Spouses programme part of the Forum

It is not only the leaders of the Pacific nations who will get to enjoy the upcoming Pacific Forum.

A spouses programme, hosted and organised by Mrs Akaiti Puna, wife of the prime minister, will take place during the forum to ensure that a real slice of Cook Islands life can be experienced by all who are attending.

A three-day programme has been planned, which Puna says will include taking the visitors around the highlights of Rarotonga, and showcasing of the Cook Islands culture.

The programme will conclude with an open day event for the women of the Cook Islands to ”come and help celebrate the Pacific Forum“. To be held at Punanga Nui, the event will include displays of Cook Islands culture such as local fashion, black pearls, tattooing, tivaevae carving and more.

As part of providing an authentic experience for the visitors, each spouse will also be teamed up with a spouse from one of the Cook Islands members of parliament, during their time in both Rarotonga and Aitutaki.