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Property investors still coming
New commissioner at helm of police vaka
School term ends
Rape claim investigated
Two HOMs may be forced to step down
Cabinet told not to talk publicly
Petition wants Native Land Court back
Decrease in revenue but it’s no recession
Apology to superintendent
Threat to cancel mini games
Govt space to let
New business support loan fund launched today
Mauke’s new water project ready to go
Tahitian connections donate to Atiu hostel
Media Freedom Forum registered in Cooks
Sea scouts commissioned aboard Te Kukupa
Public service for Papa Ron
CISNOC to have its say on games
MPs to launch Nooroa Mai visitor initiative
Art adorns airport terminal columns
CIP welcomes Peua home
8 burglaries reported
SPC defends OLPC
Weather expected to clear
Property investors still coming
Thursday 18: The Business Trade & Investment Board will host a group of New Zealand property investors next month.
The group was initially set to visit this week, but concerns about the number and type of the investors were raised with the Pacific Islands Trade & Investment Commission in New Zealand which is funding and assisting with the programme.
The commission, set up in 1998 under the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, aims to assist Pacific Forum countries in marketing products, encourage investment in the region, and to promote tourism.
BTIB chief executive officer Terry Rangi says the now postponed visit has seen a lot of interest from local property and business owners. The investors are due in the country on July 21 for four days. - HG
New commissioner at helm of police vaka
Thursday 18: It was an end of an era for one of the country’s senior police officers, and a new beginning for another.
Yesterday Cook Islands police commissioner Maara Tetava was officially welcomed into his new role while former commissioner Pat Tasker was thanked and farewelled.
In an event full of song, dance and celebration, the handover ceremony, held in front of the police headquarters in Avarua, recognised the outstanding achievements of both men.
Led by senior sergeant Kau Mapu, fellow officers and two police dogs marched down the main road of Avarua to the station to mark the start of the occasion. Accompanied by the Nikao Boys Brigade Brass Band, the contingent walked tall in full uniforms including the dogs which were draped in police-issued attire.
After the official turou, pastor Tutai Pere conducted the prayer service -- the Takamoa Theological College students opening up a with traditional hymn. Pere said the work of the police was not getting easier and like Barnabas and Paul from the Bible, risked their lives for the welfare of the people.
Acting prime minister Tangata Vavia said government has noticed the difference Tasker has made during the two years of his service.
“The Cook Islands police is at a better level than before you came,” he said.
Vavia also congratulated commissioner Tetava in his new position being the second person from Mitiaro to hold this “prestigious title”. The late Tangata Nekeare held the position of superintendent in the early 1970s.
“It’s not because you’re Mitiaro but because you have dedicated hard work to get where you are today, you have earnt it,” said Vavia, himself a former policeman.
“Now you’re the new commissioner of police the task is greater the work is a lot more decision making depending on your strength and guidance so you can deliver to the people of the Cook Islands.”
Sergeant Taivero Isamaela spoke of the impact Tasker has made since taking post on June 18, 2007. One of the major challenges was restructuring the police service by implementing the recommendations made in the 1996 Robinson report.
“As in any change, this did not go smoothly. There was fear and suspicion, which in some case caused rejection amongst staff, especially when fronted with new plans and systems that opposed past practices,” Isamaela said.
“By the way, those who accepted the change, reaped the benefit, while those who refused the change - decided that policing was no longer their vision and… maybe... it was time to move on.”
Among Tasker’s achievements was setting up a computer network and police website in conjunction with the prime minister’s office, encouraged more engagement with the private sector and community groups, re-strengthened relations between Crown Law and government ministries and secured general wages and strengthened relations with aid donors.
“Created an open door policy for staff to approach him, and most importantly for the public to submit complaints without prejudice – this resulted in happier staff and improved police service delivery to the public.”
In farewell, Tasker thanked his wife and fellow officers for the support they’ve shown him during his time as commissioner. He joked how the prime minister’s speech writer wrote his speech.
“So it’ll be brief,” he said.
“Today is about Maara taking command not about me. It’s about what the Cook Islands police officers have done for themselves. Thank you and a job well done for the past two years,” Tasker said.
“The foundation has been built and is up to you people to carry on under Maara’s guidance.” “I wish you well, Maara. One thing that follows a commissioner is unemployment but I hope that’s a long way off for you.”
Tasker said it was time to move on to start a new phase in his life, and to use the skills he and his wife have developed in a new country.
Gifts were handed out and the song ‘Rangatira o te au’ was sung and danced by police officers. In a symbolic gesture, the commissioner’s baton was passed on from Tasker to Tetava.
Despite the obvious, Tetava said the day was not about him.
