Your tourism industry update from Cook Islands Tourism.
World Sustainable Day 2024
"Sustainability Starts with Us: Protecting Our Paradise Through Responsible Choices"
After a successful collaboration between Climate Change Cook Islands and Cook Islands Tourism for World Ocean Day, both organisations are committed to continued teamwork to promote a sustainable and eco-conscious future on our islands and ocean for our people. In support of World Sustainable Day, Climate Change CK invites everyone to participate in a Carbon Footprint Survey, aimed at gathering data from industries, ministries, and community members on workplace and residential emissions. In March 2024, Cook Islands Tourism participated in a Carbon Footprint Survey conducted by Climate Change CK, which measured petrol, electricity, and travel usage from July 2023 - March 2024. This data provided them with valuable insights that will help guide Cook Islands in making smarter, eco-friendly decisions, highlighting the importance of working together to create a more responsible and sustainable future. Do your part by taking the Carbon Footprint Survey below.
Through Our Paradise, Our Promise, Cook Islands Tourism Corporation is leading the development of an independent Destination Management Plan to guide tourism sustainably. Last week, Dr. David Ermen joined CIT to train staff and engage stakeholders, laying the foundation for a framework that aligns with the Love our Little Paradise brandâs promise. This initiative invites us all to act as mana tiaki, balancing tourism's benefits for future generations.
The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CIT) is leading the development of a sustainable Destination Management Plan called Our Paradise, Our Promise, designed to reflect the communityâs vision and values. This initiative builds on the Love our Little Paradise brand strategy by creating a standalone framework that aligns tourism with environmental and cultural wellbeing. CIT recently hosted destination management expert Dr. David Ermen, who provided training and guidance to establish a balanced approach between economic growth and heritage preservation. As it progresses, the plan will offer a roadmap for managing tourismâs impact and benefits sustainably.
New ropes installed to ensure a safer Cross Island Trek route
For those doing the Cross-Island walk, please be aware of changes to the paths. The official eastern path remains the primary route, while an alternative route, the âpipeline track,â crosses a major electricity cable that requires frequent maintenance. Te Aponga Uira will be marking this path with signage and a barrier to indicate it is not for public use, prioritising safety and access for maintenance teams. Please inform guests to follow the new signs and respect the safety barriers. Maunga Tours owner and guide Bruce Goldsworthy is working with Te Aponga Uira to install safety ropes along the eastern path to ensure a safer and more secure route. Cook Islands Tourism always recommend to go with a guide, see our safety messages HERE!
Supporting Aitutaki's Path to a Sustainable, Zero-Waste Future
Aitutaki, one of the Cook Islands' most beautiful islands, is facing a critical waste management challenge as it currently relies on a makeshift landfill. Recognising the urgency, Resetâs 2020 Spatial Plan has prioritised waste management. In December, Sophie Ward from WÄnaka Wastebusters will visit Aitutaki to share expertise in waste reduction and inspire the community to create a zero-waste programme. To support this initiative, 12 Wanaka landscape paintings are being offered for sale, with all proceeds going toward the project, inviting art lovers and environmental advocates to support sustainability efforts across island communities.
Cook Islands Tourism Engages Italian Agents with Unique Events
Cook Islands Tourism (CIT) recently partnered with Cathay Pacific and local representative Roberta Bertazza from Turama to host the "Love our Little Ka Kai" events in Italy. These events invited top travel agents to explore the Cook Islands culture and sustainable practices. With key contributions from CIT's Southern European market representative, Nick Costantini, the initiative aims to strengthen relationships with select agents and promote the Cook Islands as a unique travel destination.
Jetstar Introduces Fifth Weekly Non-Stop Service from Sydney to Rarotonga
Jetstar is set to boost its flight services to the Cook Islands by launching a fifth weekly non-stop service from Sydney, starting in May 2025. This addition is expected to increase Australian visitor numbers by 25%, providing a significant boost to the local economy. Prime Minister Mark Brown highlighted the impact of this expansion, stating, "Tourism is the backbone of our nation, and every additional flight brings more opportunities for our businesses, communities, and islands beyond Rarotonga, particularly Aitutaki. Australians are known for staying longer and spending more, which directly benefits our local people and supports sustainable growth across our islands."
The new service, running for six months of the year, is expected to bring over 40,000 visitors in 2025, contributing to sustainable growth in the Cook Islands.
The latest visitor numbers have just been released and are available on the Cook Islands Statistics Office website. This update provides a comprehensive look at recent trends in tourism and resident travel. To explore the full report and stay informed about visitor statistics. Learn more HERE!
Welcome Gina Weis to the Cook Islands Tourism Family!
Gina Weis has joined the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation's Destination Marketing team. With a background in International Business and Management from Germany and Brazil at 26 years of age she brings diverse global experience, having worked as an Employer Branding Manager and led Diversity and Inclusion initiatives. A passionate traveler who has visited over 40 countries, Gina now resides in the Cook Islands and is excited to apply her knowledge and expertise to support the Digital Marketing team, with a focus on European markets.
