Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau’s ‘Ātui’anga ki te Tango (AKTT) youth programme continues its holistic learning activities for youth and families, immersing them in learning about Cook Islands culture, its values and natural environment, to promote cultural connection.

Taking advantage of the clear break in the weather yesterday, ‘Ātui’anga Ki Te Tango students visited a taro plantation in Avatiu, demonstrating to children born and raised in Aotearoa New Zealand how to work a taro patch.

Jackie Rongo, the secretary of Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau, said the children and families are welcome to pop in anytime at the 'Uritaua House in Avatiu where they are based.

This year, the Cook Islands non-governmental organisation has been actively working to combat recent spates of youth crime by providing an ongoing support system for young people.

Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau has been running the holiday programme since 2018. It offers pathways and activities for youth and their families, uplifting youth and community through holistic teaching that aims for spiritual, mental, physical and emotional development.

Young people have the opportunity to engage in environmental conservation through projects like “Operation Taramea”, removing the invasive taramea crown of thorns from the reef.

Activities include how to work in the pa’i taro, fishing, rangaranga (weaving), music, volleyball and fitness, and the seniors have the opportunity to travel to the Pa Enua and abroad for cultural exchanges.