The 23rd round of Cook Islands Tourism’s Te Vaka O Ru programme, held in Aitutaki in December, recognised the exceptional contributions of local changemakers during the period of July to October 2024.

This initiative, aimed at promoting community development, awarded funds to three non-government organisations and a community member, all of whom exemplify enhancement to the well-being of Aitutaki’s people, environment and tourism landscape.

According to Cook Islands Tourism, recipient Aitutaki Community Animal Rescue (ACAR) will use its grant to obtain essential resources such as carry cages, first-aid supplies and pet food.

“This support will enable ACAR to continue caring for domestic cats and managing the stray population through medical and rehoming efforts. This is especially important given the concerning stray population in past years, estimated at over 5000, which has since been significantly reduced on the island,” a statement from Tourism said.

Four “volunteer visitors” who assisted the organisation were also able to attend the Te Vaka O Ru presentation on the same day, which highlighted opportunities for regenerative tourism that these visitors embraced.

“We commend them for their positive work while visiting our Ipukarea.”

Konifit Aitutaki will use the funding to acquire a portable stage, enhancing their ability to offer dance fitness classes in more locations and host public performances following their high involvement since starting back up earlier last year.

“The grant will also enable the organisation to create promotional materials, like banners and signage, boosting awareness of their available classes which champion wellbeing and culture,” Tourism said.

The Religious Advisory Council (RAC) will utilise its grant to cover daily broadcasting fees for its daily radio devotional, and supportive efforts for visiting ministers.

“They’ll also benefit by being able to continue their ongoing shared fellowship event which they had facilitated three times this year (2024).”

This event was held for the fourth time last year, on December 15, at Araura College Hall.

Aitutaki resident Junior Rikiau was honoured for his regular efforts in beautifying public spaces such as the fields in his constituency of Arenikau, which is a great example of mana tiaki.

Cook Islands Tourism congratulated the winners for truly showing their love for our little paradise.

“We encourage any Aitutaki projects that fall under the categories of Peu Maori, Tupuranga Tangata, Turanga Vaerua, or Akono I Te Ao Rangi, to enter for consideration in our next round!”

For more information on this round’s projects or to submit a nomination for round 24, contact the Aitutaki Tourism Office: teaumata.rairi@cookislands.travel or phone 31767.