“It is about those who have gone before me, those who are with me today and those who will come after.”
“It is about a team who have and will continue to dedicate their lives to keeping our people and country safe. This will not be possible without the support of our people.
“While I am at the helm of our canoe I intend to build on what we have achieved so far and take us to the next level. I have no doubt that stormy weather will come our way but with a committed and totally focused team we can overcome it.”
Tetava said this has been a great journey.
“From humble beginnings to one of the most important positions in the Cook Islands. It has not been easy. Along the way has been many sacrifices, challenges, risk takings and opportunities.”
He thanked those who have encouraged, supported and mentored him who have made the “journey more bearable to travel”.
“To my wife and our children who has been with me through the good and tough times, who have never wavered in their support and confidence in me, my achievement is your achievement, I love you all , thank you and God bless.”
However it was the people of Mitiaro and Atiu who were celebrating the most.
Singing and dancing, they carried out an o’ora and laid ei, pareu and woven mats around the new commissioner and his wife, Kai. Proud that one of their own had been elevated to the police chief position, Tetava was lifted on a paata and carried around in front of distinguished guests, officers and those who attended the ceremony
As the new leadership was commemorated, Tetava was determined to continue the work that Tasker had started.
“We will review our performance over the past few years address our weaknesses and build on our strengths.
“I pray that the support shown to me over the past will continue as we all have the single aim of reducing crime and its effects on our people and country,” he said. - DK
School term ends
Friday 19: Today is the last day of school for students throughout the Cook Islands as they break for a one-week holiday.
Primary and secondary students in Rarotonga and the outer islands will return to studies on Monday June 29 to start term 3.
Rape claim investigated
Friday 19: Police are no longer investigating a complaint of rape which involved a teenage girl, in an incident during which photos were apparently taken.
A Tereora College teacher laid the complaint on May 7 on behalf of a 16-year-old.
The matter relates to events that occurred on the night of Saturday May 2.
When questioned by the police, the girl said she had been drinking at home with friends before deciding to go to the Banana Court around 10pm. After having a “couple of drinks” at the club, she was told to get out by a family member because she was under-age.
Detective inspector Aka Matapo says she left the club and met friends and the 17-year-old male outside. The girl has said it was after this that the alleged rape occurred.
“We have taken this complaint seriously and have treated it like every other rape complaint,” Matapo says.
“We have spoken with the boy and friends who saw them at the time and have said she went willingly and the sex was consensual.”
The incident was also fuelled by mobile phone photos being passed among students of the girl apparently having sex with a 17-year-old in the toilets in the building next to the Empire Theatre.
Matapo says the girl was again interviewed by a female officer and it was explained to her what qualified as rape. The conclusion was made by both police and the girl that no rape occurred.
“There is no evidence to pursue a charge and no further action will be taken.”
Matapo says that rape is a serious allegation to make and that all complaints of this nature will be thoroughly investigated. - Dana Kinita
Two HOMs may be forced to step down
Friday 19: Secretary of Justice Terry Hagan and Secretary of Transport Aukino Tairea are two heads of ministries affected by the new policy on terms of office.
Last week cabinet issued a policy stating that no HOM or island secretary could serve in the same post for more than three consecutive terms.
This now puts Hagan, Tairea and possibly a few island secretaries in a new predicament because they have served three, three-year contracts.
Both Hagan and Tairea are not willing to comment publicly on the new policy, but they are understood to be considering their options in their bids to reapply for their jobs.
Public Service Commissioner Navy Epati’s office released the news to the HOMs and island secretaries via email on Monday – just four days out from the close of applications for new contracts today.
Epati admits the information went out last minute as he was overseas when the policy was issued by cabinet last Tuesday.
He says he has been asked by media and members of the public to explain the new policy but because it was a cabinet decision, it’s up to the ministers to do so.
Epati said prime minister and minister of the public service commission Jim Marurai has made reference to limiting the terms of HOMs in the past.
One of the rationales for the new policy is that HOMs have been resistant to making an
effort to train those under them as their future replacements, says Epati.
He says the policy now puts a finite term to HOM appointments and dissolves any permanence mentality HOMs may have. It sends a clear signal to young, qualified and motivated Cook Islanders that they can get to the pinnacle of their career path if they want to be a HOM, he says.
In August 2007, in his Constitution Day speech, Marurai said he wanted to see terms of office for ministers, HOMs and heads of crown agencies limited to two terms of four years.
He said with reforms ministers should serve two terms and HOMs should conform to similar limitations.
Marurai also acknowledged that many of the concerns of the people are focused on the costs of governance and how it relates to performance and accountability.
