it will continue to exist as a country, even if the island disappears due to rising sea levels.

Local communities  are calling for peace in PNG's Enga Province, as families and children bear the brunt of intensifying violence.

Reports of toxic mold growth, poor ventilation and ageing public school facilities in Guam spark concern ahead of the new school year. Also, Local communities call for peace in PNG's Enga Province, as families and children bear the brunt of intensifying violence.

Tuvalu and Vanuatu, are among countries taking high-emitting countries to court.

Multiple schools have closed and many others have lapsed safety certificates as a new school year begins in Guam.

Twelve Pacific female media professionals have attended the Australian Women in Media National Conference in Sydney.

Two Papua New Guinean artists are in Australia taking part in a Street Art Festival in Darwin.

Gagana fa'a Samoa is the official language of Samoa, however English is increasingly being spoken.

A bilas-inspired workshop will take place at a Sydney museum later this month.

The Methodist Church in Fiji calls for authorities to target the South Korean religious group Grace Roads, which it calls a cult. Also, a new wave of tribal fighting leaves 70 dead in Papua New Guinea's highlands.

The Methodist Church in Fiji says its about time authorities targeted Grace Roads.

The US Senate has endorsed an expansion to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, which would include Guam and New Mexico.

New research reveals the tremendous underwater damage caused by the Tonga volcanic eruption in 2022.

Literacy issues among Australian Pasifika youth have been reflected in New Zealand research on the topic.

A man accused of conspiring to murder Samoa's former prime minister will make another bid to be freed from prison this week.

The failure of ULMWP’s application to join the MSG has resulted in a shake-up of the group's leadership.

Vanuatu's women's cricket team is on the brink of claiming the World Cup East Asia-Pacific Qualifying tournament on home soil.

Flying Fijians playmaker Caleb Muntz suffers World Cup ending injury, sparking speculation over replacement. Also, Pacific pundits make their predictions, as World Cup fever takes hold.

A fresh look at one of rugby's most talented and controversial figures is being shown in a new documentary.

The Flying Fijians are awaiting news of their fly-half replacement, following a World Cup-ending injury to star playmaker Muntz.

"What I think in my heart is that this will be the tournement of the Pacific Island nations."

Tonga’s Prime Minister Sioasi Sovaleni has defeated a no-confidence vote 14-11. But his opponents are crying foul, saying proper parliamentary procedures were not followed, because debate did not take place.

Parliament met well late into the night as a group of MPs attempted to oust Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni.

Vanuatu's new prime minister, Sato Kilman (Sah-toh Kil-man), says the country's security agreement with Australia is unlikely to be ratified.

A team from National Geographic plans to explore, research and encourage country leaders in the Marshall Islands to protect the Earth's oceans.

Mangroves, tidal marshes and coral reefs are slowly drowning from rising sea levels.

Vanuatu's parliament convenes to name a new Prime Minister after the Court of Appeal ruled that last month's no-confidence vote against Ishmael Kalsakau was supported by the majority of MPs. Also, Tonga's parliament to consider a motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Siaosi Sovaleni.

Tonga's parliament is considering a motion of no confidence against Prime Minister Siaosi  Sovaleni.

Sato Kilman has been elected as the new prime minister of Vanuatu.

Pacific Islanders now make up 1.26 per cent of Australia's population, but the community is lagging behind when it comes to accessing higher education. 

Surangel Whipps junior wants more people to visit the country and experience their 'vegetarian sharks'.

The Pacific's largest mobile phone operator Digicel has likely been used by private spy firms.

Fiji's under-23 men's national side will face PNG in a do-or-die clash this weekend

A ticket to Tokyo will be at stake for Vanuatu's beach volleyball teams this week.

A chorus of condemnation has been levelled at the Papua New Guinea Football Association, after it failed to attain travel visas for PNG's under-23 men's soccer team.

Papua New Guinea Football Association comes under fire for failing to send it under-23 national team to New Zealand in time for the OFC men's Olympic qualifying tournament. Also, Vanuatu's beach volleyballers compete for an Olympic berth at the Continental Cup.

A chance to feature at the ICC T20 Women's World Cup is currently up for grabs in Vanuatu.

A festival of football is brewing in Port Moresby, which will host the nations top local men and women's teams in a double header grand final.

Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum will be held on the 14th of October. The Prime Minister has described it as a once in a generation chance to vote for recognition, while campaigners against the Voice are urging Australians to vote No. Pacific communities in Australia have described the referendum as an important moment for fighting racism. FEATURED: Jioji Rovulo, professor and chair of Social Work and Policy Studies at the University of Sydney. Bella Swan, the Pacific Communities Council Far North Queensland

Solomon Islands will introduce a ban on single-use plastics from Friday. 

Samoa's Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has again raised deep concerns about the exodus of Pacific workers to Australia and New Zealand, arguing that countries like hers should not be seen merely as "outposts" which "grow" labourers for developed nations.

A political scientist says Papua New Guinea's move to open an embassy in Jerusalem may influence other Pacific nations to recognise the city.

Scientists have discovered nuclear contamination in the shells of turtles in the Marshall Islands, suggesting they may have survived 20th-century nuclear testing.

Five prisoners were killed and 42 escaped during a violent jailbreak in the Southern Highlands which led to a pastor and warder being taken hostage.

The head of Papua New Guinea's prisons is urging dozens of escaped convicts to return to jail after five were killed during a major jailbreak.

Vanuatu's prime minister is appealing a Supreme Court ruling that has effectively ended his time in office. But the country's Finance Minister John Salong is urging opposition MPs to work with government for the sake of Vanuatu's stability.