September 2009
Guam, Philippines facing more bad weather
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
More bad weather is heading to Guam, and may move on to an already-devastated Philippines.
Escaped inmates continue to frighten PNG citizens
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
Residents in Papua New Guinea continue to face the danger of dozens of escaped and violent inmates from a local jail.
Former NZ diplomat says blocking Fiji peacekeepers wrong
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
A former New Zealand member of the UN Security Council says its a mistake to prevent Fiji from supplying the UN with peackeepers.
NZ develops device to identify drug labs
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
Anti-drug authorities will be watching closely to see how well a new device developed in New Zealand works in the fight against Methamphetamine.
US specialist team in PNG to remove WWII ordinance
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
Some of the largest battles that raged in the Pacific during World War Two happened around Papua New Guinea's Bougainville, where allied forces fought desperately to repel the Japanese from taking the top-end of Australia.
Initial reports of American Samoa quake
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
The US Geological Survey is reporting that a 7-point-8 magnitude earthquake has hit just off the coast of American Samoa, just 180 kilometres from Hihifo in Tonga and 200 kilometres from Samoa's capital, Apia.
New Zealand prepares for pending tsunami
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
While the quake and resulting tsunami has already hit many of the smaller Pacific states around American Samoa, countries radiating-out from the epicentre continue to be on alert -- including New Zealand, and we're joined by Adrian Prowse of the Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management.
Samoans in Apia flee seaside as quake strongly felt
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
A reporter for the Samoa Observer, Alan Ah Mu, has fled to the hills with his family.
Waves wash across Pago Pago airport
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
Dave Fiumaono, an airport supervisor at Pago Pago airport in American Samoa, experienced the earthquake while at home, and has arrived at work to find waves have swept across the runways at the airport.
American Samoa quake upgraded to 8.3
Updated 30/09/2009 08:55:30
As we've been covering all morning a, 8-point-3 magnitude earthquake has hit off the coast of American Samoa -- the figure has just been upgraded by the UN Geological Survey.
Up to 20 deaths in American Samoa
Updated 30/09/2009 18:18:10
American Samoa is reporting up to twenty deaths as a result of the tsunami, with coastal villages reportedly devastated.
Australia and New Zealand asked to assist Samoan disaster victims
Updated 30/09/2009 18:18:10
Medical supplies, personnel and other emergency relief equipment is what Samoa appears to need immediately following the earthquake and tsunami.
Oxfam Australia ready to help with Samoan Disaster relief
Updated 30/09/2009 18:18:11
International aid agency Oxfam says it is ready to respond to the tsunami disaster in Samoa if help is needed.
Samoans in New Zealand worry about loved ones
Updated 30/09/2009 18:18:11
When disasters like the earthquake and tsunami strike the Pacific, family members around the world immediately get on the phone to find out what's happened to their loved ones.
Apia a "ghost town" as tsunami shock sets in
Updated 30/09/2009 18:18:11
The mood in Samoa is still one of shock, according to Russell Hunter, the editor of the Samoa Observer.
Women's success in law sector topic of PNG study
Updated 29/09/2009 07:11:02
The secret to women's success in climbing up the leadership ladder is the recognition that women are able to perform at the very top levels.
Melanesian suffering in Indonesia's Papua province
Updated 29/09/2009 07:11:02
To the Pacific's near neighbours and Melanesian family now, where violence around the Freeport mine is just one of the problems in Indonesia's Papua province.
Book shows Pacific tribal war had modern conventions
Updated 29/09/2009 07:11:02
'Under the Protection of the Palm: Wars of Dignity in the Pacific' is the title of a book examining if there are traditional protocols in tribal war in the Pacific that are similar to the Geneva Convention.
Sharks find sanctuary in Palau
Updated 29/09/2009 07:11:02
President Johnson Toribiong of Palau has announced from the United Nations in New York that Palau's waters are now recognised as a national shark sanctuary.
Lawyer says transport to Palau only barrier for Uighurs
Updated 29/09/2009 07:11:02
An Obama administration task force has so far cleared 75 of the remaining 223 Guantanamo prisoners for release as part of its effort to close the detention camp, and the six headed for Palau have been given the go-ahead for their move.
Drafting of climate agreement continues in Bangkok
Updated 29/09/2009 07:11:01
Another round of UN sponsored climate change talks has kicked off, this time in the Thai capital, Bangkok.
UN sponsored climate change talks inl Bangkok.
Updated 29/09/2009 16:59:29
Another round of UN sponsored climate change talks has kicked off, this time in the Thai capital Bangkok.
Fiji Reserve Bank Governor speaks out
Updated 29/09/2009 16:59:30
Since the abrogation of Fiji's constitution and the imposition of strict media censorship in April, international ratings agencies have been increasingly concerned about the future of the Fiji economy.
West Papuans rally in Melbourne
Updated 29/09/2009 16:59:30
A group of around 30 West Papuans and their Australian sympathisers held a colourful rally on the steps of Victoria's Parliament House in Australia.
Tongan women groups to fight government over anti-discrimination law
Updated 29/09/2009 16:59:30
Women's groups in Tonga are refusing to accept the government's rejection of a United Nations convention outlawing gender discrimination.
Vanuatu Politicians cleared of charges relating to prison break
Updated 29/09/2009 16:59:30
Vanuatu's Supreme Court has dropped a case against two members of parliament, over their alleged involvement in harbouring escaped prisoners.
Fiji unbeaten, wins Cooks netball title at Games
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:06
Fiji's women netball team has taken out the gold medal at the Pacific Mini Games in Cook Islands.
NZ PM stages successful US mission
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:06
To New Zealand now, where the Prime Minister is being celebrated for a successful round of meeting and engagements on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Guam monitoring dangerous weather system
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:06
The Guam Office of Homeland Security has warned of a formation of a tropical disturbance north of Phonpei, with authorities closely monitoring the system which is expected to continue to intensify into a Tropical Depression during the next 12 to 24 hours.
Calls for Cook Islands youth to get involved in politics
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:06
The Speaker of Cook Islands' parliament says unless the culture of politics changes in the Cook Islands, many young people will shun political careers.
Australia's asbestos health warnings ignored in PNG
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:06
Papua New Guinea's Post Courier Newspaper reported last week that asbestos, or fibro as it is widely known, is being used in renovating flats at a residential area in the Boroko suburb of the National Capital District.
Palau leader details latest Uighur relocation at UN
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:07
The President of Palau has now confirmed that six of the Chinese Uighurs being held in military detention at Guantanamo Bay have agreed to relocate to his country.
Pacific leaders plead with UN members for climate action
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:07
Pacific leaders have taken to the United Nations stage over the weekend to speak about their climate change concerns.
