The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) has launched its inaugural Long Service Awards Programme, honouring 21 employees for their outstanding commitment and contribution to the organisation.

The awards were presented at CIIC’s 2025 Annual Staff Retreat, marking a new initiative to recognise and celebrate employee milestones.

The Long Service Awards highlight the depth of experience and loyalty within the organisation:

• 13 staff members were recognised for over five years of service
• five for over 10 years
• three for over 20 years

Together, they represent nearly 45 per cent of CIIC’s total workforce – a significant reflection of the organisation’s strong team culture and employee retention.

“These are more than just milestones,” said CIIC CEO Allan Jensen. “They represent years of dedication, purpose-driven work, and deep connection to the communities we serve. The people behind CIIC are what make our work matter.”

The awards celebrate staff from across all divisions, including building services, asset development, finance, legal, market management and executive support. Many of those honoured have led major national projects, while others have supported CIIC’s operations behind the scenes with consistency and care.

Each recipient was acknowledged not only for their length of service but also for the unique contributions they’ve made along the way – from beautifying public spaces and delivering infrastructure upgrades, to strengthening organisational systems and mentoring the next generation of CIIC staff.

The Long Service Awards will become an annual feature of the staff retreat, reinforcing CIIC’s commitment to valuing its people and fostering a workplace culture built on respect, teamwork, and professional growth.

“Meitaki ranuinui to all our long-serving team members,” said Jensen. “You are the heart of CIIC and the reason our people, our places, and our future thrive.”

Below are the names of the Long Service Award recipients along with their respective years of service.

1. John Angaino– 5 Years, 2. Uwi Maro– 5 Years, 3. Tomo Pana– 5 Years, 4. Dom Elisa– 6 Years, 5. Kapi Teaea– 6 Years, 6. Ruanoo Mose-Kavana – 6 Years, 7. Amber Numanga– 7 Years, 8. Tairi Herrmann – 7 Years, 9. Oscar Iavata – 7 Years, 10. William Taripo– 7 Years, 11. Tere Vae– 7 Years, 12. Sally Hosking-Naea– 9 Years, 13. Vasie Ngatoko-Poila– 9 Years, 14. Annie Goodwin – 16 Years, 15. Makirau Haurua – 17 Years, 16. Ripanau Tauia – 17 Years, 17. Shona Kirikava – 17 Years, 18. Tepaeru Hagai – 19 Years, 19. Elena Mataora – 21 Years, 20. Iona Lupena – 22 Years, 21. Anne Taoro – 25 Years.

- Jaewynn McKay/CIIC