A large contingent of friends, family and netball supporters gathered at Rarotonga Airport yesterday morning to farewell five of the country’s best new talent as the players departed for New Zealand.

Apii Nikao pupils are learning about biodiversity (the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat such as Rarotonga’s lagoon), as part of a school-wide theme this term.

“A feeling of home”, is how visiting literacy expert Leana McClain has described her return to Rarotonga fortnight ago.

“I am humbled by the generosity and love shown to our mamas today,” said a tearful Mama Nga Teao Papatua.

In the lead-up to National Literacy Week which starts on Monday, Nukutere College has received a donation towards the purchase of new library books.

Rowena Newbigging and Kris Williamson took out the men’s and women’s titles at the recent Palm Grove Golf Tournament held at the Rarotonga Golf Club.

Building on the recent success of the women’s 3X3 team, is the long-term plan for the Cook Islands Basketball Federation.

This happy bunch of Year 5 and 6 students from Apii Nikao were spotted down at Blackrock yesterday morning.

The Tupapa Panthers put in an improved performance on Saturday, but ultimately came up short against the table-topping Avatiu Dragonflies.

A new sign has been erected at Papaaroa School to help educate visitors and locals alike when it comes to the problem of plastic waste.