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Know what’s happening across Oceania—before your coffee’s cold.
OCEANIA MARKETS
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ASX 200 and NZX 50 Data Provided By:
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*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. PNGX data reflects the performance of BSP Financial Group (All prices are in PNG Kina (PGK)), the exchange’s most traded company (No official index is currently published by PNGX). Cryptocurrency prices (e.g., Bitcoin) are sourced from leading crypto market tracking platforms as of 6:00pm ET.
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Big Movements This Week
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Over a two-day period, the South Pacific Stock Exchange (SPX) experienced a significant market fluctuation, with Amalgamated Telecom Holdings (ATH) shares trading in low volumes leading to substantial changes in market capitalization.
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On Tuesday, a mere 21 ATH shares traded at a nine-cent decline, resulting in a $43 million decrease in SPX's market value. The following day, 1,000 shares traded at a ten-cent drop, further reducing the market capitalization by $47.85 million. Given that ATH comprises over 24% of SPX's market capitalization, such small-volume trades can have a disproportionate impact on the overall market value.
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In response, SPX CEO Sheraj Obeyesekere indicated plans to introduce an averaged pricing mechanism to stabilize valuations and mitigate the effects of low-volume trades. By Thursday, ATH shares recovered slightly, trading at $1.85 per share, restoring approximately $23.92 million to the market capitalization.
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REGIONAL NEWS
Taupō family of six walked the length of Aotearoa — 3,048km of unforgettable memories on the Te Araroa Trail. Photo Credit: Instagram, The Williams Family (gumbootsandsneakers)
Walking The Te Araroa Trail: A Taupō Family’s Epic 3,000km Journey
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In a heartwarming and awe-inspiring journey, a Taupō family of six has completed the 3,048-kilometre Te Araroa Trail, walking the entire length of Aotearoa New Zealand from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Over the course of 218 days, they navigated rivers, mountains, forests, and cities — with all four children (ages 8 to 15) walking every step of the way.
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What makes this journey truly extraordinary is that none of them had prior experience with overnight hiking. They started with very little gear, learning as they went. Days were long, averaging around 20km, and nights were spent camping, bunking in huts, or occasionally crashing with trail angels — generous strangers who host and feed Te Araroa walkers.
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Their motivation? Reconnecting as a family and embracing the simple, grounded joy of being together in nature. The parents, both former teachers, wanted to offer their children a different kind of education — one rooted in the land, physical challenge, and emotional resilience.
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The Te Araroa trail, whose name means The Long Pathway in te reo Māori, weaves through some of New Zealand’s most stunning and diverse landscapes — from subtropical beaches and volcanic plateaus to alpine passes and remote bushlands. It’s a walk of spiritual as much as physical endurance, and only a few hundred people complete it each year.
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For the family, the journey was about more than just getting from one end of the country to the other. It was about letting go of schedules, embracing discomfort, leaning into slowness, and finding joy in shared challenge. “The memories are just layered one on top of another — like sediment,” the parents reflected.
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Their story is a gentle reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful journeys don’t require crossing borders — just lacing up your boots, stepping outside, and choosing to walk together.
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Solomon Islands faces a critical condom shortage since February — raising STI and HIV risks, as health advocates urge open conversations and community support. Photo Credit: SIPPA -Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association 2023
Condom Shortage in Solomon Islands Raises Public Health Concerns
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Since February 2025, the Solomon Islands has faced a nationwide shortage of condoms, as reported by the Solomon Islands Planned Parenthood Association (SIPPA). This shortage has led to a noticeable increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and there is concern that HIV cases may also rise due to the lack of protective measures.
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Jack Martin, a representative from SIPPA, emphasized the importance of open communication between parents and their children regarding sexual health. He encouraged parents to discuss safe sex practices with their adolescents or to bring them to SIPPA clinics located in Honiara, Auki, Gizo, and Lata. These clinics offer youth-friendly spaces staffed with trained professionals who provide counseling and accurate information on sexual and reproductive health.
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In response to the shortage, SIPPA is actively reaching out to schools to provide students with essential information on teenage pregnancy, STIs, HIV/AIDS, and behavior change strategies. Efforts are also underway to procure condoms through private pharmacies or international sources as a temporary solution.
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While condoms are still available for purchase in some pharmacies, the cost may be prohibitive for many individuals, particularly in rural areas. This situation underscores the need for sustainable solutions to ensure consistent access to affordable sexual health resources across the Solomon Islands.
