Articles by Sian Solomon

Fundraiser launched for Raro’s remaining horses

Wednesday 20 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Local, National

An international Givealittle page has been launched for the last two surviving horses of Rarotonga.

Inclusion in the time of pandemic

Tuesday 19 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Local, National

The pandemic has made life more accessible for many people through the use of internet technologies, but in the Cook Islands where the cost of living is high and communication limited, people with disabilities continue to feel ignored and abandoned.

New night market draws crowd

Wednesday 13 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Entertainment, National

One of Rarotonga’s most popular eco-tour businesses has launched a new night market in Arorangi.

Telco launches new internet service, extends reach

Monday 11 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Business, National

Customers residing in areas that have very limited or no access to Vodafone Cook Islands’ infrastructure that delivers their broadband service will benefit the most from their new product.

Murals transform Rarotonga into open-space gallery

Saturday 9 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, Weekend

Once upon a time, authorities in Rarotonga harassed graffiti artists and muralists regarding them as vandals. But now, the popular tourist destination celebrates and even funds their art, which can be found everywhere and supersized.

Meyer’s passion for beauty brings her back to Raro

Thursday 7 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, Go Local

A new and private spa called ‘The Beauty Room’ has opened its’ doors to the public.

Buses and taxis are making a comeback

Monday 4 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, In Depth

Fewer taxis are hitting the streets, but for many Cook Islanders, cabs and buses are inspiring a nostalgic and affordable fervour and return, which could lead to public transport becoming a more dominant mode of transportation.

Gibraltar teen wants your unused licence plates

Friday 1 April 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Local, National

A student living in Gibraltar is hoping to add a few more licence plates to his worldly collection and is seeking some from the Cook Islands.

Locals embrace new food-delivery service

Wednesday 30 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Local, National

A new food-delivery service has taken off in Rarotonga.

Breaking down mental health barriers

Saturday 26 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, Weekend

A renowned Cook Islands researcher and psychologist has returned home to better understand and study the impacts of mental health issues in the pacific and the country.

Pacific green sea turtle dies after being rescued

Wednesday 23 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Local, National

A pacific green sea turtle believed to originate from the Outer Islands has died despite efforts from Discover Marine and Wildlife Eco-Centre staff.

Redefining showbiz

Saturday 19 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, Weekend

For the overseas television series The Panthers, creators TVNZ wanted a head of department with Polynesian descent who could help them craft certain styles and looks, and New Zealand-based make-up artist Kelly Mitchell certainly embodies this in more ways than one.

Cooks ‘greatest shamrock’

Saturday 19 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, Weekend

Eighty-eight-year-old Irishman Paddy Lynch has lived a full and happy life.

Celebrating St Patrick’s Day

Friday 18 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Local, National

A number of local residents turned out to celebrate St Patrick’s Day this year down at the Returned Serviceman Association (RSA).

A football family affair

Thursday 17 March 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Football, Sports

There have been many instances of a pair of brothers turning out for the Cook Islands national football team over the years.

Panthers face spirited Bears

Saturday 26 February 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Rugby league, Sports

The third round of the Cook Islands Rugby League domestic 13s competition will see two big clashes in the premier men’s division this afternoon. Defending champions Tupapa Panthers will take Arorangi Bears at Victoria Park while Avatiu Nikao Eels will play Ngatangiia Matavera Sea Eagles at Nukupure Park. Both matches will kick off at 5pm. […]

Pioneering and developing tourism in the Cook Islands

Friday 25 February 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Features, Go Local

After contributing to the tourism industry and wider community for more than 50 years, Christchurch-born Des Eggelton has earned his retirement along with a few beers.

Survey to help policymakers better understand Pasifika LGBTQ+ community

Thursday 24 February 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Regional

For Aotearoa to be inclusive, it needs to acknowledge the issues faced by the Pasifika rainbow community who is greatly overlooked, says a senior Pacific academic.

Kata: Aussie border

Wednesday 23 February 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in Kata, Opinion

‘It’s been a struggle’: Cook Islands residents countdown to Aussie reunions

Wednesday 23 February 2022 | Written by Sian Solomon | Published in National, Tourism

Australia reopened its border to all fully vaccinated visa holders on February 20, welcoming the return of international travellers and other visitors for the first time in nearly two years.