🏝️☕Today in Oceania - Fri 25th July 25

Published 16 days ago • 15 min read

Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.

TODAY IN OCEANIA


Today is International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent
Today honors the strength, beauty, and contributions of Afro-descendant women and girls around the world. It's a powerful reminder to uplift Black voices, celebrate cultural heritage, and continue the fight for equality and justice.

OCEANIA MARKETS

S&P/ASX 200 8,709.40
-0.32%
S&P/NZX 50 Index Gross 12,805.13
+0.09%
SPX STRI Fiji 9254.39
0.00％
ASX 200 and NZX 50 Data Provided By: Morning Brew
*Market index data sourced from official exchange publications and financial data aggregators. ASX and NZX data reflect end-of-day figures from the Australian and New Zealand stock exchanges respectively. SPX (South Pacific Stock Exchange) figures reflect the most recent published data. Note: NZX and SPX figures include dividends (total return), while the ASX figure reflects share price movement only.

REGIONAL NEWS

A compact, insulated sleeping pod designed to provide shelter and warmth for homeless individuals. The interior features soft, beige textured walls and ceiling for insulation, with a neatly made bed covered by a gray and white patterned quilt, accompanied by a large pillow and a smaller yellow cushion. A striped cylindrical pillow rests against one wall, while a wooden bench on the side holds personal items including a red sleeping bag. A small skylight in the ceiling allows natural light to enter, creating a cozy and secure resting space aimed at offering comfort and protection in Rotorua’s challenging environment.

New program aims to offer shelter and dignity through community partnerships. Photo Credit: The Village of Hope, Rotorua

Rotorua Charity Launches 'Adopt a Streetie' Initiative to Support Homeless

A Rotorua charity has announced an innovative new initiative called Adopt a Streetie, designed to help rough sleepers move off the streets of Rotorua's city center. The program plans to match homeless individuals with local volunteer hosts who will provide free rent in exchange for completing odd jobs, offering a pathway to stable, safe accommodation and meaningful engagement in the community. Currently in the planning stage, the initiative reflects a compassionate, community-based approach to addressing homelessness while fostering responsibility and local support.

Rotorua, like many New Zealand cities, has been grappling with a rising homelessness issue, exacerbated by tough weather conditions and a shortage of affordable housing. The charity behind "Adopt a Streetie" believes that pairing rough sleepers with caring landlords can provide immediate relief and improve wellbeing, while also reducing the prevalence of street homelessness in the city center. This idea complements other local efforts, such as "The Village of Hope," which offers insulated sleeping pods to keep people safe but has faced challenges getting the necessary council consents.

While the initiative has sparked some discussion on social media and community forums regarding safety and power imbalances, the organizers emphasize their commitment to ensuring the program is carefully managed with respect and dignity at its core. This community-driven effort represents an important addition to Rotorua’s ongoing housing and support strategies, which include government and council partnerships to boost housing supply and emergency housing alternatives.
A group of eight individuals stands in a line on a green lawn with tropical plants and palm trees in the background. The people are dressed in a mix of formal attire and traditional clothing, with some wearing patterned shirts, skirts, or suits. The setting appears to be outdoors in a lush, tropical environment, possibly overlooking a distant town or coastline.

New funding backs Fiji’s fight against surging HIV crisis and highlights Pacific solidarity Photo credit: Dr Shane Reti MP / Facebook

NZ$4 Million for Fiji HIV Outbreak Response

New Zealand has pledged NZ$4 million to support Fiji as the country confronts its fastest-growing HIV outbreak on record. The announcement was made in Suva after high-level talks between New Zealand’s Minister for Pacific Peoples and Fiji’s Minister of Health and Medical Services, Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu. This significant public health crisis has seen a dramatic increase in new HIV cases—rising from fewer than 100 new infections in 2010 to about 1,600 reported in 2024, with a threefold increase just over the past year, putting serious strain on Fiji’s healthcare system, mental health, and economic stability.

