Hundreds of Cook Islanders marched in protest to Parliament, demanding that government prioritise their New Zealand citizenship, address concerns about the China agreement and listen to the people’s wishes. Reporter Melina Etches looks back at the rally that was held in front of Parliament on Monday.

As the nation celebrates its 60^th anniversary of self-governance in free association with New Zealand this year, passionate supporters marched in a peaceful protest to Parliament House voicing their concerns and advocating for change.

The protest was to “sincerely” show not only the Cook Islands government of today, but also the New Zealand government that Cook Islanders home and abroad value, treasure, and want to keep their New Zealand passport.

In a true island fashion the riveting sound of the drums signalled the beginning of the march spearheaded by Leader of the Cook Islands United Party (CIUP) Teariki Heather.

Leader of the Opposition Tina Pupuke-Browne and members joined the protest stamping a significant moment in the nation’s political landscape.

Speaker of the House Tai Tura, Clerk of Parliament Tangata Vainerere, Minister Vaine “Mac” Mokoroa, Minister Tingika Elikana, and MP Sonny Williams respectfully received the protestors.

“We are here today to stand firm, “tuku matutu” our rights for our country and people,” said Heather.

He said the reaction from the New Zealand government to Prime Minister Mark Brown’s proposal for the Cook Islands own identity passport which has since been dropped spurred on the purpose of the protest – protesting against our government.

“Te akaroa what has happened. It is like a plague, e tono teia, its’ like cancer that’s started and we want to put a stop to it.” Heather said.

Last week, Heather filed a motion of no confidence against cabinet that he tabled in parliament’s first sitting on Monday afternoon.

Taking matters further Heather asked PM Brown to apologise on behalf of the people of the Cook Islands to the government of New Zealand  to put an end to the identity passport fiasco “off the table permanently”.

If the Prime Minister’s apology wasn’t coming forthwith Heather asked the prime minister to step down.

“This is too dear to our heart, to our country… this is the first time,” he said.

“A tai nei ka takataka ia te kena, kua kiriti ia te kena kainga o to tatou pirianga ki Nuti Reni i roto i teia tuatou no ria tatou e taimai ki teia ngai.

“We have CIP (Cook Islands Party) supporters who put you in government, don’t forget we have our elections next year,” Heather added.

Tina Pupuke-Browne said they want the issue of the Cook Islands passport proposal “off the table all together, forever and ever.”

In response to the Joint Action Plan for the 2025-2030 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership last week, Pupuke-Browne said: “It is the way you approached the agreement with China. We have no problem with our government going out and seeking assistance, no problem. We do however have a problem when doing such a thing is going to risk us losing our sovereignty, losing our relationship with New Zealand.

“That is the issue and that is why we are here to demonstrate to you that we want our relationship with New Zealand to be returned.

“We want you to wind it back, erase, and fast forward,” she said.

Local business woman and ta’unga Jackie Tuara spoke as a concerned mother worried for the future of her children for their safety of our people and nation.

“For too long we have stood, we have raised our voices, we have raised our concern. Government has heard us cry but are they listening?” Said Tuara.

“We also stand not entirely in protest with the agreement with China but we stand and raise our voices to say let us partnership with countries that have the same Christian values for we are a Christian nation, and with countries that have the same democratic principles.”

Tuara said the land and ocean resources are what God has provided for us.

“We do not want our lands and oceans sold to the highest bidder; those resources are for our children for their future.

“I don't want to see our nation prostituted for our resources,” said Tuara.

Teraipoia Rose Heather, the daughter of CIUP Akaoa Member of Parliament Robert Heather is a 14-year-old Tereora College student who shared her views on retaining New Zealand citizenship.

“I thought that maybe if they’re not listening to our older people maybe they’ll listen to someone still in school and hear the voice of my generation. I was hoping to get my message across because I’d like to continue my education in New Zealand,” said Teraipoia.

She said those in her generation felt uncertain about the future of their education if issues are unresolved.

“Let us not take this relationship for granted. New Zealand has committed to our people in providing training and education. Will these same opportunities be given to us by China?

“Our government should be listening to what the people want before they decide what it best for us,” Teraipoia said.

Local businesswoman Tere Carr said they expected transparency government but in the last month he has led the people: “on a merry dance with him making deals with China, putting our passport and relationship with New Zealand at risk. I’m here to protest against that.”

She said businesses on the island are working so hard to support this government in terms of providing taxation and instead money is being wasted.

“We’re seeing first class travel around the world being a priority over our own people… that’s why I’m here.

“Enough is enough. Prime Minister you need to pull your head in, you need to think of the future of our country, our people and if this deal with China is going to put us at a disadvantage and risk our relationship with New Zealand, then you need to resign,” Carr said.

Also read:

> Govt publishes China agreement, Opposition still demands answers

> ‘I see you, I hear you: PM Brown