Fiji leader tells UN coup necessary due to 'terrorists'
Updated 28/09/2009 08:45:07
Over the weeked, Fiji's coup leader and Interim Prime Minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama made his third address to the United Nations' General Assembly.
PNG wins bid to host 2015 Pacific Games.
Updated 28/09/2009 17:37:04
First though to Cook Islands where the Pacific Games Council has announced that Papua New Guinea has won the bid to host the 2015 Pacific Games.
Police say Tonga methamphetamine destined for overseas
Updated 28/09/2009 17:37:04
Police in Tonga have now confirmed that a large quantity of drugs seized in the capital Nuku'alofa last week is the powerful stimulant methamphetamine - also known as 'ice'.
PNG embarrassed as 54 hardcore prisoners escape
Updated 28/09/2009 17:37:04
In Papua New Guinea a senior Corrective Services Officer has accused his officers of taking bolt cutters into prisons, allowing prisoners to cut the prison fence and escape.
Fiji Reserve Governor speaks frankly on the economy
Updated 28/09/2009 17:37:04
The Governor of the Reserve Bank of Fiji says political developments in his country have had only a very minor impact on the Fiji economy.
Pacific leaders focus on climate change in the UN
Updated 28/09/2009 17:37:04
Climate change has featured prominently in the presentations of Pacific Leaders to the United Nations over the past few days.
Non-smoking rule enforced at Cooks Games
Updated 28/09/2009 17:37:03
The tradition of smoking during a game of lawn bowls in the Cook Islands has been put on hold during the Pacific Mini Games.
Community cheers on Solomon Islands schoolgirl at Pacific Mini Games
Updated 28/09/2009 17:42:33
Three weeks ago the name Betty Babalu was relatively unknown .
Firm to start undersea prospecting in Solomons
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:15
The company that has applied for an ocean floor mining lease in Papua New Guinea is about to start undersea prospecting in Solomon Islands.
Intl plastic surgeon team treating Fiji patients
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:19
The skill of surgeons' scalpels are being put to good use in Fiji this week, where patients are getting desperately-needed treatment.
No capacity in PNG to manage two gas projects
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:19
The Papua New Guinea government says it does not have the capacity to manage two Liquefied Natural Gas projects in the country at the same time.
Duststorm swamps Australia's seaboard, heads to NZ
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:19
Over the past couple of days, most of the eastern seaboard of Australia has been blanketed by a massive duststorm 400 kilometres thick.
Fiji's tactics, hopes for New Delhi Games berth
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:20
EXTENDED INTERVIEW--Fiji's Commonwealth Games Committee says it will formally put its case for inclusion in next year's Commonwealth Games at the meeting of the Games Federation next month.
Evacuees concerned for remaining NMarianas typhoon victims
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:20
The family who were rescued before a super typhoon struck the remote Northern Marianas' island of Alamagan say they're concerned about the 8 other people still trapped on their island.
WWF pushing for G20 decisions on Pacific climate funds
Updated 25/09/2009 13:49:19
Leaders from the world's most powerful nations are meeting at the G20 summit in Pittsburg in the United States, where the World Wide Fund for Nature is calling on the G20 to agree on a climate financing strategy.
Kiribati President previews his UN speech on climate
Updated 25/09/2009 13:49:19
Presentations by world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly are well underway, with Kiribati President Anote Tong to give his presentation at the UN on Friday New York Time.
Environment group preps Pacific media on climate coverage
Updated 25/09/2009 08:45:15
The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme runs a media outreach which includes climate change media training.
Former French Polynesian President corruption charges
Updated 25/09/2009 17:25:27
The veteran French Polynesian politician, Gaston Flosse, is no stranger to controversy.
Marshall Islands President addresses 2009 UN General Assembly
Updated 25/09/2009 17:25:27
With climate change the focus of this year's United Nations' General Assembly, all leaders taking part are expected to address the topic in their presentation to the general debate, with many already doing so.
New Zealand asked to help curb PNG's maternal deaths
Updated 25/09/2009 17:25:27
A Papua New Guinea obstetrician has called on New Zealand to fund and train health workers to help PNG curb its staggering maternal death rate.
Tonga defends not ratifying UN women's convention
Updated 25/09/2009 17:25:27
The Tongan government has defended itself against criticism from women's groups for not ratifying a United Nations convention outlawing discrimination against women.
Political science students discuss democracy in Tonga
Updated 25/09/2009 17:25:22
A group of university staff and students from New Zealand have visited Tonga to distribute a booklet outlining basic democratic concepts.
Fiji continues to lobby for inclusion in Commonwealth Games
Updated 25/09/2009 13:49:19
Fiji's Commonwealth Games Committee says it will put its case for inclusion in next year's Commonwealth Games at the meeting of the Games Federation next month.
CNMI trying to rescue typhoon-hit islanders
Updated 24/09/2009 16:58:19
Twelve villagers on two remote islands in the Northern Marianas are still waiting to be rescued, several days after a typhoon swept through the area, demolishing most of the infrastructure.
UN anti-poverty campaigner wants better education for Pacific children
Updated 24/09/2009 16:58:19
A United Nations anti-poverty campaigner says the Pacific islands have relatively few desperately poor or hungry people, but more effort needs to be put into things like education.
PNG bid member for 2015 Games says too close to call
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
Bidders for the 2015 Pacific Mini Games are making their way to Cook Islands for a decision on Sunday on who's to host the event.
Microfinance spreads to Tonga
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
Tonga is the lastest country to open an office of South Pacific Business Development Microfinance - a company that offers small loans at village level which helps many communities alleviate extreme poverty.
Fiji biodiversity workshop aims to save local produce
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
While the worlds population continues to rise, pressure mounts on leaders to provide adequate food sources.
Victory in closure of ozone hole over Australia, NZ
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
It was the biggest environmental issue of the 1980s, but today there is positive news about the hole in the earth's ozone layer.
NZ uni to boost number of Maori health professionals
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
One of New Zealand's top universities is launching a special program to encourage Maori high school students to become health professionals.
Role of women in Pacific warfare
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
The role of women in the military is again being questioned ahead of this week's 8th Women in the Military Conference in the United States.
Cholera spreading from PNG province
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:27
There are signs that the large cholera outbreak in Papua New Guinea is spreading out of Morobe province, and is starting to invade schools and prisons.
Table tennis, athletics great hopes for Vanuatu at Games
Updated 24/09/2009 10:05:23
Vanuatu is one of the nations competing at the Pacific Mini Games, sending along 15 athletes and 2 officials.
Ship carrying Niue's monthly supplies breaks down
Updated 24/09/2009 16:58:19
The ship carrying Niue's monthly supplies from Samoa has broken down.