The new funding is aimed at bolstering Fiji’s national response, supporting initiatives such as rapid testing, the provision of antiretroviral treatment, and community-led prevention strategies that include needle exchange programs and expanded access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Backed by international partners like UNAIDS and the United Nations, Fiji’s HIV Surge Strategy focuses on non-discriminatory, stigma-free care and targets vulnerable populations such as young people, men who have sex with men, sex workers, and people who inject drugs. The country’s rapid, multi-pronged response is designed to achieve ambitious global targets: getting 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, providing effective treatment, and ensuring viral suppression.

Virgin Australia Urges Vigilance After Suspected Power Bank Fire Mid-Flight

A mid-air incident prompts review of lithium battery policies, emphasizing passenger safety

Virgin Australia is urging passengers to keep power banks in sight during flights following a suspected lithium battery fire that occurred in an overhead locker on a flight from Sydney to Hobart. The incident on Monday, July 21, on flight VA1528, happened during the plane's descent when passengers reported smelling smoke. Cabin crew discovered a lithium battery on fire in an overhead compartment and successfully extinguished it before the aircraft landed safely at Hobart Airport. No injuries were reported, though one person was assessed for suspected smoke inhalation, and passengers disembarked safely.

The airline believes the fire was caused by a power bank in a passenger's bag, and an investigation, in conjunction with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) and Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), is currently underway . This incident highlights the growing concern over lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in power banks, which can pose a fire risk if compromised, overcharged, or defective.

Virgin Australia is now reviewing its policy on passengers carrying and using power banks onboard, and any findings from the ongoing investigation could lead to permanent changes to battery safety protocols.

PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS

Oceanian Animated Videos For Kids: Pawpaw Kids TV

Oceanian Animated Videos For Kids: Pawpaw Kids TV
Pawpaw Kids TV is a YouTube channel dedicated to engaging and educational content for children, with a specific focus on the Oceanian region. The channel features the Pawpaw Explorers—Illy the Iguana, Mo the Mongoose, and other animated characters—who embark on adventures that introduce young viewers to local wildlife, ocean currents, and cultural stories.

Pawpaw Kids TV offers a Pacific blend of entertainment and learning, making it a valuable resource for children to explore the rich cultures and natural wonders of the Oceania region. Simply scan the QR code to visit the Pawpaw Kids TV YouTube channel or click this link:
YouTube Link: Pawpaw Kids TV
A coastal scene featuring a sandy beach with a band of green algae near the shoreline. Ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs are etched into the exposed flat rocks in the foreground. Gentle waves lap against the shore, with mountains and palm trees visible in the distance under a partly cloudy sky.

Ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs etched into shoreline rock are revealed at low tide, offering a glimpse into the islands’ deep cultural history against a scenic coastal backdrop. Photo credit: U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii

Ancient Hawaiian Petroglyphs Resurface at Pōkaʻī Bay

Massive petroglyphs were uncovered at Pōkaʻī Bay on Oahu's Waianae Coast last weekend, revealing ancient Hawaiian rock art that hasn't been seen for years and is believed to be more than 1,000 years old. The petroglyphs are on a beach fronting a U.S. Army recreation center and were uncovered when sand and sediment shifted because of the waves and current, with the biggest one measuring more than 3 feet tall. Local resident Nani Peterson, who has lived on the Waianae Coast her entire life, expressed amazement at seeing the large petroglyphs at Pōkaʻī Bay for the first time, highlighting just how rare these exposures are for the community.

The petroglyphs were first discovered in 2016 and residents said they haven't been seen in years, with Waianae native Glen Kila noting their uniqueness due to their large size and counting about a dozen of them. These ancient rock carvings represent a form of traditional Hawaiian storytelling and cultural record-keeping, with experts believing they may have recorded important moments such as births or journeys around the island, with dots and lines possibly representing family connections or people's names. The temporary nature of their visibility underscores the dynamic relationship between Hawaii's coastlines and its buried cultural treasures.