Industry Updates
King Drydens Aqua Ventures
Experience the magic of Muri Lagoon at night in clear kayaks and stand-up paddle boards with color-changing LED lights. Glide through tranquil waters as the vibrant hues illuminate the lagoon beneath a starry sky. Enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings and create unforgettable memories on this enchanting night adventure.
Exciting new codeshare partnership between Air Tahiti and Air Rarotonga
Air Tahiti Nui and Air Rarotonga have announced an exciting new codeshare partnership, which aims to enhance connectivity by offering seamless travel options for U.S. and European travellers in particular, making it easier to visit the Cook Islands and ensuring steady visitor arrivals year-round. Last week a small delegation made up of the Air Rarotonga and Cook Islands Tourism destination marketing team were in Tahiti to meet with Air Tahiti Nui, and other partners, to discuss cross collaborative marketing plans to promote and capitalize on the codeshare partnership...read moreHERE!
Arataki Organic Garden Tour Marks Exciting Progress with New Signage!
The Arataki Organic Garden Tour has garnered significant interest over the past three months of operation. They are excited to announce the addition of their own signage, marking a key milestone in their development. To check out their tour click HERE!
Newly opened Tumutoa Local Cafe welcomes you!
Tumutoa Tours has just opened Tumutoa Local Cafe (TLC) right in the heart of Arorangi. Whether you're after a morning pick-me-up or a tasty lunch, between 7am-2pm, Monday to Friday. Head down and enjoy a warm welcome. To find our more click HERE!
You Are Invited!
The Cook Islands Meteorological Service, in collaboration with the Pacific Community (SPC) requests the participation of your agency/organisation in a national consultation on Ocean Science to Services.
When: Thursday 31st October 2024
Where: Crown Beach Resort & Spa Conference Room
The workshop aims to increase the awareness on ocean science, map stakeholder information needs and facilitate discussion aimed at improving ocean and marine services as well as enhancing early warning capability in the Cook Islands. Participants will also have an opportunity to discuss needs and gaps around ocean outlooks, forecasts and Early Warning Systems, and deliberate on way forward in addressing them.
Calling all Cook Islands Industry to feature your business in Islandtime Magazine 2025!
Islandtime Magazine is excited to be working on it's 2025 editions of Pacific Romance and Pacific Family Time. They are currently curating content for their Cook Islands features and welcome contributions from all key industry in the Cook Islands. If you are interested in showcasing your business please contact Fran McDermott: fran@islandtime.co.nz
Digital Tips
Tips for Using ChatGPT in Copywriting
While using ChatGPT for copywriting can be a helpful starting point, itâs important to remember that you should never simply copy and paste the AI-generated content into your work as-is. AI provides a foundation, but it lacks the nuances of your personal voice, brand tone, and specific industry knowledge. To make the content truly your own, itâs crucial to revise and tailor it so that it aligns with the tone, style, and unique messaging of your business. Below are some essential tips to help you refine AI-generated copy:
Add Personal Insights: Incorporate your own experiences to make the content feel more authentic.
Adjust Tone and Style: Modify the tone to fit your brand, whether casual, playful, or professional.
Use Creative Language: Avoid clichĂŠs and generic phrases by adding unique expressions.
Include Industry-Specific Knowledge: Add local or niche details to make content more relatable.
Add Emotion: Inject personality, humour, or strong opinions for more impact.
Edit for Redundancy: Remove unnecessary repetition and keep it concise.
Verify Accuracy: Double-check facts, dates, and references.
Polish the Flow: Rearrange for smooth transitions and clarity.
Vary Sentence Structure: Mix up sentence lengths for a more dynamic read.
Ensure Consistency: Check for consistency in terms, names, and formatting.
Watch for Overused Words: Swap out repetitive terms like "enhance" or "leverage."
Check Spelling: Ensure spelling aligns with your audience, whether itâs US or UK English etc.
By following these tips, you can transform AI-generated content into polished, personalised copy.
Events & Activities
Rarotonga Legends Vets 55+ Golf or Spa?
Get ready for the Rarotonga Legends Vets 55+ Golf Week from November 4-8! This is the perfect getaway for all golfers, local and international, aged 55 and over to hit the greens and enjoy the stunning views of Rarotonga. If youâd rather unwind, indulge in a $200 spa credit at The Edgewater Resort & Spa. With plenty of fun activities and relaxation options, itâs a great way to connect with fellow golf lovers or simply enjoy some pampering in paradise. Read more HERE!
đ Expression of Interest: 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway! đ
We can already hear the sleigh bells ringing and Mariah Carey is just about ready to thaw out, which means Christmas is coming! đśâ¨
Weâre gearing up for our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway, and we want to sprinkle some holiday magic with the help of our amazing local businesses.
Have a product or services that could be the ultimate Christmas treat? Nowâs your chance to participate and join the festive fun!
In return, weâll gift you 24 hours of Facebook and Instagram fame, showcasing your product or service to our followers. đđ
If youâre keen to spread the cheer and get your brand some jolly good exposure, email esther.tetava@cookislands.travel by 01 Nov 2024. Letâs make this Christmas one to remember! đđ
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