Pacific Security & Arts-Adjacent Culture: Kiribati leaders are urging a “blue continent” approach to keep the Pacific from becoming a stage for outside military competition after China’s rare submarine-launched ballistic missile test raised regional tensions, with New Zealand and Australia weighing new defence moves and Pacific leaders calling for Pacific-led security and an Ocean of Peace. Regional Defence Diplomacy: Australia and Fiji signed the Ocean of Peace Alliance, a mutual defence pact, while New Zealand signals exploratory talks about joining—decisions expected via Cabinet and treaty processes. Kiribati Language & Identity: In Aotearoa New Zealand, young i-Kiribati Tikuntaake Eria Redfern shares how Kiribati Language Week helped her reconnect with ancestors, family, and pride after years of feeling disconnected. Matariki in the Pacific: Matariki celebrations in New Zealand included song, dance, kapa haka, and Kiribati performances, with community groups and Māori games bringing colour and culture together. WWII Film Buzz: A wave of online film talk is resurfacing classic WWII movies, including submarine thriller picks and debates over which modern war titles best capture the Pacific and beyond.