Former Solomons Governor General calls for leadership change
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
Solomon Islands' first Governor General, Sir Baddeley Devesi, has called on Prime Minister Dr Derek Sikua to stand down.
Fiji leader prepares for moment on UN stage
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
Fiji's military leader and interim prime minister, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, is preparing to address the United Nation's general assembly on future democratic elections in his country.
Excitement of Pacific Mini Games Opening Ceremony
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
The 2009 Pacific Mini Games are underway in Cook Islands after a colourful opening ceremony in Rarotonga yesterday evening.
Charges pending for former French Polynesia leader
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
French Polynesia's veteran politican and former President, Gaston Flosse, looks set to be charged next week.
Mechanations behind Pacific consensus on climate
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
While the differences between the climate positions of several Pacific Small Island States and the larger Pacific Islands Forum was well known at the time in Cairns, its stark difference is only now really emerging in mainstream media.
Small Island States, Pacific reiterate huge climate targets
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
A story covered by Radio Australia in October and circulating in New York today is that Australia's prime minister may have spiked a tough emissions statement put out by the Small Island States at the Pacific Islands Forum in Cairns.
Australian Federal Police to return to PNG
Updated 23/09/2009 17:19:46
Australian Police officers are returning to Papua New Guinea under a new PNG-Australia Policing Partnership program.
Optimism in New York on climate action
Updated 23/09/2009 17:19:46
An air of optimism is emanating from New York on the prospects for a new global agreement on climate change action.
Debate within UN as debate about UN rages
Updated 23/09/2009 17:19:46
Over the next week and a half Pacific leaders and their representatives will be in New York taking part in the annual United Nations' General Assembly.
New Zealand's longest recession on record is over
Updated 23/09/2009 17:19:35
Well it's by the thinnest of margins, but the kiwis are going to take it anyway.
Small Island States to suffer 'benign genocide' if no climate action
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
The planet's small island states have warned the world will be committing 'benign genocide' if it doesn't agree to drastic climate change measures.
Climate change debate being focussed on by the region
Updated 23/09/2009 08:18:30
This week world leaders are in New York to take part in the General Assembly of the United Nations, with climate change the big issue being addressed by the assembly.
NZ Pacific people increasingly turning overstayers in to Immigration
Updated 22/09/2009 16:12:10
Pacific Island community leaders in New Zealand are urging Pacific Island overstayers to return home.
Australian lawyers criticise lack of rule of law in Fiji
Updated 22/09/2009 13:20:25
The President of the Australian Bar Association, Tom Bathurst, says the rule of law is under threat in Fiji because the government is ignoring legal rulings.
Calls for drastic reduction in bigeye tuna catch
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
Efforts are being stepped-up to curb the massive catches of bigeye tuna in the central and western Pacific Ocean.
Community groups driving women's voices in Solomons
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
The voice of women in Solomon Islands is increasingly strengthening due to a number of community pressure groups taking shape.
PNG journalists form new professional association
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
A group of journalists in Papua New Guinea has come together to form a new professional group.
UNDP signs deal with Kiribati for climate fund roll-out
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
Aid donors are being asked to make sure funding for climate change programs is being used effectively.
Successful wage negotiation defuses Solomons stand-off
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
Solomon Islands unions are celebrating after successfully negotiating with the government a 4-point-5 per cent cost of living adjustment.
US supremacy in Pacific not assured
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
Kim Beazley's appointment as Australia's next ambassador to Washington didn't come as a great surprise to anyone.
Drug resistance fear in tuberculosis spread
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
Tuberculosis - the disease which many thought would be eliminated by antibiotics - is making a comeback, and the reason is that the antibiotics that used to solve many of our medical problems just aren't working anymore.
Fiji installs Independent Legal Services Commissioner
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:54
Fiji's interim government has just appointed the first Independent Legal Services Commissioner with High Court Judge John Connors to investigate complaints against lawyers - a job previously carried out by the Fiji Law Society.
'Champion of Pacific' up for grabs at Cook Islands Games
Updated 22/09/2009 08:39:51
The baton is currently passing around Rarotonga, the capital of Cook Islands, and the opening of the Pacific Mini Games is just hours away.
PNG Defence plane full of medicine crash lands
Updated 22/09/2009 16:12:16
A Papua New Guinea Defence Force plane carrying medical staff and relief supplies to disease-stricken areas of Morobe province has crash-landed.
Opposition to Fiji casino proposal
Updated 22/09/2009 16:12:23
A proposal to introduce legal casinos in Fiji has been raised again, with the military backed interim government giving its support to the idea.
ADB figures show PNG and Vanuatu economies performing well
Updated 22/09/2009 16:12:31
The Asian Development Bank says Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu are the only Pacific countries expected to experience economic growth, at a reasonable rate, in 2009.
Final countdown for Cook Islands' Pacific Mini Games
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:29
In just over 24 hours, the Pacific Mini Games will be underway in the Cook Islands.
Regional weather experts to get media training
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:30
Fiji's Department of Meteorology has organised a workshop for participants to learn how to manage climate change information.
House of double murder torched in NZ
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:30
The house where two women were found murdered several weeks ago has been burnt-down over the weekend by arsonists.
Guam's Rear Admiral Gumataotao first Chamorro flag officer
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:30
There has been a couple of significant appointments in Guam, including the promotion of US Navy Captain Peter Aguon Gumataotao to the rank of Rear Admiral, and Justin McLaughlin as census advisor.
Fears for sealife in Australian oil spill
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:30
Worries about the oil spill off Australia's north west coast are now being worsened by fears about the chemicals being used to control it.
Economists say Fiji budget meet constructive
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:30
Late last week Fiji's interim government held a 2010 Budget consultation, and while Commodore Baimarama's speech was short he said he would be making tough forward looking decisions to modernise the fiji economy and put government on a business-like footing.
Hopes Fiji netballers can win without coach
Updated 21/09/2009 08:08:24
The coach of Fiji's netball team is confident they will upset the favourites and host team Cook Islands at this week's Pacific Mini Games - even though she's been barred from attending.
Database developed for PNG policy makers
Updated 21/09/2009 16:59:38
A Papua New Guinea consultant has developed a database that he hopes would make it easier for government and policy makers formulate development priorities.
Climate Change will make cassava more toxic say scientists
Updated 21/09/2009 16:59:38
New research shows cassava will become more toxic and produce smaller yields as the levels of carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere go up, as a result of climate change.
Solomons police strategy against crime
Updated 21/09/2009 16:59:38
The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force has developed plan as part of its strategy to combat crime in the country.
Role of multilateral environment agreements in Pacific
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
Our regular spot with the the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme today features Frank Wickham, the Capacity Development Adviser at SPREP in Apia, Samoa.
