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Man dies at harbour
Water pressure rises
Police narrow fire suspects
Beneficiaries get benefit bonus
Fire appeal funds pass $4000
‘Time to retire’ for parliament clerk
Students hard up in Cuba
Stock displayed at ‘Coin Save’
Tendering waived for urgency
Policewoman on exchange
SIF deadline extended
Grave concerns
Election promise ‘virtually impossible’ to achieve
Cabinet travels ‘too much’
LA flight subsidy questioned
Police: Stealing from work a worrying trend
‘Don’t stand by and watch a crime’
Teachers and principals honoured for their efforts
Changing faces at Nukutere College
Tukao wins spelling battle and schools raise $4300
Rutaki kids raise $2190
Captain Moko’s fishing contest for kids
No functioning government during November
Question time a ‘fundamental right’
World Bank membership windfall
Tereora embraces enterprise
Prefects sign off
Big fish for little angler
Shark sanctuary explained
‘Time consuming effort’
Fashionable footwear in store
Remember pets this Christmas
PS3s and bikes popular
Visitor vouches for value of tumeric
Man who lifts tone of parliament retires
Pine tree study raised in Africa
Captain Moko’s fishing comp draws 150
Juniors honoured at Tereora
Nukutere juniors praised
Teachers as researchers
Inmates plant 200 trees
Energy audit equipment given to reduce power bills
Brown first to answer questions
Online renewal within 5 days
Independent investigation into MOIP
Carols at hospital
Runner up thrilled
Contractors discuss Rakahanga project
Showcase invitation
Housemaid stole
Cyclone Evan won’t affect Cook Islands
Family reunion season begins
Fires speed up housing review
Senior graduates surf the web
Tourism visit to Atiu a resounding success
New ‘extremers’ celebrate fitness
New 7s world series process
Man dies at harbour
Thu
13 Dec
A fisherman of Asian descent has been announced as the sole casualty of Sunday’s cyclone-like stormy weather.
Detective Inspector Areumu Ingaua yesterday confirmed that police are investigating the death of a man at Avatiu harbour on Sunday night.
Ingaua says that the man, believed to be aged in his 50s, was a crew member on board fishing vessel Viking Spirit which has been tied up at Avatiu harbour for the past week.
During the strong winds on Sunday, Ingaua says that man was on deck trying to secure the vessel when one of the lines slipped and hit him on the left side of the head causing him serious injury.
Ingaua says the man was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Ingaua could not confirm if the man was retrieved from the water or whether he had died at Avatiu harbour or on the way to hospital.
Ingaua says that the issue is now a case for the coroner while the body will remain under police custody.
Water pressure rises
Thu
13 Dec
The heavy rainfall from Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights has improved water pressure levels throughout most of Rarotonga.
Pressure levels recorded over the last week have shown an increase in 11 of the 12 intakes on the island.
The Ngatoe intake has increased the most, going from 29 percent of its optimum level to 77 percent in the last two days.
The Turangi and Matavera intakes are at 94 percent of their optimum levels after previously being as low as 43 percent and 60 percent respectively.
The pressure level at the Papua intake has improved dramatically as a result of Tuesday night’s rainfall, improving from 49 percent to 80 percent.
The Avana intake’s pressure levels also lifted considerably from 36 percent to 53 percent.
Seven intakes have seen an increase in water pressure from 4 percent to 11 percent.
Despite the heavy rain that fell throughout the island, the water pressure level in Avatiu has dropped from 67 percent of its maximum level to 57 percent.
Water works are currently monitoring each of the intakes in case there are blockages caused from the heavy rain and gusty winds.
Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning (MOIP) water works chief Takave Manea says the rain has brought momentary relief for residents on Rarotonga.
“I think there is one week or two weeks relief,” says Manea.
“The pressure has come up, but what’s up there running into the intakes is not much.”
Manea adds most of the intakes have only just reached half of the optimum water levels.
Water works is encouraging people to keep checking for leaky pipes and doing what they can to conserve water during this dry spell.
Police narrow fire suspects
Thu
13 Dec
Police have confirmed they are investigating a “person of interest” around the recent fires in the Nikao area.
The three fires that took place two weekends ago have seen police speak to over 100 residents in the wider area.
Detective inspector Areumu Ingaua confirms they are working leads received from members of the public.
“We have information that has been passed on to us,” says Ingaua.
“We are checking on all information from members of the public.”
Ingaua would not confirm the number of suspects they are investigating but says the number is reducing every day.
“There is a person of interest, but we’re working on a number of people.”
Ingaua says releasing details of the person of interest would jeopardise the case, but confirms police have previously spoken to him when conducting the initial interviews in the area.
Police are also investigating two suspects found sleeping with clothes and bedspreads at a Nikao school.
Ingaua refuses to confirm whether Nikao Maori School or Avatea School but said the two suspects left clothes and bedspreads behind.
“We’re still working on those two people.”
Ingaua is once again appealing to people to call in with any information they may have on the suspicious fires.
Any person who may have seen people wandering around or acting suspiciously between Harley Street, Tipani Road and the main road last weekend is encouraged to come forward and talk to police.
Beneficiaries get benefit bonus
Thu
13 Dec
Finance minister Mark Brown made two announcements in parliament yesterday, starting the Christmas season on a positive note.
The first is government has pledged $6000 to go towards the radiothon fundraiser on Friday.
“We encourage everyone to get behind this fundraiser for these families affected by fires to raise money and Christmas cheer,” he said.
Four businesses and five homes have been destroyed by suspicious fires in the past two months.
The second is, those on benefits will get a Christmas bonus of $50, starting Wednesday next week.
“We’re coming up to the Christmas season and those pensioners who would like to spend some money to buy a little present for themselves or their grandchildren can now do so. It’s our way of trying to spread the Christmas cheer to all of our people.”
Fire appeal funds pass $4000
Thu
13 Dec
The second event in the appeal for Nikao fire victims has seen the total funds raised pass $4000.
Supporters ran a sausage sizzle outside the Bank of the Cook Islands (BCI) yesterday and raised around $1150.
It brings the overall money raised to just over $4300 after the group raised $3150 by running, walking and tooting around Rarotonga on Saturday.
The proceeds are going to the families of Nga Pouao, Mona Ngaoire, Paara Pitomaki and George Tangimetua, who lost their homes in the flames.
BCI staff member Tai Exham says she is satisfied with the amount raised by yesterday’s sausage sizzle.
“Some people say this isn’t much, but we are excited about what was raised,” says Exham.
Exham wants to thank Avarua Bakery for supplying the bread and Prime Foods for donating the sausages.
The fire appeal has two more events, which are both scheduled for Friday.
A radiothon on Radio Cook Islands is set to get plenty of light-hearted fun as Members of Parliament take control of the airwaves.
Starting at 12pm on Friday, the radiothon will run for four hours with all funds again going towards the families of the house fires.
That night, the glitz and the glamour of the queenies will be on show for all to see at a fundraising night at Hidie’s Bar.
Starting at 10pm, the pageant-style fundraiser promises plenty of laughs over the two-hour show.
‘Time to retire’ for parliament clerk
Thu
13 Dec
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Retiring parliamentary clerk Nga Valoa (left) with deputy clerk Tupuna Rakanui and speaker Niki Rattle at her swearing-in ceremony in June.
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Long-serving retiring clerk of parliament Nga Valoa is leaving big shoes to fill.
Valoa has been working in the Cook Islands parliament since 1972 – first as an interpreter, then as assistant clerk, and then stepping up as clerk in 1998 after the previous clerk died.
The 69-year-old said it is “time to retire” and he is looking forward to spending more time with his wife and family, which includes 11 grandchildren.
Valoa said he has enjoyed his job of 14 years as he likes dealing with people on a daily basis and felt like he was doing his part for the people of the Cook Islands.
“And I like the staff. They make the job easy.”
The clerk is responsible to the speaker of parliament – currently Niki Rattle – and provides expert advice on parliamentary proceedings.
The clerk makes sure parliament runs smoothly by organising any meetings, making reports of parliament proceedings and making sure staff are carrying out their duties properly.
Valoa has some advice to the person who fills his shoes next year.
“It is a job that is demanding and whoever gets it must be there to see that everything goes right.”
As Prime Minister Henry Puna is in Africa this week (the final week of parliament sitting for the year), he said his farewells to Valoa last Friday. He described the man as an “unobtrusive character” who never intervenes unless he has to.
Puna said he was not aware of the man’s full public service, but knew the clerk had been helping parliament for a long time.
“Since I became aware there was a parliament in the Cook Islands, Mr Valoa was there.”
Puna thanked the retiring clerk for his work for parliament and the country.
“I respect you for the dignity you have brought to the position of clerk, and I wish you a dignified retirement.”
The Office of the Public Service Commissioner is advertising for a new clerk of parliament, with deadlines closing 4 pm on Friday [December 14].
The successful candidate must hold a bachelor’s degree in management, public administration or other related field and have senior management experience of at least five years.
Legal literacy with some experience in legal interpretation and drafting is also required.
The parliamentary clerk is appointed by the Queen’s Representative on the recommendation of the speaker.
Students hard up in Cuba
Thu
13 Dec
The Cuban government has not upheld their end of an agreement to fund Cook Islands medical students’ education and living costs, said health minister Nandi Glassie.
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen asked the minister during parliamentary question time why two Cook Islands medical students in Cuba were being left to fend for themselves.
“It appears a good thing that our country has sent students to this country to study but my understanding is the Cook Islands government has given nothing to support these people studying.”
Rasmussen asked why the government had not given money to support these overseas students and pay their flights home should they want a break.
Glassie replied two students were sent to Cuba last year and the two governments had an agreement that Cuba would fund their study and living costs.
But the Cubans had not followed through with their part of the bargain, said Glassie.
“Our role is to see whether we can top up [the students’ allowance]. We haven’t done that yet as we are looking at the agreement.”
Glassie said the government intends to gives the students money towards a living allowance and language lessons (they have to learn Spanish to attend the course).
Rasmussen said it is important for the government to help out - as the students’ families are currently facing the burden.
He then asked how much money the students would get.
Glassie said government will cover their airfares there and back, and pay for return flights home every three years – the course is six years.
They will also provide a weekly allowance of “$150 or thereabout”.
Glassie said food is cheap in Cuba, but the government had not yet decided how much to pay.
The government also intends to offer them employment on qualification.
“We will give them a job on return, definitely.”
Stock displayed at ‘Coin Save’
Thu
13 Dec
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Despite being denied a licence to operate – the Coin Save store in Arorangi is stocked and appears to be ready for business.
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The Samoan-based franchise Coin Save – which was denied a licence to operate in the Cooks last week – has its proposed Arorangi store stocked and ready to go.
The application was declined by Business, Trade and Investment Board (BTIB) last Thursday night. BTIB minister Mark Brown said this was because it was in an area of business that was reserved for local business only.
The Coin Save shop is in the old Rite Price location in Arorangi. The building is owned by Tapi Taio.
Rite Price has moved to the shop next door, and a staff member said while Coin Save staff were active in unpacking a 40-foot shipping container and stocking shelves, this wound down at the end of last week.
But Coin Save’s shelves look fully-stocked, Christmas decorations are up and even scooters can be seen for sale through the shop windows.
In parliament last week, Brown said while he expects a secondary application to be made in a joint partnership with a local, he had recommended to BTIB to decline it, as it is “just a front” to open and do business in the same way.
BTIB Chief Executive Terry Rangi said another application for a joint venture with a local partner has not been lodged – and even if one is, that is no guarantee a licence would be granted.
“There’s a perception out there that you can have a local partner and that’s enough. But even if they did submit an application with a local partner they would have to prove it’s a local entity.”
He explained the board looks at a number of criteria to decide whether to grant a licence.
“Even if they give a local 70 percent shares, we could still prove it’s a foreign entity...shares mean nothing to us.”
BTIB looks at who controls shares, who the beneficiaries are, who writes the cheques, and whether it is a true joint venture of a foreign enterprise under the guise of a local business.
Since BTIB has declined Coin Save’s application, Rangi expects the business owners should be getting ready to leave.
Coin Save has a chequered past – last year its 13 New Zealand stores were liquidated and in February the Samoan government issued the Chinese owner of the franchise, Teaking Weng, a warning for breaching copyright laws.
Tendering waived for urgency
Thu
13 Dec
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Work on the seawall in Avarua has progressed without a tender.
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Starting work on the permanent seawall in Avarua as soon as possible is the reason the structure’s tender process was waived, according to financial secretary Richard Neves.
The $945,000 contract to supply and install the rock formation, technically known as a rock revetment, was split into two sections.
T&M Heather was awarded the contract to install the rock wall on the reclaimed land, while the company is sharing the rock supply contract with fellow contractors G&S and S&T.
Mike Rennie Builders Ltd won a separate contract to lay the storm water outfall as part of the project.
Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning (MOIP) civil engineer Tenga Mana says T&M Heather was able to get started because the tender process had been waived.
The ministry sought a waiver from the tender process so work on the rock wall and the storm water outfall could start as soon as possible.
“We applied for a waiver with the tender committee and we got approval for that,” says Mana.
The tender committee, which consists of Neves and solicitor-general Kim Saunders, granted the waiver.
Neves says it was approved because time was running out for work to be finished by the middle of cyclone season.
“The decision was based on the work had to be done quickly and we had scientific evidence that it had to be done quickly,” says Neves.
Neves says the tender committee received advice from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) warning the Cook Islands that the chances of the country receiving tropical disturbances are “highly probable”.
“The tender process could impinge on work starting and being finalised before the cyclone weather really hits,” adds Neves.
T&M Heather have been busy excavating rocks over the last three days on the reclaimed land.
Company director Joseph Heather says it’s a busy time for the seven workers on site.
“Some of the rocks are buried underneath but we’re trying to retrieve all that rock so we can use it for that wall,” says Heather.