Marurai said he wanted to infuse governance with youthful energy and dynamic ideas – “ideas that will propel us forward through ambition and innovation – and not hindered by the comfort of complacency and the assumption of life-long job titles.”
“Now is the time to reinforce the stability we have established and set the bar higher in our performance and output. Now is the time to step out of the safety net and carve out a better future,” Marurai said in 2007.
Epati says there may be exceptions to the new policy because it is not likely it will become part of any law, making it flexible.
The new policy says those HOMs and island secretaries that have served three terms in one post can always apply for the same position in another ministry or island. - HG
Cabinet told not to talk publicly
Friday 19: Cabinet ministers were advised by Crown Law this week against making any public statements on the fuel farm scheme.
This is because of the view that it could affect their position in the Triad declaratory court judgment application.
Solicitor-general Tingika Elikana says the basis of Crown Law’s advice is that ministers should not be making statements that other parties in the court application can draw conclusions from.
However, the head of the fuel farm project committee, minister Tangata Vavia, has not refrained from commenting on the scheme. He issued a statement yesterday in response to recent criticism of the scheme by opposition finance spokesperson Norman George.- HG
Petition wants Native Land Court back
Friday 19: 1600 Cook Islanders in New Zealand have already signed up
A petition is circulating on Rarotonga calling on the government to revert back to the Native Land Court and establish an independent tribunal to look into land discrepancies.
The petition, which is being distributed by Annie King and Rima Tamarua, already has 1600 signatures from Cook Islanders living in New Zealand.
The petition is being backed up by a letter which will be delivered to the country’s members of parliament, demanding that the MPs resolve to make legislative changes to “uphold and enforce the fundamental and underpinning principles of Maori custom and the people of the Cook Islands”.
King says the petition was started in Auckland after she heard from a number of Cook Islanders – many elderly – who complained about the land court system and how they feel they are being unfairly treated in land issues.
In one case, King says a judgement was made in favour of family members living on the island, over those living overseas.
“This is a removal of ownership by a colonial court – this is not Maori custom. Why does a landowner have to apply for an occupation right on their inherited lands? They are landowners.
“Permissive occupation right was created by the missionaries for the reasons of landowners giving land for the purpose of aliens having a place to live while on Rarotonga and learning about the gospel. It did not give them ownership.”
King claims that the land division of the high court continues to practise unlawful and corrupt practices – as it has in the past – against original landowners. And she says that the land division should be abolished in favour of going back to the Native Land Court.
“High court records have overridden the truth of our customary rights, history and genealogies.”
King says there are a number of reasons for demanding the changes to the system.
They include use of lawyers and agents as well as the cost of legal fees, which disadvantage many landowners.
“We are automatically disadvantaged because the colonial law and lawyers use legal jargon which we are not familiar with nor understand. We lose by
default.”
She has documented examples of cases which she claims show up the incompetence of those working in the system.
“There have been grave mistakes made by this court to cover up the wrongs that have been going on since the early 1900s and continue till this day.”
Access to the justice ministry building also comes in for criticism from King.
“The new courthouse has been built without consideration for the disabled and the elderly. There is no access to the courthouse for them – no elevators or ramps for wheelchairs.”
And King says ineffective documentation procedures carried out by the court are also a worry.
“The high court is supposed to be a place of official record but evidence shows court documents have failed to be recorded by this court, or have disappeared.”
King says a letter was forwarded last October to the Queen’s Representative, prime minister, deputy prime minister, and justice minister Tangata Vavia, expressing these grievances.
“I told them that it’s not going to be fixed overnight, it will take years, but you have to make a start now.
“To date there have been and still are clear breaches of our Maori customary laws. It is our Maori customary laws that supersede your colonial system. We will no longer be slaves to this rule.” - MM
Decrease in revenue but it’s no recession
Friday 19: The finance ministry’s economist Quentin Thorburn says there is no concern at present regarding a reported decrease in taxation revenue.
VAT receipts for the 2008-09 financial year to April 2009 show a 0.3 percent decrease over the budget estimate (supplementary budget 3) and a 1.4 percent decrease over the corresponding period in 2007-08.
But while the year-to-date receipts as of April 2008 were down, Thorburn says April 2009 recorded a 5.1 percent increase on the same month last year, and on a quarter by quarter basis, VAT receipts for the March quarter 2009 were 4.9 percent up on the March quarter of 2008.
Thorburn says VAT recorded growth in December 2008 and March 2009 with increases of 9 percent and 6.6 percent respectively when compared to the same months in the previous year.
“Increases in December 2008, March 2009 and in the March quarter indicate that while there has been a slowdown in the Cook Islands economy caused, in part, by the worldwide economic downturn, we are not experiencing a recession as yet.”
