Fifty marine tourism operators from Rarotonga are currently taking part in an annual water safety programme, delivered by Te Mato Manava Turoto Cook Islands Tourism (CIT), in partnership with Water Safety & Surf Lifesaving Cook Islands.

The programme is in its sixth year, with the subsidised training demonstrating dedication from operators and CIT to visitor safety, ensuring operators can offer exceptional care for both visitors and guides.

In a statement, Karla Eggelton, chief executive of Cook Islands Tourism, said:

“While acknowledging that CIT is primarily set up as a destination marketing organisation, visitor safety remains a top priority.”

“This training programme equips our industry members with vital knowledge and skills, enabling them to confidently fulfil their duty of care around the water. This initiative not only enhances the visitor experience but bolsters the Cook Islands' reputation as a safe and responsible tourism destination.”

The training is led by Lisa Maddison, a gold medallion (advanced lifesaving) qualified surf lifesaver, recipient of the 2022 Surf Lifesaving Australia Rescue Medal, and the 2022 Queensland Surf Lifesaving Excellence Award.

“The programme combines theoretical and practical components, with the Bronze Medallion course specifically tailored for Cook Islands conditions,” explained Maddison.

“Each year we welcome any operators keen to improve their water safety skills. By teaching participants effective risk assessment and lifesaving skills, we ensure they can prioritise guest safety and handle a wide range of potential hazards and emergency situations.”

Additionally, senior guides will participate in a “train the trainer” programme, aimed at building local expertise and ensuring the ongoing provision of best-practice water safety training.

Supported by Water Safety & Surf Lifesaving Cook Islands, this initiative will maintain high training standards year-round in addition to the annual course.

The training programme will also review the water-safety elements of the Turtle Tour Operator Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), a voluntary code of conduct facilitated by CIT which sets out a framework to ensure the safe, sustainable and responsible management of turtle tours on Rarotonga.

Tina Kae, CIT industry development manager, said: “We are fortunate to have Lisa’s internationally recognised expertise to help guide us in these initiatives.”

“In addition to the training, her insights will be invaluable as we collaborate with operators to continually enhance the MOU and collectively strive towards best practice.”

The CIT Water Safety Course runs for two weeks in Rarotonga and a three-day intensive programme for Aitutaki in mid-June, ensuring tourism operators have refreshed skills and knowledge ahead of our annual peak holiday season.