National
NZ waits to see China deal before deciding next steps
Tuesday 11 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Economy, National
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says they will have to assess the proposed agreement between the Cook Islands and China before determining their next course of action.
Cook Islands Cabinet backs China deal, Prime Minister Brown
Tuesday 11 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Economy, National, New Zealand, Regional
Cook Islands Cabinet Ministers have confidence in Prime Minister Mark Brown’s leadership and have endorsed the comprehensive strategic agreement the country will sign with China this week. Losirene Lacanivalu reports.
'Matter is getting worse': Opposition leader on Cook Islands-NZ relations
Monday 10 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Economy, National
Opposition leader Tina Browne, who is concerned with the latest statement from New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister about the lack of consultation over Cook Islands' strategic deal with China, says the relationship between the Cook Islands and New Zealand is getting worse.
Men alleged for a series of burglary adjourned
Monday 10 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, National
The court matter of the two men who are alleged to have committed a series of burglary in Rarotonga last year has been adjourned to March 7.
Businesswoman allowed interim name suppression
Monday 10 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, National
A businesswoman who is accused of failing to comply and failing to pay superannuation contributions has been allowed interim name suppression until March 7.
Prominent PMN broadcaster promotes Cook Islands culture
Monday 10 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Culture, National
Cook Islander Tauraki Rongo a prominent Pacific Media Network broadcaster based in Aotearoa New Zealand is known for his efforts in promoting and preserving the culture, heritage and language of the Cook Islands.
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.
Businesswoman convicted in hit-and-run
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, National
Businesswoman Vaiana Dance has been convicted on three charges related to a hit-and-run incident in 2024, where she failed to stop, ascertain and render assistance to two teenagers.
Bail denied in fatal hit and run, manslaughter charge possible
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, National
The bail application for the alleged Arorangi fatal hit and run accused has been denied.
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.
Te Ipukarea Society: Why we do not need to destroy our seabed?
Saturday 8 February 2025 | Written by Te Ipukarea Society | Published in Environment, National
As innovative technology starts to rev up around the globe so does innovative tech for the electric car (EV) industry.
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.
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.
Leaders call for stronger measures amidst drug trafficking concerns
Friday 7 February 2025 | Written by Talaia Mika | Published in Crime, National
Transnational crime continues to be a growing concern for Cook Islands’ borders.
Court briefs
Friday 7 February 2025 | Written by Losirene Lacanivalu | Published in Court, National
Justice of the Peace John Whitta presided over several court matters at the Criminal Court in Avarua yesterday.
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.
Scientists explore coral heat tolerance in Rarotonga
Thursday 6 February 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Environment, National
A group from the University of California is working with Cook Islands marine biologist and chairperson for the environmental NGO, Kōrero o te `Ōrau, Dr Teina Rongo, to discover how corals around Rarotonga respond to high temperatures.