Thorburn says one factor which influenced VAT receipts during the second half of 2008 was the loss of the second cargo vessel, which has since been
resolved.
“We are also fortunate to be experiencing a surge in visitor numbers, even before the major sporting events of 2009.
“Our year-to-date visitor numbers so far in 2009 are not only up on 2008 but also 3.8 percent up on 2007, which was our best year for tourism so far.”
At the end of April 2009, year-to-date total tax revenue for 2008-09 was $861,000, or 1.3 percent, below the same period in 2007-08.
But while VAT and income tax were below 2007-08 figures, Thorburn says company tax, import levies and departure tax have been above 2007-08
figures. - Moana Moeka’a
Apology to superintendent
Friday 19: Cook Islands News apologises to Superintendent Taivero Isamaela and his family for getting his rank wrong in Wednesday’s article, ‘New commissioner at helm of police vaka’.
Our report incorrectly stated Taivero Isamaela’s rank as a sergeant. Isamaela (pictured) is, in fact, Superintendent, the third highest ranked officer in the Cook Islands police force.
As the master of ceremony at the commissioners’ handover this week, Isamaela listed the many achievements of former commissioner Pat Tasker during his two-year tenure.
This included structural organisation which Tasker promoted consistently.
“If a staff member was shining above the rest, then promote their strengths and not let a talented member fall behind purely because of rank or other policy,” the superintendent said.
“Police will certainly take Pat’s mentoring, his teachings, management techniques and his personal qualities to heart, and apply them now and into the future.” - DK
Threat to cancel mini games
Council not convinced country capable of hosting
Saturday 20: Pacific Games Council president Vidhya Lakhan has told government and CISNOC that the Mini Games are on the wrong track and could be cancelled.
In a letter addressed to CISNOC and Pacific Games Association president Sir Geoffrey Henry on Thursday, Lakhan says his visit this week and responses from officials here in past months have not convinced the council that the Cook Islands are capable of hosting the Mini Games.
Lakhan alleges the delivery of the games is on the wrong track and the council will be in a position to decide on the future of the event once CISNOC advises whether it believes PMG 2009 Ltd can deliver the games.
Lakhan and council CEO Andrew Minogue met with the CISNOC board, three cabinet ministers, and the PMG 2009 organising committee during their three-day visit to Rarotonga.
In his letter to Sir Geoffrey, Lakhan says, “Put simply, with less than 100 days before the scheduled commencement of the 2009 Pacific Mini Games, the Council remains extremely concerned at the current state of affairs within the PMG 2009 Ltd organising committee.”
The letter follows scathing criticism of the games organisers that Lakhan issued in letters to government in March.
He says the council is not convinced that the games can be hosted in accordance with the charter and host agreement as signed by prime minister Jim Marurai, games minister Wilkie Rasmussen and the CISNOC president in September 2008.
“In essence, the PMG 2009 Ltd organising committee remains ill-equipped to deliver the Pacific Mini Games to the standards as mandated by our charter and host agreement,” writes Lakhan.
He wrote that there is a clear lack of executive autonomy, both financial and in decision-making, to enable PMG 2009 Ltd to move ahead and deliver the games.
“The purchase of sports equipment, the host broadcast function and the marketing and sponsorship programme, to cite examples we have raised previously, remain too precariously placed for the council’s comfort.”
“It is astounding when this situation faced by PMG 2009 Ltd is contrasted to that of the Authority (CISNOC) which has been adequately empowered to deliver games venues.
“The games venues are on track to be delivered satisfactorily, but the delivery of the games itself remain on the wrong track.
“The council can no longer permit this situation to persist,” warns Lakhan. - Helen Greig
Govt space to let
Saturday 20: Government is looking to lease space at the Consulate office on Symonds Street in Auckland.
Cook Islands Investment Corporation chief executive John Tini says that cabinet has agreed in principle to lease the space that has been vacant for over three years, and an offer was made to Bergman & Sons.
“Cabinet’s view is that the Auckland exposure will greatly assist the marketing and selling of black pearls for the Cook Islands,” says Tini. “This arrangement is part of government’s initiative to help revive the black pearl industry given the low level performance of the industry in the past years.
“At this stage, no formal agreement on lease has been reached or signed.”
When contacted this week, Ben Bergman said that nothing had been confirmed.
In this year’s budget, government made a budgetary allocation of $200,000 to assist the pearl industry.
Tini says they have received inquiries about the property in the past but there have been no firm offers.”
“We would like to see that the Symonds Street property is rented out, however with the recession in New Zealand this may have impacted on the property market.” - MM
New business support loan fund launched today
Monday 22: The Business Trade Investment Board is calling for applications for funding under a new economic stimulus initiative being launched today.