“We’re trying to speed it up because we know it’s cyclone season.”
The contractors will be laying down geo-fabric cloth over the fill before the rocks are placed on top to protect the fill from erosion.
Heather says the current work has nothing to do with the rain and wind that hit Rarotonga last weekend.
Funding for the foreshore development is from Asia Development Bank (ADB) and the project is expected to be done by the end of February 2013.
Policewoman on exchange
Thu
13 Dec
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Vanuatu corporal Alison Nial (left) with senior sergeant Rebecca Hosking-Ellis.
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A desire to learn more community relations skills in a country she has never visited is behind Vanuatu corporal Alison Nial’s two-week exchange with Cook Islands police.
Nial travelled to Rarotonga courtesy of the Pacific Islands Chief of Police (PICP) Women Advisory Network.
The group has been organising exchanges for female police officers throughout the Pacific Islands since 2008.
Nial arrived last Saturday and will be working in the community relations department until she leaves next Friday.
She is the third female police officer to be attached to the Cook Islands and is the second from Vanuatu.
Nial started her career in the police force at the age of 16 and has been working for the last 19 years wearing the blue uniform.
“I chose Rarotonga because I’ve never been here before and it’s just the same as back home,” says Nial.
“The atmosphere is also the same as Vanuatu.”
When asked why she chose community relations, she said it was very similar to her work in Vanuatu.
“I just wanted to see how they work, it’s not really a big difference.”
Senior sergeant Rebecca Hosking-Ellis says the programme provides those on the exchange with a “bloody good experience”.
“The whole purpose of this exchange programme is for female officers to go to other countries, where maybe there’s something to take home and improve policing in their country,” says Hosking-Ellis.
The Cook Islands has had two police representatives on the exchange since it began four years ago.
In 2009, Constable Tungane Lockington travelled to Tonga, while earlier this year civilian Mary Tou went to Samoa for experience in intelligence.
SIF deadline extended
Thu
13 Dec
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The board overseeing the Social Impact Fund – from left, SIF manager Angie Tuara, Mangaia representative Tuaine Tuara, board chairman Danny Vakapora, New Zealand Aid Programme representative Danica Waiti, Internal affairs representative Ngatuaine Maui and Lynnsay Rongokea. The board also includes finance ministry representative Peter Taivairanga.
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The board overseeing the Social Impact Fund (SIF) has extended the deadline for the full proposals to be completed.
The 17 applicants who filed expressions of interest (EOI) for the new fund were given training on what was required for the full proposal last Tuesday.
Non-government organisations and civil society groups went through some practical exercises to help them understand results-based planning and reporting.
The deadline for the full proposals was set for December 14.
However, a request from NGOs for more time to complete the full proposals was granted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs – the group administering the fund – and the New Zealand Aid Programme.
Groups will now have until December 21 to complete their proposals, ahead of the SIF board meeting on January 11.
The SIF is split into two pools of funding: programme and project.
The current applications are for the programme funding, which has a total pool of $1.3 million over three years.
Groups are applying for funding of up to $150,000 per year for three years.
The fund has six priority areas – gender equality, children and youth, elderly, disability, domestic violence and mental health.
All applications are expected to show results in one or more of these priority areas.
The second stream of funding, project funding, will see groups apply for an annual pool of $200,000 for the next three years.
Applications for the funding, which are between $5000 to $20,000 for one-off initiatives, are expected to take place early next year.
Grave concerns
Fri
14 Dec
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Semi exposed graves along the side of the road in Nikao were blessed before excavation work began to lay pipes and if any are disturbed the remains will be buried in the same burial grounds.
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Old graves on crown land, now exposed, along the side of the road in Nikao opposite the Rarotonga airport are a cause of concern among members of the public.
However, Nikao member of parliament Ngamau Munokoa says she has done everything she can do to prevent too much disturbance to those ‘asleep’ in the area.
The roadside in Nikao is currently being excavated to lay new pipes for the nearby Toa Petroleum tank farm and old graves have been semi uncovered during the works.
Munokoa says she was very concerned about what would happen to the graves when she found out that excavation works would be carried out.
She says she approached the ministry of justice, health and national environment service who all advised her that the project had been given the green light to go ahead.
“The project has already been approved so I couldn’t stand in the way of progress but I was still very concerned for what would happen to those graves,” says Munokoa.
Munokoa says that for the past 16 years that she has been a community leader and member of parliament for Nikao – she and her work crew have been the ones that have cleaned up the old graves, some which have turned to rubble.
She says that along with the Orometua from the Nikao CICC church and contractors for the work – they gathered at the site on Monday for a blessing ceremony.
She says that the graves were blessed along with the workers.
“We also discussed that if the contractors happen to dig up an old grave then the remains will be reburied nearby and we will have another blessing ceremony for this,” says Munokoa.
Munokoa says she is not sure how old the graves are but adds that many are unmarked and have crumbled to just rubble.
She says that despite the fact that many of the graves are old and crumbled away – she still has love and respect for the people buried there.
Election promise ‘virtually impossible’ to achieve
Fri
14 Dec
Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George questioned the government on its election promise to sit in parliament for 100 days – and said it had been just 23 days instead.
“Do you consider this satisfactory when you promised the people of the Cook Islands that the Cook Islands party would sit for 100 days?”
Minister Mark Brown promised before the Cook Islands Party came to power to sit for 100 days, and said on his Facebook page last week that parliament had sat for 40 days this year.
George said this is wrong, and the clerk of parliament told him it had been only 23 days.
Brown said 100 days was not a realistic expectation. He noted that George himself was not in the House on all sitting days – to which George called a point of order for irrelevance.
“There are 265 working days in the year. That would require parliament to sit almost every second day to fulfill that requirement,” said Brown.
The minister said if parliamentary sitting days plus select committee sitting days were added together, it would come “pretty close” to 100 days.
This year New Zealand parliament sat 77 days, said Brown.
He said he attended one sitting where there were only 15 members sitting out of 100 member seats.
A system of “pairing” government member and opposition member is used in New Zealand, so if a member is absent their corresponding member must be absent too, to balance numbers.
Brown said despite a small amount of sitting days over the last two years, 28 bills have been passed by the House.
“In 2010 when the Democratic Party was in power, they only passed three billsand two of them were budgets.”
Brown said it would be “virtually impossible” to sit for 100 days and it would require all members to be present in order for that to happen.
The small size of the house and the other duties members carry out make this target hard to achieve, he said.
“The motto for this house should be – not to work longer but to work smarter.”
Cabinet travels ‘too much’
Fri
14 Dec
The prime Minister’s final statement was tabled in parliament to allow opposition to debate it.
Prime Minister Henry Puna made a lengthy statement last Friday to give Christmas greeting, explain why he was missing the final week of parliament for the year and outline what the government had achieved over the past two years.
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen was annoyed because opposition could not debate anything Puna said as it was a ministerial statement.
Rasmussen wanted to respond as he thought some of the things Puna said were contentious. He also said the only reason the prime minister wanted to make the statement was to defend his travel plans. Puna is in Africa until December 18 to attend a bi-annual Africa-Caribbean-Pacific conference.
Due to opposition protest, the statement was tabled – which allowed it to be debated yesterday.
Rasmussen said there is a level of government travel that is deemed acceptable to carry out ministerial duties.
“But when you travel more and more than any other minister, that’s when everyone starts to scream.
“And for [Puna] to justify the reason why he travels by listing all the work the government has done over the last couple of years is not right.”
Rasmussen was especially indignant as he said the Democratic Party started many of the projects the prime minister talked about.
“A ministerial statement should be about telling people about political and economic matters of great importance to the country.
“That’s why he made the reply this way – because he is guilty he is travelling so much.
“But in the spirit of Christmas, I forgive him.”
Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George also rose to talk. “I wanted to say, yes prime minister, you travel too much. And I wanted to say, yes ministers, you travel too much.”
George said there were too many domestic problems to solve for cabinet to travel as much as they have this year.
Population depletion was one such issue. “I suggest the focus is on how the economy of the country should be run.”
He said the prime minister should “stay at home” to create new initiatives that branch away from the dominant tourism industry.
“There is not enough encouragement for young people to stay and be entrepreneurs in their own country.
“There is no encouragement for primary industries. The noni industry has quietly given up, the taro industry is strugglingBut what does the government do? Zzz, zzz, zzz, sleep on government, sleep on agricultural minister.”
George suggested an entrepreneurial school to give youth the skills needed to set up business in the Cooks.
Banks should offer credit schemes to help young people borrow at low rates to set up business, he said.
“I concludeyes cabinet, you travel too much.”
Marine Resources Minister Teina Bishop defended the prime minister.
Much of his travel was due to his appointment as Forum chair.
“We have phones, email, Skypeyour body doesn’t have to be here to be effectual in this country.”
He says there is stability within government therefore there should be no fear about the prime minister’s or other cabinet members travel.
LA flight subsidy questioned
Fri
14 Dec
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Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen.
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Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen asked whether the government’s $12.5 million subsidy of Air New Zealand’s direct flights to Rarotonga from Los Angeles and Sydney could stop being paid if the airline’s route profits reached a certain level.
The anticipated $12.5 million bill that taxpayers will pay to have them operate for the 2012-13 financial year effectively represents the difference between the amount it costs Air New Zealand to run the flights and the amount the airline makes from airfares, freight and other income.
The Cook Islands government contracts the flight to run and pays for the operation of the flights. If it didn’t, Air New Zealand would not fly the flights.
In parliament question time on Wednesday, Rasmussen asked finance minister Mark Brown, “Is there a level of loading and fare revenue that will ensure that the Cooks will not have to pay a subsidy?”
Rasmussen said a member of the public rang him this morning and asked him to find out in parliament.
Brown replied there was a certain level and the government can give three months’ notice to Air New Zealand to cancel its underwrite for the flights at any time.
He did not indicate whether the government was about to do so, but said the underwrite is for three years and after that it will be tendered.
The government reasons that while the flights are not a commercially feasible for the airline, they are economically viable for the Cook Islands as a whole.
“This initiative is actually what we call a cash positive initiative. We do not have to do this but it is revenue generated from passengers on flight that we take out and put on this subsidy.”
Brown asked rhetorically what would happen if the country stopped providing the subsidy. “What happens to the economy?
“Start looking for a better option,” interjected Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George.
Brown said the value of the subsidy can be seen in the number of tourists that come in on this flight route.
“Twenty percent of tourists come in on this route, and if this 20 percent of visitors is deducted, then we can see the value of this subsidy to the economy.”
During Thursday’s sitting, George said he remained sceptical about the LA route. “Let’s look at this. It’s a pain in the bum for taxpayers. Let’s look at alternatives.”
The best time for the Cooks was when Canada had a direct airline route here, said George. “They come from a freezing climate and when they get here, they show their appreciation for the warmth by spending up large.”
Canadian airline Canada 3000 started flying to Rarotonga in 1996 but stopped in 2001 after getting into financial difficulties.
Police: Stealing from work a worrying trend
Fri
14 Dec
The ring-leader of the three Trader Jacks employees who stole alcohol from their employer has been sentenced to community work and probation.
Teremoana Temata pleaded guilty on October 25 to theft as a servant, which has a maximum sentence of five years in prison.
Justices of the Peace Carmen Temata (no relation of the defendant), Pae Tuteru and Tauei Solomon sentenced the woman in the High Court on Wednesday.
The court heard that at about 10.48am on October 20 a theft from Trader Jacks was reported to police.
At about 10am that morning, the defendant arrived at work to start her normal waitressing duties.
Temata went to the alcohol cabinet and took a one litre bottle of Absolut Vodka and hid it in the utensil cupboard.
Her co-worker Ishshah Nelio – who was also sentenced on Wednesday – saw the crime and asked Temata to steal one for her. The defendant did so and later removed both bottles and put them in her bag.
Another co-worker, Amanda Arai – also sentenced Wednesday – acted as a lookout. But a fourth staff member who witnessed the crime reported it to a supervisor, who called the police.
Temata’s actions caused other employees to commit crimes, said police prosecutor sergeant Maeva Kirikava.
“She was entrusted to a level of responsibility and she breached this trust. She should have had the moral to keep on the straight and narrow – instead she became the instigator of the whole thing.”
He said the country relies on the tourism industry and cases such as these affect the reputation of the industry.
Increasing numbers of employees stealing from their employers is a worrying trend, said Kirikava.
“We are seeing an increase of theft as a servant being reported and coming before the courts. Therefore there needs to be a sentence set to deter others.”
The defendant’s early guilty plea was a mitigating factor.
Kirikava recommended 12 months’ probation plus three months’ community service - although upon noting probation services recommended six months’ community service, the police officer said he was inclined to follow that recommendation as well.
The defendant addressed the court when asked if she had anything to say.
“I’m sorry for what I’ve done, it was very wrong and I’ve let myself down.”
She was ordered to pay $30 court costs placed on probation with the first six months on community service. She must also attend any training or workshop as probation services directed.
‘Don’t stand by and watch a crime’
Fri
14 Dec
A young woman who acted a lookout while her Trader Jacks co-workers stole alcohol had the same sentence as them handed down in the High Court on Wednesday.
During Amanda Arai’s sentencing, police prosecutor sergeant Maeva Kirikava said being party to an offence is a serious crime that is on the rise and must be punished accordingly.
“Youth of today think that just because they are not committing the crime, but standing there and watching, they are not committing an offence. This is wrong and a message needs to go out that by standing by and not doing anything, they are helping the thief deprive the owner of their property.”
The maximum sentence for being party to an offence is five years in prison.
On October 20, Arai’s co-workers Teremoana Temata and Ishshah Nelio stole two bottles of Absolut Vodka from their place of work.
Eighteen-year-old Arai stood by the Trader Jacks pizza dispensary wall and acted as a lookout.
But another staff member witnessed the crime and reported it to a supervisor, who called the police.
