The teeming rain hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm of over 100 students who are attending Te Kōrero o te 'Ōrau's Junior 'Ātui'anga Ki Te Tango 2023 (AKTT) school holiday programme.

Kōrero o te `ōrau translates to “knowledge of the sky, land, and sea”, their students are immersed in learning about Cook Islands culture, its values and natural environment.

The popular week long programme is held at the Apii Nikao hall and supported by several tutors who teach and share their cultural knowledge to the kids.

Jackie Rongo the secretary of Te Kōrero O Te `Ōrau said “the feedback from the parents has been great.”

Although some of the outdoor activities had to be modified because of the consistent rain and activities and presentations have continued indoors the kids are happy and in good spirits, she added.

“The senior students of Atui'anga ki te Tango have also stepped up and are helping out having already embraced the programme,” said Rongo.

“This is a journey for the kids to learn about Cook Islands culture and its history.”

Yesterday Te Marae Ora and the Voyaging Society had stations for the kids which involved presentations and demonstrations about mental health, oral health, the dangers of smoking and vaping, rope tying, life jacket safety and compass directions.

Cultural activities have included: rangaranga (weaving) with kikau, legends of Tuoro with Danny Mataroa, rere rākau, a natural resources fashion show, imene tuki (hymns) umu (underground oven) preparation demonstration, rore (stilts) and legend story telling.

Students have also learnt and upskilled in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid skills which are useful in times of emergencies to help others  from the Cook Islands Red Cross Society and instructor Rose Winters.

Kōrero O Te `Ōrau is an environmental non-governmental organization (NGO) incorporated in 2017, consisting of Cook Islanders who are passionate about protecting the culture, environment and natural resources of the nation.