Experts believe the wave action and sediment shifts that revealed the known petroglyphs suggest that many more unrecorded carvings may lie hidden beneath the sand, raising the tantalizing possibility that Hawaii's coastlines hold a wealth of undiscovered cultural artifacts.
A large military band formation performing on a grassy field, with multiple groups in coordinated uniforms including white, light blue, maroon, and khaki. The musicians are playing brass instruments, drums, and bagpipes, while a conductor stands on a small platform at the front left directing the ensemble.” The room contains open cubby shelves, paperwork, and a window with curtains. The scene suggests a meeting or workshop related to a UNICEF-supported school meals initiative.

Inaugural Pacific Police Tattoo brings together 100+ musicians from 8 nations in Port Moresby, with Royal Tonga Police Band claiming top honors at historic regional celebration. Photo credit: The Australian High Commission in Papua New Guinea (screengrab) / Facebook

Pacific Police Tattoo 2025 Showcases Regional Unity

The inaugural Pacific Police Tattoo made history on July 22, 2025, bringing together more than 100 Pacific musicians in Port Moresby for a spectacular celebration of music and regional policing cooperation. Hosted by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary with Australian Federal Police support, the event took place at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium and featured law enforcement bands from eight Pacific nations, including New Zealand, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Nauru, Micronesia, Kiribati, and Tuvalu, alongside local PNG and Australian groups in a ceremonial display of pride and partnership.

The performances were nothing short of exceptional, with the Royal Tonga Police Band taking home the coveted 'Overall Performance' award for their outstanding musical showcase. Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Commissioner David Manning congratulated the musicians from around the Pacific for their commitment and dedication to their craft and police work, highlighting how the event strengthened bonds between Pacific law enforcement agencies through the universal language of music.
An older man wearing a grey suit, red tie, and striped shirt is being interviewed on the street. He has a bald head, glasses, and a white mustache, and is speaking into a small microphone held by a reporter. A black vehicle and another man in a suit are visible in the background.

"Fiji PM questions why reinstated DPP Christopher Pryde remains overseas six months after reinstatement, while still drawing salary. Photo credit: Facebook / Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka

Fiji PM Raises Concerns Over DPP's Extended Absence

Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has expressed serious concern over the continued overseas absence of reinstated Director of Public Prosecutions Christopher Pryde, who remains in New Zealand six months after his January 7 reinstatement following tribunal clearance. Despite being cleared by a tribunal and officially reinstated, Mr. Pryde has blamed the Judicial Services Commission for his continued absence from office, citing its failure to resolve fresh complaints against him. The PM indicated he will investigate why Pryde has not resumed duties while continuing to receive his salary, and whether the matter requires reconsideration by the Constitutional Offices Commission.

PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS

Children's Book: Vonu and the Druas Play Hide and Seek

Vonu and the Druas Play Hide and Seek
Join Vonu the turtle and the stingray twins, the Druas Vai and Fai, in an exciting game of hide and seek! A heartwarming story filled with fun and adventure, perfect for young readers. Get your copy today!

Simply scan the QR code to start your adventure or click this link:
Amazon Link: Vonu and the Druas Play HIde and Seek ->
A lush green farm under a bright blue sky, showing rows of young plants growing on dark plastic mulch sheets that cover the soil. Tall trees and dense vegetation surround the cultivated area, suggesting a tropical or subtropical environment. The plants appear healthy and vibrant, with some new growth visible.

PacificKava uses weed beds and other techniques to help farmers grow more with less effort. Photo Credit: Michael Louze

Santo Tests New Kava Farming Methods to Meet Growing Demand

PacificKava, led by former Vanuatu Kava Farmers Association chairman Michael Louze, is testing new kava cultivation methods on Santo to address growing local and international demand. The pilot project uses weed beds in plantations, which could reduce the years farmers typically spend clearing their kava gardens while enabling them to plant more efficiently.

