A resort in the Pa Enua has paid out over $100,000 in dividends to the island residents, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the local community.

Atiu Villas started the Tourist Dividend initiative in 2012 and has paid out about $101,643 to Atiu residents in nine payouts.

The initiative involves setting aside $5 a day/night from every guest’s payment, with the intention of giving back to the local community of Atiu.

The funds collected are shared equally among individuals on the island that have not been financially involved in the tourism industry, recognising them as the true hosts who contribute to making visitors’ time truly memorable.

Atiu Villas owner Roger Malcolm said the last two payouts were over lean Covid years and each were for two years 2020-21 and 2022-23.

Malcolm, his wife Mama Kura and property general manager Jackey Tanga accumulated a total of $14,300.70 since 2022 right through to December 1, 2023.

“This year the population of people having stayed more than six months on Atiu was 362 and those eligible for a payout was 330. This included several expat Indonesians, Filipinos and Fijians,” Malcolm said.

“Support from the locals for tourism has been good with no complaints from our guests about the friendliness of the Atiu residents. This payout included extra contributions from our guests of $986.”

In a statement, Cook Islands Tourism said the Tourist Dividend served as a means of acknowledging the invaluable role played by the local community in enhancing the experience of guests.

“This remarkable effort showcases a commitment to sustainable tourism and community development, demonstrating how a small contribution from each guest can collectively make a significant impact on the lives of those who shape the unique cultural experience of Atiu.”

Atiu Villas started as Atiu Motel in December 1980 when the first villa was built and opened. The owners Roger and Kura Malcolm created the villas using local trees and a sawmill. 

“In those days bookings were made by letter and communicated to us by a radio call from Air Rarotonga who told us who was coming,” its website says.

In early 2001, Atiu Motel became Atiu Villas in recognition of the increasing number of Americans visiting Atiu and the America’s negative image of motels.

Today, Atiu Villas boasts six villas, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and various amenities including self-contained villas with tropical gardens and jungle surroundings, poolside BBQs, a tennis court, and free snorkelling equipment.