Incredible coincidence in lottery draws suspicion
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
People in Bulgaria have reacted with a mix of curiousity, envy and suspicion to an extraordinary coincidence in the country's national lottery.
Climate witnesses run talks parallel to UN General Assembly
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
Our Cook Islands correspondent Ulamila Kurai Wragg is currently in New York presenting a series of lectures parallel to the United Nations General Assembly as a climate witness.
Hopes teak farming can solve Solomons environment woes
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
Timber farmers in Solomon Islands are being taught new methods to help save their industry.
Former Australian Defence Minister Beazley to be US Ambassador
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
Australia has opted for continuity - and passion for all things American - in its latest diplomatic appointment to Washington.
First casualty of Samoan left drive switch
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
We turn our attention now to Samoa with the sad news that a little girl has lost her arm in a bus accident - some say as a consequence of the recent change from right hand to left hand drive.
Tongan societal attitudes partly blamed for ferry disaster
Updated 18/09/2009 08:34:04
A Tongan NGO activist says if ordinary people had spoken-up about what they knew about the seaworthiness of the ferry Princess Ashika, its sinking may have been avoided.
World Bank: East Asia and Pacific vulnerable to climate change
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:02
The World Bank has released a report saying East Asia and Pacific countries are particularly vulnerable to climate change.
PNG cholera steady but true numbers not known
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:02
Medecins Sans Frontieres is treating cholera patients in Papua New Guinea and says the situation is moderate but stable.
Possible shut-down of shipping services in French Polynesia.
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:02
Thousands of passengers and freight in French Polynesia are likely to be stranded this weekend, following a dispute between the French territory's government and local ship owners.
Tonga rejects convention on discrimination against women
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:02
Tonga's parliament has decided not to ratify an international convention outlawing discrimination against women.
Fatal Kokoda plane crash preliminary report released
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:02
A preliminary report on investigations into a plane crash in Papua New Guinea, which killed all 13 passengers, says there was nothing wrong with the ill-fated plane.
Australia denies pushing for a senior position in the Forum Secretariat
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:02
Australia denies it's pushing for a new Chief of Staff position in the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat amid allegations Australia will use its chairmanship of the Forum to serve its own interests.
NZ Bowls match-fixing allegaiions
Updated 18/09/2009 17:24:01
To New Zealand now, where there're allegations of match-fixing and corruption in sport.
Fiji distributes royalties as piracy bites
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:58
Fiji's Performing Rights Association is handing over 200,000 Fiji dollars in royalties to local and international artists.
Indigenous Australians challenge wild rivers law
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:58
There's a new battle looming over native title in Queensland as the barrister who helped Eddie Mabo win his landmark native title case believes Queensland's controversial wild rivers laws could be invalid.
Endangered Fijian petrel seabird found again
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:58
Conservationists are excited by the prospect of saving one of the world's most mysterious and endangered seabirds as the first ever positive identification at sea of the Fijian petrel raises hopes for its survival.
Economic rollercoaster defines first 34 years of PNG
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:58
We continue now with the Papua New Guinea independence theme from yesterday's 34th anniversary - but this time looking at finance through its 34 years of independence.
Author documents pressures on Solomons environment
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:58
A leading convervationist in Solomon Islands believes the country is heading for an environemntal disaster.
Young Solomons women present climate change stance
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:59
Winners of the Young Women Climate Change Leaders competition in Solomon Islands have won a trip to Canada to present their winning arguments there.
Tongan MPs acquitted over 2006 riots
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:59
Tonga's pro-democracy members of parliament are considering suing the government, now that a court of appeal has acquitted five of them of seditious conspiracy.
US Ambassador-designate to Australia of Obama ilk
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:59
An accomplished trial lawyer and strong human rights advocate looks set to be Washington's new Ambassador to Australia.
China officials indicate new coordinated Pacific aid
Updated 17/09/2009 08:37:59
The author of a report on the provision of Chinese aid in the Pacific says there are signs Beijing is considering a reassesment of how it provides support to the region.
Fiji leader says politicians not needed as he fixes economy
Updated 17/09/2009 17:20:08
Fiji's interim Prime Minister, Frank Bainimarama, has told delegates attending his 2010 budget consultation that politics, political parties and politicians will not be necessary for the next 3 years as he focuses on the economy.
PNG Hidden mine welcomes pollution investigations
Updated 17/09/2009 17:20:08
Papua New Guinea's Hidden Valley Mine in Morobe Province has welcomed an independent investigation into claims the mine has polluted the Watut River.
Maori, Pacific NZrs at greater risk of swine flu
Updated 17/09/2009 17:20:09
It seems Maori and Pacific Islanders continue to face greater health problems than the rest of the New Zealand community.
Anger in Tonga over sunken ferry
Updated 17/09/2009 17:20:09
In Tonga, there is growing anger amongst locals who say they're getting little information from the inquiry into last month's ferry tragedy.
Media panel discusses PNG news coverage
Updated 17/09/2009 17:20:08
Papua New Guinea this week marked its 34th anniversary of independence from Australian rule.
Promotion of Solomons' superfoods trumps Western diet
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:57
An Australian aid program is encouraging Solomon Islanders to return to their traditional diets.
Water management a rising issue for the Pacific
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:57
Water - and the lack of it - has become a talking point right across the Pacific as the effects of climate change bite deeper across the region.
New resources unravel Australian slang
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:57
While Australians might think we speak standard English, newly arrived migrants struggle with the unusual colloquialisms that make up our every day speech.
NZ community raises funds for Tonga ferry victims
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:57
Familes and friends of the victims who died when the Princess Ashika sank on August 5 last month are getting a helping hand from their neighbours in New Zealand.
Australia stages foreign education roundtable
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:57
When an industry is Australia's third largest export bringing in around $A15 billion a year, the government would naturally be nervous if that industry was under threat.
Claims Pacific Islands' News Association membership dropping
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:58
Questions have been raised about the long term future of the Pacific's regional media body, the Pacific Islands' News Association, or PINA.
Reminiscence of PNG independence day
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:58
As our wantoks in Papua New Guinea celebrate 34 years of independence today, Sean Dorney - who lived there for over 20 years - reminisces on that auspicious day 34 years ago.
PNG awakes to anniversary, 'sex for bananas' cult
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:58
Papua New Guinea is today celebrating its 34th anniversary of independence from Australia, and the nation has awoken to such diverse activities as a dawn flag-raising...
UN to establish new women's representative body
Updated 16/09/2009 08:11:53
Last week on Pacific Beat we heard that some United Nations member countries may block the setting-up of a new women's entity, but despite that a resolution has been passed at the General Assembly that takes the next step in the process.