The ‘Business Support Loan for the Outer Islands’ is a $550,000 fund now being offered to businesses in the target industries of tourism, agriculture, marine resources, and retail.
The maximum loan outer island businesses can apply for is $30,000 at 3 percent interest over a five-year period.
BTIB chief executive officer Terry Rangi says the loan fund has come directly from the $3 million fund government had earmarked for an economic stimulus package late last year.
For today’s launch of the loan fund, BTIB outer islands development officer Selina Napa will be on talkback radio at 10am to provide more information.
Rangi says BTIB wants to solicit proposals from businesses for this new stimulus initiative before the board next meets at the end of July.
It has not yet been decided whether applications will be considered in rounds, but the board should be considering the first lot of applications in late July.
Rangi says people will need to submit a business plan, a completed application form, financial statements from their last 12 months of operations, and a cashflow forecast for the next three years. Applicants need to explain what they will use the loan for.
The loans will be disbursed by the Bank of the Cook Islands.
Rangi says not all loans will be approved at the maximum amount. Businesses will have had to have been operating for a minimum of three years to be eligible for the loan.
“They can use the loan in a number of ways – for stock, to pay suppliers, marketing and promotion, and for repayment of an existing business loan.We will also allow them to use a portion of it to pay staff – up to five percent of their loan,” says Rangi.
Napa will oversee the new fund and work with applicants on completing their business plans and other necessary documents.
The pearl industry will not be eligible for funding, but almost all members of the business industry in the outer islands can apply.
The board will consider and approve applications before BCI issues the loan in line with how the business will spend it.
For more information call Napa at BTIB on 24296. From today criteria and application forms will be available at the BTIB office in town. - Helen Greig
Mauke’s new water project ready to go
Monday 22: Materials for the Mauke water project were loaded aboard Te Kou Maru last week for delivery to the island.
Project manager Ngateina Rani says all the materials – about $1.2 million worth – have arrived in the country and most should be landed on Mauke early this week.
Aid management staff worked at breaking down and re-packing materials on the wharf last week.
For a day they received a hand from Kevin Iro and the Cook Islands Sports Academy to help shovel gravel from the wharf into bags which will be sent to Mauke.
Rani says the gravel is needed to construct the tank stand pads for the four new water tanks.
A bobcat and ditch-witch will also be transported to Mauke for the job.
Work, says Rani, should be able to start on the project before the end of July.
Rani says if things go according to plan, then the project should be completed in nine months. Labour will be sourced locally and a works supervisor will be appointed soon.
The project management committee, which include minister Kete Ioane and a representative of NZAID, is expected to fly over to Mauke early in July to oversee the handover of materials. - Moana Moeka’a
Tahitian connections donate to Atiu hostel
Monday 22: Mike Tavioni (pictured at centre, with sunglasses) handed over a donation to the Atiu Nui Maruarua III hostel committee last Friday afternoon.
Tavioni says the sum of $2003.90 was collected at a meeting of the Ngauata (Rongotangata, Ngataura, Tauranga) family living in Tahiti.
He travelled to Tahiti at the request of relatives to help with their genealogy earlier this month, and suggested that they could help out with the building of the hostel.
The hostel is expected to be ‘re-opened’ on Friday December 18.
Pictured with Tavioni are (from left) Papa Ina Teiotu, aunty Nga Teao, representatives of the Ngauata family Vaine Tearea and Keren
Aviu, Helen Williams, Patrick Tangapiri and Arakura Tatuava. In front is Maru Pureau.
Media Freedom Forum registered in Cooks
Monday 22: A network of journalists linked together as the Pacific Freedom Forum was formally registered in the Cook Islands last week.
The internet-linked organisation has been an informal group of some 194 journalists until now.
It was formed and is coordinated by former Cook Islands News journalist Lisa Williams-Lahari.
Deputy prime minister Sir Terepai Maoate says he’s fully supportive of the registration by the Pacific Freedom Forum in the Cook Islands.
“This is a really positive development for media in the region and the fact that the Cook Islands was chosen by the majority of PFF journalists as the country to be registered in is, I believe, testament to democracy and media freedoms being alive and very well here.”
Sir Terepai said following the enactment of the Official Information Act, often known as the freedom of information act, having PFF registered in the Cook Islands is seen as being “very positive for the country”.
“This shows that regional media organisations and individuals consider the Cook Islands as a stable, democratic country where our Constitution is intact and respected, a good place to register a freedom forum.”
Sir Terepai said congratulations must go to Cook Islander Lisa Williams-Lahari who has been the towering strength behind the formation of PFF, “so it makes good sense that PFF is registered here”.
