Aitutaki’s evenings just got a whole lot brighter for its tourists and residents with the launch of the new Orongo Night Markets, held every second Thursday night at Orongo Park.

Cook Islands Tourism says the markets create a vibrant space for local vendors to sell food, crafts, produce and handmade goods, attracting both locals and visitors in a fun, family-friendly environment.

“It’s not just about shopping – it’s about connection. With music, kai, and community atmosphere, the markets have quickly become a highlight on Aitutaki’s cultural calendar,” Tourism said in a statement.

“The event provides regular income-generating opportunities for small businesses while giving visitors a chance to experience Aitutaki’s hospitality, creativity, and cultural richness in a relaxed setting.”

Manuia’s Kitchen, a Filipino-owned takeaway based in Aitutaki, was among the local stalls at the Orongo Night Market. Their stall opened on the market’s first night, May 1.

It offers a variety of authentic Asian meals, including a wide range of options and dishes to choose from. Last week, the stall sold beef noodle soup, wonton soup, steak mushroom plate and beef stew with rice.

Jennie Cadainggan, co-owner of Manuia’s kitchen, said: “We always look forward to selling at the night market, not only because we will earn from selling but it’s the best time to catch up with friends and have fun as well.”

The Aitutaki resident said that there were more local customers than tourists, with only a few tourists present during the past three nights of the night market.

Cadainggan says Manuia’s Kitchen is beyond grateful to have the opportunity to slowly grow their business and experience working in an open area with the rest of the community.

“This is something different from our daily grind in the kitchen.”

The sales over the past three fortnights have been successful, with all food items selling out each evening. The number of plates of food sold ranged from 200 to 220 per night.

The steak with mushroom sauce on rice has proven to be the most popular offering, and their desserts were also popular amongst the buyers.

According to Cadainggan, not only was their stall having good sales, but other local vendors were also appreciated and attended to by buyers, as there were many locally made products amongst the nine vendors.

Cadainggan thanked Cook Islands Tourism and the Aitutaki Island Council for initiating the Orongo Night Market, as it provides local vendors with an opportunity to grow their small businesses and a chance for people to interact with one another in an open and safe environment.

Cook Islands Tourism said it is proud to be a key sponsor, working closely with the Aitutaki Island Council to bring the vision to life.

“The Orongo Night Markets are more than just an event – they’re a platform for our local community to shine,” said Te’Aumata Rairi, Aitutaki Tourism Coordinator. “It gives small vendors a chance to grow their business, and it gives our visitors a deeper, more authentic experience of who we are.”

“This initiative is a great example of how Cook Islands Tourism is supporting community-led economic development, while also enhancing the visitor experience – in line with the values of the Love our Little Paradise movement and the wider push for responsible, inclusive tourism,” the statement added.