Reigning Miss Cook Islands, Ngatepaeru Maoate, has encouraged school students in Atiu to embrace their Māori language, respect and honour their elders and value the wisdom they share.

Maoate, who represented the Cook Islands at the 2025 Miss Pacific Islands pageant in Solomon Islands in February, was in Atiu last month where she spent time with the community.

“One of the reasons I joined the pageant was to reconnect with my roots and understand where I come from,” Maoate said. “My trip to Enuamanu was a purposeful one – learning that I have lineage through my Vouvou, Sir Terepai Maoate, and realising that I, too, am Atiuan.”

During her visit, the Ngamaru Ariki – Tupuna Henry spent half a day with Maoate, sharing Atiu’s rich history, cultural stories and even identifying ancestral lands to which she has rightful connections.

Her visit was also part of an Enuamanu Youth Council (EYC) project where they hosted Maoate.

According to the Council, they supported this initiative, recognising the positive impact her presence would have on their youth and the wider community.

During her visit, Maoate addressed senior students at Enuamanu School and shared insights about her journey in the pageant, professional experiences in New Zealand and her passion for youth development to the students.

EYC president Ngametua Mokoroa said that having someone who has proudly represented the Cook Islands on an international stage share their experiences, successes and challenges is a significant inspiration for school students, mapu and the community.

“This visit also allowed us to express our appreciation for Miss Cook Islands’ dedication and hard work, both in the pageant and beyond as she continues her journey in 2025.”

The EYC is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) founded in May 2021 by Atiu youth leaders with a mission to support youth development by organising events and activities that empower and engage young people.

Earlier this month, Maoate returned to her home island of Aitutaki where she visited schools as part of her journey.