More Top Stories
Top cop position advertised
7 December 2024
Police need numbers and bigger budget
9 December 2024
Niki Rattle: A call for stronger human rights protections
10 December 2024
Solid and Hazardous Waste Bill referred to Parliament committee
10 December 2024
DPM defends CIIC finance and travel policies
6 December 2024
Cook Islands has its first mosque
14 November 2024
CI Muslim opens up about her faith and journey
16 November 2024
RAC to address mosque legality
19 November 2024
I don’t expect much change: PM Brown on US Elections
6 November 2024
Fifth weekly Sydney flight to Rarotonga announced
23 October 2024
CIIC directors seek $350,000 in damages over defamatory claims
21 October 2024
Man found guilty of rape, burglary
24 September 2024
Tenants face water bill burden
8 October 2024
Concerns over Minister’s role in inmate work releases: PAC
5 October 2024
Tourism contribution set to surpass half-billion dollar mark
25 September 2024
Parliament Clerk sparks outrage over deep sea mining statement
23 September 2024
Deep sea dilemma: Cook Islanders weigh the cost of mineral riches
21 September 2024
Anxiety on the rise: Cook Islands faces mental health challenge
7 September 2024
Cook Islands deep sea mining poll sparks controversy
7 September 2024
MCI rejects ‘dark fleet’ label
3 August 2024
Rising seas, rising costs: Climate impacts on Cook Islands economy
2 September 2024
Inflation eases but concerns remain
31 August 2024
Prime Minister defends $659,000 MPs travel bill
23 August 2024
Taxpayers foot $659,000 bill for MPs travel and allowance
22 August 2024
Corruption report exposes ‘bribe and sexual favours’
17 January 2023
PM Brown eager to hand over Forum chair role to Tonga
13 August 2024
ICI explains road works delay in front of old Sheraton site
10 August 2024
Housing crisis hits tourism industry
27 July 2024
MCI rejects ‘dark fleet’ label
3 August 2024
Challenging ‘rape culture’
8 July 2024
Articles by Melina Etches
Mother and sons reunited for Christmas after a decade
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
Family reunions hold a special place in our hearts, serving as a poignant reminder of the bonds that tie us together, no matter the distance.
SIF grants address critical social needs across the Cook Islands
Monday 30 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features
The Cook Islands Social Impact Fund distributed $199,825.20 to 14 successful applicants, including organisations focused on child welfare, education, youth development, women’s empowerment and community health, to support their vital work in addressing social issues and improving the well-being of Cook Islanders.
‘Toughy’ bids farewell to 45-year banking career
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
After a remarkable 45-year career spanning four different banks in the same building, a respected bank employee has retired, leaving a legacy of dedication and service to the community.
Tracing Polynesian roots
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Art, Features
In a significant occasion that celebrates heritage, Pa Marie Upokotini Ariki attended the opening ceremonies of the Austronesian Cultural and Art Exhibition and the Keqiutou Site Museum in Pingtan Island, China, reflecting on the shared heritage of Austronesian peoples and emphasising the importance of understanding their origins, including those of the Cook Islands.
Walking for ‘Dear Love’: A journey of reflection and love
Saturday 28 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Weekend
A Cook Islands businesswoman walked the Camino de Santiago in memory of her late husband, finding solace and healing on the ancient pilgrimage route while honouring their shared love and dreams.
Children bring joy to Christmas service with handcrafted gifts
Friday 27 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Culture, Local, National
Pictured is the Sacred Heart Parish “nativity scene”, also known as the Crèche - a beloved Christian holiday tradition celebrated for centuries. Each year, families and churches set up nativity scenes to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
Boaza family connects with heritage and future generations
Friday 27 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National, Outer Islands
The Boaza family from Atiu was thrilled to host their first-ever family reunion, bringing together 120 relatives from Atiu, Australia, New Zealand and Rarotonga from December 14th to 17th.
Cook Islands Badminton celebrates successes at annual prizegiving
Tuesday 24 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Badminton, Sports
Cook Islands Badminton celebrated its end of year annual prizegiving awards on Friday night that honoured the dedication and achievements of players in all levels.
Met Service staff on duty through Christmas
Tuesday 24 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in National, Weather
Cook Islands Meteorological Service staff will be at work throughout the Christmas holidays, ensuring that our community stays informed about the ever-changing weather conditions.
Christmas stock lost in devastating Mangaia fire
Tuesday 24 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Business, National, Outer Islands
Over the weekend, a blazing fire in Oneroa, Mangaia, originating from faulty electrical wiring destroyed a shop, a storage building and the neighbouring home.
Social Impact Fund awards $199,825 to 14 community projects
Saturday 21 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National, Outer Islands
The Cook Islands Social Impact Fund approved 14 proposals totalling $199,825.20 from 21 applications, supporting community initiatives across Rarotonga and the Pa Enua, with a focus on sports, wellness and youth development.
New mammography machine offers improved breast cancer detection
Saturday 21 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Features, Health, Local
The arrival of the new mammography machine in the Cook Islands marks a significant advancement in women’s health, enabling earlier detection of breast cancer and potentially saving lives.
Christmas blessings for community champions
Saturday 21 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
Christmas came early for two amazing people who have a passion for serving our community, thanks to Vodafone Cook Islands.
Promoting local crafts for Christmas gifts
Friday 20 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Business, Culture, National
As the festive holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving and community shines brighter than ever.
Hospital gifted transfer wheelchairs
Friday 20 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Health, National
Land Holdings Ltd and Ocean Fresh Ltd have donated 19 I-MOVE BMB Medical transfer wheelchairs to Te Marae Ora that will allow the reception of the patient and his/her transport in a sitting position.
A new era for women’s rugby league
Thursday 19 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Rugby league, Sports
The world of rugby league has seen a significant growth and recognition for female athletes, highlighting their skill, determination and passion for the game.
Search for family of WWI hero John Tuaine Apa
Thursday 19 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in National
The New Zealand Remembrance Army is searching for the family of John Tuaine Apa, a Cook Islander who served as a Corporal in the New Zealand Pioneer (Māori) Battalion, Rarotongan Company, during World War I.
Apii Rutaki celebrates diamond jubilee
Thursday 19 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Education, Local, National
Once threatened with closure, Rarotonga’s smallest primary school celebrated its 60th anniversary yesterday, highlighting its resilience and dedication to nurturing young minds.
Cook Islands Rugby Union hosts ‘She’s a Ruckstar’ Christmas beach rugby festival
Wednesday 18 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Rugby Union, Sports
The Cook Islands Rugby Union (CIRU) is hosting the ‘She’s A Ruckstar’ Christmas beach rugby fun festival for girls to provide a safe and fun learning space to start their rugby journey in a less intimidating environment.
Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau’s youth programme fosters cultural connection
Wednesday 18 December 2024 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Culture, Education, Local, National
Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau’s ‘Ātui’anga ki te Tango (AKTT) youth programme continues its holistic learning activities for youth and families, immersing them in learning about Cook Islands culture, its values and natural environment, to promote cultural connection.