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PRESENTED BY VONU STUDIOS
Oceanian Animated Videos For Kids: Pawpaw Kids TV
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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.
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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
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The world’s largest active cargo plane, the Antonov AN-124 'Ruslan', lands in Brisbane — capable of carrying satellites, tanks, and entire factories. Photo credit: Air Force
Antonov AN-124 'Ruslan' Touches Down in Brisbane
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In April, aviation enthusiasts gathered at Brisbane Airport to witness the arrival of the Antonov AN-124 'Ruslan,' the world's largest active cargo aircraft. Known for its immense size and capacity, the AN-124 can transport entire factories, satellites, and military tanks.
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The aircraft's visit to Brisbane was part of a broader mission that included delivering components for a new P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft training facility in New Zealand. The Antonov had previously landed at RNZAF Base Ohakea, near Palmerston North, after a nearly five-hour flight from American Samoa.
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The Antonov AN-124, designed in the 1970s in Ukraine, remains a vital asset for transporting oversized and heavy cargo globally. Its recent appearances in the Pacific region underscore its ongoing role in supporting both commercial and military logistics.
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Solomon Islands ramps up coastal protection with new GIS and satellite mapping tools, empowering local experts to safeguard mangroves and seagrass ecosystems. Photo credit: SPC
Solomon Islands Strengthens Coastal Conservation with GIS and Remote Sensing Training
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In early May 2025, a significant step was taken to enhance coastal conservation efforts in the Solomon Islands. A week-long training program was conducted in Honiara, focusing on the utilization of open-source Geographic Information System (GIS) tools and remote sensing satellite data. This initiative, part of the Management and Conservation of Blue Carbon Ecosystems (MACBLUE) project, was facilitated by the Pacific Community's (SPC) Digital Earth Pacific (DE Pacific) program.
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The training brought together government officials and academic researchers, aiming to bridge knowledge gaps in environmental monitoring, particularly in mapping and protecting vital seagrass and mangrove ecosystems. Participants were introduced to tools like QField, enhancing their capacity to collect accurate field data. Tracey Vunagi, an Environmental Management lecturer at the Solomon Islands National University, highlighted the value of these tools in academic research and curriculum development.
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Agnetha Vave Karamui, Chief Conservation Officer at the Environment Conservation Division, emphasized the importance of mapping in ecosystem protection. She noted that access to updated information on mangrove distributions and trends is crucial for effective management planning and decision-making.
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This training represents a significant advancement in the Solomon Islands' efforts to conserve coastal ecosystems, providing local officials and researchers with the skills and tools necessary for informed environmental stewardship.
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Look up! The Eta Aquariids meteor shower — remnants of Halley’s Comet — is lighting up New Zealand’s early morning skies this week. Photo credit: Space.com/Justin Ng
Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower Dazzles New Zealand Skies
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The Eta Aquariid meteor shower, an annual celestial event originating from debris left by Halley's Comet, is currently illuminating the night skies over New Zealand. This meteor shower is renowned for its swift meteors, which can travel at speeds up to 66 kilometers per second, often leaving bright, persistent trails.
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The shower is active from April 15 to May 27, with peak activity occurring between May 5 and 6. During this peak, observers in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly in areas with minimal light pollution, may witness up to 50 meteors per hour under optimal conditions.
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For the best viewing experience, it's recommended to find a dark location away from city lights and to look towards the northeastern sky in the early morning hours, between 3:00 and 6:00 a.m. The radiant point of the shower is near the constellation Aquarius, and while meteors will appear to emanate from this area, they can be seen streaking across various parts of the sky.
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No special equipment is needed to enjoy the meteor shower; however, allowing your eyes to adjust to the darkness for about 30 minutes will enhance visibility. While capturing the meteors on a smartphone may be challenging due to low-light conditions, cameras capable of long-exposure photography can effectively capture the spectacle.
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This meteor shower offers a unique opportunity to witness remnants of Halley's Comet, which won't make its next close approach to Earth until 2061. Skywatchers are encouraged to take advantage of clear skies and minimal moonlight during this period to experience one of the Southern Hemisphere's most impressive meteor displays.