“The very sad part in this whole fiasco was she was put as lookout to help commit a crime,” said Kirikava.
Arai also breached the trust of her employer, he said.
This is her first appearance before the court.
Kirikava recommended 12 months’ probation plus three months community service. Then he noted that since principal offender Temata was given six months community service, Arai should also face that sentence.
The young defendant apologised to the court, saying she was embarrassed and had learnt a lesson.
JP Temata said the girl had done a silly thing – but it was a serious crime and had potentially long-lasting consequences for all three defendants.
“While you didn’t handle the goods, the fact you stood by and let your mates steal meant you were accessory to the fact.”
Arai was sentenced to 12 months’ probation with the first six months of community service. She must also attend any workshops as probation services direct and pay $30 court costs.
Teachers and principals honoured for their efforts
Fri
14 Dec
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Vaine Toa! Tania Akai-Allsworth (left), Tania Morgan (centre left), Engia Pate (centre right) and Ingrid Stewart are all smiles after receiving teachers of excellence awards.
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Four women were honoured for their contributions to education at a teaching awards ceremony on Tuesday.
Tania Akai-Allsworth, Engia Pate, Tania Morgan and Ingrid Stewart were rewarded for their work as teachers and principals at schools throughout the Cook Islands.
Titikaveka College head teacher Akai-Allsworth won the excellence in early childhood education award, while Pate secured the excellence in school leadership for Rarotonga schools.
Morgan secured the excellence in teaching award for schools in Rarotonga, while Stewart won the same award for schools in the outer islands.
Each of the winners took home a Galaxy tablet, a bottle of wine and a voucher for dinner for 12 at the Edgewater Resort.
The awards were a complete surprise for Morgan and Stewart, who were told they had to attend the ceremony to give presentations.
It is the first time the ministry has presented the awards.
The four recipients highlighted the education ministry’s certificate and special awards presentation held on Tuesday.
Tautu-Vaipeka-Vaipae MP Mona Ioane and New Zealand High Commissioner John Carter attended the ceremony, as did education secretary Sharyn Paio.
A number of graduates were also presented with their certificates for completing teacher aide, fast track teacher and first time principal programmes.
Carter says teachers have the most important job in the world.
“There’s nothing more a nation can do than educate its people,” said Carter.
“It is the most important thing because people are the most important resource.”
Changing faces at Nukutere College
Fri
14 Dec
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Nukutere College Secretary Louisa Tukaroa and departing Principal Donna Nahu working hard at the school at the beginning of this year.
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There are many changes ahead for Nukutere College for 2013. The school is saying goodbye to a number of teachers at the end of this year, including Principal Donna Nahu.
Nahu has been principal at the school for seven years, saying she “loves it here – it’s been an excellent learning curve.”
Her work at Nukutere began with a challenging start back in 2006, with a fire burning down much of the school just after it opened for the year. Despite this Nahu says the students did very well that year, often learning with the sky as their classroom.
Nahu is “so rapt” about the college new principal for 2013, with current Deputy Principal and head of English George Rasmussen stepping into the role. Nahu describes Rasmussen as “inspirational, supportive and professional in all aspects of college life”.
She says that he is a dedicated teacher and mentor to both students and staff, and that by working hard together they have made many positive changes to the school over the years.
Also departing the college this year are three head of departments (HOD) – Jane Kennington HOD Art, Russell Grieve HOD Science and Cheryl Pohlen HOD Maths. Nahu says that they will all be missed, and thanks them for the wonderful support they have given the students over the past few years.
The college has been able to fill two of these positions locally with Delaney Yaqona as HOD Science, Tuhe Piho as HOD Maths. Also joining the team is Nicola Griffin from New Zealand as HOD English, with the art position yet to be filled.
For Nahu the end of the year has brought with it time to reflect on her years in the Cook Islands, saying that it has “taught me to slow down”.
She is returning to Whangarei, where she intends to take a break from teaching to spend time with her family and work on her family land, and says she will always keep the school in her prayers.
Tukao wins spelling battle and schools raise $4300
Fri
14 Dec
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Rakahanga school principal Tuhe Piho (left) presents Tukao school students with the Manihiki vs Rakahanga Academic Shield.
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Tukao school in Manihiki has claimed bragging rights over Rakahanga school after it won the interschool trophy between the two teams last month.
The two schools did battle for the coveted ‘Manihiki vs Rakahanga Academic Shield’, a symbol of the growing rivalry between the two schools.
This year, five teams from each school took part in a spelling competition.
The teams were given 20 words to spell correctly, with the overall school taking home the trophy.
In the end it was Tukao school who won the trophy after beating their Rakahanga rivals by one point.
The Manihiki students had plenty of preparation for the event after the school ran a spellathon fundraising challenge.
Students went out to get sponsorship, with all proceeds going towards buying four new water coolers for the school.
One student managed to raise $1000, with the overall figure reaching $4300.
The impressive total certainly gave the students a boost ahead of the competition, and they carried that through by winning the coveted trophy.
Rakahanga school Principal Tuhe Piho presented the students with the trophy before saying how excited the students were to host Tukao in 2013.
“I know we will have to be well prepared if we are to win the shield back,” says Piho.
Rutaki kids raise $2190
Fri
14 Dec
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Grade five and six students show off their yummy cupcakes and Christmas cards at the Rutaki market last Friday.
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The first market day held by Rutaki School students last Friday has been labelled a success.
Rutaki school office secretary and culture coordinator Piniki Utia says the market proved to be popular despite poor weather.
“Most of the stuff was sold out – the plates of food were sold out, the kikau brooms had sold out and the pareus,” says Utia.
By 1pm last Friday, the group had counted $2190 to go towards purchasing a Perceptual Motor Programme (PMP).
The market was also the end of a unit in business for the students, who range from pre-school to Grade 6.
“We had a good turnout despite the rain and it was also a good training for our students, like staying behind the tents and exchanging money.”
BTIB trade and marketing manager Melina Tuiravakai says she was “very proud” of the students and their efforts.
“I would love to see them at the Vaka Eiva Trade Days, especially after how they’ve gone and used local products,” says Tuiravakai.
Utia says the school has been “tied up” over the last month with a number of engagements, including hosting the Newcastle Outrigger Canoe Club for Vaka Eiva as well as a visit from a team participating in the recent Netball in Paradise tournament.
The culture coordinator says the school used the market day as a trial to see if it’s able to venture into larger events such as the Vaka Eiva Trade Days.
“It was a good initiative to train our students.”
Captain Moko’s fishing contest for kids
Fri
14 Dec
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Captain Moko with keen junior anglers and sisters Avana and Tschan Hagai and George George of CITC – super excited about this Saturday’s junior fishing competition for all Rarotonga children aged 5 to 15.
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Getting Rarotonga boys and girls hooked on fishing is one of the main reasons local fisherma n Captain Steven ‘Moko’ Kavana has organised a junior fishing competition for this Saturday.
With the support of CITC and Coca Cola, Kavana is inviting all children aged between five and 15 along to the Avana harbour on Saturday morning.
CITC key brands manager George George and Kavana both believe in the old adage – ‘feed a man a fish and he will eat for a day, teach a man to fish and he will eat for a lifetime’ – and hope to inspire children to take up the rod and reel.
For Kavana, he has noticed that many Rarotonga children are wasting their time ‘playing around’ rather than learning important life skills like fishing.
“I just want to encourage children to fish to either feed themselves now and their own families in the future,” says Kavana.
For him, fishing has been a lifelong love and passion and a skill he learned from watching his own father.
He says that Saturday’s fishing competition will also give kids the opportunity he had to learn how to fish.
This is not the first time Kavana has run a junior competition – he ran a number of successful events last year and earlier in the year.
This is however the first time CITC has come on board to support this community initiative by providing loads of awesome prizes.
All schools on the island have been invited to encourage kids to be part of the competition which will open at 7.30am on Saturday for last minute registrations before fishing gets underway at around 9am.
If your children have their own rods and reels or even the old-school island bamboo rods (takiri) – they are encouraged to bring them along.
Those that don’t have fishing gear don’t need to worry as Kavana has tons of bamboo rods available.
The competition will be shore based and flags will mark where the kids can stand along the Avana coast to try and land the big one.
Prizes will be awarded for the biggest fish, most fish (aggregate), smallest fish, weirdest fish, oddest catch – well, prizes for just about anything!
There will a sausage sizzle and ice cream treats to keep the anglers fuelled thanks to CITC.
The competition is expected to run up to 12pm at the latest.
So don’t let the kids get bored this Saturday morning – take them along to the Mooring Caf at the Avana Fishing Club and get them hooked on fishing.
No functioning government during November
Sat
15 Dec
During parliamentary question time this week, Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George asked Deputy Prime Minister Tom Marsters why the country did not have a functioning government for a week in November.
“Why was there no functioning government from November 17 to the 24, when four out of six ministers were out of the country?”
George also said on November 23, only one minister was present in the country.
This was during a regional parliamentarian conference – which saw over 50 Australian, New Zealand and Pacific island politicians come to Rarotonga.
“Can you, as acting leader of the country, answer why your government failed the requirements of the constitution to maintain a working and functioning government?”
Marsters replied that if George checked the records he would find that the previous government had done the same thing while in power.
“It crossed our minds then as opposition to talk about it, but we did not think it was in the interests in the country to talk about such a piddly little thing.”
“A piddly little thing? That’s a capital crime, that’s treason, said George indignantly.
Marsters also refuted the claim that only one minister was in the country on November 23. “There were still two ministers in the country as one was in Mangaia.”
George called this “evasive nonsense” which did not answer why there were four ministers out of the country – therefore no functioning government.
“Would you apologise to this country for your dereliction and abandonment?”
Marsters replied that is why heads of ministries are appointed – to run the affairs of the government.
“We don’t all have to be here at every time because we have a good public service.”
He said ministers have duties offshore to carry out and ministries can function without them being in country.
“I find absolutely no reason to apologise as we are doing our job as best we can for the country and we are doing a good job.”
Question time a ‘fundamental right’
Sat
15 Dec
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Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George said he remains optimistic that next time he submits written questions to the House, none will be deleted.
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Independent MP Norman George was disgruntled to hear that after he left parliament early on Wednesday, the House voted to remove his 15 remaining questions from the order paper.
Question time is a “fundamental right” for opposition, he said on Thursday – parliament’s last day of sitting for the year.
The MPs had voted to remove George’s questions from the order paper as parliament adjourned a day early and ran out of debating time. Cabinet members had only had time to answer three.
When putting the motion to the House to remove the questions, acting Prime Minister Tom Marsters said the respective cabinet members would answer the questions through the print media instead.
George said this alleviated the “huge damage” which would have occurred should the questions have been swept under the carpet.
“But if I am not satisfied by the answers I read in the paper – there will be more questions next year.”
George originally asked 27 questions, but only 18 were accepted by Speaker Niki Rattle.
“I feel a deep disappointment at the number of questions that the speaker put aside for no good reason at all, no legal reason,” he said.
Once written questions have been submitted to parliament, the speaker has the discretion under standing orders to accept or reject it. If questions are considered personal attacks, they are likely to be rejected. Under standing order 179, if any question anticipates a discussion which is already on the order paper, it will also be disallowed by the speaker.
But once a question appears on the order paper, the member at who it is directed to must answer it.
“I want to put it on record – I hope she doesn’t interfere with my written questions next time,” said George.
“If the speaker sets aside questions I will then publish them in the print media and the people can discover for themselves whether they are fair or not.
“I hope that does not have to happen. I remain an optimist.”
World Bank membership windfall
Sat
15 Dec
Mitiaro MP Tangata Vavia asked agriculture Minister Nandi Glassie why the Cooks haven’t got a large agricultural grant from the World Bank like Samoa.
“About two months ago, the Cook Islands News reported the government of Samoa has received US$16 million to prop up their agriculture sector,” said Vavia.
He said this fund will be used as an incentive to farmers to increase production and employ more people.
“Minister, what are you doing with the Cook Islands agricultural sector?”
Glassie replied the question did not “ruffle” him but showed Vavia’s lack of international knowledge.
“The World Bank has been trying to spread money around the world to enhance agriculture.
“Cook Islands is not a member of the World Bank, but Samoa is.”
Glassie said this is why the Cooks must attend international meetings – to raise the country’s profile.
Cook Islands are currently applying to become a member of the World Bank.
Tereora embraces enterprise
Sat
15 Dec
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Young Enterprise Trust’s Robyn Borne is excited about the programme’s introduction to Tereora College next year.
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The young enterprise scheme that has seen many successful students become business entrepreneurs in New Zealand begins in Rarotonga next year.
Young Enterprise Trust head of senior secondary enterprise Robyn Borne met with Tereora College staff and principal Bali Haque on Wednesday to prepare for the scheme’s introduction next year.
The Cook Islands is the first country in the Pacific islands to introduce the 31-year-old entrepreneur programme.
The course will see year 12 and year 13 students undertake a business course for the full academic year.
The course will see students create their own companies and learn the basics of business, including marketing, product development and networking with other companies.
Borne says the year-long programme will unlock future businessmen and businesswomen in the Cook Islands.
“It keeps a student’s interest at school and suits all students regardless of ability,” she says.
Students will have a chance to follow in the footsteps of Seeby Woodhouse, a 35-year-old New Zealander who founded internet company Orcon and sold it to the government for $20 million.
Tim Alpe is also a past young enterprise scheme participant. He founded rental car company Jucy Rentals and was awarded New Zealand’s entrepreneur of the year in 2010.
The company made a company profit of $26 million that year.
The programme’s introduction to Rarotonga is being funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme.
The Chamber of Commerce will be tasked with helping the students and their new companies network with local businesses as well as scheduling business events.
Prefects sign off
Sat
15 Dec
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Nukutere College prefects (from left) Silveria Wulf, head girl Helena Strickland, Edmund Tupuna, Murray Wilson and Teremoana Matai with their new sign.
