William Framhein was elected the new Pu Tapere (leader of the village) for Maraerenga at a village meeting last month.

This was confirmed in a statement issued by the chair of the Aronga Mana, George Matutu – Teava Mataiapo, who is also the Pu Tapere for Tupapa.

According to the statement, the outgoing Pu Tapere for Maraerenga, Papa Tekeu Framhein Apai Mataiapo Tutara, notified residents in a meeting of the tapere on Wednesday, August 21, that he was retiring from the role and invited the members to elect a new Pu.

“In 1985 the tapere renewed our Osana Meeting House which was constructed and opened in 1885, it’s now time for you to pick a new Pu Tapere to renovate Osana,” said Framhein.

Affectionately known as Papa Tekeu, he became Pu Tapere of Maraerenga not long after he was invested as Apai Mataiapo.

Papa Tekeu Framhein Apai Mataiapo Tutara. 23021004

“He has been a strong supporter of environmental protection for many years. He contributed to much of the thinking and planning behind the re-establishment of ra’ui on Rarotonga in 1998 after the practice had been abandoned for almost 40 years,” the statement said.

“He supported one of the first ‘Rethink, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’ educational campaigns run by Te Ipukarea Society during the Clean Up the World campaign in 1996.”

In the meeting, the tapere of Maraerenga elected his eldest son William Framhein as the new Pu Tapere.

This decision marks a new chapter for the village, promising growth and working collaboratively under Framhein’s leadership.

Framhein brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the community, with a background in travel, property development, hospitality, land matters, communications including broadcasting, research, and customary matters.

He is also a member of the Maraerenga Ekalesia in the Avarua Cook Islands Christian Church.

George Matutu – Teava Mataiapo said: “We are thrilled to welcome William Framhein as our new Pu Tapere for Maraerenga.”

“I am looking forward to an innovative approach and passion for community development align perfectly with our village’s values and goals. We are confident that Framhein’s leadership will bring about positive changes and drive our villages towards a brighter future.

“Framhein’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment will be instrumental in guiding the village towards success.”