Latest news with #FrenchPolynesia
RNZ News
21 hours ago
- RNZ News
Pacific news in brief for 20 June 2025
An NGO carrying out testing on drugs at an event - including this this bag of cocaine, in Colombia, in 2021. Photo: AFP/ Juan Pablo Pino The French Directorate General of Customs says 67 kilograms of cocaine has been seized in New Caledonia between April and May this year. Local media reported the operation resulted in the discovery of more than 500 kilograms of narcotics at various ports across the region. New Caledonia and French Polynesia Customs took part in a joint operation with the Australian Border Force, New Zealand Customs, the US Homeland Security Investigations and Jamaica. At the end of March this year, 142 kilograms of cocaine was seized in French Polynesia. It was found packed in insulation panels of a refrigerated container bound for Australia. Fiji police have reported 105 cases of family violence against women and children for May 2025. More than 200 women had crimes committed against them - 11 percent of these were sexual offences and 89 percent were assault-related. Seventy-two of those crimes were from a spouse or partner. One hundred and 14 children had crimes done against them and more than two-thirds of those were sexual offences. Five police officers were charged with offences during the month - including one facing charges of unlawful supply and import of illicit drugs. Police said there was a 14 per cent reduction in overall crime which is ahead of its 10 per cent target. The Fijian Elections Office says FJ$44,000 - about US$20,000 - in temporary worker payments from the 2018 General Election remain unpaid. FBC reported this has come to light during the Public Accounts Committee submission on the election office's 2021-2022 Audit Report. The election office's financial controller said the delay was caused by incomplete employee information for some of the 12,000 temporary election workers. The office said they are closely coordinating with the Fiji National Provident Fund to verify the remaining employee data to fast-track this process. The mining company New Porgera is celebrating achieving its production targets, despite the impact of continuing lawlessness and a devastating landslide in the region. The new company, run by Barrick Gold, but with a significant PNG Government shareholding, replaced the former company after a lease dispute shut it down for more than three years. The Porgera region of Enga Province experienced the devastating Mulitaka landslide, which claimed many lives and shut the main road link out of the district. There have also been extensive law and order issues that resulted in a state of emergency being implemented, and dozens of arrests being made, many for illegal mining within the mine pit. The Papua New Guinea Correctional Service has signed an agreement with the Department of Education which will see education and training programmes rolled out in jails across the country. NBC reported that the memorandum highlights the vital role education plays in restoring dignity, instilling hope, and creating opportunities for those seeking a second chance. The rollout of structured learning and skills training within prisons is expected to transform lives behind bars. Acting corrections commissioner Bernard Nepo called the initiative a lifeline for inmates.
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Travel + Leisure
a day ago
- Travel + Leisure
This Bora Bora Resort Has Overwater Bungalows With Plunge Pools, a Hilltop Spa, and a Private Island Available to Guests
The resort is located on a secluded island in the Bora Bora lagoon, and its guests have exclusive access to a picture-perfect palm-fringed private islet, Motu Tapu. The hilltop spa features open-air treatment rooms, offering stunning views of the resort and the South Pacific Ocean. Upa Upa, the lounge bar, has glass-panel floors, allowing guests to spot fish and various species of sharks while enjoying cocktails. Conrad Bora Bora Nui has the only two-story overwater villa in Bora Bora, boasting two bedrooms, three balconies, an infinity pool, and a hot tub. I Hunger-Gamed my way onto the small plane from Tahiti to Bora Bora and plopped down in a window seat: I was told to sit on the left side for the best views of the notoriously photogenic French Polynesian island. The advice was solid, as turquoise waters and sand bars appeared out of nowhere, giving me a glimpse of the beauty I was about to immerse myself in. Within 15 minutes of deplaning, I was on a boat headed to a private cove on Motu To'opua, a small islet in Bora Bora. As we approached land, I caught a glimpse of the overwater bungalows at Conrad Bora Bora Nui sitting in the turquoise lagoon. A warm welcome and a swift check-in later, I