Memory Lane
Launch of late Sir Gaven Donne biography
Monday 9 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Local, Memory Lane, National
On Saturday morning, Nick Donne launched the self-published biography of his father the late Sir Gaven Donne “No man is an Island” at the Bounty Bookshop in downtown Avarua, Rarotonga.
Master Navigator and Canadian journalist team up on a history of voyaging
Saturday 23 November 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Features, Memory Lane, Weekend
It has been almost 40 years since the first ocean-going vaka of the modern age arrived to the Cook Islands. Some readers will remember Hōkūle’a’s first visit in September 1985, and since then a growing fleet of canoes has come and gone from these shores, including several built or based here, such as Takitumu, Te Au O Tonga, Marumaru Atua, Paikea, and canoes built for the Festival of Pacific Arts in 1992. Jennifer Kingsley writes.
Remembrance Day, honour the sacrifices in war and conflict
Tuesday 12 November 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Local, Memory Lane, National
The Cook Islands Returned Services Association (CIRSA) commemorated Remembrance Day yesterday, November 11, to honour and remember the sacrifices made by brave servicemen and women.
Defying the Odds: 2 women excel in male domain
Saturday 9 November 2024 | Written by Solomone Taukei | Published in Features, Memory Lane, Rugby Union, Sports, Weekend
For years, women have been side-lined in sports administration, especially in rugby—a domain long dominated by men. However, local trailblazers like Francis Toa and Harriet Tuara are breaking barriers, proving that women can excel in leadership roles and transform the rugby landscape. Their stories serve as powerful examples of resilience, passion, and dedication in the face of challenges. Sports reporter Solomone Taukei profiles the pair.
Reliving Cyclone Martin 27 years on
Saturday 2 November 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Memory Lane
The scars of Cyclone Martin still linger in the hearts of many.
When rugby was simply a way of life
Saturday 26 October 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, In Depth, Memory Lane, Weekend
These reminiscences by local rugby stalwarts Amene Rangi and Bob Estall were assembled by staff reporter Melina Etches.
Long serving firefighter finds joy in voluntary service
Saturday 26 October 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Features, Memory Lane, Weekend
One of the longest-serving and oldest volunteers of the Puaikura Fire Brigade, Mathew Mataroa, who helped start the fire brigade over two decades ago, has no regrets about returning home to serve his people in firefighting battles.
2019-2023: Empowering women, saving lives in the Cook Islands
Monday 21 October 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Features, Memory Lane
In January 2019, Bluesky (formerly Telecom and now Vodafone) and the Ministry of Health conducted a “Text Health Cancer Awareness” programme. Over 7000 texts raised $18,000 which went towards cancer screening initiatives.
‘Love, Hope and Faith’: From community outreach to medical innovation 2013-2018
Monday 21 October 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Features, Memory Lane
The New Zealand High Commissioner, Mr John Carter and Mrs Leoni Carter, were farewelled in July 2013. John was instrumental in procuring “pre-loved bras” donated from Curves Gym in Kerikeri, Northland. These bras were distributed to the women of the Northern Group islands.
Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation: A history of advocacy and resilience 2003-2012
Monday 21 October 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Features, Memory Lane
The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation (CIBCF) was born out of a grassroots movement in 2003, driven by a group of dedicated women determined to raise awareness and support for breast cancer in the Cook Islands. Dawn Baudinet, the immediate past president of the Foundation, explores the foundation’s journey, from its inception to its significant achievements in promoting breast health and providing vital services to the community.
Daughter adds new chapter to father’s memoir
Saturday 19 October 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Memory Lane
A revised edition of Tom Neale’s memoir about his solitary life on the remote island of Suwarrow has been published, featuring a new chapter and epilogue written by his daughter, offering a fresh perspective on his experiences.
Family honours loved one in Rarotonga
Monday 14 October 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Memory Lane
The family of Dr Thomas Brian Guy, who died in Rarotonga in 1977, travelled from Canada and Australia to unveil his plaque in the Nikao Cemetery, which they discovered thanks to the efforts of local volunteers.
Racy Raro sports car has new life in New Zealand
Monday 7 October 2024 | Written by Cameron Scott | Published in Features, Local, Memory Lane, National
A high-powered Mazda RX7 sports car which once languished in a shed near the beach in Rarotonga has found a new life in New Zealand as a drag racer, driven by a former Tereora College pupil.
Mangaia’s ‘ringed web of caves’ offers rich geological and historical treasures
Saturday 21 September 2024 | Written by Rod Dixon | Published in Features, In Depth, Memory Lane, Weekend
A team of American cave explorers estimate there may be hundreds of caves yet to be explored on Mangaia in what one team member describes as ‘a ringed web of caves’ rich in geological and historical interest, including evidence of pre-historic exploration, writes Rod Dixon.
The power of family and pride in rugby
Saturday 7 September 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Memory Lane, Rugby Union, Sports
A former rugby union great who represented the Cook Islands national team, shares his experiences and highlights the importance of family, community and hard work in the sport.
A father’s wish: Naea’s unfulfilled dream
Thursday 29 August 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Features, Local, Memory Lane, National, Weekend
Okirua Naea’s greatest wish is that his children had met the man who raised him into the father he is today.
Tararo’s commitment to God and family
Thursday 29 August 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Features, Local, Memory Lane, National, Weekend
A 29-year-old father of two, Bernard Tararo, is setting an example for all young fathers in the Cook Islands that commitment and faith are key to building a successful family.
The General’s greatest gift
Thursday 29 August 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Features, Local, Memory Lane, National, Weekend
A former Cook Islands rugby star and grandfather of 11, reflects on his journey as a father and husband, emphasising the importance of love, support and equality in family relationships
Losacker’s 12th book features sailing adventures and medical missions
Thursday 22 August 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Features, Go Local, Memory Lane
A long-serving Cook Islands medical practitioner Dr Wolfgang Losacker has added another book inspired by the country to his collection called “Sailing Adventures in the South Seas”.
‘Only in the Cooks’: Retiring judge shares fond memories of Cook Islands
Saturday 17 August 2024 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, Features, Memory Lane, National, Weekend
After 12 years of dedicated service to the Cook Islands justice system, High Court Judge Dame Judith Potter is hanging up her robes, leaving a legacy of legal expertise, and taking with her some ‘only in the Cooks’ memories.