Claims globalisation is wreaking havoc on Pacific Islanders' diets
Updated 16/09/2009 16:57:18
Nutritionists say globalisation has wreaked havoc on Pacific Islander diets, and the result is an epidemic of diabetes, chronic disease and undernourishment.
Solomons: Remove slush funds from politicians suggested
Updated 16/09/2009 16:57:18
A former Solomon Islands parliamentarian wants all the public funds being paid out through members of parliament be removed from their control.
Oxfam warns against raiding aid for climate adaption funds
Updated 16/09/2009 16:57:18
Oxfam has warned rich countries not to raid their aid budgets to pay for climate change adaptation in the developing world.
Tongan democracy movement may sue government
Updated 16/09/2009 19:55:19
Tonga's pro-democracy movement is looking at the possibility of suing the government in the wake of the acquittal of four of it's MPs on charges of seditious conspiracy.
Australia-Fiji Business Council gets heated
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:30
The Australia-Fiji Business Council has been urged by one of its founders to lobby the Australian government to abandon its current policy on Fiji, and find a new route in its dialogue with Commodore Bainimarama's regime.
World Bank believes Pacific can top business reform
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:30
EXTENDED INTERVIEW--Pacific countries have put in their best performance yet in the reform of business regulation over the past year.
Disagreement over Fiji Domestic Violence Decree
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:31
Pacific Beat is checking back on a topic we discussed last week, Fiji's Domestic Violence Decree, with the Director of the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre.
Japan fishers caught by Greenpeace in net
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:31
While international anti-whaling countries look to see what stand Japan's newly elected government will take on whaling, the practice continues.
Major health campaign to follow PNG outbreaks
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:30
Health authorities in Papua New Guinea's Morobe province say they will carry out a massive awareness campaign on personal hygiene following the outbreaks of dysentery, influenza and cholera in the province.
American Samoa makes pitch for travellers' dollars
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:30
American Samoa appears set to get its fair share of the tourism market with the recent appointment of the territory's first Executive Director of the Visitors Bureau.
Solo ocean rower lands in Kiribati to Presidential welcome
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:30
Our next guest has an extreme sense of adventure having just rowed across the Atlantic solo, and is currently taking on the Pacific.
Solomons gets World Bank office
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:30
Solomon Islands is to get its own World Bank office, with the Minister for Finance, Snyder Rini, signing the establishment agreement with the bank last week.
Typhoon Choi-Wan to miss major Guam, NMarianas centres
Updated 15/09/2009 08:03:31
Residents in the sparsely-populated islands north of Saipan in the Northern Marianas are being warned to prepare themselves for many hours of damaging winds and heavy rain.
Guam's Education Department 'crying wolf' says Senator
Updated 15/09/2009 16:34:26
Guam's Department of Education now has access to an additional four million dollars to cover its budget shortfall.
Filipino workers may undercut Pacific on Guam buildup contracts
Updated 15/09/2009 16:34:26
The Philippines government is to set up a special labour office in Guam to deal with an expected influx of more than 20 thousand workers.
Coup politics pushing Fiji's international rating down: expert
Updated 15/09/2009 16:34:27
Fiji's political troubles are pushing its international rating down, and are going to continue to do so, if the Bainimarama government does not act to improve relations with its neighbours.
PNG progress assessment 34 years on
Updated 15/09/2009 16:34:27
But first to Papua New Guinea which, this week, is celebrating its 34th anniversary of independence.
Tropical Storm Choi-Wan leaves Guam for NMarianas
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:28
The National Weather Service has cancelled its Tropical Storm Watch for Guam, but Tropical Storm Choi-Wan continues to intensify as it makes its way closer to the Northern Marianas.
Fiji credit conference hopes to leverage more lending
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:31
The Pacific Credit Union Conference begins tomorrow in Fiji, and Caroline Kanoka of the Central Bank of Solomon Islands is just one expert hoping to learn something from the gathering.
Native food crops threatened by Western diet
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:31
The preference for western foods over the rich diversity of indigenous crops may see a number of species die out.
Alcohol, drug harm minimisation aims to stem virus spread
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:31
World Vision Solomon Islands has set-up two pilot programs to promote a drug and violence free environment.
Small firms target of new Fiji stock business
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:32
The South Pacific Stock Exchange in Fiji is thinking about expanding its business to include small investors.
Long-sought HIV/AIDS cure better hope than prevention
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:32
Australian scientists studying the HIV/AIDS virus say it may be easier to find a cure for the disease than a vaccine to prevent infection.
Dismissal of Fiji netball coach threatened over pregnancy
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:32
The coach of Fiji's national netball team is again being threatened with dismissal on the grounds of her capacity to manage her team's responsibilities while pregnant.
PNG police housing affecting job performance
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:32
Papua New Guinea's Deputy Police Commissioner says a lack of adequate housing for police officers is affecting their performance.
Fewer children dying in the Pacific
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:32
A new report put-out by the United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, shows infant mortality is down around the world and fewer children are dying in the Pacific.
Commonwealth discussions with Fiji continuing
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:32
Delegates sent by the Commonwealth to Fiji have now completed their round of discussions with some of the country's leaders.
NZ university car rally again gets out of control
Updated 14/09/2009 08:09:28
The annual mayhem and violence of the Canterbury University students' Undie 500 car rally has again drawn police into the fray with calls for more pepper spray to subdue the huge drunken crowds.
New fish plant for Vanuatu
Updated 14/09/2009 17:41:45
Vanuatu's Prime Minister has opened a new, Chinese built, Tuna procesing plant.
Typhoon warning for CNMI
Updated 14/09/2009 17:41:16
The islands of Saipan and Tinian have been warned to prepare themselves for severe weather.
Australia will possibly go to an early election
Updated 14/09/2009 17:41:10
The spectre of a two-billion dollar hole in the Australian budget has sparked new talk in Canberra of an early national election.
Australia attacked over anti Fiji policy
Updated 14/09/2009 17:41:03
A stinging attack has been launched on Australian and New Zealand's policy of isolating Fiji's military in a bid to speed-up the return of democracy.
Reeves disappointed with Fiji visit
Updated 14/09/2009 17:40:56
The Commonwealth's representative, Sir Paul Reeves, says he hopes that his visit to Fiji last week will be the start of a new dialogue process with the country's military backed regime, but he can't say when the next visit will go ahead.
Bougainville hit by Cocoa borer pest
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:10
The recently-revived cocoa industry in Papua New Guinea's autonomous region of Bougainville is under threat again.
Samoan vessel grounding raises fears of oil pollution
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:10
The grounding earlier this month of a Pacific Forum Line vessel in Samoa raised fears of a possible oil spill.
Australia considers boosting renewable energy reliance
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:10
Around the world, many countries are working to increase the proportion of energy derived from renewable sources, phasing out reliance on fossil fuels and burning wood.