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SPORTS
Jarryd Hayne Returns to Rugby League After Seven-Year Hiatus
Jarryd Hayne makes his long-awaited return to rugby league this Sunday with the Wentworthville Magpies — seven years since his last professional match. Photo Credit: Wentworthville Magpies
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Jarryd Hayne, the former NRL star and two-time Dally M Medal winner, is set to make his return to rugby league this Sunday, May 11, 2025, playing for the Wentworthville Magpies in the Ron Massey Cup. The 37-year-old will take the field at five-eighth against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs at Ringrose Park, marking his first competitive game since 2018.
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Hayne's comeback follows a challenging period, including legal issues that led to his imprisonment. He was convicted twice on charges stemming from a 2018 incident; however, both convictions were overturned on appeal, and he was released from prison in June 2023.
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After signing with the Magpies earlier this year, Hayne faced hamstring injuries that delayed his debut. Now fully recovered, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to return to the sport, stating, "Football has always been a huge part of my life, and getting back out there in a team environment is something I’ve truly missed."
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Wentworthville Magpies, a feeder club for the Parramatta Eels, welcomed Hayne's addition, highlighting his experience and commitment during training. Club president Rod Pritchard noted, "His experience and natural football ability bring a new dynamic to the team."
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Hayne's return is not only a personal milestone but also a significant event for the Ron Massey Cup, drawing attention to the third-tier competition. Fans and supporters are eager to see the former NRL star back in action, hoping this marks a positive new chapter in his rugby league career.
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OCEANIAN MAKING WAVES
Belyndar Maonia Rikimani becomes the first Pacific Islander to win the Peter Lyon Award, amplifying Solomon Islands' voice on the global climate stage. Photo Credit: The Round Table - The Commonwealth Journal of International Affairs
Solomon Islands Climate Activist, Belyndar Maonia Rikimani, Honored with Prestigious Commonwealth Award
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Belyndar Maonia Rikimani, a young climate activist from Malaita Province in the Solomon Islands, has made history by becoming the first Pacific Islander to receive the Peter Lyon Award. This accolade recognizes her compelling article on climate justice and the profound impacts of climate change on Pacific Island communities, published in The Round Table: The Commonwealth Journal of International Affairs and Policy Studies in 2024.
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With over six years of involvement in climate activism, Rikimani has been a vocal advocate for the Pacific region, highlighting the existential threats posed by rising sea levels and environmental degradation. In her award-winning piece, she critiques the global political landscape, stating, "I do believe they know what's happening to us. They know... I think they turn a blind eye and shift their priorities to politics like we see in the United States."
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The Peter Lyon Award, named after the esteemed Commonwealth scholar, honors exceptional writing on international affairs and policy studies. Rikimani's recognition not only underscores the pressing climate challenges facing the Pacific but also amplifies the voices of those on the frontlines of environmental change.
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Her achievement serves as an inspiration for young activists across the region, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and advocacy in driving global awareness and action on climate issues.
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SPOTLIGHT
World Rugby’s revamped competition model. Photo credit: HSBC SVNS
World Rugby Announces Overhaul of HSBC Sevens Series Ahead of LA 2028 Olympics
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World Rugby has unveiled a significant restructuring of the HSBC Sevens World Series (SVNS), set to take effect in 2026. The new model introduces a three-division system, reducing the number of core teams from 12 to 8 per gender in Division 1. This change aims to enhance competitiveness, financial sustainability, and global reach, aligning with preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
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Key Features of the New SVNS Model:
Three-Division Structure: The competition will feature three divisions:
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Division 1: Eight teams per gender competing in six high-impact events.
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Division 2: Six teams per gender across three events.
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Division 3: A standalone Challenger event with eight teams per gender, qualifying from regional competitions.
Expanded Calendar: The series will increase from 10 to 13 tournaments starting in 2026, culminating in three World Championship Series events featuring the top 12 teams per gender.
Clear Progression Pathway: Teams can advance from regional qualifiers to global championship contention within a single season.
Financial Investment: World Rugby will invest £10 million annually into the SVNS, with a significant portion allocated to team participation fees.
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This overhaul follows a record-breaking Olympic Games in Paris 2024 and aims to secure the sustainable advancement of rugby sevens, showcasing some of the most gifted athletes on the planet.