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A group of year 11 prefects at Nukutere College has left the school with a visual legacy after a new sign was unveiled yesterday.
Earlier this year, a number of year 10 and year 11 students did some cleaning jobs at the Rarotongan Beach Resort and Spa.
The group used the money to buy a full set of pate drums, but had some money left over.
Those extra funds have been put into replacing the school’s chipped sign.
Head boy Ford Henry and head girl Helena Strickland coordinated the project with help from the school’s religious education department.
The sign features five icons that represent faith, affirmation, integrity, trust and humility.
Fellow school prefects Silveria Wulf, Edmund Tupuna, Murray Wilson and Teremoana Matai also helped with the project.
All prefects except Henry attended the official ceremony yesterday ahead of the school’s junior prizegiving.
Bishop Paul Donoghue blessed the sign before principal Donna Nahu and the prefects revealed it to the rest of the school.
Big fish for little angler
Sat
15 Dec
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Nine-year-old Maeva Robati will soon overtake his father, legendary local fisherman Pupuke Robati, in the best fisherman stakes as the young Avarua School student is becoming a legend himself in local fishing circles.
The four foot fisherman is pictured here with a 48kg yellow fin tuna he and his dad caught along with nine other fish on Wednesday.
Robati Snr is definitely a proud father who has been taking his son out fishing since he was five years old and says that the young man even helps drive the boat.
Robati Snr says he takes his son out fishing all the time and there will be loads more fish caught these school holidays as the young angler will be spending more time with dad fishing from their boat, Mercury Fisher.
This photograph was snapped by Peter Graham of the Ministry of Marine Resources who happened to be at the Avatiu western harbour when the fishermen were offloading their haul for the night on Wednesday.
Shark sanctuary explained
Sat
15 Dec
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A white tip reef shark swimming in waters off Rarotonga. PHOTO SHAUN GILMOUR
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PICI Programme Manager Jess Cramp secured shark protection support from US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during her visit to the islands in August.
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What does it mean?
Pacific Islands Conservation Initiative programme manager Jess Cramp, who has been instrumental in advocating for a shark sanctuary, explains what this means to the people of the Cook Islands.
Many Cook Islanders are wondering what it means for the country to declare a shark sanctuary and how it will be enforced.
Wednesday’s announcement of the creation of a Cook Islands Shark Sanctuary in the entire Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by marine resources Minister Teina Bishop, means that cabinet has approved a set of regulations, which will fall under the Marine Resources Act 2005 and will be administered by MMR, with enforcement aligned with current practices.
As defined in the regulations, sharks also include rays, skates and other chimaeras.
It needs to be immediately understood that these regulations apply to the commercial exploitation of sharks and do not apply to local subsistence fishing.
Extensive consultations were completed with local fishermen for their support.
Under the regulations, the retention of any shark is illegal on commercial vessels.
This means that if a commercial long-line vessel or transshipment vessel is found with any shark part (fin, body or other) it is a prosecutable offence with fines ranging from a minimum of NZ$100,000 to a maximum of NZ$250,000.
Each part of shark found is considered a separate offence.
The regulations also make it illegal to sell, trade, barter, import or export sharks.
This eliminates the chances of any further efforts by foreigners to try and trade bags of shark fins or other shark parts with locals in the Cook Islands.
Such instances were recorded on both Palmerston and Penrhyn, and the locals were uninterested.
There is neither a commercial fishery, nor a commercial interest in shark trade in the Cook Islands.
Sharks are a natural by-catch of the long-line fishery, but a study from Dr Shelley Clarke, of Marine Resources Assessment Group, showed that if sharks are not targeted, the true by catch rate is about one shark per 1000 hooks and that the majority (over 90% in the Cook Islands) were still alive when brought on-board.
The Cook Islands Shark Sanctuary regulations make it illegal to target sharks, including banning the use of trace wire or special floats or other gear used in increasing shark catch.
But because a few sharks may still be caught as true by-catch, it is outlined in the regulations that sharks must be released whole, dead or alive, with their fins naturally attached in a manner that affords the animal the greatest chance for survival.
To assist MMR in understanding more about sharks in the Cook Islands, sharks will be added to log sheets on local boats and data collection will continue to be a mandate on commercial vessels.
These regulations are the strongest regulations for shark protection and highlight the country’s commitment to environmental protection.
‘Time consuming effort’
Sat
15 Dec
The Cook Islands made history on Wednesday with the announcement that the world’s largest shark sanctuary has been created, covering the whole of the Cooks’ exclusive economic zone.
The 1.997 million square kilometre sanctuary will join up with one established last week by neighbour French Polynesia.
That sees a ban on shark fishing and possession or sale of shark products in an area now totalling 6.7 million sq km – nearly the size of Australia.
But the creation of a shark sanctuary did not come with the swish of a magic wand.
Locals, supported by Pacific Island Conservation Initiative (PICI), circulated a petition, which gathered hundreds of local signatures, to demonstrate to policymakers that Cook Islanders are passionate about protecting their sharks.
The public became impassioned in June after hearing reports of the HMNZS Otago allegedly boarding a Luen Thai vessel in the north and discovering three tonnes of shark – to the value of $3 million – on board. The ministry of marine resources (MMR) steadfastly refuted such a discovery occurred.
About a third of ocean-going sharks appear on the internationally-recognised Red List of Threatened Species.
In formulating the shark sanctuary regulations – which include a rule that any shark caught as incidental by-catch must be released whole, with fins naturally attached – MMR received letters of support from 24 individuals and organisations in the Cooks.
Letters came from traditional leaders, conservation societies, fishing clubs, tourism organisations and six outer island councils.
PICI did much of the work to further the cause, running an 18-month-long campaign to get sharks protected.
Its founder Stephen Lyon sent an email to supporters as soon as the declaration was made public.
“I’d like to thank you all as the first supporters of the Cook Islands Shark Sanctuary campaign. Your assistance provided the means for us to produce our first set of media and start to build public awareness,” he said. “This has been a massive and time consuming effort.”
Natural Heritage Trust Director Gerald McCormack, who sent MMR a letter of support, believes the announcement is a “big step forward” for the conservation of sharks.
“We don’t have a high density of sharks but what we have is in relation to the rest of our oceanic biodiversity and these top predators are important in maintaining a healthy oceanic ecosystem.”
But despite the sanctuary being created, it remains a matter to be seen as to whether the rules can be stringently enforced over such a large area.
“The policing of it will certainly not be perfect but it will improve as more observers become available. Even without perfect implementation the shark no-take declaration is a leap forward for local biodiversity.”
Other island nations with sanctuaries include the Marshall Islands, Palau, the Maldives, Tokelau, Honduras, American Samoa and the Bahamas.
Last week’s move by French Polynesia overtook the Marshall Islands’ area, outlined in late 2011, as the world’s largest – and the Cook Islands’ claim adds 40 percent more area to that title.
The benefits of having a shark sanctuary is already paying off for the Cooks – with the huge international media interest providing free advertising for the country.
Major news agencies have widely covered the announcement, and the BBC is putting up a photo gallery of the Cook Islands’ shark campaign journey.
Fashionable footwear in store
Sat
15 Dec
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Elizabeth Jamieson of Knickers in a Twist is breaking into the shoe world with a shipment of fashionable footwear ready to hit the shelves of their Tupapa store as soon as the ship docks in Avatiu.
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The soon-to-be-opened Shoe Box will be the place to snap up the hottest heels this festive season.
Local couple Tony and Elizabeth Jamieson, who caused a buzz when they opened underwear store Knickers in a Twist, are excited about their new business addition on the main road in Tupapa next to their underwear store.
The shop will include over 60 different styles of eye popping heels, sexy wedges, casual flats and comfortable work shoes.
Prices will depend on the style and ‘bling factor’ of the shoe and most of the shoes will be priced between $40 and $120.
Sizes will range from US size 6 to 11 and quality shoes have been imported from California.
The store’s original opening date yesterday caused much excitement among shoppers however the big opening night has been postponed due to delays to the ship carrying stock.
The new date of the Shoe Box grand opening is set for next Monday, December 17 from 4.30pm to 7.30pm.This will be a special evening for Knickers in a Twist VIP customers to have the first choice of the new shoes before the public opening on Tuesday.
If you are unable to make the opening don’t worry, as both The Shoe Box and Knickers in a Twist will have extended opening hours for Christmas right through to the New Year but will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
So click those heels to Tupapa and treat your feet with a new pair of sexy heels or comfortable work shoes to start the New Year on the right foot.
Remember pets this Christmas
Sat
15 Dec
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Gregg Young at the Esther Honey animal clinic in Nikao is encouraging all animal owners to think about your pets this festive season.
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With the holidays approaching, the Esther Honey Foundation vets and volunteers want to remind everyone to also look after the needs of your pets.
This is the season when many families head overseas to spend Christmas with their loved ones and leave the family pets behind – often with no organised plan for their care.
Gregg Young of the Esther Honey clinic is urging families going overseas or to the outer islands to make proper plans for the care of the family pet.
“If you plan to go away and leave your animals behind, you must make arrangements with someone in the family, a friend, or a neighbour to care for your animals while you are away,” says Young.
The clinic in Nikao offers boarding for pets at $10 a day per animal.
“But we can quickly run out of space if patients and the homeless fill our limited number of cages.”
Young adds that animals need the same things that people do to be strong, healthy, and happy.
“They want and deserve to be free from hunger, thirst, fear or pain and they depend on their caretakers to provide the necessities.”
This includes appropriate and adequate food, water, and shelter from the sun, wind, and rain. “There are many ways to provide shelter and we encourage people to be creative with the materials that they have.”
Animals also require regular exercise to stay physically and mentally fit and like people, they need companionship, love and attention.
During stormy weather, especially cyclones, animals are often frightened by the unfamiliar sights and sounds and can become disoriented and misplaced.
“If your pet goes missing please come by the clinic with a photo so we can help you find them. Also, if you see a new animal in your area please call us. That new pet on the block might have a family who is seeking their return and we’ll be glad to help reunite the pet with their loved ones!”
The Esther Honey Foundation clinic, much like the hospital, will be open throughout the holidays for emergencies.
Clinic volunteers will be working Christmas day as we normally do during all holidays, caring for animal patients and the homeless.
If pet owners have any questions or concerns or need advice on animal care – call the clinic on 22336 and for emergencies call 75310.
“We wish everyone and their animal companions a safe and enjoyable holiday season.”
PS3s and bikes popular
Sat
15 Dec
Gaming consoles, bikes and trampolines are all proving to be popular Christmas items in Rarotonga.
CITC Avarua customer service representative John Mateara says they’ve noticed a number of trampolines with safety features being snapped up by customers.
“We’re onto our second shipment and we’re getting low on that – we’ve just had four go out the door today,” says Mateara.
While Transformers action figures and NERF-branded foam bullet guns are always popular toys each year, Mateara says a number of story books have been selling fast.
Meanwhile, Nick Dun of South Seas International says one item always sells well for the business each year.
“For us it’s our push bikes,” says Dun.
“Nothing says ‘Merry Christmas’ like a new bicycle, so we’ve been moving heaps of bicycles.”
The electronics store is also selling a number 24-inch and 32-inch televisions, while Playstation 3 gaming consoles are also selling well.
Dun is expecting business to pick up in the week leading up to Christmas Day.
“I think there’s been a slow start but people are starting to loosen their purse strings a lot now.”
Visitor vouches for value of tumeric
Mon
17 Dec
Veteran visitor Elke Baeder swears by the medicinal benefits of turmeric, and applauds Maori medicine practitioners for continuing to recognise its value.
Baeder, who hails from Canada, was thrilled to read about the medicinal benefits of turmeric in Cook Islands News recently, as she says the wonder root has changed her life.
Last year she had such severe tendonitis that she couldn’t open a bottle, turn a key in the ignition or fasten a button.
“I was a widow living by myself and I couldn’t open a bottle. It was a nightmare,” she said.
Her doctor in Canada proposed two options – cortisone shots or surgery.
She was opposed to both, and on a whim decided to try turmeric capsules.
“I used to be a wholesaler in natural foods and I love curry, plus my granddaughter’s from India so I’m familiar with Indian herbs. I decided to give it a try, and it started to work within two weeks.”
Baeder started taking four capsules of turmeric powder a day around Christmastime, and says that now she’s been “totally cured” of both tendinitis and gingivitis.
Before she left Canada for the Cook Islands in April, she told her doctor about the “wonder root” in order that he might be able to recommend it for other patients.
“I’ve even been squeezing oranges (for juice) here which puts a lot of pressure on my hand, but I haven’t had a problem. Some people think it’s hocus-pocus but it might really help them.”
She loves that Cook Islands medicine incorporates natural herbs and plants.
“(In the West) we are overusing the medical profession – especially people my age, they just run to the doctor, but nature has provided us with all of the herbs we need.
“Doctors are still important – I’m not pooh-poohing them, but I just believe in natural alternatives.”
Baeder has been visiting Rarotonga for 14 years.
- Rachel Reeves
Man who lifts tone of parliament retires
Mon
17 Dec
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Retiring parliamentary clerk Nga Valoa was honoured as a humble, intelligent and dignified man.
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Retiring clerk of parliament Nga Valoa was given a moving farewell at the parliamentary grounds on Thursday.
Valoa, aged 69, has been working in the Cook Islands parliament since 1972 – first as an interpreter, then as assistant clerk, and then stepping up as clerk in 1998 after the previous clerk died.
About 60 invited guests, members of parliament and parliamentary staff gathered after parliament finished sitting for the final time this year to farewell Valoa with a leaving kaikai.
Acting Prime Minister Tom Marsters described the man as humble and dignified and thanked him on behalf of the government. “We are here to honour a man who has dedicated over 40 years of his life to parliament and over 50 years of his life to public service.”
Marsters said the tone of parliament is lifted when Valoa is in it.