The project comes as fresh kava prices average between VT800-1,000 (US$6.70-8.40) per kilo and the industry faces challenges including theft of immature plants, quality issues from premature harvesting, and the spread of illegal "two-day" kava varieties with yellow roots that violate the Kava Act of 2002. The project aims to transform kava from a subsistence crop into a cash crop for Pacific farmers, while addressing the physical demands that often discourage younger generations from entering kava farming and helping meet urban demand that has created a ready-to-drink market across Vanuatu's towns.

Vanuatu Launches Pacific's First Marine Science School

National University of Vanuatu opens pioneering program to train next generation of ocean guardians amid climate threats

Vanuatu is set to make educational history with the launch of its first-ever School of Marine Science at the National University of Vanuatu, running from August 1-7, 2025. The initiative is led by the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD) in New Caledonia, with around 20 expert marine researchers traveling to Vanuatu to deliver specialized courses to 25 selected students and technical professionals. With more than 50 pre-registrations already received, the program will focus on critical areas including marine biodiversity, coral reef resilience, fisheries science, and oceanographic data collection.

Blackmores Faces Class Action Over Allegedly Toxic Vitamin B6 Levels

Hundreds of Australians seek legal action against health supplement giant over claims of excessive B6 in vitamin products

Hundreds of Australians are preparing to join a potential class action lawsuit against health supplement giant Blackmores over allegedly dangerous levels of vitamin B6 in its products. Melbourne-based Polaris Lawyers is investigating the case on behalf of consumers who claim to have suffered injuries from taking Blackmores vitamin supplements containing higher than recommended levels of vitamin B6. The legal action centers on claims that some Blackmores supplements contain vitamin B6 levels far exceeding safe daily intake recommendations, with one product allegedly containing "29 times the recommended daily intake" of the vitamin.

The controversy comes amid growing health warnings about vitamin B6 toxicity and its link to peripheral neuropathy, a nerve condition that causes painful symptoms including tingling, burning, and numbness in hands and feet. Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued multiple warnings over vitamin B6 supplements and their risk of causing peripheral neuropathy, advising consumers to watch for these symptoms and stop taking products if they occur. The condition can develop when people consume excessive amounts of vitamin B6, either through high-dose individual supplements or by taking multiple products containing the vitamin.

SPOTLIGHT

Hawaii Warns Tourists Against Brain Parasite from Raw Food

Two women wearing gloves handle ziplock bags containing snails or slugs during an outdoor workshop. One woman points at the bag while the other holds it, with gardening materials and plants visible in the background.

Kay Howe demonstrates safe backyard handling of snails and slugs—potential carriers of rat lungworm—to help participants reduce health risks at home. Photo Credit: Kay Howe

A Dream Trip Becomes a Medical Horror Story

A 55-year-old visitor Julie Packard's Hawaiian vacation turned into what she described as a "horrific nightmare" after contracting rat lungworm disease from eating contaminated salad in December 2024. Her case highlights the ongoing threat this brain-invading parasite poses to unsuspecting tourists who may be completely unaware of the risks lurking in Hawaii's tropical paradise. What should have been a relaxing getaway became a medical emergency that underscores the very real dangers of this preventable but potentially devastating disease.

Hawaii: The Epicenter of a Brain-Invading Parasite

Hawaii has become the unlikely epicenter for rat lungworm disease, with 82 confirmed cases between 2007-2017 and 78 additional confirmed cases over the past decade, averaging seven cases annually. The parasitic infection, caused by consuming slugs, snails, or produce contaminated by their slime, can result in devastating consequences that extend far beyond a ruined vacation. One particularly tragic case involved a 23-year-old man who remained comatose for three months and suffered permanent brain and nerve damage, illustrating the life-altering potential of this disease.

The Hidden Scale of Tourist Infections

Hawaii health officials confirm the risk exists statewide, but the actual disease burden is likely much higher than reported cases due to difficult diagnosis and costly, strict diagnostic protocols that create long waits for confirmation. Tourist cases continue to emerge regularly, with multiple visitor infections documented each year, particularly on the Big Island where most cases occur. Alarmingly, the Hawaii Department of Health doesn't maintain statistics specifically on tourist infections, suggesting the true impact on visitors may be significantly underestimated.