UN General Assembly to hear Pacific voices
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:10
The United Nations General Assembly gets underway in the third week of September, and one of Radio Australia's regular correspondents will be there as a Pacific climate change witness.
Polynesian chiefs meet to discuss Pacific passport
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:10
Around 60 traditional leaders are meeting in New Zealand to discuss the possibility of setting up a single government for the Polynesia triangle.
Northern Marianas' pension fund facing receivership
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:11
There are signs in the Northern Mariana islands to declare the national pension fund bankrupt, a move that would put an abrupt stop to fortnightly payments to retirees.
Fiji kava industry review could lift profits
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:11
Fiji is about to re-regulate its Kava industry in a bid to get a greater share of the export market.
Tongan businesses welcome positive World Bank review
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:11
Tonga's business community has welcomed the news that it's become the easiest Pacific island nation to do business in.
Samoan bus drivers and government at impasse over switch
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:11
Samoa's Chamber of Commerce has thrown its support behind a strike by the country's bus drivers that's brought the public transport system to a virtual standstill.
Lethal PNG cholera outbreak spreads to Lae
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:11
The cholera epidemic underway in Papua New Guinea has spread from remote regions of Morobe Province to the urban centre of Lae.
Call to ban fruit bat soup in Palau
Updated 11/09/2009 06:47:10
Fruit bats have a poor reputation in many countries, thanks to their noisy colonies and taste for lucrative fruit and vegetable crops.
Kerr happy with relations with Pacific
Updated 11/09/2009 17:07:26
The Australian government is looking for a replacement for its retiring Parliamentary Secretary for the Pacific, Duncan Kerr ..
Big potential for biotechnology in the Pacific
Updated 11/09/2009 17:07:26
A government sponsored forum on bio-diversity and traditional knowledge is being held in Australia's capital, Canberra on Monday.
Australian Olympian to lead PNG Kokoda initiative
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:29
Former olympic hurdler Kyle Vander-Kuyp is no stranger to the difficulties of growing up as an indigenous child in Australia.
Coral spawning myth debunked
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:29
For years, scientists believed that coral on Australia's Great Barrier Reef spawned once a year after the full moon in October or November.
Positive signals for PNG on Pacific Games bid
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:29
Our regular finance correspondent Syd Yates, the Chief Executive Officer of Kina Securities, says the Pacific Games Committee is giving PNG positive signals regarding its bid to host the Games in 2015.
Scientists divided over Australian HIV infection rate
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:29
A new report presented at this week's Australiasian Conference on HIV/AIDS has questioned whether infection rates in Australia have stopped rising.
PNG Child Welfare Council releases findings
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:30
PNG's minister for Community Development Dame Carol Kidu is well-known to Pacific audiences for her tireless work for the community and the region.
Disaster experts meet in Vanuatu
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:30
Emergency response experts from four Pacific countries have been getting an education in responding to disasters.
UN women's entity may face long delay
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:30
A leading women's group has challenged the United Nations to commit to a workable program on gender equality at next weeks General Assembly.
New law to protect vulnerable migrants to Australia
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:30
Refugee advocates in Australia have won an eight-year fight to protect some of the most vulnerable people who arrive on this country's shores.
PNG to host major Pacific internet conference
Updated 10/09/2009 07:15:29
Papua New Guinea is hosting a major conference on making better use of the internet for education and training, and for online banking.
Fiji Tourism campaign hits the internet
Updated 10/09/2009 18:40:00
Fiji's new multi-continent, low-cost tourism campaign, which began in July, has doubled the hits on Tourism Fiji's website and boosted bookings.
NZ Indian radio station denies asking Bainimarama soft questions
Updated 10/09/2009 16:20:36
A New Zealand Indian radio station says it isn't being favoured by Fiji interim prime minister Commodore Frank Bainimarama because it asks him soft questions.
PNG courts mediates civil cases
Updated 10/09/2009 16:20:36
Papua New Guinea's judiciary will soon be using mediation to amicably resolve disputes between parties in a move to reduce a back log of civil court cases.
Fiji scientists work to boost breadfruit yields
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:00
Breadfruit farmers in the region are being encouraged to increase the size of their crops for the export market.
Tokelau to fly own flag
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
From November, the New Zealand territory of Tokelau will begin flying its own flag.
PNG PM's help sought in gas licencing transparency
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
The Papua New Guinea Chamber of Mines has appealed to Prime Minister, Sir Michael Somare, to sort out problems with the granting and extension of petroleum and energy licences.
PNG continues to battle triple disease outbreak
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
Papua New Guinea is continuing to battle a triple outbreak of cholera, dysentery and influenza in the country's northeast.
Conferences on HIV and sexual health open in Australia
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
Two conferences are underway in the northern Australian city of Brisbane.
Anti-whaling activists look to pressure new Japanese government
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
Anti-whaling activists see a chance in Japan's new government to stop the country's whaling program.
Australia lays out 'ambitious' agenda for Pacific involvement
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
Traditionally the host of the Pacific Islands Forum also holds the office of chairman.
Cook Islands may end telco monopoly
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:01
A little over a week after Solomon Islands parliament voted to end Our Telekom's monopoly, a similar move is being considered in Cook Islands.
Giant rat discovered in PNG
Updated 09/09/2009 07:10:00
Scientists working in Papua New Guinea have discovered a new species of giant rat.
Fiji's participation at Commonwealth Games still undecided
Updated 09/09/2009 17:33:14
The Commonwealth Games Federation says it will make its decision when it meets next month on whether Fiji can send a team to the Games in New Delhi in October next year.
Samoans take to the other side like 'veterans'
Updated 09/09/2009 17:33:14
Samoans have been given a second public holiday to get used to changing the direction they drive in.
Kiribati nursing students urged to help region
Updated 09/09/2009 17:33:14
Nursing students from Kiribati will soon arrive in Australia's northern city of Brisbane for training.
Tonga tops Pacific 'Ease of Doing Business' rankings
Updated 09/09/2009 17:33:14
Pacific countries have kept pace with the rest of the world in the reform of business regulation for the first time, this year, according to the World Bank's latest 'Ease of Doing Business' report.
Giant rat discovered in PNG crater
Updated 09/09/2009 17:32:50
Scientists working in Papua New Guinea have discovered a new species of giant rat.
Amnesty International releases report on Human Rights abuse in Fiji
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
The human right's group, Amnesty International, has released a report, outlining what it's called continuing human rights abuses in Fiji since April this year.
PNG losing battle against maternal mortality
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
Eight years after the signing of the Millennium Development Goals, Papua New Guinea is not only failing to improve maternal health, it's going backwards.