“You ensure the democracy of this place is upheld to the highest level.”
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen also thanked Valoa for his service.
“For the health of the parliamentary system, he is a great man... he knows every single little standing order.”
Parliamentary speaker Niki Rattle said she was sad to see Valoa go.
“To tell you the truth I don’t want Nga to go because Nga is my comfort zone, my comfort blanket. When I see Nga when I come to work, I know I can get through the day.”
Rattle said Valoa helped her greatly when she started the speaker position in June.
The clerk is responsible to the speaker of parliament and provides expert advice on parliamentary proceedings.
The clerk makes sure parliament runs smoothly by organising any meetings, making reports of parliament proceedings and making sure staff are carrying out their duties properly.
“I’m really, really sad we are having this occasion. But I am so glad I came into parliament with you here,” Rattle told him.
Rattle asked whether the “family man” would stay on as her advisor.
“I don’t think you are leaving forever. You should come back whenever Mama Vai lets you. Because it’s Mama Vai’s time with you now.”
Valoa’s wife Vai was at the ceremony, and she was also thanked for the sacrifices she had made over the years.
Valoa said he was grateful to the parliamentary staff for their help while working with him for many years. He also thanked Rattle, the prime minister and politicians for their support.
He is looking forward to spending more time with his family and grandchildren, he said.
During the parliament sitting earlier, many MPs paid tribute to Valoa’s long service.
Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George “seriously and sincerely” recommended Valoa be put up for a Queen’s Honour.
He said the “humble, intelligent and thorough Cook Islander” was not only the best clerk the Cook Islands parliament had ever had, but was also considered by many to be the best in the Pacific.
“I have never heard Mr Valoa raise his voice in anger. He never complains, even when the pressure is on him. He never panics. This man seems calm even in the most trying circumstances.”
Valoa originally comes from Pukapuka. “I want to say to the people of Pukapuka, you have a son that surpasses everyone, all the clerks in the Pacific,” said George.
Job applications for the vacant clerk position closed on Friday.
The parliamentary clerk is appointed by the queen’s representative on the recommendation of the speaker.
Pine tree study raised in Africa
Mon
17 Dec
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Prime Minister Henry Puna and Food and Agriculture Organisation director general Jose Graziano de Silva talked about pine tree projects and tuna fisheries.
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The prime Minister has furthered two Cook Islands’ agricultural projects while at a conference in Africa.
Prime Minister Henry Puna reports that “good progress” was achieved with Cook Islands projects currently being considered for funding from the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO).
Puna was last week in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, for the 7th summit of African-Carribean-Pacific leaders.
He talked with the FAO director general Jose Graziano de Silva about the progress of two national projects in particular, one of which relates to the outcomes of an economic study by FAO into the past pine tree projects in Rarotonga, Atiu and Mangaia.
The two also talked about fisheries in the Pacific region.
Puna reports he has organised an initiative for the European Union to undertake a visit to the region to firm up regulations of fish exports to Europe.
“The concern is to ensure that legitimate catch only is clearly identified for export and acceptance in the EU market. There is an ongoing effort to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing vessels, and compliance mechanisms to help safeguard Pacific exports are crucial.”
While FAO tends focus on agriculture, Puna says he brought up fisheries as it is important to stress the importance of the tuna fisheries to the region.
“The interest of the director general is a positive indication of engaging the organisation in beneficial ways.”
Captain Moko’s fishing comp draws 150
Mon
17 Dec
Avana harbour came to life early on Saturday morning when 150 keen junior anglers descended on the foreshore where the fish were biting.
The junior fishing competition, an initiative of local fisherman Stephen ‘Captain Moko’ Kavana and sponsored by CITC and Coca Cola, was more successful than he had ever expected.
In fact, so eager were kids to join the competition a group earlybirds were at the fishing site ready to fish at 6am – three hours ahead of the scheduled start time.
As kids arrived in their numbers for the competition, the traditional bamboo fishing rods became shorter as they were cut up to accommodate for the eager boys and girls.
Anglers aged between four and 15 lined the shores of the traditional harbour where flags marked the safe fishing area outside the protected Raui zone.
With modern rods and reels plus the popular traditional bamboo rods – bait was handed out and kids cast their lines out into the harbour.
Trevally was the main fish species caught with a couple of anglers reeling in a moray eel and a flounder.
Each fish caught was met with hoots and hollers as the successful angler hauled in their catch and rushed to the weighmaster to have the fish recorded.
Thanks to CITC and Coca Cola, there were loads of prizes for all sorts of achievements including the earliest anglers to the smallest and of course prizes for the biggest and best fish.
In the end it was six-year old Kent Baxter who caught the biggest fish earning him the overall fisherman title of the day.
His 2.3kg trevally also won the Takitumu School student first prize in his age grade and plenty of accolades for his fishing skills.
Second in the five to eight division went to Toretto Williams and Phoenix Ave took out third.
In the intermediate fishing division Jacob George of Arorangi was the winning angler with Eric Koroa taking second.
Atai Kirikava was the best of the senior fishing division for anglers aged 12 to 15 with Tre Williams’s catch earning him the second prize.
Reeana Aviu received a prize for having the best rod and reel – a pink Barbie doll rod.
Three-year-old Waka Ama got a prize for being one of the youngest anglers while four-year old Jubilee Jubilee won the prize for the most baby trevally caught and for being one of the youngest fishermen in the competition.
CITC key brands manager George George says that throughout the day the kids wanted to have another fishing competition – something Captain Moko will certainly be doing.
“I take my hat off to Moko for a great day and well organised event that everyone thoroughly enjoyed,” says George.
Due to the success of the junior fishing competition – you can guarantee Captain Moko will keep up regular competition and fishing lessons for Rarotonga kids.
Scores of Rarotonga under 15 lined the shores of Avana harbour for the highly successful junior fishing competition on Saturday morning. INSET: For some it was a lesson in patience! /
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Local fisherman Cameron Thorp helps a young angler get the hang of his fishing rod and reel.
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Juniors honoured at Tereora
Mon
17 Dec
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First in year 10 Debora Mataio with her proud parents. ALL PHOTOS BY JASON GREEN
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Tereora College’s year 9 and year 10 students were the toast of the school at the junior prizegiving on Thursday.
Students were acknowledged for their academic, sporting and cultural achievements throughout 2012.
Below is a list of the year 9 and year 10 high achievers who were presented with merits, certificates and trophies.
- Matiu Workman
Year 9KM
Walepia Kapuvai – Merit in Health & Digital Technology, Tokoitu Vaia – 3rd in Cook Islands Maori, Vetina Nicholas – Merit in Health, Joshua Milne – Merit in Art, Etueni Vakalalabure – 2nd in Science, Tamatea Takairangi – 2nd in Physical Education, Jackson Aitken – 3rd in English & Merit in Textiles and Design, Kezia Teono – 3rd in Mathematics & Merit in Business Studies, Paerangi Takaiti – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, Phillica Maruariki – 3rd in Social Science & Merit in Horticulture, Brienna Paerau – 1st in Social Science, Anania Piri – 2nd in English, 2nd in Social Science & 1st in Physical Education & Merit in Food Technology, Nadtazkia Puna – 1st in Mathematics & Merit in Business Studies, Tere George – 1st in Science & Merit in Business Studies, Kimiora Rongo – 1st in Cook Islands Maori, Abigail William – 3rd in Physical Education, 3rd in Science, 2nd in Mathematics & in English, Nadtazkia Puna – 3rd in Year 9KM, Anania Piri – 2nd in Year 9KM, Abigail William – 1st in Year 9KM.
Year 9TP
Mark Edwards – 3rd in English, Bronson Warwick – 2nd in English, 3rd in Science & Merit in Health and Digital Technology, Benjamin Patia – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, Merit in Graphics, Horticulture, Textiles and Design, Hoani Gibson – 3rd in Social Science, 2nd in Physical Education & Merit in Food Technology & Digital Technology, Laita Tiere – 2nd in Social Science and 1st in English, Turama Tou – 1st in Mathematics, Paiere Tangata – 3rd in Cook Islands Maori, 3rd in Physical Education & 1st in Science, Richard Parima – 2nd in Mathematics & Merit in Workshop Technology & Horticulture, Matilda Patia – 1st equal in Cook Islands Maori & 1st in Social Science, Tai Paia – 3rd Place in Year 9TP, Matilda Patia – 2nd Place in Year 9TP, Paiere Tangata – 1st Place in Year 9TP.
Year 9NO
Upokoina Miria – 2nd in Physical Education, Vaihere Anthony – 2nd in Social Science & 3rd in Physical Education, Tereapii Nooroa – 2nd in Science, 1st in Mathematics & Merit in Performing Arts, Akerangi Frederick – 2nd in Mathematics, 1st in Social Science & 1st equal in Cook Islands Maori, Madancima Makara – 3rd in Social Science, 2nd equal in English and 1st equal in Cook Islands Maori, Marouna Taurae – 1st in English, Matangaro Ave – 1st in Science, Mataroa Maui – 3rd in Science, 3rd in Mathematics, 3rd in English, 3rd in Cook Islands Maori, 1st in Physical Education & Merit in Graphics, Performing Arts & Digital Technology, Madancima Makara – 3rd Place in Year 9NO, Akerangi Fredrick – 2nd Place in Year 9NO, Mataroa Maui – 1st Place in 9NO.
Year 9JZ
Nicholas Maui – Merit in Digital Technology & Graphics, Paul Pureau – Merit in Workshop Technology, Sunai Joseph – 2nd in English & 1st in Physical Education, Annie Tautateopu – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, 3rd in Social Science, 2rd in Mathematics & 3rd in English, Tukinga Paitai – 3r in Physical Education & Merit in Art & Workshop Technology, Te Aretoa Tupuna – 2nd in Mathematics, Joshua Monga – 3rd in Science, 3rd in Cook Islands Maori & Merit in Performing Arts, Memory Ngametua – 1st in Social Science, Tehameamea Vainerere – 2nd in Social Science, 1st in English, 1st in Science & Merit in Art, Magan Teiotu – 1st in Cook Islands Maori, Noovao Raita – 2nd in Physical Education, 2nd in Science & 1st in Mathematics, Noovao Raita – 3rd Place in Year 9JZ, Annie Tautateopu – 2nd Place in Year 9JZ, Tehameamea Vainerere – 1st Place in Year 9JZ.
Year 9TT
Fortes Anthony – 3rd in Physical Education, Annie Tanagatapoto – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, Tongaiti Joseph – 3rd in Cook Islands Maori, 2nd in Science, 2nd in Mathematics & 2nd in Physical Education, Tokerau Wichman – 3rd in Science, 3rd in Mathematics & 2nd Social Science, Peter Numanga – 3rd in Social Science & 1st in English, Moana Katoa – 1st in Cook Islands Maori, Quintin Teokotai – 1st in Physical Education, Lahaina Syme – 1st in Science, 2nd in English & Merit in Health, Lomea Hafoka – 3rd in English, 1st in Social Science & 1st in Mathematics, Lahaina Syme – 3rd Place in Year 9TT, Tongaiti Joseph – 2nd Place in Year 9TT, Lomea Hafoka – 1st Place in Year 9TT.
Year 9 special awards
Walepia Kapuvai – Taurongo Kopu Tangata Award for Special Achievement in Year 9 Health, Noovao Raita – Outstanding participation and Uniform in Year 9 Physical Education, Kimiora Rongo – Excellence in Cook Islands Maori, Abigail William – Mii Solomona Award for Excellence in Year 9 English & Top Year 9 Science Student, Nadtazkia Puna – Top Year 9 Mathematics Student, Matilda Patia – Top Year 9 Social Studies Student, Mataroa Maui – Class of 1967 Vocational Award, Hoani Gibson – Deans Award for 100 percent Attendance for Year 9, Paiere Tangata – Overall Top Academic Year 9 Student – 3rd Place, Anania Piri – Overall Top Academic Year 9 Student – 2nd Place, Abigail William – Overall Top Academic Year 9 Student – 1st Place.
Year 10JM
Lafala Nooroa – Merit in Horticulture, Tapuanoa Pera – Merit in Digital Technology, Lukas Tia Toa – Merit in Workshop Technology, VaNic Teina – Merit in Workshop Technology, Sagele Malik Crawley – 3rd in English & Merit in Digital Technology, Benjamin Henderson – Merit in Drama, Benjamin Heather, 3rd in Physical Education & 1st in Workshop Technology, Bermy Ariihee – 2nd in Social Science, Arthur Carfax-Foster – 2nd equal in Science, Metua Taurarii – 2nd equal in Science, Nuka Mokoroa – 3rd in Mathematics & Merit in Workshop Technology, Tiahuia Pittman – 1st in Science, 1st equal in Graphics & Merit in Art, Maria Murchie – 1st in Social Science, Patricia Aratangi – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, Jarves Aperau, 1st in Physical Education & Merit in Art, Tekeu-o-te-Rangi Toru – 3rd in Social Science, 2nd in Mathematics, 1st in English, 1st in Cook Islands Maori & Merit in Business Studies, Chrismagne Elikana – 2nd in Physical Education, 1st in Mathematics & Merit in Food Technology, Chrismagne Elikana – 3rd Place in Year 10JM, Tekeu-o-te Rangi Toru – 2nd Place in Year 10JM, Annie Moeauri – 1st Place in Year 10JM.
Year 10 TJ
Teao Katuke – Merit in Workshop, Daniel Roy Karika – Merit in Food Technology, Terei George – 3rd in Physical Education, Brandon Taio – 3rd in Science & 2nd in Mathematics, Kimiora Samuel – 2nd in Science, Koringo George – 3rd in Social Science, Paul Harry – 3rd in Cook Islands Maori, Willie Miria – 2nd in Physical Education, Esabelle Nikoro – 1st in Science, Jayson Vavia – 3rd in Mathematics & 1st in Social Science, Leonard Roa – 1st in Mathematics, 1st in Cook Islands Maori and 1st in English, Takapu Kamo – 3rd in English, 2nd in Social Science, Gordan Teata – 1st in Physical Education, Tinokura Tautu – 2nd in English, 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, & Merit in Horticulture, Tinokura Tautu – 2nd Equal in Year 10TJ, Jayson Vavia – 2nd Equal in Year 10TJ, Leonard Roa – 1st Place in Year 10TJ.