Symptoms That Can Last for Months

The disease's symptoms are as varied as they are severe. They typically appear 1-3 weeks after exposure but can range from one day to six weeks, with effects lasting 2-8 weeks or longer. Victims experience severe headaches, neck stiffness, temporary facial paralysis, and light sensitivity - symptoms that can completely derail a vacation and extend into long-term health complications. The most frightening aspect is that there is no treatment once infected, making prevention absolutely critical.

Prevention: The Only Defense

For travelers, the message from health officials is clear: paradise comes with hidden dangers that proper food safety can prevent. Officials emphasize thorough washing of all fresh produce with potable water, avoiding raw leafy greens from high-risk areas, and being vigilant about slug and snail contamination. Visitors should inspect produce for slug damage and slime trails, avoid consuming raw or undercooked snails and slugs, and eliminate these pests from around accommodations when possible.

ENTERTAINMENT

Temuera Morrison Joins Jason Momoa's Epic Hawaiian Saga "Chief of War"

Side-by-side images from a film or TV series featuring Polynesian or Māori-inspired characters. On the left, a man stands in the rain wearing a tall, intricate headpiece, traditional face tattoos, and a cloak with geometric patterns. On the right, three men wearing feathered cloaks and traditional attire stand around a ceremonial fire at dusk, with intense expressions and dim lighting.

Apple TV+ series featuring predominantly Polynesian cast tells indigenous story of Hawaiian unification. Photo Credit: Nicola Dove / Apple TV+

New Zealand acting legend Temuera Morrison is set to star alongside Jason Momoa in Apple TV+'s ambitious new historical drama "Chief of War," premiering August 1, 2025. The series features a predominantly Polynesian cast including Morrison, Cliff Curtis, Luciane Buchanan, and newcomer Kaina Makua, bringing authentic indigenous voices to this epic tale of Hawaiian history. Morrison, known for his roles in "Star Wars" and "The Book of Boba Fett," joins the project that represents a passion project for Momoa, who shares native Hawaiian heritage and serves as both star and creator alongside Thomas Pa'a Sibbett.

"Chief of War" follows the story of Kaʻiana, a warrior and noble of Kauaʻi who attempts to unite the four warring Hawaiian kingdoms at the turn of the 19th century, before Western colonization threatens their way of life. Told from an indigenous perspective, the series represents a significant cultural milestone in bringing authentic Polynesian storytelling to mainstream television. The eight-episode miniseries will debut with its first two episodes, then release new episodes weekly through September 19.

SPORTS

Vanuatu's Mac Lewis Claims Victory at British Army Boxing Championship

Black and white photo of two male boxers mid-fight in a boxing ring under a tented venue. The boxer on the left, tall and lean, stands defensively with his fists up, while the shorter, muscular boxer on the right appears to be throwing a punch. Both are wearing boxing gloves and athletic gear. Stage lights and metal trusses are visible in the background.

Young soldier from Ifira makes nation proud with commanding points victory in prestigious inter-unit tournament. Photo Credit: Vanuatu Daily Post

British Army boxing tournament, a young man from Ifira serving in the British Army, has recently won a Click here to visit Example, bringing pride to his Pacific Island homeland through his athletic achievement. The boxer won his bout on points and claimed the title in the inter-unit boxing tournament, with his father David Lewis sharing the victory with pride when conveying the news to the Vanuatu Daily Post. Mac joined the British Army in 2012 straight out of school, demonstrating over a decade of dedicated military service alongside his boxing prowess.

Lewis's victory comes within the framework of the Army Boxing Association's prestigious competitions, which have been running for over 100 years with units competing against each other in knockout format tournaments that conclude in May each year. The British Army boxing program represents one of the most established military sporting traditions, having been an affiliated member of England Boxing since 1882 and responsible for delivering boxing in a safe environment for British soldiers across the world.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

  1. NZ Film Industry Development Funding

    The New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) is offering Industry Development Funding to support New Zealand screen sector organisations, companies, or collectives in delivering programmes that develop craft and practice within the film industry.

