Apology & Accountability: Samoa’s Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt has formally apologised after a resurfaced 2007 video showed him saying “Heil Hitler” and making a Nazi salute at a family gathering, stressing the words and gesture were inappropriate and that he rejects Nazism and all forms of extremism. Climate Action: Pacific leaders meeting ahead of COP31 are urging governments to keep global warming as close as possible to 1.5°C, warning there are no safe futures above that threshold for low-lying island nations. Culture & Identity: A New Zealand Society of Genealogists push at the Auckland Family History Expo is encouraging Pacific and Māori families to explore heritage beyond records—through village links, chiefly names, churches, songs and stories. Community Recognition: Seven Pacific community leaders, athletes, educators and advocates received national honours at investiture ceremonies in Auckland, including a Pacific fashion pioneer recognised for building Mena Designs from Samoa to New Zealand. Health & Schools: Samoa’s measles situation is worsening, with the Ministry of Health reporting 314 suspected cases, pending lab results, and three suspected measles-related deaths, prompting closures of preschools and child day-care centres. Sports & Pride: Toa Samoa co-captains Junior Paulo and Jarome Luai speak on what the jersey means—rooted in family sacrifice, church ties and giving back to Samoa.