Prime Minister Mark Brown has announced several new initiatives aimed at enhancing firearm regulation and safety across the Pa Enua.

This includes the resumption of police-issued ammunition and plans to simplify the driving licensing process for tourists.

Speaking in Parliament this week, Brown confirmed that the Cook Islands Police has reinstated its role as the official supplier of ammunition to the Pa Enua, a move that is expected to assist island communities in managing issues such as wild animal control.

“The police has resumed their role as being the supplier of ammunition of all calibres,” Brown said.

“Gun owners in the Pa Enua can just order their ammunition as required directly from the police.”

In addition to the ammunition rollout, Prime Minister Brown said plans are underway to allow tourists to apply online for firearm licences before arriving in the country.

“[They] can actually apply online to receive the license before they arrive therefore to make it easier instead of having to line up at the police station,” he said.

The announcement comes as outer island communities such as Atiu and Mauke continue to grapple with environmental challenges, particularly the growing wild pig population.

In Atiu, the issue has prompted local police and the community to work closely with the Rarotonga police to ensure firearms remain safely regulated and available for necessary use.

Senior Constable Tuaine Rakei, based in Atiu, said police recently completed a two-day firearms licence renewal programme in partnership with Rarotonga police officers.

“We just finished, (it took) two days. The officer from Rarotonga came over here to renew our licence for firearms, those who had expired firearm licence,” he said.

The renewals were crucial for a community planting initiative where wild pigs have caused significant damage.

“You know, in Atiu, there’s been wild pigs around the island. So, he asked to renew our licence for safety to plant and protect from wild pigs,” Rakei said.

In Mauke, wild pigs have also been an ongoing concern, with residents standing firm on a long-standing dog ban despite growing calls for new methods to address the issue.