was on a golf cart en route to my luxurious one-bedroom villa, which, with its thatched roof and wooden interiors, blended harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Roger Godin, the resort's general manager, described the hotel as a combination of modern luxury and Polynesian charm. During my stay, I was often surprised by how intimate and private the resort felt. It was only at breakfast that I got an inkling that it might be fully booked. And this illusion is a highlight of the guest experience. "Conrad Bora Bora Nui is designed to provide a sense of seclusion and tranquility, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Bora Bora," Godin told Travel + Leisure . "Our resort offers a unique position and shape that provides 100 percent privacy, making guests feel as though they are nearly the only ones here, far from the mass tourism experience." Bora Bora has a reputation as a honeymoon destination, but after a few days here, I realized that the island—and the resort—are worth visiting, whether or not you're celebrating a life milestone. "We create unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're honeymooners seeking a romantic escape, families in search of luxury and adventure, or friends on a getaway, our resort has it all," Godin said. Here's what it's like to stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui. The hotel offers 114 suites and villas divided into multiple categories, including lagoon view suites, garden villas, beach villas, overwater villas, and the presidential overwater villas. "Each type provides unique features such as direct lagoon access, private pools, and stunning views," Godin said, adding that lagoon view suites with their spacious living areas are a good option for families, while the garden villas and beach villas offer more privacy within a secluded, lush environment. I stayed in an overwater villa, which Godin described as the "quintessential Bora Bora experience." Inside the bungalow were all the modern conveniences I could want: air conditioning, a massive bathroom with a tub, a closet, and ample seating. Outside, I had a private deck with an infinity pool and stunning views of the lagoon. A ladder on the side of the deck allowed me to dip into the ocean and snorkel whenever I pleased, while the coral reef under my bungalow ensured an array of colorful fish were swimming at all times. One of the most special moments during my visit was an early morning when I watched sharks, rays, and a school of fish swim by as I sat on the deck. Another highlight is the two-story presidential overwater villa, which offers guests 3,229 square feet of space, lagoon views, an infinity pool, and a dedicated butler. Regardless of the room category, guests have access to an island host, the resort's take on a butler. "This ensures that every guest's stay is tailored to their needs, making each visit truly unforgettable," Godin explained. Interior of the Iriatai French Restaurant; A bowl of poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk). From left: Adam Bruzzone/Conrad Bora Bora Nui; Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure Conrad Bora Bora Nui has five restaurants and bars: Iriatai, a fine-dining French restaurant; Banyan, a modern seafood and Chinese restaurant; Tamure Beach Grill, an open-air kitchen serving Mediterranean and Polynesian fare; the Tarava Pool Bar, where guests can order drinks by the pool; and The Upa Upa Lounge Bar, which offers cocktails and light bites. Godin told T+L that the chefs at each restaurant use local ingredients to whip up dishes that showcase the flavors of Polynesia. "Guests can enjoy themed dining experiences, private beach dinners, and a variety of international cuisines," Godin added. One example is the weekly Ahi Ma'a, a Polynesian dinner and show that takes place every Friday. The evening features live entertainment, including local dancers and a fire show, along with a buffet of Polynesian dishes prepared in an underground oven. Guests can also jet off to the private islet of Motu Tapu for a picnic in the water. (And by picnic, we don't mean finger sandwiches—think lobster and champagne at sunset.) But one of the coolest dining experiences was having my breakfast (fresh fruit, bread, and poisson cru ) delivered by canoe and set up on my deck, and then enjoying my meal while taking in the view of the endless blue waters. The resort's main pool. Adam Bruzzone/Courtesy of Conrad Bora Bora Nui The resort has an infinity pool with in-water chaise lounges and cabanas, as well as the swim-up Tarava Pool Bar. There are also activities with local experts—you can learn how to open a coconut, dabble in weaving banana leaves into bags, learn how to tie a pareo in various ways, or take a ukulele class. And, of course, water adventures abound. Guests can check out kayaks, snorkel equipment, and paddleboards. Other activities, such as jet-skiing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, and outrigger canoe rides, can be coordinated upon request. (During my visit, the hotel arranged a snorkeling trip to a nearby site, along with swimming with sharks and rays.) Rays and fish spotted in the see-through blue waters of the Bora Bora lagoon. Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure The hotel's hilltop spa boasts scenery so stunning that I was a few minutes late checking in for my treatment. The upward path is lined with fragrant tropical blooms of every color imaginable, while the panoramic views that unveil with every step are jaw-dropping. Entering Hina Spa—the name pays tribute to the Polynesian moon goddess—immediately sets the tone for sheer relaxation with earthy tones and views of the sea. Each serene treatment suite looks out to the lagoon, while the opulent double treatment villas also feature whirlpools. The resort has partnered with French skincare brand Biologique Recherche to offer a range of therapies, from a Polynesian body scrub to a Detoxifying Algae Wrap. (Godin shared that one of the signature treatments is the Face Sculpting Massage.) I booked the Tahitian massage, a medium-pressure Polynesian-style massage, that left me so relaxed I wished there were on-site nap pods. The hotel offers a dedicated kids club featuring activities such as arts and crafts, treasure hunts, babysitting services, and a children's playground. Additionally, there are family-friendly accommodations, including the Lagoon View Suites and Beach Villas. The hotel has accessible facilities, including ramps and pathways, and guest rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and amenities placed at a lower height. As for sustainability, Conrad Bora Bora Nui's eco-friendly efforts include the installation of solar panels, recycling initiatives, sourcing sustainable ingredients and products for its restaurants, and implementing energy-efficient practices. The resort also works with marine biologists to protect and restore the local reef. "We actively participate in coral reef preservation and support local artisans by showcasing their crafts in our boutique," Godin said. Scenic views of Bora Bora's main island from the resort. Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure Conrad Bora Bora Nui is situated on a secluded private island in the Bora Bora lagoon. To get here, you have to fly to Tahiti's Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) and then take a 45-minute interisland flight to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). Here, the resort's team will usher you onto a yacht that will deliver you to the resort's dock, where a welcome team greets you with a refreshing drink. Pro-tip: I recommend giving yourself a few days on Tahiti to explore its many local offerings. And if you're looking for a quality stay close to the airport, Hilton Hotel Tahiti is an excellent option with fantastic food, service, and the island's largest pool. Guests can save up to 40 percent by booking in advance and earn double Hilton Honors points for each night of stay. AARP members can save up to 10 percent. For the latest information on resort deals and discounts, visit the "Offers" page on the hotel's website. Nightly rates start at $1,000. Every T+L hotel review is written by an editor or reporter who has stayed at the property, and each hotel selected aligns with our core values.
South China Morning Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
Classified New Zealand papers detail alarm over China's Pacific missile test
China tried to mislead foreign governments in 2024 by playing down the importance of a nuclear-capable missile test over the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand diplomats privately warned in documents obtained by reporters. Beijing sent shivers through the South Pacific in September 2024 , when its elite Rocket Force fired a dummy warhead into the high seas near French Polynesia. A tranche of classified government briefing notes shows deep concern within the New Zealand government in the wake of the surprise launch, which China shrugged off as 'routine'. It was China's first long-range missile launch over international waters in more than 40 years , the papers confirmed, serving as a blunt reminder of Beijing's potent nuclear-strike capabilities. 'We are concerned that China is characterising this as a 'routine test',' senior diplomats wrote in a memo to New Zealand's foreign affairs minister. 'It is not routine: China has not conducted this type of long-range missile test in over 40 years … We do not want to see this test repeated.'
