The head of Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) Keziah Lewis has resigned.

The CISNOC committee has confirmed this stating that Lewis made this decision due to personal reasons and an opportunity to explore new personal pathways.

Lewis took on the role in May last year from her father and now secretary for Education Owen Lewis. She also became the second female since Rosie Black to take on a role in the sporting organisation.

In a statement, CISNOC says Lewis resignation will be effective on July 10. 

“Lewis has served CISNOC for a total of six years, first as Finance Manager, and most recently as Secretary General since May 2024. Her decision to step down is due to personal reasons and the opportunity to explore new professional pathways.”

CISNOC states that during her tenure, she contributed significantly to the organisation, including leading the delivery of the Cook Islands Games from 2020 to 2024 and playing a key role in securing the hosting rights for the 2029 Pacific Mini Games. 

CISNOC President, Ms. Luisa Peters, stated: 

“I want to extend a Meitaki Ma‘ata to Ms. Keziah Lewis for her dedication of six years to the organisation. Especially in her short time as Secretary General, she successfully steered the organization through two leadership changes. She brought forward new ideas with the intention to benefit our athletes and our sporting community. I sincerely wish her all the best in her future pursuits.” 

CISNOC added that they have initiated a structured transition process, with an acting secretary general to be appointed, while the formal recruitment process for the position begins.