Features
Cook Islands, NZ reaffirm strong ties on Waitangi Day celebration
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, New Zealand, Regional, Weekend
New Zealand and the Cook Islands commemorated Waitangi Day and the Cook Islands' 60th anniversary of self-governance on Thursday, highlighting their unique bond and dedication to navigating the future together through continued partnership and respect, despite issues surrounding the now abandoned proposed passport and the upcoming China agreement.
Prefects leading the way
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Education, Features, National, Weekend
Ten students from the Year 6 class of St Joseph’s Primary School were inducted as prefects yesterday during a beautiful opening of the school year and prefect investiture church service at St Joseph’s Cathedral, led by Bishop Reynaldo Getalado.
Church talk- Esther’s courage: Standing up for what is right
Friday 7 February 2025 | Written by Supplied | Published in Church Talk, Features
Have you ever wondered why the Lord has sent you to the earth at this time and placed in you in your particular circumstances? Kayla Kaimarama-Willie of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints writes.
Cook Islands to debut in NZ’s major BBQ fest
Friday 7 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Food
The Cook Islands Barbeque Alliance (CIBA) is thrilled to announce its participation in the highly anticipated Meatstock Hamilton 2025 festival, New Zealand’s biggest barbecue event, for the first time.
Cook Islands queen champions climate action
Thursday 6 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Entertainment, Features
“Let us use our voices to tell the world, the Pacific is not just a dot on the map, it is a lifeline for millions and it must be protected.” This was Miss Cook Islands Ngatepaeru Marie Maoate’s message at the Miss Pacific Islands 2025 pre-pageant interview in Solomon Islands yesterday.
Coastwatcher honoured after 80 years
Tuesday 4 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Memory Lane, Weekend
On a beautiful afternoon in the Ruatonga valley, a poignant ceremony unfolded as the ‘Last Post’ echoed through the gathering at the unveiling of a military plaque for a Cook Islands Coastwatcher.
Rarotonga tattoo artist warns of fake bookings, leaving tourists needled
Tuesday 4 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Art, Features, Local, National
A growing number of tourists are falling victim to fraudulent tattoo bookings in Rarotonga, with scammers impersonating local artists and collecting deposits through social media.
Cook Islanders share stories of friendship with Australia
Monday 3 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Australia, Features, Local, National, Regional, Weekend
The strong and growing relationship between Australia and the Cook Islands has been amplified by the stories of Cook Islanders who have lived and thrived in Australia.
Engaging communities to shape the future of tourism
Saturday 1 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, In Depth, National, Tourism, Weekend
Engaging and practical public consultations have been held throughout this week to help Cook Islands Tourism develop the policies that will guide the nation positively into the future, focusing on how tourism can contribute positively to the wellbeing of the Cook Islands.
Popular night club finds a new groove
Saturday 1 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Business, Entertainment, Features, Go Local, Hot on the Rock, National
The relocation launch of the popular “On The Rocks” dance night club certainly rolled out in style, with deep red carpet greeting guests and patrons at the entrance on Thursday night.
Passion for education: Mangaia’s daughters answer the call to teach
Saturday 1 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Education, Features, National, Weekend
Driven by a passion for education and a desire to serve their community, two Mangaia teenagers are among the first trainees at the newly launched Cook Islands Teacher Development Centre.
Maoate ready for Miss Pacific Islands Pageant
Friday 31 January 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Art, Features
Miss Cook Islands Pageant Association (MCIPA) is proud of Miss Cook Islands Ngatepaeru Marie Maoate’s commitment to building a strong campaign at the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
Church Talk: Overcoming fear through faith in Christ
Friday 31 January 2025 | Written by Supplied | Published in Church Talk, Features
Fear is a powerful emotion that many experience throughout their lifetime. Unfortunately, its impact can keep us from stepping forward in faith, rob us of joy, and make us doubt God’s promises, writes Pastor Eric Toleafoa of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Exhibition showcases Aus-Cooks connections
Thursday 30 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Features
The Australian High Commission in Rarotonga celebrated Australia Day with a beach barbeque and the launch of the ‘Stories of Friendship’ exhibition highlighting Cook Islanders’ connections to Australia.
Balancing tourism and culture
Thursday 30 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Australia, Features, Regional, Weekend
Cook Islands Tourism’s transparent, inclusive and practical planning public consultation which explored the challenges and opportunities tourism brings in all areas of wellbeing, drew a good number of community members.
Finding solace in paradise
Tuesday 28 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Church Talk, Features
The World Day of Prayer pilgrimage to the Cook Islands has provided a stark contrast between the peaceful island life and the ongoing turmoil in Lebanon for a visiting participant who has found peace and inspiration in the island’s culture and deeply rooted faith.
‘I made you wonderful’
Monday 27 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Church Talk, Features
The World Day of Prayer pilgrim were hosted by the Catholic Women of the Cook Islands at the Saint Joseph’s Cathedral yesterday.
Whyte’s journey of service
Saturday 25 January 2025 | Written by Rod Dixon | Published in Features, Weekend
During his nine-year tenure as Mangaia’s executive officer, Anthony Whyte, improved essential services, revitalised community infrastructure and enhanced the quality of life for island residents, leaving a lasting positive impact, writes Rod Dixon.
Archaeologist Māeva unearths Cook Islands food preservation secrets
Saturday 25 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
A dedicated archaeologist has taken on the task of exploring, reviving, collating and recording traditional culinary traditions, with an emphasis on cultural heritage and sustainability.
‘Generational curse’ of violence – Calls for action to protect children
Saturday 25 January 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, Crime, Features, In Depth, National, Weekend
A recent 14-year prison sentence for a convicted paedophile has prompted calls for increased community vigilance, parental responsibility and stricter measures to protect children from sexual abuse.
