Immigration & Belonging: New Zealand First is proposing a 24-month clemency for Pacific overstayers to apply for a legal visa, but warns that anyone who misses the deadline could be deported and permanently barred from future visas—an approach that could directly affect Tongans and other Pacific families in NZ. Local Access to Services: New Zealand will open a Visa Application Centre in Nuku’alofa on September 14, run by VFS Global, with longer hours and local submission support for paper applications (including RSE visas). Community Safety & Weather: Tonga’s deputy PM says no community is too remote for effective weather warnings, pushing “Early Warnings for All” to reach outer islands, people with disabilities, women, children, older persons, and remote households. Culture in Education: Tonga’s first fully Tongan-language degree is undergoing accreditation evaluation, marking a major step for Lea Faka-Tonga in higher learning. Sport & Pathways: Tonga’s international rugby league player David Tuipulotu has signed with St Helens on a three-year deal, adding another Tongan name to the club’s roster. Women’s Empowerment on Screen: A Pacific human rights film festival in Fiji used movies and talanoa to spotlight women’s empowerment and human rights issues. Reef Protection: Tonga, alongside other Pacific partners, has joined a global commitment to protect climate-resilient coral reefs, linking conservation to food security and identity. Literacy Day: Across Tonga, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, children and educators marked International Literacy Day, highlighting ongoing reading challenges and the need for continued investment.