Sir Terepai also offered congratulations to Cook Islands News, which is the newly registered office of PFF. - PFF
Sea scouts commissioned aboard Te Kukupa
Monday 22: More than 20 young people were officially recognised as Sea Scouts on the police patrol boat Te Kukupa last week.
Looking dapper in their white uniforms, the group marched on to the naval vessel and lined the stern for the investiture ceremony. Scout leader Tangi Tereapii and Nikao MP Aunty Mau Munoko presented each member with a certificate, a necker (material worn around the neck) and their first sea scout badge.
Tereapii says it has taken around 12 weeks for the young people to earn their scout membership badge through meeting every week since February. The sea scouts is a branch of the scout organisation.
“They have had to learn and understand the sea scout motto, promise and law as well as be able to tie three basic knots,” he says.
The group, who range from age four through to 17, were also required to take part in two scouting activities such as kayaking, swimming and water safety.
“As part of their development, they all have to say at least an opening or closing prayer and be involved in organising short games and activities – even the young ones.”
Tereapii says sea scouts is great way for children to develop leadership skills and build their confidence.
“Long term it can be a career pathway when you leave school. As you get older you will be trained into seamanship, that can be a stepping stone to help enter the military.”
With four men and two women assisting each week, Terapii says there is still a need for more adult leaders as numbers continue to grow. Likewise there was still opportunity for any young person to take part in the sea scout movement.
Each one made a pledge before their parents, leaders, Aunty Mau and their friends before ending the night with a kaikai.
“On my honour, I promise I would do my best to do my duty to God and Queen, to help other people and to keep the scout law,” they recited.
The sea scouts meet at Punga Nui Markets every Monday from 5pm. Organisers say those interested in becoming involved are welcome to attend the meetings. – DK
Public service for Papa Ron
Tuesday 23: public funeral service for Papa Ron Crocombe, will be held at the National Auditorium tomorrow.
His family is planning a service at home tomorrow morning before moving to the auditorium at midday for a public service.
Son Sam Crocombe says the family agreed to the public service after requests from many of Papa Ron’s friends in Rarotonga, and some who are coming from overseas.
Secretary of cultural development Makiuti Tongia and language advisor Ngarima George are coordinating the service.
Papa Ron, a prominent Pacific academic, passed away suddenly in Auckland last Friday (NZT) on his way to the airport to return home to Rarotonga.
His wife and fellow academic Marjorie Crocombe is due to receive her New Year’s Queen’s Honour OBE medal at Government House in Titikaveka tomorrow morning before the family funeral service is held at home in Nikao.
She had been keen for her family to attend the presentation of the award which was deferred from earlier this month.- Helen Greig
CISNOC to have its say on games
Tuesday 23: The Cook Islands National Sports & Olympic Committee (CISNOC) board met yesterday afternoon as requested by the Pacific Games Council to assess the delivery of the Pacific mini games.
CISNOC president Sir Geoffrey Henry confirmed the executive would meet yesterday to discuss their view of whether the games company PMG 2009 Ltd can deliver the games to the agreed standards.
Sir Geoffrey has agreed to talk to Cook Islands News today about the issue of the threat by the council to pull the plug on the games.
Last Thursday council president Vidhya Lakhan wrote to Sir Geoffrey to tell him that the games are on the wrong track and that the organising committee remains ill-equipped to
deliver the games as mandated by the charter and host agreement.
Lakhan said the council remains extremely concerned with the current state of affairs within the games organising committee.
He also asked Sir Geoffrey, as president of the host Pacific Games association to convene an emergency meeting with the prime minister Jim Marurai, deputy prime minister Sir Terepai Maoate and games minister Wilkie Rasmussen to remedy the situation.
He asked that CISNOC executives meet and advise the council whether it believes the games company can still deliver the games in compliance with the games charter.
“The council will then be in a position to decide on the future of the event,” wrote Lakhan.
On Friday Rasmussen said he rejected all of Lakhan’s allegations about the organisation of the games.
Rasmussen says government will deliver the games regardless of the threat from the council. - Helen Greig
MPs to launch Nooroa Mai visitor initiative
Tuesday 23: Atiu’s two MPs are launching a new ecnomic initiative which will entice overseas retirees to visit or stay in the country.
Norman George and Nandi Glassie say they are creating the blueprint for a new market – the grey power Nooroa Mai visitor.
“No visas, no residency permits, no restrictions, stay as long as they like, provided a number of conditions are met.”
The pair want visitors be aged 55 upwards, on a pension or guaranteed income, have good health and have health insurance, and are New Zealanders and Australians, with flexibility for Europeans and North Americans.
