--- title: Coconut Connection🌴| v2 | 6 August 2024 --- People's Choice Awards, Travel Guides, and more... | View in browser Welcome to the new look of COCONUT CONNECTION
 Your tourism industry update from Cook Islands Tourism.  Cook Islands Tourism Joins Global Sustainable Tourism Council   The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CIT) announces its new membership in the prestigious Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). CIT Chief Executive Karla Eggelton shared more on this new partnership: “Joining the Global Sustainable Tourism Council is a significant step for us. GSTC is recognised globally as the leading organisation that seeks to ensure Tourism fulfils its potential as a vehicle for social, cultural, and economic good while removing and avoiding any negative impacts from its activities in terms of environmental and social impacts." As part of this new collaboration, GSTC experts will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the Cook Islands' approach to destination stewardship, working closely with CIT’s Destination Development team and engaging a wide group of stakeholders to ensure an inclusive approach. READ MORE... CIT Boosts Research and Insights for Responsible Tourism   The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CIT) is enhancing our research and insights initiatives to support responsible tourism. By adding an 'always on' approach to our existing surveys, we aim to provide timely and actionable insights into the tourism landscape. Supported by the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative (PTDI) and funded by the Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO), this includes the International Visitor Survey, Business Confidence Index, Community Attitudes Towards Tourism surveys, and a new quarterly accommodation survey. Brad Kirner, Director of Destination Development, states: “Better data and insights are crucial for guiding our approach to responsible tourism.” READ MORE... Tourism Updates Cook Islands Tourism Joins 'Climate Action Training for Destinations   Destination Development team members Tina Kae, Jean Nootai and Brad Kirner have been selected to take part in the ‘Climate Action Training for Destinations’ program.  An initiative from the Travel Foundation and Expedia Travel Groups, the programme is designed to enhance climate action strategies and sustainable tourism practices. We’re excited to gain new insights and strategies that will help us enhance our sustainability practices and share these valuable learnings with the broader Cook Islands tourism industry.  READ MORE... Experience the Arataki Organic Tour    Discover the heart of sustainable gardening on the Arataki Organic Garden Tour. Led by passionate locals Mirella and Katoa Mairi, the tour offers a unique journey into the world of organic farming and regenerative gardening. Gain authentic insights into the Cook Islanders’ deep-rooted connection to their land through their commitment to organic practices. READ MORE... Welcome to #TeamTourism Esther! Joining the Tourism Family as our new Digital Coordinator (and part of the Digital Marketing team) is Esther Tetava. After a year with Vonnias Ltd as their Digital Marketing Coordinator, Esther has spent the better part of the last 10 years in Australia working in E-commerce & Digital Marketing. Returning to the Cook Islands was inevitable for her, raising her children in Rarotonga and giving them the same upbringing she had. Esther says she is "Happy to be a part of the team and excited to see what I can bring to the table!"  New appointment in Aitutaki Office   We are thrilled to introduce Twin Kiria as the newest appointment to Cook Islands Tourism's Aitutaki office. Twin brings with her passion and experience from her previous role as Vaine Meet & Greet at Aitutaki's airport since 2022. In her new position as Tourism Officer, she will have the opportunity to further showcase her passion for Aitutaki through a diverse range of new responsibilities. We look forward to seeing Twin flourish in her new role.  Photojournalist to showcase Cook Islands for National Geographic Photojournalist Adrienne Pitts teams up with Cook Islands Tourism to inspire global adventurers. Pitts will create a multi-page, image-driven feature on the Cook Islands for one of the UK's leading travel magazines, National Geographic Traveller. This collaboration highlights sustainable travel and celebrates the island's rich culture through Pitts photography. The feature will showcase the Cook Islands traditional crafts, delicious local cuisine, and the breathtaking beauty of Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Rediscover the Cook Islands with Will & James   They're back in paradise! After their unforgettable trip with their moms this April, Will and James have updated their beloved Cook Islands travel guide. From their first visit in 2018 to this recent adventure, they share insider tips, stunning photos, and local secrets. LEARN MORE Newly installed Eco-toilets in Mangaia   Cook Islands Tourism has successfully completed the long-awaited eco-toilets installation on the island of Mangaia. Situated at Lake Tiriara and Araoa Beach, these eco-toilets provide vital sanitation amenities while prioritising minimal environmental footprint. This project follows the successful installation of eco-toilets on the island of Atiu in November 2023, where facilities were placed at Taungaroro Beach and Matai Beach. READ MORE People's Choice Awards Nominations closing soon!   