Four outstanding individuals have been recognised with the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours, presented at a ceremony held yesterday at the official residence of the King's Representative in Titikaveka.

The awards, approved by His Majesty King Charles III, acknowledge exemplary service to health, mental health, education, culture, and the community.

The honours were formally presented by the King’s Representative, Sir Tom Marsters, and Lady Tuaine Marsters. Of the four recipients, three are women -each celebrated for decades of tireless work and dedication to improving lives across the Cook Islands.

In his address, Sir Tom Marsters praised the recipients, describing the honours ceremony as “one of the most sacred events” carried out by his office. He expressed admiration for their enduring commitment and service, saying: “I congratulate you all, for all you have done for the community, you have done for our nation — te akaroa, te akaroa i ta kotou i rave, ta kotou i maroiroi i rave no to tatou Basileia.”

The Honourees:

Ritua Kathleen Rose Marie Koteka (OBE), affectionately known as Aunty Kath, received the Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for her lifelong service to health, the public, and the community. Born in Rarotonga in 1936, Aunty Kath began her nursing career in 1954 and has since contributed significantly to the Cook Islands’ health sector. She has also been a passionate advocate and participant in sport and welfare initiatives at all levels.

Mereana Taikoko (MBE), awarded Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, was honoured for her remarkable work in mental health care and community service. Born in 1949 and hailing from Vaipae, Aitutaki, Taikoko is a public and mental health specialist with over 30 years of experience.

Juliana Teinakore Etches (BEM), also known as Teina, received the British Empire Medal for her contributions to public service, culture, and education. Teina began her teaching career in 1968 at Nikao Side School (later Avatea Primary). She became deputy principal in 1997 and then principal, serving until her retirement in 2008, having dedicated 40 years to education.

Tutavake Tutai (BEM), also known as Papa Sarge, was honoured with the British Empire Medal for his community service. Born in Rarotonga in 1941, he began working with the Ministry of Works in 1960 and also proudly represented the Cook Islands in athletics at the 1963 South Pacific Games in Fiji. Papa Sarge is widely respected for his lifelong contributions to his community and nation.