Education Funding Boost: Erica Stanford says Rockquest Promotions funding rises by $50,000 a year to $1.765m, backing Smokefree Rockquest, Tangata Beats, Bandquest and more, plus new instrument support for Years 0–8. Aotearoa Music Spotlight: 1814 is back with “1814: Live Project,” a visual album/live recording built around fresh arrangements and new collaborations. Community & Culture Loss: Auckland’s Karangahape Rd feels the squeeze as live venue Neck of the Woods and record shop Flying Out close amid Covid hangover, roadworks and weaker bar sales. Climate Action at Local Level: Ōpōtiki District Council adopts a Climate Strategy and Action Plan after repeated emergencies, including storm and cyclone impacts, with iwi and hapū input and a push for nature-based solutions. Refugee Rights Reminder: On World Refugee Day, Asylum Seekers Support Trust reiterates the right to seek safety “for all of us,” citing record displacement levels. World Cup Politics & Fairness: Iran says FIFA travel restrictions are unfair after being forced to travel and return quickly around its match with New Zealand. ICE Detention Update: Ngāpuhi woman Everlee Wihongi is released from US detention after months, with whānau relieved but still raising concerns about lost documents and consular support. Arts & Heritage: Dame Jools Topp is farewelled in Auckland, with Lynda Topp describing the twin’s final year and the love behind the ceremony. Indigenous Arts Abroad: Alianait Arts Festival spotlights Inuit songs (“Pisiit”), with Indigenous artists from multiple countries learning and performing traditional repertoires.