Year 10VR
Czaria Mackenzie-Hoff – Merit in Dance, Geena Napa – Merit in Health, Connor Steens – Merit in Graphics, Isaiah Zarate – Merit in Drama, Vaite Poila – Merit in Digital Technology, Dannette Daniel – Merit in Health, Tuteru Vaireka – Merit in Business Studies, Tama Aitken – Merit in Graphics, Maureen Epati – Merit in Business Studies, Health & Graphics, Dylan Apera – 3rd in Physical Education & Merit in Workshop Technology, Cailean Henderson – Merit in Art & Graphics, Mereina Herman – 3rd in Mathematics, Ariana Kiely – 2nd in Social Science & Merit in Dance, Owen Douthett Turuta – 2nd in Physical Education & Merit in Digital Technology, Melody Cargill, 3rd in English & Merit in Business Studies, Nicholas Henry – 3rd in Social Science & 2nd in Mathematics, Taniora Lowry – 1st in Science & Merit in Digital Technology, Hareta Passfield – 1st in English, Merit in Drama & Digital Technology, Tu-Te-Maeva Poaru – 2nd in Science, 1st in Physical Education & Merit in Horticulture & Business Studies, Moeroa Ben – 1st in Cook Islands Maori & Merit in Dance, Vanitta Glassie – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori & Merit in Horticulture, Debora Mataio – 3rd in Science & Cook Islands Maori, 2nd in English, 1st in Social Science & Mathematics & Merit in Horticulture & Business Studies, Nicholas Henry – 3rd Place in Year 10VR, Tu-Te-Maeva Poaru – 2nd Place in Year 10VR, Debora Mataio – 1st Place in Year 10VR.
Year 10 HT
Ruta Katoa – Merit in Food Technology & Horticulture, Liana Lazaro – Merit in Art, Jordan Tikitau – 3rd in Physical Education, Christina Arona – 3rd in Cook Islands Maori, Eteta Strickland – 2nd in Mathematics, Taote Saitu – 3rd in English, Mary Jane George – 2nd in Cook Islands Maori, Rebecca Mataio – 3rd in Social Science, 2nd equal in Science & 1st in English, Ruta Katoa – 1st in Science & Social Science, Aitukura Newbigging – 3rd in Mathematics, 2nd in English, Cahjun Willis – 2nd equal in Science, 2nd in Physical Education & Merit in Graphics, Roimata Moetaua – 1st in Mathematics, Teiti-o-te-ra Tupuna – 2nd in Social Science, 1st in Cook Islands Maori & 1st in Physical Education, Ruta Katoa – 3rd Place in Year 10HT, Rebecca Mataio – 2nd Place in Year 10HT, Teiti-o-te-ra Tupuna – 1st Place in Year 10HT.
Year 10 Options prizes
Tapuanoa Pera – Outstanding Effort in Year 10 Digital Technology sponsored by Miss Taiti Hosking, Tama Aitken & Genesis Silika – Special Achievment in HPE, Moeroa Ben – Excellence in Cook Islands Maori, Debora Mataio – Top Year 10 Mathematics Student, Top Year 10 Social Studies Student & Excellence in Year 10 Horticulture sponsored by Mr & Mrs Tairea, Hareta Passfield – Mii Solomona Award for Excellence in Year 10 English, Tuteru Vaireka – Andrea Panther Trophy for Top Business Studies Student.
Teiti-o-te-ra Tupuna – Junior Girls Athletics Champion & Most Outstanding Year 10 Student, Sagele Malik Crawley – Junior Boys Athletics Champion, Tu-Te-Maeva Poaru – Overall Top Academic Year 10 Student – 3rd Place, Annie Moeauri – Overall Top Academic Year 10 Student – 2nd Place, Debora Mataio – Overall Top Academic Year 10 Student – 1st Place.
Nukutere juniors praised
Mon
17 Dec
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Konini Rongo (left), Louisa Purea (centre) and Gino Dennis were crowned as the top junior students at Nukutere College in 2012. PHOTO JANE KENNINGTON
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Nukutere College’s high-performing junior students had their time to shine at a prizegiving held on Friday.
The last day of school for 2012 saw a number of junior students take home awards, including academic merit and academic honours certificates.
Konini Rongo was crowned the top overall year 7 student after she placed first in English, mathematics, science and social science.
Her academic prowess was matched by her sporting ability after she secured the junior girls champion.
Rongo was a part of the first-ever under 13 national netball team that participated in the Netball in Paradise tournament earlier this month.
Gino Dennis finished as the top overall year 8 student after placing first in science, social science, English and mathematics.
The high-achieving Dennis was Dux of St Joseph’s School in 2010 before he moved to Nukutere College last year.
In the year 9 academic awards, Bobbiejo Healey topped mathematics, science and English and finished second in social science and religious education to be crowned top overall year 9 student.
The keen tennis player also picked up the diligence award for her 9ME form class.
Louisa Purea’s academic achievements took centre stage after she was crowned as the top overall year 10 student.
Purea took home top spot in year 10 mathematics, Cook Islands Maori, and social science while finishing second in English and religious education.
The award capped a stellar year for Purea, who also scooped the 2012 Maine Tiare title at the Mire Tama competition in October.
Ryan Dennis took home the Global Fexco Award for being the top junior mathematics student, while Nooroa Iakopa won the Tama Aruaru Award for achieving his education goals and participating in school events.
In the sports awards, Jedial Shaheem secured the junior boys champion, while Greta Remuera and Teava Wichman won the intermediate girls and the intermediate boys champion titles respectively.
Teachers as researchers
Mon
17 Dec
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Janine Fiebig of Apii Te Uki Ou gives her presentation to advisors at the education ministry last month.
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Discovering how different strategies can help children improve in the classroom is behind the ‘teachers as researchers’ programme.
Four teachers presented their research findings recently as part of the programme, which is coordinated by the Ministry of Education.
Apii Te Uki Ou teacher Janine Fiebig and Nukutere College teachers Russell Grieve and Teiti Nubono presented their research to education advisors at the ministry’s building in Nikao.
Former Apii Te Uki Ou teacher Jo Weir’s research was presented by education advisor Tracey Ellery as Weir and her family have moved to Vietnam.
Fiebig based her research on the expectations of parents and teachers on children entering primary school.
Grieve and Nubono used different learning strategies to see if they would improve the results of low-performing year 10 and year 7 students respectively.
Both teachers found a noticeable improvement in the children’s results.
“These strategies had a positive impact on the students’ achievement as well as on their confidence and self esteem in the subject,” says Nubono.
Weir’s research saw a focus group of seven Apii Te Uki Ou students equal or improve their reading and comprehension over a year.
The teachers’ findings have been published by the ministry in a research journal called ‘Korero’.
Inmates plant 200 trees
Mon
17 Dec
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Prison warden Teariki Purua with Ministry of Agriculture researcher Patu Katu with the native tree seedlings prisoners planted on Tuesday.
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Inmates at the Arorangi Prison did their part to ensure the future of island trees when they planted 200 seedlings in their grounds last Tuesday.
With the help of Ministry of Agriculture researchers Patu Katu and Edwin Apera, as well as several volunteers, the inmates planted tamanu, miro, tou, and sea grapes.
It is hoped that in about two to three months, the seedlings will develop to the stage at which they can be sold for a nominal fee and transplanted to places such as schools and other sites on Rarotonga.
According to prison third officer Teariki Purua, the project has a two-fold purpose.
“First, this is a chance for inmates to give back to the community,” he says.
“Second, it will help replace some of the native trees which seem to be reducing in numbers.”
Extensive tree cutting around the island earlier in the year raised questions about whether trees would be planted to replace those removed.
The Ministry of Agriculture indicates that there have been some efforts in that regard.
“It is no secret that there were a few gasps when so many trees were felled,” says sister Margaret O’Dwyer, who along with Tom Farr and Jane Lamb joined inmates in planting the trees on Tuesday.
“While I don’t claim to be a tree expert, I do sense that if you’re going to cut them for whatever purpose – development, timber, disease, clearance, and carving – you’ve got to replace them, especially the rarer, older trees.”
The need for such a tree replenishment project was reinforced by a class about island trees offered about a month ago at the prison by Cook Islands National Heritage Trust director Gerald McCormack.
McCormack guessed, roughly, that there were only about 50 tamanu trees remaining on the island.
“We felt that if we want future generations to see and appreciate some of the hardwoods, such as tamanu, on the island, we needed to do something about it,” adds sister O’Dwyer.
According to Ministry of Agriculture research director, William Wigmore, trees offer multiple benefits.
They prevent soil erosion, protect the foreshore, serve as a wind break, offer beauty (just think of the stunning patai, or flamboyant trees), and serve as conservators of moisture in the soil.
“We’re losing a lot of our traditional native trees on the island,” says Wigmore.
“It only takes a short time to cut them down, but it takes years for them to grow.”
These trees are valuable for more than their timber, according to Wigmore.
They also are used for medicinal and other purposes.
“Cut a tree, plant a tree” should be the rule, according to Patu.
“Cut one, plant two,” suggested volunteer Lamb.
The Ministry of Agriculture provided the seedlings and offered advice about best planting and nurturing practices.
The trees will be available for purchase at $5 each once they have grown for a couple of months.
Arrangements to purchase them can be made by contacting third officer Purua at the prison on 29457.
Energy audit equipment given to reduce power bills
Mon
17 Dec
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Energy efficiency expert Terekino Vaireka with the ADB-donated three-phase power analyser and monitor.
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The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has donated over $14,000 of energy audit equipment to the Cooks.
The ADB contracted the International Institute for Energy Conservation (IIEC) to provide the equipment and training programme for the PEEP project (Promoting Energy Efficiency in the Pacific).
IIEC energy efficiency expert Terekino Vaireka, usually based in Bangkok, handed over US$12,000 of equipment to energy commissioner Roger de Bray last Wednesday.
The equipment includes a three-phase power analyser, which records energy efficiency of a building over a period of time and can be plugged straight into a computer for the data to be downloaded and analysed.
Monitors were also provided, which plug into power sockets to measure immediate power use.
The equipment will be used to measure how efficiently the accommodation sector, government agencies and residences use power.
Once data is collected and analysed, Office of the Prime Minister energy division staff will assist people to curb their energy use.
“This will help lower people’s power bills,” said Vaireka.
De Bray said it will also help the country deal with climate change.
“There is a real link with what we do with reducing power consumption and reducing our carbon emissions. Every kilowatt per hour we don’t consume helps.”
The commissioner said the project is part of the country’s “energy roadmap”.
“We want to be at the front edge of this drive to reduce energy.”
Even a reduction of five percent a year can make a great difference, he said.
Brown first to answer questions
Tue
18 Dec
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Finance minister Mark Brown has provided responses to the five written questions he was asked by Teenui-Mapumai MP Norman George when parliament began sitting on November 8.
As the respective cabinet members ran out of time to answer George’s 18 questions in the House, acting prime minister Tom Marsters directed ministers to answer the questions through the print media instead.
Brown is the first minister to do so.
COLAGATE
Question:
Has the minister instructed the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MFEM) to do an in-depth analysis of the losses to the public revenues – brought about by over 20 years special levy arrangements (now referred to as Colagate) accorded to Cook Islands Trading Corporation (CITC) – in order to be able to justify his financial secretary’s comment that he sees no merit in pursuing the matter? Because one has to question how such a decision can be made with no knowledge of the losses incurred.
Response:
The Audit Office carried out an audit of this last year and tried to establish a dollar amount which is contained in their report. This practice went back for many years and records have since been destroyed (appropriately) so a definitive figure is unable to be established, although a best estimate was made.
There is no point in MFEM carrying out the same exercise that the Audit Office has already competently carried out.
NO UNPAID LEVY
Question:
Despite a formal complaint having been lodged with Audit on September 11, 2012 and despite repeated enquiries with Audit as to progress and receiving no response, can the minister assure the House that the complaint involving millions of dollars of unpaid levy is receiving the urgent attention it deserves?
Response:
There is no unpaid levy. CITC paid the levies they were assessed to pay in those years.
The Customs Office have since changed their interpretation or application of the Tariff Act but that does not change the fact that CITC paid what they were assessed in the years prior to the change.
The complaint has been dealt with in last years Audit Office report and the subsequent actions of myself, the financial secretary, and the comptroller of Customs. The comptroller has taken further legal advice, which reflects the Crown Law advice which he has accepted (in deciding not to try and reassess historical customs entries).
INTEGRITY
Question:
Can the minister assure this House that being a member of a landowning family where the Cook Islands biggest trader is a tenant that this does not compromise him in his ability to discharge his official duties in the best public interest – and that if it could be shown that this was not the case that he would be willing to tender his resignation?
Response:
Yes, I find this enormously ironic that I am being asked this question by a member whose own questionable integrity has been subjected to the judicial process.
TREVOR CLARKE
Question:
What were the terms of engagement where government’s own crown agency, Crown Law, is passed over in favour of [Trevor] Clarke of CITC to provide it with legal advice on sensitive commercial matters – and did the MFEM observe the correct tendering and selection processes that it requires of other government departments when it employed Clarke?
And what assurances can the minister now give this House that in view of the many recent revelations, any further association with Clarke has been terminated?
And similarly what were the arrangements with [Mike] Ruffin, and did MFEM conduct any due diligence on the association that may have existed between Clarke and Ruffin and thus be satisfied that it was receiving unbiased opinion – especially when Ruffin was asked to advise on the soft drink imports issue?
