Internal
New Zealand High Commission Fund supports local communities
Tuesday 31 December 2024 | Written by CI News Staff | Published in Local, National
The New Zealand High Commission in Cook Islands held a signing ceremony earlier this month with the successful recipients of the 2024/2025 Round of the New Zealand High Commission Fund.
Te Ipukarea Concert to launch 60th anniversary celebrations
Tuesday 31 December 2024 | Written by CI News Staff | Published in Culture, Entertainment, National
The Cook Islands’ 60th year of self-governance is set to commence in style with Te Ipukarea Concert, to be held tomorrow night at the National Auditorium.
Business break-ins remain a concern amidst festive season
Tuesday 31 December 2024 | Written by CI News Staff | Published in Crime, Local, National
The increase in police presence, supported by community policing, has led to a decrease in traffic infringements, although break-ins at business properties continue to be a concern.
Cook Islands drops bids for United Nations, Commonwealth membership
Tuesday 31 December 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National, Politics
Cook Islands will not pursue membership in the United Nations and the Commonwealth due to its inability to meet the criteria for UN membership and existing relationship with New Zealand, which fulfils Commonwealth membership requirements.
Families and businesses reflect on 2024, set New Year resolutions
Tuesday 31 December 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National
As 2024 draws to a close, locals and businesses in the Cook Islands are reflecting on the past year and setting their sights on the future with fresh resolutions and new hopes for the year ahead.
Ruta Mave: Passport plan leaves Cook Islands vulnerable and isolated
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Ruta Tangiiau Mave | Published in Opinion
Prime Minister Mark Brown’s passport proposal presents as more personal than from the people. He sounds like a spoilt teenager who has graduated from his ‘L’ plate to a full driver’s licence, declaring to his parents that he is all grown up now, and wants to be independent, writes Ruta Mave.
Letter: Leave the Blackrock Preschool where it is!
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Opinion
Dear Editor, Kia Orana. Why is CIIC (Cook Islands Investment Corporation) evicting Apii Potiki from their really fit for purpose premises where they have been for so long, and moving them to House #52 on the corner of the main road?
Letter: Focusing on ‘growth’ in 2025
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Letters to the Editor, Opinion
Dear Editor Good on the Prime Minister for focusing on “growth” in 2025. May this writer humbly suggest that the government begins with truly aggressive growth in the number of vehicles on our uncrowded and under-utilised roads?
PM Brown calls for debt relief for climate-impacted small island states
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Economy, Environment, National
Prime Minister Mark Brown has expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in climate change negotiations, particularly the failure of major emitting countries to meet their carbon emissions targets and financial commitments.
Mother and sons reunited for Christmas after a decade
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
Family reunions hold a special place in our hearts, serving as a poignant reminder of the bonds that tie us together, no matter the distance.
SIF grants address critical social needs across the Cook Islands
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features
The Cook Islands Social Impact Fund distributed $199,825.20 to 14 successful applicants, including organisations focused on child welfare, education, youth development, women’s empowerment and community health, to support their vital work in addressing social issues and improving the well-being of Cook Islanders.
Seizure of Cook Islands-registered ship over alleged sabotage ‘creates a bad look’ for NZ
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by RNZ | Published in National, Politics
A Cook Islands-registered ship being seized by Finnish authorities over a suspected incident of sabotage “creates a bad look” for New Zealand, an international law professor says.
Passport plan ‘not the best of the initiatives by the PM’: Government MP
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National, Politics
Government MPs remain uncertain about the proposed Cook Islands passport, intended to celebrate national pride and identity, with one MP stating that it is not among the Prime Minister’s best initiatives.
Roi appointed vice-chair of Asian Shipowners’ Association
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Local, National
The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) has acknowledged the recent resignation of Eleanor Roi from the CIIC Board, effective December 1, 2024.
Mauke celebrates Christmas with traditional sports and festive cheer
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Local, National, Outer Islands, Sports
The people of Mauke celebrated Christmas with a week of festivities, including traditional sports, netball, touch rugby, volleyball, a night market and a string band competition, culminating in a fireworks display last night. Nicolea Mateariki reports.
‘Toughy’ bids farewell to 45-year banking career
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
After a remarkable 45-year career spanning four different banks in the same building, a respected bank employee has retired, leaving a legacy of dedication and service to the community.
Walking for ‘Dear Love’: A journey of reflection and love
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
A Cook Islands businesswoman walked the Camino de Santiago in memory of her late husband, finding solace and healing on the ancient pilgrimage route while honouring their shared love and dreams.
Touch Deez, Vonnias Vikings claim Boxing Day Touch titles
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Supplied | Published in Sports, Touch Rugby
The Vonnias Boxing Day Touch wrapped up 2024 for Cook Islands Touch with Team Touch Deez crowned champions in the competitive category and Team Vonnias Vikings taking the title in the social category.
Tracing Polynesian roots
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Features
In a significant occasion that celebrates heritage, Pa Marie Upokotini Ariki attended the opening ceremonies of the Austronesian Cultural and Art Exhibition and the Keqiutou Site Museum in Pingtan Island, China, reflecting on the shared heritage of Austronesian peoples and emphasising the importance of understanding their origins, including those of the Cook Islands.
Three little miracles: Christmas babies born in Rarotonga
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Health, Local, National
A rare and joyful occasion unfolded at the Rarotonga Hospital this Christmas as three babies were born on December 25, bringing extra cheer to the maternity ward.