The idea was launched by George when he made the keynote address at the opening of the Atiu review on the 2009 – 2014 strategic plan earlier this month.
George says the concept was well received by the people of Atiu and there is a drive being made under the leadership of Roger Malcolm and the two MPs to “realise this great prospective market quickly into the future”.
“We realise legislative changes have to be made to our immigration laws,” says George.
“We hope the government accepts this new economic initiative. The Cook Islands Party has been advised of this as a future campaign policy issue. We do not mind if the Demos adopt it. After all, we are all doing things together for the advancement of our people. The end result will be a positive outcome for the economy,” say the MPs.
They say retirees under the initiative must be encouraged to stay in Atiu and the outer islands including the northern group if suitable accommodation is provided.
“Although we are targeting the outer islands, Rarotonga will probably end up absorbing the bulk of the retiree market.”
The politicians say that the visitors will be allowed to invest money or go into joint ventures with local people, but cannot seek employment. They will have no voting rights and cannot stand for political office.
“Can you imagine a farmer who gets up to milk the cows at 4am in the mornings for 40 years? He will want to put his foot up in the sunny climate of Atiu and watch the kura, kakerori, wood pigeons, and other birds fly above.
“If the retired farmer being used to hard work wishes to go and plant taro or raise pigs, goats and cattle, he will be encouraged.
“Can you imagine retired doctors, engineers and teachers helping out? Many will be encouraged to simply bring plenty of books to read or even write their own stories.
Sky TV is already there to keep them up to date with the world. Give them a bamboo rod to go fishing or swimming even to go bird watching in Takutea.”
And the MPs say some type of restricted leases with sunset clauses limited to a quarter acre and no longer than 30 years could apply if the ‘long term visitor’ wishes to build a cottage or batch.
“Look at some of these figures. Someone has six units in Atiu which is only ever occupied a total of 1 month of the whole year. If the owner levies a charge of $50 a night, 7 nights gives him $350 a week. Six occupied units will give him $2100 a week, $8,400 a month for all six units. Three months will give him $25,200 - six months $50,400.”
They say many homes in Atiu, Mangaia, Aitutaki, Mauke, Mitiaro and Rarotonga are empty.
“Renovate it, bring it up to standard and you can earn $350 or more per week. There will be a construction boom after this - house and unit constructions will prosper.
The island of Atiu can absorb many hundreds of these retirees. Government could set a target of may be 10,000 of these long term visitors over a 10 year period and see what happens.”
George and Glassie expect little trauma over the initiative because the retirees would be well-off and good spenders.
“The overall spin-off will result in increased revenue overall for government and private business. No doubt when a retiree is too old or too sick, he can go back to a nursing home in New Zealand or Australia. There may be those who wish to spend their final days in the Cook Islands, we should have no problem with that.
“We see scope here for the tourist authority to handle this market as well as mainstream tourism. The two concepts should work well alongside each other.”- Helen Greig
Art adorns airport terminal columns
Tuesday 23: The first of 36 concrete columns – designed with one of four motifs – were put up at the airport terminal site last week.
Designer Ted Nia says he thought long and hard about what designs to use, after being approached by the airport authority to come up with something for the columns.
Nia says he settled on four designs – the kota’a bird, and the onu (turtle) as symbols of travel – and a male and female dancer which represent the welcome which is put on for visitors.
“Of course, they are all iconic figures for Polynesia.”
When he came up with the male figure, someone said that there should be a spear in the design.
“If you look carefully, you’ll see that the front of his hands are spears.”
Nia says he is satisfied with the finished product, and more pleased that the airport authority has recognised that Maori art should adorn one of the most important structures in the country.
“I’m pleased with the result but I’m only one of the many Cook Islands artists who are capable of doing this sort of work.”
The column slabs are 3.2 metres high, 1.2 metres wide and 35cm thick.
Project manager Russell Smith says they will remain as they are and not be painted over. - Moana Moeka’a
CIP welcomes Peua home
Wednesday 24: After over two years as an independent MP, Pukapuka-Nassau’s Vai Peua is back in the Cook Islands Party fold.
Peua made the announcement at a media conference at the opposition’s office yesterday, flanked by the CIP leader Henry Puna, and opposition leader Tom Marsters.
As a result of Peua coming back into the fold, Marsters said that the party had formally approached the speaker Mapu Taia and withdrawn its letter of complaint against the Pukapuka MP in relation to a breach of the Electoral Amendment Act 2007.
Peua also advised the speaker yesterday that he is no longer an independent MP or in coalition with the Democratic Party government. He also asked that a seat be made available to him on the opposition benches inside parliament.
