Two medals from the late Queen Elizabeth II were bestowed by the King’s Representative Sir Tom Marsters to Tuatiaki (Papatua) Papatua (MBE) –Member of the British Empire – and Vainepoto Michael Akava (BEM) – British Empire Medal – last week.

Both Papatua and Akava received recognition for their exceptional services to the public and community on Monday, June 5, the first King’s Birthday holiday. The awards were announced in 2020.

Papatua said: “It was so emotional and very touching.”

“My mum and dad, my parents, I feel that it was their medal to start off with.

“There is a lot of people that I want to thank. The Powell sisters - Linda Vavia, Joan, Marianna, Marie and their brother William, they put my name through.”

Papatua said he has also received a lot of support from the places he has worked at such as the schools, Ministry of Culture and Cook Islands Tourism.

He said he would have loved to invite more people to the ceremony, however the number of guests was limited.

“I thank my wife Nga for her support right through and my families and friends.

“I would like to acknowledge the Tourism CEO Karla Eggelton, I was so honoured to have her there, I felt good with her being there. And to my family and bowling family,” said Papatua.

Born on Mangaia, Papatua moved to Rarotonga at the age of 12 to attend Tereora College.

In 1979 he graduated from Teacher’s College and took on a long teaching career at Avatea Primary School where he was also instrumental in the school’s successful cultural dance team.

He has been the president of the Cook Islands Teachers College and Students Association and has been involved in many community, cultural and sports events.

After teaching he joined the Ministry of Culture and later the Cook Islands Tourism Cooperation.

A skilled dancer, songwriter, producer, costume designer, choreographer and musician, Papatua currently sings at Rarotonga International Airport greeting new arrivals.

Papatua is also a translator and interpreter for Parliament and a keen bowler.

He is still active in culture as emcee for cultural events and stage designer.

Orometua (Pastor) Vainepoto Michael Akava said: “I always give the glory to God, He gave me all the strength, wisdom, knowledge.”

“I am humbled and honoured for receiving this medal for the people of Atiu and Mauke and the Cook Islands.

“I would like to thank Minister Rose Toki Brown and the former MP for Akatokamanava, the Speaker of Parliament Hon. Tai Tura for putting my name forward.

“I am thankful to my dear wife for her support and our children and my families and friends, thank you for your support.”

Born on the island of Atiu on August 24, 1970, Akava attended Atiu Primary School and St Joseph’s school.

He started his career as a police officer on Rarotonga in 1992 up until 2008 reaching the rank of an inspector.

Akava has also excelled in sports and culture, and was the team leader for the Mauke 2022 Te Maeva Nui Festival.

An active church member, he has served in roles in the Catholic groups and the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC).

Akava, who resides on the island of Mauke, is the Orometua of the Mauke Ekalesia.