Domestic violence law angers Fijian women
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
Since Fiji's Domestic Violence Decree was published last week, it's already been criticised by women's groups, who say it could put the women it's supposed to protect, at increased risk of assault.
Fiji attorney-general outlines new Domestic Violence laws
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
Among a number of decress passed Fiji's interim government has passsed since the abrogation of the contsitution is one for domestic violence.
Health experts and scientists to address Australasian HIV epidemic
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
Health experts and scientists from across the region are preparing for a major conference on HIV/AIDS which opens in the northeast Australian city of Brisbane tomorrow.
Samoa's drivers make the switch to left-hand drive
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
Shortly before dawn this morning, crews of sign-writers and road-workers were gearing up in Samoa to get the country's roads ready for the switch-over from right to left-hand drive.
Solomon Islands may exclude foreigners from political parties
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
The Solomons Islands government believes it has found a solution to the country's political instability: a ban on foreigners joining political parties.
New Australian laws to protect foreign workers
Updated 08/09/2009 06:37:15
Australian businesses wanting to bring skilled workers into the country on 457 visas will have to be prepared to pay them market wages from next week.
CNMI legislature passes anti-smoking bill
Updated 08/09/2009 16:37:25
The Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas has taken a major step towards banning smoking in work places and public areas.
Samoa's PM confident with road switch
Updated 08/09/2009 16:37:25
Drivers in Samoa have now officially started driving on the left side of the road.
TB is a serious health problem in PNG
Updated 08/09/2009 16:37:25
Tuberculosis or TB has become one of Papua New Guinea's main health problems in recent years.
Fiji netballers prepare for Pacific Mini Games
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:01
Fiji's national netball coach, Melissa Walker, has just returned to Suva from New Zealand.
Australian farmers seek divine help for water
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:01
Scientists and farmers in Australia say ground water levels are sinking, and that water is harder to come by.
Eco-friendly loans available to Palau home-builders
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:01
The National Development Bank of Palau is engaged in a new project that gives home-builders in Palau a win-win outcome...
Tahiti to woo Hollywood location scouts
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
With the global financial crisis causing tourist numbers to fall, French Polynesia is stepping up its efforts to woo Hollywood producers to use it as a blockbuster backdrop.
PNG women get business skills boost
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
Young women of Papua New Guinea are being asked to be more business-minded and start their own small enterprises.
Samoan drivers prepare for switchover
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
The ABC's New Zealand correspondent, Kerri Ritchie, has travelled to Samoa to gauge the mood one day ahead of the long-awaited switchover from right to left-hand drive.
Guam congresswoman visits troops in Iraq and Afghanistan
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
Public enthusiasm is continuing to wane in the United States for Washington's continued troop presence in Iraq and Afghanistan.
PNG pledges continued support to RAMSI
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
Papua New Guinea's prime minister, Sir Michael Somare, has pledged his government's continued supoprt to the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands, or RAMSI.
PNG delays state over emergency over triple disease outbreak
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
The World Health Organisation says it is extremely concerned at the rising death toll from a triple outbreak of disease in the remote north-east of Papua New Guinea.
WHO alarmed as PNG disease outbreak toll passes 400
Updated 07/09/2009 06:55:02
The World Health Organisation says it is extremely concerned at the rising death toll from a triple outbreak of disease in the remote north-east of Papua New Guinea.
Solomons students struggle to live on allowance
Updated 07/09/2009 17:35:32
Solomon Islands students at the University of the South Pacific are under increased financial pressure after the Fiji dollar was devalued in April.
PNG's impressive tuna industry
Updated 07/09/2009 17:35:32
The Deputy Director of the Solomon Islands based Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency says he's impressed with Papua New Guinea's tuna industry.
World Council of Churches steps up pressure on Fiji
Updated 07/09/2009 17:35:33
The World Council of Churches believes it's pressure on the Fiji interim government over its treatment of the local Methodist Church will have an impact.
Samoa's drive switch tomorrow
Updated 07/09/2009 17:35:32
Today is the last day that the people of Samoa will drive on the right hand side of the road.
Donations pour into Tongan ferry sinking relief fund
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:18
Donations are beginning to pour into Tonga for the Princess Ashika relief fund.
Guam, Japan provide desalination kits to FSM villages
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:17
Climate change in the Pacific is presenting a number of headaches for low lying atolls particularly the supply of potable water.
International community urged 'not to isolate Fiji'
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:17
Fiji's military leaders have called for continued relations with the Commonwealth, saying they cherish Fiji's relationship with the bloc that suspended the country on Tuesday.
War of words over NZ city name
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:17
In New Zealand, a war of words has broken out between a mayor and a group of school children.
Australian drought can be traced back to mid-1990s
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:17
Australia's peak research body, the CSIRO, says many of the country's dams and reservoirs were built during a period of high rainfall, the likes of which may never return.
Pacific puts its case ahead of UN climate talks
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:17
The latest round of international climate change negotiations concluded recently in the German city of Bonn.
Pacific meeting addresses people trafficking
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:18
The Pacific Trafficking in Persons forum will conclude in New Zealand later today.
PNG considers state of emergency over dysentery outbreak
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:18
The Papua New Guinea Health Minister, Sasa Zibe, is considering declaring a state of emergency in Menyamya District, where media reports say 177 people have died in a triple outbreak of dysentery, influenza and cholera.
More strikes expected from Solomon Islands teachers
Updated 04/09/2009 06:25:17
Teachers in Solomon Islands have extended their strike notice for another two weeks, amid ongoing negotiations with the government over a pay dispute.
Solar energy brings light to rural Fiji
Updated 04/09/2009 17:42:10
Fiji's government is continuing with its rural electrification program by encouraging more homes and schools to install solar energy systems.
Fiji Methodists thankful for World Council of Churches support
Updated 04/09/2009 17:42:11
The World Council of Churches says it's concerned about what Fiji's interim government is doing to the Methodist Church there.
PNG Morobe hospital on high alert for killer diseases
Updated 04/09/2009 17:42:11
Papua New Guinea's Angau Hospital in the Morobe Province is on high alert to treat people affected by the outbreak of three killer diseases - dysentery, flu and cholera.
New Zealand Mayorcrefusies to apologise
Updated 04/09/2009 17:42:10
A New Zealand Mayor is refusing to apologise to a group of primary school children he's upset.
Scientists explore massive Pacific floating garbage patch
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:02
A group of American scientists have just finished an epic journey exploring what's known as the Great Pacific Ocean Garbage Patch.
Fast broadband internet on its way to the Pacific
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:02
It's possible that, very soon, people in the Pacific will get access to the kind of high-speed, affordable broadband internet's that taken for granted in Western countries.
