A retired Cook Islander is making use of the abundant resources from the sea to create unique and culturally inspired handicrafts.

Sixty-four-year-old Larry Tumai from Tupapa is among a number of businesses and entrepreneurs showcasing their work at the two-day Jolly Jingle Trade Day, organised by the Business and Trade and Investment Board (BTIB).

The Trade Day, which started yesterday, is held at the Punanga Nui Market from 9am to 3pm.

Tumai, who now spends his days creating shell handicrafts, explains that this craft started as a hobby.

“I do all these shell handicrafts on my own, which initially started as a hobby in my spare time. I’d go on the beach, collect shells, bring them home, and cook them. Then, I’d spend time figuring out how to turn them into attractive handicrafts,” he told Cook Islands News.

Now a full-time passion, Tumai’s work allows him to support himself in retirement.

“I’ve been retired for a while now. I don’t do anything else, so this is what I do. I stay by myself, and with my pension, I decided to keep myself busy and invested in this craft,” he added.

“In my family, we’re all creative. We design things and create our own ways.”

Although his family members pursued different paths, Tumai’s love for crafting remained constant throughout his life.

“I’ve always enjoyed creating things. Now that I’m retired, I’ve been able to fully dedicate my time to my handicrafts.”

Larry Tumai, 64-year-old entrepreneur, helps Selina Napa at his stall yesterday. MELINA ETCHES/24121802

In addition to shell work, Tumai also sews, weaves and handprints materials, all of which are inspired by the natural environment around him.

“These are the blessings and resources that God has gifted us. Why not use the free resources we have to make something for ourselves while promoting the culture of the Cook Islands,” he said.

While Tumai sells most of his items online, his presence at the Punanga Nui Market is a rare opportunity to interact with tourists and promote his crafts in person.

“I enjoy doing this and making extra earnings. It’s a good way to share our culture, but sometimes it can be disheartening to see my work being resold at other shops,” he said.

“That’s why I choose not to sell my items in shops. Instead, I sell them online from home.”

Despite the challenges, Tumai finds joy in his creation. His income, supplemented by his pension, sustains him as he continues to craft items promoting the beauty of the Cook Islands.

The Jolly Jingle Trade Day event hopes to attract a diverse audience of locals, returning Cook Islanders, and tourists, offering a unique blend of shopping, entertainment and holiday festivities.