Response:
Clarke was previously engaged by Revenue Management to provide specialist tax advice not available from Crown Law. I understand Clarke has since retired from his legal work and is no longer available to provide legal advice. MFEM have not used Clarke for advice since 2008.
Ruffin was initially engaged in the Cook Islands by Crown Law to provide commercial advice prior to MFEM beginning to use his services. Ruffin has vast experience in New Zealand in tax and Customs issues and cases.
There is, and never was, any association between Ruffin and Clarke. Ruffin has advised that he has never met, spoken, or corresponded with Mr Clarke.
TENDERING
Question:
Can the minister declare unequivocally to this House and the general public that in engaging the private sector in the benefits associated with the supply of material to the Rarotonga waterworks upgrade that there will be open and transparent tendering – unlike that associated with the Mini Games toilet tissue and bed and mattress debacle, wherein insider trading and other suspect practices appeared to have the ascendancy.
Yes
Online renewal within 5 days
Tue
18 Dec
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Democratic Party secretary Eddie Drollett is the first Cook Islander to renew his passport online.
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The first Cook Islander to renew his passport online is praising the virtual method after it took just five days for his passport to arrive.
Democratic Party secretary Eddie Drollett applied on New Zealand’s internal affairs ministry’s passport website last Friday.
“I made my application at 9.52am, and at 11.10am they sent me an email saying my application was being processed and it would be done within 10 working days,” says Drollett.
On Monday, Drollett received an email from courier company DHL which had confirmed his address.
He received confirmation the following day that the passport was finished before his passport was delivered to his door on Wednesday.
“People need to know there’s a faster way to renew their passport by going online.”
Applicants need to have a credit card in order to apply online.
New Zealand High Commission passport officer Mere Kamana confirms Drollett is the first Cook Islander to renew his passport online and encourages others to follow suit.
“I think it’s a good idea for the locals to go online, but the downfall is often they don’t have access to internet,” says Kamana.
Kamana adds another downside is a lot of Cook Islands residents don’t own credit cards.
“The ones that have credit cards say they wouldn’t use it to go on the internet to pay for their passport.”
Drollett adds those who are looking to renew their passports online need to enter 000 into the country code, not 682 which is the country’s calling code.
Cook Islanders who don’t have a proper street address can also enter 000 into the street address section of the online form.
Locals who want their passport stamped to show they’re a Cook Islander will still have to go down to the foreign affairs ministry’s immigration office.
Independent investigation into MOIP
Tue
18 Dec
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Suspended MOIP secretary Donye Numa, New Zealand High Commissioner John Carter and MOIP minister Teariki Heather in front of the waste compacting machine at the waste management facility in Arorangi in August.
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An independent investigation is being made into possible misconduct in the form of mis-spending and lack of proper process in the Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning.
While the focus of the investigation is alleged misconduct by ministry head Donye Numa, who was suspended from her job on December 3, the investigation also implicates the Minister of Infrastructure and Planning, Teariki Heather.
Public service commissioner Russell Thomas says he has appointed former public service commissioner Navy Epati to do an independent investigation.
Thomas did not want to comment while the investigation is still in progress on whether there had been misuse of New Zealand Aid Programme money, whether Numa had not followed due process, or whether infrastructure minister Teariki Heather is implicated.
Prime Minister Henry Puna explained in parliament that Numa’s performance over the last few months had been questioned by stakeholders “including the government of New Zealand” and this had led to her suspension.
Opposition leader Wilkie Rasmussen says transparency and accountability in the government tendering process is lacking.
“It may be true that there was – I wouldn’t say misappropriation – some misuse of funds that I believe needs to be looked at.
“There needs to be serious investigation with the structure and governance of the infrastructure and planning ministry. There needs to be a close look at the tendering out of contracts. Someone needs to take a good look at what exists and who is responsible for it.”
Rasmussen says any project under $30,000 can be allocated to contractors by heads of ministries (HOMs), and do not need to go through the tender process.
“There seems to be a discrepancy – and a number of people have complained to me about this – and a tendency of T&M Heather to win or secure many infrastructure contracts. How that happens, I don’t know.”
Rasmussen says it is important for the public to know whether contracts are being tendered or “handed out” by HOMs.
“If there is conclusive evidence of impropriety by any minister with any funding that is of a public nature and falls under jurisdiction of the Cook Islands, the responsible minister should step aside.”
“The Opposition has always said there appears to be a conflict of interest between Heather’s portfolio and business, but that has been reneged by responses he is not a director [of T&M Heather]. On paper he might not be, but in terms of physical presence and work there is still an attachment to the company.”
“No minister with potential conflict should take a portfolio that might interfere.”
Rasmussen says if there is any illegality investigated in Epati’s report, a project given to T&M Heather early last year could be it.
“Cabinet made a decision to fund the extension of Punanga Nui market. Cabinet appointed T&M Heather to be the contractor. This in fact was an illegal decision because if the project costs more than $30,000 it has to be done by tender.”
He said it was just before the cyclone season last year and when questioned the government said they had to act quickly to shift soil and therefore there was no time to tender.
“But not even cabinet can decide to move away from the tender process...If it’s not nipped in the bud, it’s going to get worse.”
Rasmussen is also worried the Cook Islands aid management division may not have a handle on projects.
“If they don’t have any steady hand in projects founded by NZAid, or any aid projects, there is something wrong with their system.
“I know for a fact that when former secretary of finance Kevin Carr was in office, he made sure tender proposals were presented to him – he took it upon himself. With the current administration and finance secretary there doesn’t seem to be the same responsibility. I’m sure it comes under the MFEM Act that he is responsible for projects over $30,000.”
Rasmussen says it is possible ‘NZAid’ will want to appoint their own staff to oversee aid money projects in the Cooks in the future, like what happened during the 2010 Aitutaki cyclone recovery project.
The public service commissioner is required to table a report to cabinet within a month of the date of Numa’s suspension. And within one month from tabling the report with cabinet a decision will be made whether to reinstate Numa or terminate her contract.
In the interim, former head of the Office of the Prime Minister Mac Mokoroa is acting secretary of the infrastructure ministry.
Carols at hospital
Tue
18 Dec
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Aunty Betty Bailey, touring the hospital with the Hospital Comforts choir last year.
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A number of carolling Cook Islanders will assemble this afternoon at Rarotonga Hospital – and they’re looking for members of the public to join in.
Starting at 5pm, the annual event will see Santa Claus, members of the Girls Brigade and Hospital Comforts singing around the wards.
The carollers will give out cake and Christmas cheer to hospital patients as they pass through the hospital.
Santa also gives out presents to doctors, nurses and hospital staff to thank them for the hard work they’ve done helping people throughout the year.
Annie Fisher of Hospital Comforts says the patients always look forward to having some Christmas cheer.
“Some patients don’t have people to visit them, so when you’re sick it’s nice that someone cares up there,” says Fisher.
“They love it when they get to see Santa as well.”
Fisher encourages anyone interested in getting into the Christmas spirit to meet at the hospital just before 5pm.
Runner up thrilled
Tue
18 Dec
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Maine Purotu Kate Ngatokorua is all smiles during the sarong tie category.
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Miss South Pacific runner up Kate Ngatokorua says placing in the top two of the pageant surpassed her own expectations.
Despite not winning any of the eight titles on offer, Ngatokorua secured first runner-up behind Miss Samoa, Janine Tuivaiti.
Placing second was a stunning feat given fourth-placed Miss Papua New Guinea, Ruby-Anne Laufa, won three titles on the night.
Laufa won the National Tourism Award as well as the best sarong tie and best on-stage interview.
Tuivaiti also took home Miss Photogenic as well as best talent and best traditional wear.
Miss American Samoa, Arrielle Cares, secured Miss Internet by securing the most votes in the online competition.
Recalling the final night of the event, Ngatokorua says she expected to secure fourth runner up, which instead went to Cares.
That feeling of nervousness increased as third runner up (Laufa) and second runner up, Miss Fiji Drue Slatter, were announced.
“My heart just stopped and my whole team’s hearts stopped,” recalls Ngatokorua.
“They announced me as first runner up and there was a huge eruption in the crowd.”
Ngatokorua was happy for Tuivaiti, who she became close friends with during the week-long pageant.
In fact, Ngatokorua says that judges commented that they had never seen a more tight knit group of contestants in the pageants history.
“It never felt like a competition as we all believed the winner would represent us all well.”
Aside from sashaying down the catwalk, the contestants also spent a day at Hope House, a not-for-profit organisation that looks after the elderly and the disabled.
The contestants appeared on local radio stations and attended a ball in their honour at the governor’s residence.
The girls also spent some time making their own burgers at McDonald’s and parading through the streets of Pago Pago.
Easily the strangest experience for Ngatokorua was eating pigeon, something she describes as “interesting”.
On the final day of competition, the 10 competitors exchanged gifts with each other.
Ngatokorua gave out pearl pendants, a rito necklace, an ei pupu and an ei katu to each of the girls, before receiving baskets, photo albums, fans and other cultural items from her peers.
As for the formula to her success, Ngatokorua says it was her team that helped her place so highly.
“Even when I was in doubt, my team gave me the confidence I needed - I owe it to them.”
Ngatokorua also wants to thank her sponsors and everyone who supported and helped her prepare for the pageant.
“On the final night we Pacific sisters showcased our talents and were ambassadors for our island nations - we were so proud of each other.”
The 2013 Miss South Pacific pageant will be hosted by the Solomon Islands.
Contractors discuss Rakahanga project
Tue
18 Dec
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A drawing of the proposed solar power house in Rakahanga.
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A meeting held on Friday gave local contractors a chance to ask questions about a new renewable energy project in Rakahanga.
Tenders for a renewable energy and distribution systems project on the outer island opened on December 8 and were due to close on January 14.
Senior civil engineer Oliver Fitz-Henry of Alice Springs-based CAT Projects has been working extensively on the project’s design.
On Friday, some 15 contractors specialising in solar installation, outer islands shipping and other areas listened as PEC fund director Ngateina Rani and Fitz-Henry discussed the tender in detail.
With the holiday season approaching, local contractors also felt the original deadline of January 14 was not enough time to inform suppliers returning from the Christmas break.
As a result, the deadline for tenders is being extended to January 28.
Rani says the 90-minute meeting helped address some misunderstandings contractors had with the project, including what material would be supplied.
A centralised solar power system will include a back-up diesel generator for additional charging.
The solar panels will be ground mounted to structures designed to survive winds similar to a category 4 cyclone.
It will be positioned next to a purpose-built power building that will house all power conditioning.
Rakahanga is the first island to come under the Cook Islands’ outer islands renewable energy policy.
Under the policy, the outer islands are to generate 50 per cent of their electricity from renewable energy by 2015.
The Cook Islands is hoping for 100 per cent of electricity to be generated from renewable energy by 2020.
The project is co-funded by the Japanese overnment’s Pacific Environment Community (PEC) fund and the New Zealand government.
The Rakahanga project includes building photovoltaic (PV) and low voltage distribution systems near the existing power house on the outer island.
The winning bid will be judged on the project’s costs (40 per cent of selection criteria), the company’s prior experience (30 per cent), contract plans (20 per cent) and work health and safety policy (10 per cent).
The winning contractor will be given 100 days to complete the project from when the contract is awarded.
Interested groups can find the documents on the Office of the Prime Minister’s website – www.pmoffice.gov.ck – but must submit a hard copy of the tender if they are intending to apply.
Showcase invitation
Tue
18 Dec
Companies stocking products and produce with a Pacific flavour are being encouraged to sell them at a Pacific-focused trade event launching on February 2, 2013.
The event, known as Pacific Showcase, is looking to build on the success of the first showcase held on Auckland’s waterfront last September.
It attracted over 38,000 visitors over three days ahead and capitalised on the large crowds visiting New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup.
The Pacific Cooperation Foundation will stage five Saturday showcases in partnership with local and regional businesses.
The events will take place on Auckland’s waterfront during February and March in 2013.
The showcases will feature full market days, bringing a fusion of regional Pacific food, artisan products, design, art, live performance and quality produce to the Auckland public and city’s visitors (both national and international).
Foundation chief executive Meg Poutasi says the Pacific Showcase is all about making connections.
“The showcase allows businesses from the Pacific to have the opportunity to connect with consumers, retailers and potential suppliers in New Zealand, one of the region’s most important trading partners,” says Poutasi.
“There’s no better place to have the showcase than at the Cloud on Auckland’s waterfront, which is now an iconic venue attracting thousands of visitors from both New Zealand and abroad”.
Expressions of interest are now being sought from businesses with a Pacific presence who are operating in the Pacific region and New Zealand.
Housemaid stole
Tue
18 Dec
A resort housemaid who stole money from a guest was sentenced to probation and community service in the High Court on Wednesday.
Twenty-one-year-old Anna J. Okirua stole $450 on November 15 while cleaning villa 26 at Edgewater Resort and Spa.
While she was in the villa, she grabbed a white towel to clean. An envelope fell out of the towel. She shouted to a colleague outside what had happened and her colleague told her to put the envelope back.
But Okirua opened the envelope and found it contained $450. She took this and told police she spent the money on food and alcohol at the Hideaway Bar.
Police prosecutor sergeant Maeva Kirikava said Okirua had breached the trust of her employers, because as a housemaid she is trusted with the property of resort guests. She also put the other staff member involved under great stress as she was also subject to police questioning and faced losing her job.
The defendant’s actions have damaged Edgewater’s reputation, said Kirikava.
“Her actions may have a long-term and detrimental effect on the tourism industry as a whole.”
Mitigating factors were she admitted her guilt early and this was her first appearance before the court.
Prosecution recommended 12 months probation plus six months community service and for the defendant to repay the money she stole.
Justices of the Peace Carmen Temata, Pae Tuteru and Tauei Solomon followed this recommendation. Okirua must also attend any training or workshop as probation services direct, and pay $30 court costs.
