Go Local
Beyond the numbers: How tourism benefits everyday life in the Cook Islands
Saturday 2 March 2024 | Written by Candice Luke | Published in Business, Economy, Features, Go Local, National, Tourism, Weekend
January saw a record breaking 10,368 visitors arrive on our shores. They’re staying longer, and spending more on average. But what do these facts and figures look like in the daily lives of Cook Islanders? Cook Islands News journalist Candice Luke spoke to locals about how the tourist dollar is affecting them, their families, and their businesses right now.
Personal trainer fights for a happier, healthier community
Saturday 17 February 2024 | Written by Candice Luke | Published in Business, Features, Go Local, National
Heart diseases, stroke, and heart attack made up 53 per cent of NCD (non-communicable disease) deaths in the Cook Islands from October to December last year. A new grassroots initiative ‘Gym and Juice Club’ may help to battle the Cook Islands’ increasing NCD diagnoses and waistlines.
Cafe revived, Italian-style pizzeria opened by two Cook Islands chefs
Monday 29 January 2024 | Written by Joanne Holden | Published in Features, Food, Go Local
Two Cook Islands cooks have teamed up to revive and expand a Rarotonga café by transforming it into a traditional Italian pizzeria at night.
One of Rarotonga’s few classic cars for sale
Wednesday 24 January 2024 | Written by Joanne Holden | Published in Features, Go Local
Cruising the Rarotonga loop road in one of the only classic cars on the island could soon be a reality for a keen Cook Islands petrol head.
Raro fitness group takes Cook Islands dance to the world
Friday 19 January 2024 | Written by Candice Luke | Published in Features, Go Local
After four years of running a hugely popular ura fitness class out of Avatiu Club House with her ‘Queens’, the CC Tamure Fitness ladies have come full circle, entering the online fitness world to take Cook Islands dance, language and culture, global again.
Purr-fect solution: Desexing cats to save Rarotonga’s ecosystem
Thursday 18 January 2024 | Written by Candice Luke | Published in Features, Go Local, Weekend
The ecosystem of Rarotonga will be at risk if the cat population is not controlled through desexing, warns Shannon Paul, the manager of Paws n Claws cat sanctuary.
Digital discount card gains following with streamlined tourist info and deals
Wednesday 17 January 2024 | Written by Candice Luke | Published in Business, Features, Go Local, National
A year after going digital, Raro Pass, formerly known as Chantal’s Discount Card, has gained a loyal following, offering locals and visitors alike discounts, online ticketing, and streamlined tourist information.
Staycations on offer during quiet period for large operators
Tuesday 9 January 2024 | Written by Al Williams | Published in Environment, Features, Go Local, National, Tourism
Staycation offers are assisting visitor accommodation providers to get through the quiet months on Rarotonga.
From farm to fashion: Ama creates island style clothing brand
Friday 5 January 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Entertainment, Features, Go Local, Hot on the Rock
Rarotonga’s vibrant calendar of special events demands stylish, comfortable island attire for both men and women. A new fashion brand has launched, offering residents a fresh option for these occasions. Melina Etches reports.
Angler reels in whopper marlin to start the season with a bang!
Thursday 4 January 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Go Local, Local, National
The 2024 marlin season has launched a splendidly impressive start to the New Year with the landing of an awe-inspiring 215 kilogram (473 pounds) black marlin.
Supermarkets fully stocked for festive feasting
Thursday 21 December 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Go Local, Local, National
The two main supermarkets in Rarotonga have enough stocks for the festive season, and Aitutaki is also fully stocked to meet the demands of residents, returning Cook Islanders, and visitors who have started to arrive on the island.
An Aitutakian’s guide for returning family
Monday 18 December 2023 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Go Local, National, Tourism, Weekend
Aitutaki local Linda Ruamoana shares 10 tips for returning Cook Islanders/Aitutakian families visiting the island, urging them to be mindful of the island’s limited resources and customs.
Café operators brew-ing up for Pacific Islands Forum
Saturday 4 November 2023 | Written by Joanne Holden | Published in Features, Go Local, National, Pacific Islands Forum
Café operators surrounding the venue for a Pacific Islands Forum gathering at the National Auditorium are anticipating patron numbers will reach those of peak tourism season during the event.
Seamstresses sew up a storm for Forum Meeting volunteers
Saturday 4 November 2023 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Features, Go Local, National, Pacific Islands Forum
The 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting has brought a flurry of activity to the island’s seamstresses as they sew up a storm to diligently produce uniforms for the workers engaged in organising the Forum.
Resort ready to roll out the red carpet (and smiles!)
Saturday 4 November 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Go Local, National, Pacific Islands Forum, Tourism
Nautilus Resort in Muri is ready to welcome Pacific Island leaders who will be attending the 52nd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting in Rarotonga.
Refurbished rooms ready for Forum guests
Saturday 4 November 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Go Local, National, Pacific Islands Forum, Tourism
The Edgewater Resort and Spa and Club Raro Resort are looking forward to welcoming Pacific Islands Forum delegates to their resorts.
Club Raro’s Jalapenos: A must-try for couples
Tuesday 17 October 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Food, Go Local
Recommended for couples only, you wouldn’t want to miss out on the welcoming, friendly environment offered at Club Raro restaurant and bar.
Offering ‘affordable’ VIP experience
Saturday 30 September 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Food, Go Local
A newly opened bar offering ‘affordable’ VIP experience, vibrant atmosphere, amazing cocktails and food has taken the Rarotonga patrons by storm.
Muri Beach Club Hotel Spa: A rejuvenating experience
Thursday 28 September 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Go Local
Getting a spa treatment can be a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate your body and mind. However, finding the best spa therapist can be challenging.
Dining Table: Outstanding experience at On the Beach
Tuesday 19 September 2023 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Features, Food, Go Local
Spend the evening overlooking the blue horizon as the sun sets at OTB, On the Beach Bar and Restaurant at Manuia Beach Resort Arorangi and you cannot miss the friendly welcome and hospitality of not only the staff, but OTB’s very own top chef and owner Philip Nordt.
