More Top Stories
Cook Islands passport proposal
6 January 2025
Top cop position advertised
7 December 2024
Police need numbers and bigger budget
9 December 2024
Niki Rattle: A call for stronger human rights protections
10 December 2024
Solid and Hazardous Waste Bill referred to Parliament committee
10 December 2024
DPM defends CIIC finance and travel policies
6 December 2024
Cook Islands has its first mosque
14 November 2024
CI Muslim opens up about her faith and journey
16 November 2024
RAC to address mosque legality
19 November 2024
I don’t expect much change: PM Brown on US Elections
6 November 2024
Fifth weekly Sydney flight to Rarotonga announced
23 October 2024
CIIC directors seek $350,000 in damages over defamatory claims
21 October 2024
Man found guilty of rape, burglary
24 September 2024
Tenants face water bill burden
8 October 2024
Concerns over Minister’s role in inmate work releases: PAC
5 October 2024
Tourism contribution set to surpass half-billion dollar mark
25 September 2024
Parliament Clerk sparks outrage over deep sea mining statement
23 September 2024
Deep sea dilemma: Cook Islanders weigh the cost of mineral riches
21 September 2024
Anxiety on the rise: Cook Islands faces mental health challenge
7 September 2024
Cook Islands deep sea mining poll sparks controversy
7 September 2024
MCI rejects ‘dark fleet’ label
3 August 2024
Rising seas, rising costs: Climate impacts on Cook Islands economy
2 September 2024
Inflation eases but concerns remain
31 August 2024
Prime Minister defends $659,000 MPs travel bill
23 August 2024
Taxpayers foot $659,000 bill for MPs travel and allowance
22 August 2024
Corruption report exposes ‘bribe and sexual favours’
17 January 2023
PM Brown eager to hand over Forum chair role to Tonga
13 August 2024
Challenging ‘rape culture’
8 July 2024
Articles by Melina Etches
Giving back to the community
Tuesday 21 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in League, Sports
Cook Islands rugby league skipper Kiana Takairangi is dedicated to nurturing the athletic talents of young people, championing the importance of physical activity and community engagement.
Telecom company celebrates anniversary with giveaways
Tuesday 21 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Business, National
Vodafone Cook Islands is celebrating its fifth birthday with a week of instore activities starting at 10am, featuring groovy sounds by popular local DJ GDub George Williams, enticing instore specials and sweet cupcakes.
Perseverance pays off for AKTT
Monday 20 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Other Sports, Sports
The finals of the women’s beach volleyball competition – the final event at the 2025 Cook Islands Beach Games – were held under scorching conditions, with the women persevering despite the staggering 28°C temperatures.
Artist finds her roots in Rarotonga
Monday 20 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Features, Weekend
Cook Islander Remiah Chanelle Mani is an extraordinarily gifted and self-taught artist who has a deep appreciation for her culture and vibrant hues of nature that inspire creativity.
Vogel brings passion for education and culture to Apii Rutaki
Saturday 18 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Education, National
Apii Rutaki is entering a new chapter with the appointment of Renall Vogel, from Matavera, as its new principal.
Teiotu appointed acting CISNOC head
Saturday 18 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Other Sports, Sports
Following a special executive board meeting convened this week, the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) has announced the appointment of Simiona Teiotu as its acting president.
Talent on display at beach volleyball
Friday 17 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Sports, Volleyball
Developing talent and strong teams are featured in the beach volleyball competition as the sport continues to grow in popularity.
Matavera’s new two storey commercial hub to open soon
Friday 17 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Business, Local, National
In Matavera, the smallest district by land size on Rarotonga, a new two storey building “Te Waka” is set to redefine the local landscape with its mix of culinary delights, island apparel and commercial opportunities.
Young Cook Islands golfers compete in prestigious NZ tournament
Thursday 16 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Golf, Sports
Talented Rarotonga golfers, Tane Wichman and Tahitoa Webb, both participated in the North Island Age Group Championships that was held at the Taupo Golf Club in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Te Mire Atu composers competition goes global
Thursday 16 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in
The Ministry of Cultural Development is expanding the prestigious Te Mire Atu National Māori Composers competition to include overseas Cook Islanders to celebrate the country’s 60th anniversary of self-governance.
Community rallies for Poila family after devastating fire
Thursday 16 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National, Outer Islands
Support surged from the community at the fast-selling fundraiser event for the Poila family of Mangaia whose beloved family home, store and warehouse, was reduced to ashes in a devastating fire just days before Christmas.
Te Marae Ora launches free whooping cough booster campaign
Wednesday 15 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Health, National
In response to the recent outbreak of pertussis (whooping cough) in Aotearoa New Zealand, health authorities have initiated the rollout of the free BOOSTRIX booster vaccination.
Te Puna Marama collecting knowledge of food preservation in Mauke
Tuesday 14 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Culture, Local, National, Outer Islands
Kicking off brand new 2025, Te Puna Marama Voyaging Society is excited to host its first workshop today on Mauke (January 14 – 15, 2025), dedicated to exploring and documenting traditional methods of growing and preserving food.
Mother and sons reunited for Christmas after a decade
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
Family reunions hold a special place in our hearts, serving as a poignant reminder of the bonds that tie us together, no matter the distance.
SIF grants address critical social needs across the Cook Islands
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features
The Cook Islands Social Impact Fund distributed $199,825.20 to 14 successful applicants, including organisations focused on child welfare, education, youth development, women’s empowerment and community health, to support their vital work in addressing social issues and improving the well-being of Cook Islanders.
Walking for ‘Dear Love’: A journey of reflection and love
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
A Cook Islands businesswoman walked the Camino de Santiago in memory of her late husband, finding solace and healing on the ancient pilgrimage route while honouring their shared love and dreams.
Tracing Polynesian roots
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Features
In a significant occasion that celebrates heritage, Pa Marie Upokotini Ariki attended the opening ceremonies of the Austronesian Cultural and Art Exhibition and the Keqiutou Site Museum in Pingtan Island, China, reflecting on the shared heritage of Austronesian peoples and emphasising the importance of understanding their origins, including those of the Cook Islands.
‘Toughy’ bids farewell to 45-year banking career
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
After a remarkable 45-year career spanning four different banks in the same building, a respected bank employee has retired, leaving a legacy of dedication and service to the community.
Children bring joy to Christmas service with handcrafted gifts
Friday 27 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Culture, Local, National
Pictured is the Sacred Heart Parish “nativity scene”, also known as the Crèche - a beloved Christian holiday tradition celebrated for centuries. Each year, families and churches set up nativity scenes to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Boaza family connects with heritage and future generations
Friday 27 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National, Outer Islands
The Boaza family from Atiu was thrilled to host their first-ever family reunion, bringing together 120 relatives from Atiu, Australia, New Zealand and Rarotonga from December 14th to 17th.
