Jail for poaching turtles, conciliation sought in New Caledonia, and Fijiana beats NZ opponents
Quartet jailed for turtle poaching
Four men in French Polynesia have been given prison terms for poaching turtles.
The four were caught killing the protected animals on the atoll of Manuae three years ago.
The criminal court in Tahiti sentenced the presumed leader of the group, who is a professional fisher, to one year in jail, with half the term suspended.
He has also been banned from doing his job for five years.
The other three were given eight-month prison sentences.
Party leader seeks conciliation in New Caledonia stalemate
The leader of the Pacific Awakening Party Milakulo Tukumuli Photo: Facebook
The leader of New Caledonia's Pacific Awakening Party said it's vital to determine whether the territory's next status will be permanent or transitory.
Milakulo Tukumuli made the comment on television as political leaders prepare for talks in Paris next month, which were called after last week's ministerial visit to Noumea to revive talks.
Tukumuli said the results of the referendums, all of which were against independence, mean undeniably that New Caledonia is to remain within the French republic.
He said there is equally a constitutional and international right to self-determination.
Tukumuli, whose party represents Wallisians and Futunans and holds the balance of power in Congress, said the question is how the wish for independence can be reconciled with the wish to remain with France.
Paris will hold bilateral talks with both pro- and anti-independence parties, which are to be followed by three-party negotiations.
Both New Caledonian camps have said they want a permanent status.
Cooks vaccination requirements removed
The Cook Islands Prime Minister's Office says Covid-19 vaccination requirements for travel and entry to the Cook Islands have been removed.
The decision takes the country back to pre-pandemic travel and entry requirements.
The port of entry requirement for maritime vessels entering the Cook Islands has now also been dropped, and boaties can visit the ports of Aitutaki, Atiu, Tongareva and Pukapuka, in addition to Rarotonga.
The decision to reopen these additional ports to international entry was made after consultation with all of the Pa Enua mayors and executive officers, with all islands agreeing to reopen their ports.
Prime Minister, Mark Brown, said the Cooks is sending a signal to the world that they are serious about getting back to business.
Cruise ships returning to Vanuatu
Tourism authorities have announced the return of cruises to Vanuatu waters.
The National Cruise Tourism management committee, led by the Department of Tourism, described the opening as a trial.
Borders for ships will reopen on November 9.
The first cruise ship, The Pacific Encounter, is scheduled to depart from Brisbane to Port Vila and arrive on the date of the opening.
Tongan flags at half-mast
Tongan flags throughout the Kingdom are flying at half-mast on Monday September 19, in acknowledgement of the Queen's funeral.
Meanwhile, King Tupou VI left Tonga on September 15 to attend the funeral.
Marape representing 10 million at royal funeral
Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, James Marape, has joined other officials in paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
Upon arrival in London, Marape said it was an honour to have served under the Queen and represent the 10 million people of PNG at her state funeral.
He said the Queen, known as 'Misis Kwin', was just eight days short of reaching 47 years as PNG's head of state.
Fijian sees off Wahine Maori
The Fijiana rugby 15s got a big confidence boost as they prepare for the Women's World Cup next month, beating the New Zealand Wahine Maori 32-10 in Suva.
The Senirusi Seruvakula-coached side sprinted out of the blocks to take a 20-10 lead at half-time.
Vitalina Naikore scored three tries.
The Fijiana now play Canada on Friday, again in Suva, and Seruvakula has promised to make changes as he aims to test all his players in the extended squad.