The 2024 Cook Islands People's Choice Awards (PCA) was launched on the 10th July and nominations are closing TOMORROW! We encourage you to share the PCA news on your social media platforms and invite your guests and customers to submit nominations. NOMINATE NOW! Industry Updates Teking Lagoon Cruise New Boat Introducing 'Kura o Te Ra,' the sleek and modern third addition to the Teking Tours fleet, officially launched and blessed on 22nd July 2024. Capacity for 26 guests, the slender design of this new vessel can navigate the lagoon with ease, accessing areas that larger boats cannot reach. Operating Mon-Sat, call call 31582 or visit tekingtours.com to book. Resort Tava'e New Restaurant   The new beachfront restaurant at Resort Tava'e boasts a diverse menu featuring a mix of western classics and local delights. The restaurant officially opened in mid-July 2024 with a seating capacity for 100 guests. Open 7 days a week for breakfast lunch & dinner. Ph: 31842. Soon to introduce weekly Island Night experience, watch this space! Digital Tip Short-Form Video: The New Social Media Magic!   What’s the Buzz? Short-form videos are like the TikToks and Instagram Reels of the digital world—quick, snappy, and super engaging! They’re perfect for catching eyeballs and spreading your message in a flash.   Why It’s Awesome: Quick Fix: These videos are usually 15 to 60 seconds long, so they’re easy to watch and even easier to share. Instant Fun: They’re made for quick laughs, aha moments, or instant inspiration. People scroll through them like popcorn! How to Rock It: Hook ‘Em Fast: Start with something that grabs attention right away. A catchy intro or a surprising fact can reel viewers in! Keep It Snappy: No long-winded stories here. Get to the point quickly and keep the energy high. Quick cuts and fun music make a big difference! Join the Trend: Jump on trending challenges, dances, or audio clips. It’s a great way to get noticed and connect with what’s buzzing. Add a Twist: Put your unique spin on popular trends or themes. Personalize it to fit your brand’s vibe and keep it fresh! Pro Tip: Make sure to include a call-to-action (CTA) at the end, like “Follow for more tips!” or “Check out our bio for more info!” It helps guide your viewers on what to do next.   In a Nutshell: Short-form videos are your ticket to viral fun and engaging content! Keep it brief, keep it lively, and watch your social media sparkle.  Events & Activities View all Events List your Event National Events 5 - 19 October: Cook Islands Games, Rarotonga   Sporting Events 16 - 22 September: Netball World Youth Cup Regional Qualifiers 19 - 25 September: Round Rarotonga Road Race  24 - 31 October: Cook Islands Squash Open 4 - 8 November: Rarotonga Legends Vets Golf Week 7 - 10 November: The Aitutaki Liftoff 7 - 9 November: Raro Rugby 7's, National Stadium 22 - 29 November: Vaka Eiva 30 November - 6 December: BSP Netball in Paradise   Concerts and Music Events 24 August: Sunset Sessions by Coco House Bros, Vaiana's 21.3  7 September: Shiny Disco Box by Coco House Bros, Hula Bar 27 September: Rehab Ministry by Coco House Bros, Rehab Nightclub 5 October: Peeled + Pulped Beach Party, Aroa Beachside Inn & Shipwreck Bar 12 October: Shiny Disco Box by Coco House Bros, Hula Bar   Conferences & Expos  2 - 6 September: Pacific Water and Wastewater Conference & Expo 15 - 21 September: Underwater Minerals Conference (UMC)   Travel Trade Shows (Attended by Cook Islands Tourism) 5 - 14 August 2024: Treasures of the South Pacific, Australia 9 - 13 December 2024: USTOA Annual Conference & Marketplace, Florida  9 - 10 May 2025: South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2025, Nadi, Fiji   Consumer Travel Shows (Attended by Cook Islands Tourism) 24 - 25 January 2025: Utah Travel Expo, Salt Lake City 15 - 16 February 2025: Travel & Adventure Show, Phoenix 22 - 23 February 2025: Travel & Adventure Show, Los Angeles 8 - 9 March 2025: Travel & Adventure Show, Denver 15 - 16 March 2025: Travel & Adventure Show, Bay Area 22 - 23 March 2025: Travel & Adventure Show, Dallas Industry Links Flight Schedules Air New Zealand Jetstar Air Rarotonga / Air Tahiti Hawaiian Airlines Air Rarotonga - Domestic Raro Tours Transfer Schedule Other Links Create/Update Website Listing List an Offer Image/Video Gallery Safety Resources Cook Islands Tourism, P.O. 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