Some of the Pacific’s leaders face big challenges this year, as the climate crisis, corruption allegations and regional loyalties clash. In the second of a two-part series, RNZ Pacific’s Jamie Tahana and Johnny Blades look at some of the region’s bigger players and the tensions looming in 2020.

Some will to go Tereora and Titikaveka colleges. Some will go further afield – one to Atiu. Monica Tafale among the Cook Islanders returning home to address the teacher shortage.

The agriculture ministry has created a pilot school garden programme in partnership with the Korero O te Orau, to teach about agriculture and its importance for livelihoods.

With the arrival of a new year on Wednesday, Cook Islands News takes a look back at some of the news events that helped shape 2019.

A man who has been charged with two counts of assault on a female will have his case heard again this Friday.

Patrick Luma represented by defense counsel Mark Short is charged for assaulting his partner and a family member.

The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation plans to focus next year on sustainable tourism and expanding the industry’s accreditation scheme.