Local
Dollars and sense: Autism Cook Islands students learn financial literacy
Thursday 20 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Education, Local, National
Autism Cook Islands (ACI) has started their Term 1 programme teaching their transition group of seven students how to use money wisely.
Culinary celebration of Takurua - Umu Cooking
Wednesday 19 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Culture, Local, National
To celebrate Cook Islands’ 60th Anniversary of Self-Governance celebrations, Te Mato Manava Turoto/Cook Islands Tourism will present the culinary celebration of Takurua – Taste of the Season, this week.
PM: Cook Islands passport no longer being pursued
Wednesday 19 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National, New Zealand, Regional
Prime Minister Mark Brown has reaffirmed that the controversial Cook Islands passport proposal is no longer being pursued and has assured the public that the country’s relationship with New Zealand remains strong.
Peaceful protest to Parliament House, Cook Islanders voicing their concerns and advocating for change
Wednesday 19 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
Hundreds of Cook Islanders marched in protest to Parliament, demanding that government prioritise their New Zealand citizenship, address concerns about the China agreement and listen to the people’s wishes. Reporter Melina Etches looks back at the rally that was held in front of Parliament on Monday.
PM emphasises ‘mutual’ relationship with NZ
Tuesday 18 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Local, National, New Zealand, Parliament, Politics, Regional
Prime Minister Mark Brown says he is looking forward to his next discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon “in due course” to promote and strengthen the countries’ collaboration while recognising and respecting the sovereign status of both countries.
‘I see you, I hear you: PM Brown promises greater consultation
Tuesday 18 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Local, National
Prime Minister Mark Brown has reiterated his message of welcoming robust discussion as well as making it clear that the government values transparency, consultation and open dialogue.
Cook Islanders rally to protect NZ citizenship, protest government decisions
Tuesday 18 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National, Parliament
As hundreds gathered in protest against the government yesterday at Parliament in Nikao, one of the main concerns for many protesters was the fear of losing their New Zealand citizenship, or “risking” it, due to the government’s decisions.
Over 1200 water meters installed on Rarotonga
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
To Tatou Vai (TTV), the island’s water authority is progressing well with its water meter installation project for both residential homes commercial property. As of last week, just over 1200 meters have been installed – “a 50/50 split”.
Climate change top priority as UN strengthens Cook Islands partnership
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National, Weather
Cook Islands welcomed a partnership with the United Nations, whose representatives visited Rarotonga last week, to address critical issues, particularly climate change.
Iro, Fua appointed to key Cook Islands Investment Corporation boards
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Supplied | Published in Local, National
Former health secretary Elizabeth Iro has been appointed to Te Aponga Uira (TAU) Board, effective 1 January 2025, announced the Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC).
‘Nothing to worry about’: Prime Minister Brown on China agreement
Sunday 16 February 2025 | Written by Rashneel Kumar | Published in BREAKING NEWS, Local, National, Politics
Prime Minister Mark Brown has reaffirmed his commitment to publishing the Joint Action Plan for Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) 2025-2030 agreement with China.
Cook Islands ‘failed to properly consult’ on China deal, says New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by CI News Staff | Published in Economy, Local, National, New Zealand, Regional
The diplomatic row between the Cook Islands and New Zealand over the China deal the Cook Islands is set to sign in the coming week continues despite brief talks over the phone between the leaders from the two countries.
No debt in China deal
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Rashneel Kumar | Published in Economy, Local, National
The comprehensive deal the Cook Islands will sign with China in the coming week will not involve any borrowing, the Prime Minister confirmed this week.
Cook Islander challenges nationality argument for passport
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Local, National
Cook Islander Joe Caffrey, who opposed government’s proposal for a national passport, is querying the validity of the Cook Islands identification card which was issued to him over 30 years ago.
New pumps installed in Aitutaki water project
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National, Outer Islands
Aitutaki is prone to water shortages given that it is reliant on rainwater for its potable water supply and the non-potable water supply which is sourced from groundwater infiltration water galleries.
Divided views on national identity as Government ditches passport plan
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Economy, Local, National
The decision by Prime Minister Mark Brown to drop the proposal for a Cook Islands passport is welcome news to many, including four elders who shared their excitement with Cook Islands News journalist Talaia Mika.
Opposition leaders declare ‘no confidence’ in Prime Minister
Friday 7 February 2025 | Written by Rashneel Kumar | Published in Economy, Local, National, Politics
Cook Islands Opposition leaders say they have lost confidence in the Prime Minister, despite his U-turn on the controversial passport proposal that drew disapproval from the New Zealand Government and the ire of Cook Islanders.
Takurua culinary festival in honour of 60th anniversary of self-governance
Thursday 6 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National, Tourism
In celebration of Cook Islands' 60th Anniversary of Self-Governance celebrations this year, Cook Islands Tourism is presenting Takurua – taste of the season, a culinary celebration of identity, heritage and connection to Cook Islands homeland through food.
Punanga Turuturu Itivaine set to make a positive impact
Wednesday 5 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
Punanga Turuturu Itivaine (PTI), the women’s counselling and support centre for survivors of gender based violence (GBV) and abuse, responded to 11 calls for assistance during the festive season.
Are Pa Metua rings in their New Year
Wednesday 5 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
To ring in the New Year, Te Are Pa Metua members were treated to a delightful lunch on the beach.