    Key Details:

    • Purpose: To foster skill development, project initiatives, and talent within the New Zealand film sector.
    • Eligibility: Open to New Zealand-based screen organisations, companies, or collectives registered in New Zealand.

    Funding Strands:

    • Strand 1 (up to $350,000): The first round opened on Monday, July 14, 2025, and closes on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 1 PM. A pre-application meeting is required at least one week before the deadline.

    • Strand 2 (up to $30,000): Applications opened on Monday, July 14, 2025 and remain open until June 30, 2026, or until funds are exhausted.

    How to Apply: Applications are submitted via the NZFC's online application portal. For full details on application criteria and guidelines, please visit the official NZFC website: Industry Development Funding.

REGIONAL EVENTS

  1. Redcliffe KiteFest 2025

    Celebrate community and the joy of flight at this iconic free festival in Moreton Bay!

    Redcliffe KiteFest returns to its roots this year with a vibrant celebration for all ages. Families and kite enthusiasts are invited to Pelican Park, Clontarf, to experience two full days of sky-high fun, delicious food trucks, and creative activities. Marvel at a spectacular display of giant kites, join in the public fly zone, and let the kids unleash their imagination at hands-on kite-making workshops. With plenty of open space for picnics and sky-watching, it’s a perfect way to welcome spring and the spirit of togetherness.

    Event Details:
    Details Information
    Dates Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 September 2025
    Time 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
    Location Pelican Park, Hornibrook Esplanade, Clontarf, Redcliffe, QLD 4019
    Cost Free
    Region Moreton Bay City
    Contact (07) 3897 4999

    No booking required—just bring your kite and your sense of wonder! For more information, visit the official Redcliffe KiteFest page.

  2. U.S. Consular Services Visit Tahiti: Passport Renewals, Birth Registrations, and Notary Services

    American citizens in French Polynesia can access key consular services in person this August.

    From August 11 to 13, 2025, the U.S. Consulate will hold a visit at the Yellow Fin Restaurant, Marina Taina, Punaauia, Tahiti, offering vital consular services including passport renewals, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad for children of U.S. citizens, and notary services for documents intended for use in the United States. Appointments are required and can be requested by emailing TahitiACS@state.gov by Friday, August 1, with limited walk-in availability depending on open slots. Travelers and residents are encouraged to plan ahead as regular passport processing may take 4 to 6 weeks, and birth registrations 5 to 7 weeks.

    For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact the American Citizen Services directly via the provided email or phone number 49 99 19 99. Don’t miss this opportunity to complete essential documentation conveniently on the island.

QUICK TAKES

  • Palau is considering a draft agreement with the United States to accept “third-country nationals” seeking protection from deportation—a move that would make the Pacific nation a destination for people who arrived in the U.S. but cannot safely return to their homelands. Palau’s President, Surangel Whipps Jr, is consulting the country’s Council of Chiefs on the U.S. proposal, which reportedly lets Palau accept or decline individuals on a case-by-case basis and excludes unaccompanied minors. While the arrangement could bolster U.S. efforts to shift asylum responsibilities offshore, critics warn that with a population of just 18,000, Palau may lack the infrastructure necessary to host displaced migrants, raising concerns over resources and human rights.

  • Jimmy Aiawa , who creates content highlighting village life, culture, and commentary, has become the first Papua New Guinea content creator to receive a YouTube Silver Creator Award after reaching 123,000 subscribers. The milestone was personally recognized by YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, with Aiawa expressing excitement about the achievement and setting his sights on reaching one million subscribers next. This historic accomplishment highlights PNG's growing digital presence, where YouTubers with 1,000 subscribers can now monetize their platforms and earn revenue once they reach a minimum threshold of US$100, marking a significant step forward for local content creators in the Pacific region.
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