National
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.
Govt publishes China agreement, Opposition still demands answers
Tuesday 18 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Economy, National, Parliament
Cook Islands Government yesterday released the China agreement text following criticism over a lack of consultation, with New Zealand now reviewing its implications.
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”.
Cook Islands secures $4 million ‘one off’ grant from China for future projects
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Rashneel Kumar | Published in National
Cook Islands will receive a “one off grant” of approximately $4 million from China, following the signing of the Joint Action Plan for the 2025-2030 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership last week.
MPs’ travel costs double in $68 million Supplementary Budget
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Rashneel Kumar | Published in Economy, National, Parliament
The Supplementary Budget seeks an extra $68 million, including doubling of MP travel allowances, sparking criticism of wasteful spending and misplaced priorities. Rashneel Kumar reports.
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).
China deal won’t raise concerns, says PM
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Rashneel Kumar | Published in Economy, National, New Zealand, Regional
Prime Minister Mark Brown is ‘confident’ there will be no areas of concern with the agreement the Cook Islands has signed with China once the documents are available to the public ‘very shortly’. Rashneel Kumar reports.
‘We live in free democracy’: PM welcomes public protest
Monday 17 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in National, Parliament
Prime Minister Mark Brown is confident he can handle the motion of no confidence and welcomes the public protest that will be held outside Parliament House this morning.
Absentee landownership: Crossroads for Cook Islands
Sunday 16 February 2025 | Written by Supplied | Published in Business, National
The Cook Islands, celebrated for its vibrant traditions and pristine landscapes, is facing a challenging issue tied to its most treasured resource—land.
‘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.
‘Serious questions’: Opposition challenges China partnership
Saturday 15 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Economy, National
Cook Islands Government defends its new partnership agreement with China, emphasising its alignment with national interests and the continued importance of existing relationships, while facing calls for greater transparency.
No-confidence motion against PM and his Cabinet faces delays
Saturday 15 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in National, Parliament
A motion of no confidence against the Cook Islands Cabinet, filed on February 11, faces delays due to parliamentary procedure, specifically the 14-day notice requirement and the precedence of an Appropriation Amendment Bill.
Rarotonga braces for more rain,flood risk
Saturday 15 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in National, Weather
The weekend and the beginning of next week are expected to experience brief showers due to an active cloud band approaching Rarotonga from the east.
Census reveals decline in Cook Islands Māori speakers in New Zealand
Saturday 15 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Culture, Education, Features, National, Weekend
Despite a growing Cook Islands population in New Zealand, the number of Cook Islands Māori speakers is declining, raising concerns about the language’s future, and prompting calls for greater support for language revitalisation efforts.
Tereora celebrates student excellence at endorsement assembly
Saturday 15 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Education, National
Tereora College yesterday held its annual Endorsement Assembly, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of its students.
Apii Avarua inducts 25 prefects
Saturday 15 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Education, National
A total of 25 students, including 14 girls and 11 boys, were inducted as the 2025 prefects for Apii Avarua yesterday.