Cyclone Evan won’t affect Cook Islands
Wed
19 Dec
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The category four cyclone that battered Samoa and Fiji is moving towards New Zealand – not the Cooks.
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Cold water may have swimmers shivering but thankful – the Cooks won’t be affected by a cyclone until the water temperature reaches at least 27 degrees Celsius.
Cyclone Evan, which devastated Samoa on Thursday and Fiji on Sunday, was caused by a warm pool of water moving from the Coral Sea to west of the dateline, Meteorological Service director Arona Ngari says. The cyclone followed the warm current west.
Four people have been confirmed dead and 10 remain missing after the cyclone struck Samoa. There are so far no reports of any deaths in Fiji, which was battered by 270 kmph winds overnight. After passing close to Fijian capital Nadi, the cyclone is moving in a southerly direction towards New Zealand. Ngari says the cooler waters will calm it down.
“It’s too far south of us to have any effect. Even if it did change tack, cool waters between where it is now and the Cooks would stop it.”
For tropical cyclones to form, the water temperature must be above 27 degrees Celsius at 100 metres depth to give the cyclone energy to run.
The water around the Cooks is currently only about 25 degrees Celsius, but Ngari expects this to rise over summer.
“Historically and meteorologically, cyclones are active here later in the cyclone season – around February,” he says.
Two cyclones have been predicted for Cook Islands this cyclone season. There are no predictions for a cyclone over the Christmas period.
Sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean are warmer than normal, but not reaching El Nino thresholds.
Should a weak El Nino develop – which seems unlikely at present – the cyclone risk east of the International Date Line, where the Cooks is located, is expected to increase.
This means southern group Cook Islands could still be affected during the late season period of February to April.
The windy weather the Cooks have been experiencing over the last week is not associated with any cyclone activity, says Ngari.
Instead, the high winds are formed by a “squashing of winds” between a trough to the north and an anti-cyclone coming from the south.
“This is predicted to continue for the next half week,” he says.
Wind gusts of up to 100 kmph were measured by the met office, with the area from Upper Tupapa to Ngatangiia feeling the full brunt of the gusty weather.
Ngari says it is too early for a Christmas day weather prediction.
Family reunion season begins
Wed
19 Dec
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Mamas dance before presenting their genealogy at the Roitoa and Tuia family reunion yesterday.
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Learning the family history and relaxing with dance are two key ingredients to the Roitoa and Tuia family reunion that ends today.
Around 300 members of eight kopu descending from Roitoa and Tuia have been gathering at the Sinai Hall in Avarua to learn about their genealogy.
Roitoa and Tuia were based in Mitiaro and had 10 children – Kuraia, Turotoenua, Isaia, Raiva, Kauri, Pavaii, Kakemaunga, Ira, Kaveao and Ngatuakana.
Of the 10 children, eight of them had kids of their own.
The families of each of the eight children have gathered in Rarotonga to celebrate and discover how each of them are related.
One of the reunion’s coordinator Francis Topa-Fariu says discovering the history of the Roitoa and Tuia anau is the reason for the reunion.
“Many of the eight lines who had kids married and moved their own families outside of Mitiaro,” says Topa-Fariu.
“As a result many of the families do not know who their other families are from the Roitoa line.
“It is hoped the reunion this week will help the families, especially the young ones, get to know how they’re related to each other and continue from here.”
The Roitoa and Tuia family reunion is one of many taking place on the island over the next month.
The Heather family reunion is expected to draw around 440 members of the 10 direct descendents of Stanley Heather Junior, the son of Stanley Heather Senior.
The reunion will take place between December 27 and December 31 and will feature genealogy sessions as well as visiting the graves of their elders.
The family will also be holding a sports tournament on the final day of the gathering to ensure kids with too much energy will have a chance to run, pass and kick it out.
Taking place in Matavera at the same time is another reunion for the descendants of Teariki Tuavera and Mary Browne.
The 13 children include Lady Ina Goodwin and former culture minister Cassey Eggleton.
Goodwin says the reunion will see around 160 family members from New Zealand and Australia attending.
The Puna family will also be holding a reunion in the new year.
Fires speed up housing review
Wed
19 Dec
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A contractor demolishes one of the three badly burnt houses in Nikao.
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The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) is accelerating a review of the role it plays with housing as a result of the fires to three government units in Nikao.
The families of Mona Pokoati, Paara Pitomaki and Nga Pouao were living in the units when three fires in the space of 25 hours destroyed the homes.
The three fires have since been deemed suspicious by police.
They were the last of seven fires that destroyed four businesses and five homes within two months.
While two of the Nikao families have shifted to temporary accommodation, one family has decided to stay put and have had their electricity reinstalled as a temporary measure.
Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) chief executive Tamarii Tutangata says the board will be meeting today to formally discuss the future of the Nikao sites for the first time.
“We have talked about them informally in the past but tomorrow will be our first opportunity to discuss it formally,” says Tutangata.
Tutangata says the meeting will give board members an opportunity to discuss government’s future role in housing.
“The original idea behind providing housing is that they have been intended for people from the outer islands with no land in Rarotonga.
“Now that those houses have been burnt down it’s an appropriate time to speed up that policy relating to housing.”
Tutangata adds the housing market has shown an increase for people looking to rent houses.
“We need to take that into account and look at CIIC’s overall role in providing houses for rent.”
As for assisting the three families who were living in the units, the chief executive says CIIC has done its best to accommodate them.
He says the corporation has advertised for available housing and has forwarded the information to the tenants.
Temporary accommodation at the Arorangi site that housed the now-defunct human resources ministry is also being made available.
The commercial value of the three 60- to 70-year-old units was estimated to be under $50,000.
“Basically they’ve been written off the books because they’ve been around for so long,” adds Tutangata.
Following today’s meeting, CIIC will be engaging with people in the private sector about their capacity to provide housing before making a recommendation to CIIC minister Mark Brown.
Senior graduates surf the web
Wed
19 Dec
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Kopu Tumutoa (left), Turua Peter (centre) and Ruhau Tamahunu are three of the latest computer whizzes in the Cook Islands.
The trio are some of the 19 senior citizens who graduated from a free training course that focused on computers, internet and email.
Organised by the Office of the Prime Minister and tutored by Mii Manuela, the course is available to anybody 50 years old or above who has access to a computer on a regular basis.
The group was honoured for its achievements at a function held at the University of the South Pacific (USP) last month.
Each of the 19 representatives received their certificates before baskets of food and a paddle made by Tamahunu were gifted to Manuela in a sign of appreciation for the tutor’s dedication.
The graduates were the last group for 2012, with the next intake scheduled to take place early next year.
Tourism visit to Atiu a resounding success
Wed
19 Dec
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A highlight of the Kia Orana Tourism Forum was the opportunity for this group of travel industry professionals to visit Atiu, with Ngametua Mokoroa from the Tourism Corporation.
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It was a plane full of smiling faces that departed Atiu on a recent Friday afternoon, after a whirlwind day trip that provided just a taste of what Atiu has to offer.
A group of representatives from the travel industry had the opportunity to visit Atiu as part of the Kia Orana Cook Islands Forum, with nine people from New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Canada and the United States travelling to the island.
The aim of the day trip was to showcase the outer islands of the Cook Islands as a destination in themselves, with trips also being offered to Aitutaki and Mangaia. For most of the visitors it was their first trip to Atiu, and a chance to experience a way of life that is a world away from the bustle of Rarotonga.
For Connie Campos from Springboard Vacations in the United States, the trip to the Cook Islands and Atiu has provided the chance to see one of the destinations that she has specialised in selling for over 20 years.
Travelling local style in the back of a truck, the guests were taken on a tour of the island by Marshall Humphreys. Humphreys is well known in the Atiu tourism industry, where he and his wife, artist Jeanne, run Atiu Bed and Breakfast, as well as offering Marshall’s Discovery Island Tour, and visits to Anatakitaki Kopeka Bird Caves and Rimarau Burial Cave.
The day trip did not provide the time to visit any caves but driving the lush interior roads of the islands, guests were lucky enough to see the kopeka and kingfishers and to hear the call of the endangered kakerori, and learn about the history of the island itself.
The tour took guests to the harbour where local children learn to swim, to Cooks Landing and on to some of the islands spectacular beaches, before a lunch break at Atiu Villas. Guests were treated to a delicious lunch made by Kura Malcolm at Atiu Villas, washed down with locally grown coffee. The Atiu Coffee, produced and processed on the island by Juergen Manske-Emke, was so tasty that it managed to convert a few previously non coffee drinkers.
One guest to the island was that of Lelei Lelaulu, who was a keynote speaker at the forum. Lelaulu is originally from Samoa, and currently resides in Washington in the United States, where he works as an advisor for the World Bank, and is involved in many other voluntary roles such as chairman of the leadership council for tourism at the George Washington University School of Business. Lelaulu is described as a development entrepreneur and part of his work with the World Bank is looking at sustainable marine development for the Pacific.
“I have loved my week in the Cook Islands” is how Carolyn Bell from Goway Travel in Toronto, Canada, describes her time here. Bell has had the opportunity to travel to both Aitutaki and Atiu during her time in the Cook Islands.
The day trip ended on a high note with a visit to the wonders of the Atiu Fibre Arts Studio of Andrea Emke, followed by a trip to a local tumunu, Tamariki Te Po Nui, where shots of the strong local liquor were downed by all.
Ngametua Mokoroa, from Cook Islands Tourism Corporation, is based in Atiu in a tourism office that was set up earlier this year and travelled to Atiu with the group. She says that visitors enjoy the green landscape of Atiu, and that there is so much to see on the island that you really can’t do it justice in just a day.
It has been a quiet year for her in Atiu with most visitors having already booked their accommodation before they arrive on the island. There are plans ahead to use the office space as a museum for visitors, with the intention to showcase the history of Atiu including some artefacts from the burial caves, and to showcase the local arts and crafts.
Humphreys says the tourism industry in Atiu is at a crucial point, with many accommodation and tourist opportunities available, but simply not the numbers of tourists needed visiting the island.
It is hoped that the visitors’ first-hand experience of the beauty and adventure of Atiu will be enough to encourage more tourists to visit the island, and tip the balance in Atiu’s favour.
New ‘extremers’ celebrate fitness
Wed
19 Dec
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‘Extremers’ from the sixth edition of the Extreme Fitness programme take a break from their early morning session to smile for the camera.
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The sixth edition of the Extreme Fitness group workout programme has wrapped up with 20 fit and energised members known as ‘extremers’.
The nine-week programme run by Puai Wichman and Tai Ngari of Fitness Revolution includes a whole variety of exercises from early morning yoga sessions to fun beach workouts and weight sessions in the gym.
One of the sixth Extreme Fitness group members, Tatiana Burn, says she feels happy and exhilarated after the programme.
The local business woman says that at the start of the programme she was uncertain if she could do the programme known for its ‘extreme’ workout sessions.
“I am in my late 40s and wondered if this type of exercise is for me,” says Burn.
She says she told herself at the time that maybe she should just go for a walk and generally take it easy.
“But I thought I will give it a try!”
She says during the whole experience instructors Puai Wichman and Tai Ngari ‘held our hands’ all the way through.
“They gave us information, had one on one meetings to make sure that each one of us was able to achieve our individual goals. They are amazing inspirational people and their passion for fitness is infectious.”
Sessions began at 5.45am with some days including an afternoon activity as well and some weeks there could be up to 8 training sessions.
“It takes time to adjust to this early hour, but the amazing thing is that after a couple of weeks – your body adapts and you wake up easier and feel really good about yourself for completing your exercise for the day,” says Burn.
“To make it more interesting we had weights sessions in the gym, swimming and core workouts on the beach, plyometrics and yoga at the stadium – there was never a dull session!”
Burn admits that there were days when the members had muscle pain and general fatigue but she says the beauty of the programme was that you always had people around to support and help each other through the tough times.
“The end result – completely new level of fitness which I thought I would never be able to achieve.”
“Through Extreme I have had the privilege to meet some fantastic people and made new friends.”
Burn adds that new extremers to the programme received loads of encouragement from members who had been through it before and continue to do so.
“There are lots of people in our community who can benefit greatly from the Extreme programme, both physically and mentally.”
The seventh edition of the Extreme Fitness programme is set to start on January 28.
This will give you plenty of time to enjoy your festive season and kick start the year by getting extreme and making your health and wellbeing a priority in 2013.
To experience the life changinging programme as Burn has done, contact Puai Wichman and Tai Ngari via email on getfit@oyster.net.ck or talk to one of the ‘extremers’ enjoying their new healthy and fit lifestyles.
New 7s world series process
Wed
19 Dec
A revised core team qualification process for the HSBC Sevens World Series 2012-13 season has been implemented.
The revised process has two stages. The first stage is a pre-qualification tournament which will take place in Hong Kong at the same time as the HSBC SWS tournament between March 22 and 24.
This will be a 12-team tournament with the top two ranked teams from each region outside of existing HSBC SWS core teams invited to take part.
The Cook Islands has qualified for the tournament along with Tonga from the Oceania region, Zimbabwe, Tunisia, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Russia, Georgia, Mexico and Jamaica.
Four teams will qualify from the Hong Kong tournament to take part in the final HSBC SWS core team qualification tournament which will take place in London at the same time as the final HSBC SWS tournament on May 11 and 12.
This will be an eight-team tournament involving the four teams that qualified from Hong Kong, the Asian Sevens Series Champion and the HSBC SWS core teams who are ranked 13th, 14th and 15th after the conclusion of the penultimate HSBC SWS tournament in Glasgow.
Meanwhile the first training session for potential local national sevens players was held on Monday while players eligible for selection into the Cook Islands national team in New Zealand and Australia are currently undertaking individual training programmes to prepare for selection.
A final team of 15 made up of 12 players and three officials will represent the Cooks in Hong Kong.
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