More than three quarters of Cook Islands’ voting population will not vote for Members of Parliament (MPs) who award themselves a 45 per cent pay rise, according to an independent political poll conducted by Cook Islands News this week.

Avatiu Eels’ resurgence in the domestic rugby league competition this year began with the big win against defending champions Tupapa Panthers in the second round.

Titikaveka Bulldogs are through to the domestic rugby league reserves grade final after beating Tupapa Panthers in the top two playoff on Monday.

Jodi Brown, the former Silver Fern, is in Rarotonga to deliver New Zealand Netball’s Pacific Sporting Partnership (PSP) programme on the island.

Tough new drink-driving laws such as immediate suspension of licence if caught driving over the alcohol limit needs a wide consultation before it can be implemented here, says police spokesperson Trevor Pitt.

The New Zealand ministerial delegation led by its deputy prime minister Winston Peters arrived into the country yesterday.

The Auckland Schoolboys 1st XV match held last weekend in Epsom between Auckland Grammar and Kings College was led by two Cook Islanders. Philip Vakatini and Tanya Savage’s son Leandro Vakatini skippered the King’s team and Zach Rakeimata Patai led Auckland Grammar.

The race for the domestic rugby league title has become more interesting with the inclusion of Avatiu Eels in the mix, says local commentator George George.

Police officers in the lower ranks have received a pay rise almost two years after the recommendation came from the Public Accounts Committee.

Parliamentary commitments in New Zealand have led to shortening of the high level visiting delegation’s stay in the Cook Islands this week.