The newly appointed Suwarrow Park rangers, Johnnie Tangaroa and Keanu Harawira, left Rarotonga for the northern group island last week.

Suwarrow, the National Park and bird sanctuary of the Cook Islands since 1978, is flourishing with abundant marine, bird and wildlife.

Tangaroa and Harawira were appointed to the roles in May and underwent a rigorous training before departing for Suwarrow on July 24.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFAI), Immigration conducted training for the two on its legislation and border processes on May 24.

The training, led by immigration officials, covered the Cook Islands Immigration Act 2021, passport and document verification, vessel clearance, passenger processing and practical exercises.

As a result of the training, the new Suwarrow Park rangers were issued their official warrants authorised by the principal immigration officer on Tuesday, July 23, designating them as warranted officers under the Cook Islands Immigration Act 2021.

This warrant enables the rangers to officially undertake immigration functions at Suwarrow National Park, which includes processing of crew and passengers arriving by vessel to the island.

MFAI border security lead Tereroa Pumati said: “The new park rangers showed real interest in learning and understanding immigration legislation. They were fascinated to learn and understand what the functions of an immigration officer are and what they are mandated by legislation to do.”

Principal immigration officer Chere Arthur added that they both come with a passion and drive for environmental issues, while also recognising the need to strengthen the country’s response to border security measures, especially on remote islands like Suwarrow that are far from the main island of Rarotonga.

 “Johnnie and Keanu are two unique individuals who have the skills and enthusiasm to take on these roles on a remote island.

“Cook Islands Immigration wishes them well in their endeavours and looks forward to their contribution in supporting and strengthening border security.”