Kina Securities Index loses ground
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:02
Our regular finance and sports commentator Syd Yates, of Kina Securities in Papua New Guinea, takes a look at regional stock markets and companies.
Broad report paints grim future for Great Barrier Reef
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:02
It's one of Australia's greatest natural wonders but the most comprehensive report ever to look at pressures on Australia's Great Barrier Reef paints a grim future.
American Samoa considers anti-stalking legislation
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:02
American Samoa's attorney-general is sending a clear message to stalkers and voyeurs that they are not welcome in the Territory.
PNG battles lethal cholera, dysentery and flu outbreaks
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:02
The death toll from Papua New Guinea's first known outbreak of cholera has risen to nine.
UN treaty aims to shut ports to illegal fishing
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:03
91 countries, including eight from the Pacific, have agreed on the final text of a new treaty that would shut down port access for vessels involved in illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.
Court delays Hawaii health cuts to Pacific migrants
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:03
A United States judge has ruled that the government of Hawaii must continue providing health care treatment to migrants from the US Pacific territories.
Vanuatu Electoral College elects Iolu Abil as president
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:03
Vanuatu's electoral college has chosen Iolu Abil to be the country's new President, succeeding Kalkot Mataskelekele, whose presidential term ended last month.
Solomons food shortage blamed on rising seas
Updated 03/09/2009 06:43:03
Schools in Temotu Province in Solomon Islands are having to send students home early because they're too hungry to concentrate in class.
Indo-Fijian student in NZ says tourist boycott a bad idea
Updated 03/09/2009 16:59:12
An Indo-Fijian student in New Zealand is upset at calls for a tourist boycott of Fiji.
Tuvalu turns high tide into tourist attraction
Updated 03/09/2009 16:59:12
Tuvalu is turning its devastating annual high tide into a festival, to attract tourists.
Food shortage in Solomons critical as children go hungry
Updated 03/09/2009 16:59:12
Government officials in Solomon Islands are concerned for the health of children in Temotu Province's Reef Islands due to food shortage.
V-Australia applies for new daily flights to Fiji
Updated 03/09/2009 16:59:12
The Virgin airlines' subsidiary, V-Australia, and its main rival Jetstar have applied to operate new daily services to Fiji - a move that would double their capacity on the route.
Fiji Politicians say Bainimarama not taking good advice.
Updated 03/09/2009 16:59:12
Politicians in Fiji have described the country's full suspension from the Commonwealth as another sign the military backed regime is not interested in taking good advice.
Lowy Insitute urges new Australian action in the Pacific
Updated 02/09/2009 06:24:31
Australia should use its current chairmanship of the Pacific Islands Forum to help the Pacific articulate a comprehensive vision for the next half century.
Fresh protests in Samoa over driving switch
Updated 02/09/2009 06:24:31
Opponents of the forthcoming switch from right to left-hand-drive in Samoa spent the day on the streets in protest yesterday.
Guam fears medical 'refugees' after Hawaii cuts services
Updated 02/09/2009 06:24:31
Thank goodness for the media is not a phrase one often hears from a ruling government.
Vanuatu Electoral College begins presidential selection
Updated 02/09/2009 06:24:31
Vanuatu's Electoral College says there may be a delay in announcing who the country's new president will be.
Commonwealth delegation plans Fiji visit
Updated 02/09/2009 06:24:31
Fiji's Commonwealth suspension came as no surprise; the threat had been hanging over the interim government for months.
Fiji suspended from Commonwealth
Updated 02/09/2009 07:21:45
Fiji has been suspended from the Commonwealth.
New natural pesticide developed by Australian scientists
Updated 02/09/2009 06:24:31
Patented Australian research looks set to revolutionise pest management around the world.
Pacific journalists condemn threat against Fiji editor
Updated 02/09/2009 17:09:20
A threat against Fiji Times editor Netani Rika has led to more pressure on the Pacific Islands News Association to move its headquarters out of the country.
Fiji suspension backed by Australia and New Zealand
Updated 02/09/2009 17:09:20
Australia's Foreign Minister Stephen Smith says it was "inevitable" that Fiji would be suspended from the Commonwealth.
Fijians expect suspension to have a major impact
Updated 02/09/2009 17:09:20
Over the past week Fiji's interim government has said it will not be changing its proposed election date of late 2014, and has indicated suspension from the Commonwealth will have little impact.
Elite athletes to get fast-tracked Australian citizenship
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:02
The path to Australian citizenship is set to become somewhat easier, provided you can win a gold medal or two.
Fiji's rubbish will help power the country
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:02
Fiji is working on realising its ambitious target of deriving 90 percent of its energy from renewables by 2011.
Fiji sugar farmers slow to add new cropss
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:02
Fiji's struggling sugar farmers have been slow to add new crops to their repertoire, according to a leading expert from the sugar industry.
Fiji facing further downgrade by Moody's
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:03
The international rating agency, Moody's Investors Service, says it is considering a further downgrade of Fiji's credit rating.
Cook Islands women campaign for maternity leave
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:03
A women's group in Cook Islands is campaigning for maternity leave for private sector employees.
Australian indigenous housing scheme yet to complete any homes
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:03
The Australian government's plan to build houses for Aborigines in the Northern Territory was announced eighteen months ago, but has yet to produce a single completed house.
Fiji battles brucellosis outbreak in cattle
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:03
The number of cattled slaughtered in Fiji has more than doubled since the bacterial disease brucellosis was detected earlier this year.
Origins of PNG outbreak 'unknown', says WHO
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:03
An outbreak of cholera has reportedly killed more than 40 people in a remote area of Papua New Guinea.
PNG confirms first known cholera outbreak
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:03
Papua New Guinea is suffering its first known outbreak of cholera.
Outback Aussies turn to reality TV in hunt for brides
Updated 01/09/2009 07:11:02
Finding love in remote outback towns in Australia can be tough, so it was no surprise recently when young single men flocked to the inland town of Broken Hill for a chance to be cast in a planned American dating show.
Vanuatu's Presidential Election no winner yet
Updated 01/09/2009 17:32:00
Vanuatu's Electoral College has today failed to elect a new President.
International journalists group support tourists staying away from Fij
Updated 01/09/2009 17:32:00
Suggestion by a Fiji newspaper editor that Australian tourists in the country aren't aware of the censorship imposed by ther military government have been backed up by an overseas journalists organisation.
Fiji's Commonwealth suspension deadline
Updated 01/09/2009 17:32:01
Fiji is well and truly on the path to further isolation.
About 90 deaths from diseases in PNG's Morobe Province
Updated 01/09/2009 17:32:01
An outbreak of Cholera, dysentery and an unindentified influenza like disease has so far claimed over 87 lives in Papua New Guinea's Morobe province in the past month.