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REGIONAL EVENTS
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Farm to Plate Agroecology Tour – Tonga
Join the free Farm to Plate Agroecology Tour on Tuesday 27 May, from 10am–3pm at Mahuleva Organic Farm, Tongatapu, Tonga — a special side event of the 2025 Pacific Week of Agriculture & Forestry (PWAF). Explore traditional, climate-smart food systems through farm tours, tastings, and conversations on food resilience. Featuring local produce from Tonga and French Polynesia.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/314vuXbDvy
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Fiji Tourism Exchange
Held from May 11–13, 2025 at Denarau Island, this event connects tourism operators with international buyers.
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Canterbury Hosts Inaugural Gluten Free Food Festival
The inaugural Canterbury Gluten Free Food Festival kicks off today, Friday, 9 May 2025, at the Lincoln Event Centre, offering a unique experience for those embracing a gluten-free lifestyle. The exclusive preview session runs from 5pm to 8pm, providing attendees with early access to a variety of gluten-free products and services. The main festival day follows on Saturday, 10 May, from 9am to 3pm, featuring an array of exhibitors, workshops, masterclasses, and a dedicated kids' zone. Organized in partnership with Coeliac New Zealand, the event aims to promote safe and enjoyable gluten-free living for all attendees.
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Aboriginal Comedy Allstars
Australia’s top First Nations comedians, — Andy Saunders, Elaine Crombie, Janty Blair, Jay Wymarra, Kevin Kropinyeri, and Sean Choolburra — are bringing their critically acclaimed Allstars show to audiences, May 8th to May 11th at the Brisbane Powerhouse, delivering big laughs and cultural pride after sell-out performances across the UK and major Australian cities.
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TID BITS
Petrel expert Dick Watling and Fiji Museum Co-Leader Ratu Jone Balenaivalu present two Kacau ni Gau type specimens to the Fiji Museum. Photo Credit: Fiji Museum - Facebook
National Geographic Captures Fiji’s Endangered Seabird Conservation Efforts
The National Geographic Pristine Seas team is in Fiji documenting conservation efforts for endangered species, highlighting the rare Kacau ni Gau seabird. A key moment was the filmed donation of two specimens to the Fiji Museum by expert Dick Watling and Co-Leader Ratu Jone Balenaivalu.
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Environment Minister Jérémie Katidjo Monniern. Photo credit: Noumea NC
New Caledonia Enacts 50-Year Ban on Deep-Sea Mining
New Caledonia's Congress enacted a 50-year ban on deep-sea mining across its 1.3 million km² Exclusive Economic Zone. This legislation prohibits all commercial exploration and seabed exploitation, while permitting non-invasive scientific research. Environment Minister Jérémie Katidjo Monnier emphasized the need to safeguard the region's marine ecosystems, which host over 9,000 species residing on its coral reefs.
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A new certification framework approved by the Pacific Tourism Organisation sets the stage for a cleaner, more sustainable tourism industry across the region. Photo credit: Pacific Tourism Organisation - Facebook
Pacific Tourism Moves to Eliminate Single-Use Plastics
The Pacific Tourism Organisation has approved a new Certification Framework and Toolkit to help phase out single-use plastics across Pacific Island tourism industries, marking a major regional step toward sustainable tourism and environmental protection, in partnership with SPREP and the Australian-funded Pacific Ocean Litter Project.
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Located in the former police station on Cameron Street, the new café offers meals, support services, and a safe haven for the city’s rough sleepers. Photo credit: Denise Piper/New Zealand Herald
Whare Āwhina Opens Community Café for Whangārei’s Vulnerable
Whare Āwhina has inaugurated its new community café and headquarters at 93 Cameron Street, Whangārei, repurposing the former police station into a welcoming space for the city's rough sleepers. The facility offers meals, rest areas, and access to essential services like housing support and legal aid, all under one roof.
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QUICK TAKES
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Solomon Islands PM Jeremiah Manele has survived a no-confidence challenge after the motion was withdrawn, following successful talks with opposition MPs who crossed the floor to join his government.
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Fiji plans to legalize pirate taxis to improve passenger safety and transport regulation, though the move faces pushback from licensed taxi operators.
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A test flight from China to Vanuatu on April 30 marked the launch of a new air link aimed at boosting tourism, trade, and bilateral ties, with officials hailing it as a major milestone in China-Vanuatu cooperation and economic development.
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Fiji’s 16-year-old weightlifter, Nehemiah Elder, made history by winning three gold medals at the 2025 IWF World Youth Championships in Lima, Peru—becoming the first Fijian to achieve this feat at a World Championship event.
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