Marsters added that in coming back to the fold, he expects Peua will demonstrate the spirit of aroa extended to him by the party.
At yesterday’s media conference, Peua said in Maori, that this issue had gone on for a long time and it is his belief that it is not the first time that it has happened. Peua said that in becoming an independent MP, the decision was made to get the best for his people, and that he caused no harm to the CIP and did not join up with the Demos.
After Operation Tropic Twilight earlier this month which saw New Zealand defence personnel carry out projects on Pukapuka, Peua said there is a lot of work to be completed in his constituency.
The Nassau harbour and Pukapuka cyclone shelter, says Peua, are just a couple of the projects that will start up in the next few months.
In coming back, Peua said he hoped it will, more importantly, bring peace and closure to this matter.
Puna said that he admired the courage of Peua “to come back where he rightfully belongs” given that many MPs have crossed the floor and never gone back.
He added that the desired result under the act had been achieved, and thanks to Peua, the CIP did not have to go through the legal process right through to the end. - Moana Moeka’a
8 burglaries reported
Wednesday 24: Eight burglaries were reported last week with the majority occurring in Arorangi.
Three Arorangi businesses were broken into – the Spaghetti House, PTS, and Rite Price with more than $2500 worth of goods stolen from the latter.
A silver Nokia phone worth $1200 and a camera valued at $1000 were also taken from Kia Orana Beach Bungalows last Wednesday. Other burglaries included one on a Tupapa residence on Friday night where an Acer laptop and liquor were stolen and another at a Matavera house where alcohol was taken.
Eight thefts were also recorded with police reporting a bag stolen containing $400 cash at Mareko Islands Creations on Monday. Also last week, a bush knife and crowbar were taken from an Arorangi home as well as timber from an Arorangi residence.
A woman reported chickens going missing from her Arorangi property on Friday and a backpack was taken from a vehicle parked opposite Fruits of Raro.
Last Saturday, a necklace worth $360 was taken from a Titikaveka residence and a bag was stolen from a car parked at Tamariki Villas in Ngatangiia on Sunday. A $300 pay packet was also reported stolen at Rangiura the same day.
Police have recovered three out of four vehicles unlawfully taken last week. A pink and white Kawasaki motorcycle still remains missing. The bike was stolen from an Arorangi house and has a registration number RAA 404.
Six motor vehicles accidents were recorded last week. A 56-year-old German tourist was charged with careless driving last Thursday. Around 4pm, the visitor collided with a motorcycle after allegedly making a U-turn without looking in front of Polynesia by Design store in Tupapa. She is expected to appear in court tomorrow.
A car and motorcycle collided on Thursday at the front of CITC hardware store. The driver of the vehicle has been charged with careless driving.
Last Saturday morning, a motorcycle ran into the back of a pickup truck on the main road at Matavera as the truck was turning into the CICC church. On the same day, a motorcyclist had to be treated for minor injuries after falling off his bike. Police are waiting for results on a blood alcohol test.
Two disqualified drivers were arrested and will appear in court this week A male driver refused to stop near the Empire Theatre last Sunday afternoon, after being requested to by police. He was eventually caught near the Nikao seawall where he was arrested and charged. A female disqualified driver was also stopped outside the Banana Court on Thursday.
Police say complaints have been made of people texting while driving. Inspector Arama Tera says drivers need to concentrate on the road and not their mobile phones to avoid any accidents. - DK
SPC defends OLPC
Wednesday 24: The Secretariat of the Pacific Community is defending the worth of the One Laptop Per Child programme following criticism from the Cook Islands.
The education ministry been challenged over a delay in getting the state-of-the-art laptops to Mitiaro school in the outer islands.
In turn, the ministry says the SPC’s taken a one-size-fits-all approach to the programme, something with which the project’s co-ordinator, Ian Thompson, disagrees.
“When we introduce the laptop it’s not about the laptop, we’re trying to say how can we use this technology to achieve the goals and the policies and the school improvement plans that are already in place, so, I often say this, we’re not running a laptop programme. When we go into a school we look at the school improvement plan and we say how can we use this laptop to address the issues you’ve already said you have to address.” - RNZI
Weather expected to clear
Wednesday 24: The wet weather is expected to clear today, the Meteorological Service says.
The recent downpour has been due to a weak trough that was north-west of the sourthern group last Friday.
Met Service’s Nga Rauraa says the trough moved slowly, averaging 15 knots, directly west of the islands on Saturday before passing over the group on Sunday night and early Monday morning.
The heaviest rainfall came early Monday morning with 20 millimetres recorded between 2am and 3am. From 8am Monday to 8am yesterday 18.6mm were recorded. - Dana Kinita
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