Opinion

Michael Tavioni: Water charges will ‘restrict our farmers’ ability to produce food’

I am prompted to write about water once more after hearing the Prime Minister referring to these issues again in his Constitution Day speech, writes Michael Tavioni BEM.

Letter: Atiu Harbour Project 1974-75

Dear Editor, Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the completion and opening of the Atiu Harbour by Sir Albert and Lady Henry in July 1975.

Ruta Mave: The reality of women’s leadership in the Cook Islands

We have come a long way from a women’s place being barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen, writes Ruta Mave.

Kata: Paris Olympics

Thomas Wynne: Embracing protest and disagreement

In our ever-connected world, it’s easy to find ourselves nestled within the warm embrace of those who share our views, beliefs and convictions. This comfort, while reassuring, can also become a prison — a self-imposed echo chamber where dissenting voices are drowned out, shunned, even publicly ridiculed, and the richness of diverse perspectives is lost, Thomas Tarurongo Wynne writes.

Letter: Costume controversy

Dear Editor, It was interesting that Ministry of Cultural Development (MOCD) confirmed on CITV that Tupapa won first place for the drum dance costume as per the rules.

Kata: Maeva Nui 2024

Letter: ‘You’re missing the point, PM’

So the Prime Minister is now comparing the petition of 3400 signatures to tell his Government that his people are not happy with the water situation. How to belittle your own people.

Letter: Democracy in action!

Dear Editor, Kia Orana. Once upon a time, democratic principles meant that the people told their elected Members of Parliament what they wanted and this actually worked. Recently the “people” presented a petition to Parliament, signed by many individuals, telling the Government that they do not wish to see the imposition of water meters and charges … Simple! Democracy in action!

Kata: Water tarrifs

Letter: Bring back real competition!

Dear Editor, Re: Aug 7th 2024 article, pg 3, Te Maeva Nui prize awards night.

Kata: Vape

Ruta Mave: A costly leak in government trust

Government’s inadequacy to collect and store water is costing shareholders millions in lost returns, but these costs are now being passed on to them as water tax. Are we paying for infrastructure or directors $100,000 plus salaries? Ruta Mave writes.

Letter: Anyone in the office?

Dear Editor, Has anyone tried to get hold of Internal Affairs lately? The office is there to serve the public but I think they have forgotten that.

Kata: Maire Nui

Thomas Wynne: Celebrating our heritage

Nothing is more important to identity and a sense of who one is than being able to celebrate who you are, what you are, and your special place in the world, writes Thomas Tarurongo Wynne.

Virtues in Paradise: Virtues are our superpowers

There is a silver thread of unity amongst all faiths and cultures that is the foundation of our beliefs and the key to our wellbeing.