Coconut Connection🌴| 12 November 2024 v9

Welcome to
COCONUT CONNECTION 

Your tourism industry update from Cook Islands Tourism.

Kia Orana and welcome to this edition of Coconut Connection!

You’ll notice a refreshed structure in this issue, designed with you in mind to make it even more enjoyable and relevant. We’d love to hear your feedback—what’s working for you, and if there’s anything you’d like to see more (or less) of! Just drop us a note at cc@cookislands.travel.

Even as we enter the shoulder season, our islands are still buzzing, with a strong visitor turnout in September of 17,381 arrivals, and October (numbers out shortly) is shaping up just as well. It’s exciting to see our efforts in encouraging year-round travel paying off, as we continue our commitment to a sustainable tourism economy.

Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Atiu and meeting with the Island Council to discuss our ongoing work in fostering sustainable tourism and bringing more visitors to the beautiful Pa Enua. Dr Kelly Bricker from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) joined me in Atiu also. Keep an eye out this week for some fantastic new visuals, as David Kirkland and Ron Spohn are on the ground capturing fresh content to share the magic of the Cook Islands with the world.

Back at the office, we’re thrilled to celebrate a big milestone: over 1 million followers on our Facebook page! Facebook has been a fantastic way for us to connect with such a wide range of visitors, and we’re grateful to each of you who follows, engages, and shares our content—it truly showcases the love we all have for our little paradise.

Enjoy reading this edition, and as always, Kia Manuia!

Karla

Updates from Us

Cook Islands and Hawaiian Airlines partner with Nolan Omura

Ocean photographer and videographer, Nolan Omura, is teaming up with Cook Islands Tourism and Hawaiian Airlines to showcase the Cook Islands to his 2 million followers on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. By highlighting the convenience of Hawaiian Airlines' direct flights, Nolan aims to inspire travellers to explore the pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture of the Cook Islands. Nolan's previous collaborations with brands like Moncler, Breitling, Nike, and GoPro attest to his exceptional talent and ability to capture stunning imagery. Check out his social channels IG: @nolanomura FB: @nolanomura

Tiktok: @nolanomura

Cook Islands Tourism wins big with People's Choice Awards campaign

We are thrilled to share the news that our digital marketing efforts for the 2024 Cook Islands People's Choice Awards won Gold in the Strategic Communications category at the International MarCom Awards recently. The prestigious MarCom Awards, honour excellence in marketing and communications, with about 6,500 entries annually from around the world. This award recognises the best-practice expertise of our marketing team here at Cook Islands Tourism. We are particularly proud to have won the award for our efforts celebrating the best of our people here at home. Read full article HERE

Sustainability Assessment for Cook Islands Tourism lead by Dr. Kelly Bricker's

Dr. Kelly Bricker, a sustainable tourism expert and Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) board member, visited us last week as part of our work to develop a sustainable destination that not only meets the needs of our visitors, but also enriches the lives of our people for generations.

Dr. Bricker and members of our leadership team met with island leaders, stakeholders, ministries, NGO’s and local community in Atiu, Aitutaki and Rarotonga to identify priorities for long-term sustainability. Her work here will feed into our delivery framework for sustainable tourism. Find out what sustainable tourism can mean here.

Industry Updates

Local business Smartie is ready to launch, and business owners are invited to find out more at an event on Friday

The team behind Smartie describe the Smartie Merchant App a cutting-edge financial solution designed to transform payments for South Pacific businesses. Its tools simplify operations, speed up transactions, cut costs and boost cash flow.
Its features include a payroll system, streamlined transactions, and systems for tour bookings, foodordering and ride share, with Xero integrations coming soon.

Head along to the Edgewater Conference Room from 1-2.30pm, 15 November, to be one of the first to see what Smartie is all about.

Register HERE To get in touch with our team: marketing@smartie.com

Aitutaki Liftoff Inspires the Next Generation

Aitutaki Liftoff, the annual fitness festival, held from the 7th to 9th of November, ignited the spirit of health and wellness on the island. A highlight of the event was a "give back" program at Araura College, where over 200 students were inspired by these international athletes.

Jeannie Magenta from Canada, motivated the students with her incredible story of overcoming adversity and achieving her fitness goals.
Nicole Kamala and Leilani from Hawaii, both members of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, shared their experiences sailing the Pacific Ocean on the Hokule‘a, emphasising the importance of cultural heritage and environmental stewardship.
Terangi Tereu, a returning Aitutakian residing in New Zealand, inspired the students with her courage and determination.

These international athletes, many of whom have deep ties to the Pacific, proved that anyone, regardless of their background or fitness level, can benefit from an active lifestyle. Cook Islands Tourism is proud to support this event, bringing locals and visitors together to celebrate Aitutaki's health, wellness, and unique beauty.

Useful Tools

Behind-the-Scenes Holiday Prep

Give your followers a festive, behind-the-scenes look at your holiday preparations by sharing photos and videos of your team in action! This sneak peek builds excitement, adds a personal touch to your social media, and lets followers feel like part of the celebration. Try showcasing these key moments:
Decking the Halls – Show the team putting up holiday decorations around the property, like fairy lights, wreaths, or tropical-themed Christmas decor.
Creating Holiday Specials – Capture chefs preparing seasonal menu items, special cocktails, or any festive treats that guests can look forward to.
Assembling Gift Packages – Feature staff wrapping up holiday gift packages, vouchers, or special items for guests. A great way to promote holiday offerings!
Prepping Festive Activities – If there are any unique holiday experiences planned (like beach bonfires or live music), show a sneak peek of the setup.
Spreading Holiday Cheer – Share a quick video of the team in festive outfits or holiday accessories, smiling and sending greetings to guests and followers.

Event's & Activities

Vaka Eiva

Mark your calendars for the 20th annual Vaka Eiva event, a week-long celebration of paddling. This event will take place from November 17th to 23rd, attracting paddlers from around the globe.

Avarua Harbour will be the centre of action, with thrilling ocean races and sprint finishes. While registrations are now closed, you can still show your support for your favourite team.

Check out the full program here