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
China downplayed nuclear-capable missile test: classified NZ govt papers
China tried to mislead foreign governments in 2024 by playing down the importance of a nuclear-capable missile test over the Pacific Ocean, New Zealand diplomats privately warned in documents obtained by AFP. Beijing sent shivers through the South Pacific in September 2024, when its elite Rocket Force fired a dummy warhead into the high seas near French Polynesia. A tranche of classified government briefing notes obtained by AFP shows deep concern within the New Zealand government in the wake of the surprise launch, which China shrugged off as "routine". It was China's first long-range missile launch over international waters in more than 40 years, the papers confirmed, serving as a blunt reminder of Beijing's potent nuclear-strike capabilities. "We are concerned that China is characterising this as a 'routine test'," senior diplomats wrote in a memo to New Zealand's foreign affairs minister. "It is not routine: China has not conducted this type of long-range missile test in over 40 years. "We do not want to see this test repeated." China's military played down the test as a "legitimate and routine arrangement for military training". Behind the scenes, New Zealand diplomats privately decried China's "mischaracterisation". "As this is the first time that China has undertaken such an action in the Pacific in several decades, it is a significant and concerning development," they wrote in one of the briefing documents. AFP applied to access the heavily redacted documents -- written between September and October last year -- under New Zealand's Official Information Act. They were classified as "Restricted", which protects government information with diplomatic or national security implications. - Nuclear scars - China has been seeking to cement its presence in the strategically important South Pacific, showering developing island nations with new hospitals, freshly paved roads, and gleaming sports stadiums. But rarely has it so obviously flexed its military might in the region, where the United States, Australia and New Zealand have long been the security partners of choice. "We have again asked China why it conducted the test at this time, and why it chose to terminate the missile test in the South Pacific," New Zealand diplomats wrote. China's Rocket Force launched the intercontinental ballistic missile with little warning on September 25, 2024. Photos released by China showed a projectile streaking into the sky from a secret location atop a billowing plume of smoke. It appeared to be one of China's advanced Dong Feng-31 missiles, analysts said, a weapon capable of delivering a thermonuclear warhead. The long-range missile splashed into a patch of ocean long designated a nuclear-free zone under an international treaty. Pacific island nations remain deeply scarred by the nuclear tests that shook the region in the decades following World War II. "This is the first time that we are aware of a test of a nuclear-capable missile terminating within the zone since its establishment in 1986," the New Zealand diplomats wrote. - Forceful reminder - China alerted the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Australia and New Zealand before the test. But there was only a vague indication of what it would do, according to a separate batch of Australian government documents obtained by AFP. "Beijing advised us of a planned activity the evening prior to the launch, but specific details were not forthcoming," Australian defence officials wrote in November last year. Pacific island nations, however, were not provided with advance notice of the launch, New Zealand diplomats noted. Following the launch, Japan publicly voiced "serious concern", Australia said the test risked "destabilising" the South Pacific, and Fiji urged "respect for our region". Pacific nation Kiribati, one of China's warmest friends in the region, said the South Pacific Ocean should not be a proving ground for jostling big powers. "The high seas in the Pacific are not isolated pockets of oceans... we appeal to all countries involved in weapon testing to stop these acts to maintain world peace and stability," read a government statement at the time. China foreign policy expert Nicholas Khoo said the intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test was particularly significant because it took place in the South Pacific. "Since 1980, China's ICBM tests have taken place within Chinese territory," he told AFP. "The test is a reminder to regional states that China is a 'full spectrum' power that has economic and military power. It is a peer with the US." Harvard University researcher Hui Zhang said it was a forceful reminder of China's nuclear strength. "The test shows that the Rocket Force has an operational and credible nuclear force that can help ensure China's ability to maintain a strong nuclear deterrent," he wrote last year for the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists. "The rare public ICBM test seems to have been specifically aimed at dissuading Washington from using nuclear weapons in a potential conflict across the Taiwan Strait." China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the "facts are clear and no one has been misled". "The missile test is a routine part of annual military training, in compliance with international law and international norms," it said in a statement. sft/djw/ecl/cwl
Arab News
3 days ago
- Politics
- Arab News
France urged to apologize for Polynesia nuclear tests
PARIS: Paris should apologize to French Polynesia for the fallout of nuclear tests there over three decades, which led to harmful radiation exposure, a French parliamentary report released on Tuesday said. France conducted 193 nuclear tests in French Polynesia from 1966, especially at the Pacific archipelago's Moruroa and Fangataufa atolls, to help build up its atomic weapon arsenal. These included atmospheric and underground tests which had severe health impacts. Tens of thousands of people in the French overseas territory are estimated to have been exposed to harmful levels of radiation, leading to a significant public health crisis that has been largely ignored. The tests remain a source of deep resentment in French Polynesia, where they are seen as evidence of racist colonial attitudes that disregarded the lives of islanders. 'The inquiry has strengthened the committee's conviction that a request for forgiveness from France to French Polynesia is necessary,' the report said. 'This request is not merely a symbol, nor a request for repentance. It must be a... fundamental step in the process of reconciliation between French Polynesia and the State,' the authors said. The report said the apology must be added to a 2004 law on French Polynesia's semi-autonomous status. Residents in the south Pacific Ocean islands are hoping for compensation for radiation victims. The investigative website Disclose, citing declassified French military documents on the nearly 200 tests, reported in March that the impact from the fallout was far more extensive than authorities let on. Only a few dozen civilians have been compensated for radiation exposure since the tests ended in 1996, Disclose said.
