Welcome to
COCONUT CONNECTION 

Your tourism industry update from Cook Islands Tourism.

Kia Orana and welcome to this edition of Coconut Connection!

As we near the end of the year, it’s been a productive period for the tourism sector. October visitor numbers reached a record 16,380, up 9% from last year, and with Vaka Eiva in full swing, November is looking promising.

Last week channel nine in Australia aired a repeat showing of Travel Guides - Cook Islands segment. This #1 travel show in Australia was supported by advertising and activity by the Corporation and the spike in interest have boosted bookings for the outer months.

Other recent highlights include Cook Islands Tourism's participation in the Cook Islands–Australia Canberra Fellowship Programme, where key discussions with partners centered on responsible tourism, innovation, and experience design. I also attended the SPTO Council of Tourism Ministers Meeting with Hon. Teokotai Herman, focusing on regional collaboration and advancing our interests in the Pacific.

On-island, the launch of our Marine Wildlife Guidelines marked another step forward in sustainability, while a visit to Atiu with Dr. Kelly Bricker further reinforced our commitment to responsible tourism development.

Looking ahead, we’re advancing the Destination Stewardship Plan and Industry Standards Refresh initiatives, both key to ensuring a sustainable and high-quality tourism future.

With just 28 days until Christmas, let’s focus on wrapping up projects and preparing for a well-earned break. As always, I welcome your feedback—reach out at cc@cookislands.travel.

Kia Manuia,
Karla

Updates from Us

Our Paradise, Our Promise: Joins Us in Shaping Responsible Tourism

Cook Islands Tourism is committed to helping develop a more responsible tourism model. To achieve this, we're advancing two key initiatives: the Destination Stewardship Plan (DSP) and the Industry Standards Refresh (ISR). The DSP will create a strategic framework for responsible tourism, aligned with our National Sustainable Development Agenda. The ISR will enhance industry knowledge and operator standards.

To lead these transformative projects, we're seeking a dedicated Responsible Tourism Project Lead. Click here for more information or scan the QR code.

OPOP Responsible Tourism Project Lead (560 x 280 px) (3)

Aitutaki Schools Receive Gifts from Zaandam Cruise Travellers

On November 21 2024, CIT staff delivered much-needed stationery supplies to two Aitutaki primary schools, Tekaaroa Adventist and Vaitau Primary. These generous donations were made possible by kind-hearted visitors aboard the Zaandam Cruise Ship. Over 1,300 of the ship's 1,432 passengers visited Aitutaki this month. Both schools expressed their gratitude to the donors and wished them well on their '56-day Tales of the South Pacific' journey.

Meitaki Atupaka to Bob & Becky Prosch (USA) and Jennifer Burianek (Canada) who have have since been updated about their positive impact on our little paradise.

Seattle Radio Icons Discover Our Little Paradise

Cook Islands Tourism North America, in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines and Seattle’s 95.7 The Jet/iHeartMedia, recently welcomed popular morning radio hosts Jodi and Bender to experience the magic of our islands where they immersed themselves in the destination’s unique offerings for both couples and families.

Click here for more information about their trip.

Aitutaki Liftoff 2024: A Celebration of Fitness, Community, and Culture

Once a year, the serene island paradise of Aitutaki transforms into a vibrant fitness hub for the Aitutaki Liftoff—a unique event that celebrates functional fitness and community spirit.

Athletes from Canada, Hawaii, New Zealand, and Rarotonga joined the event’s adult Opens and Beginners categories, while six youth teams from Araura College showcased young talent aged 12 to 17. This year also marked the introduction of the Local Village category, creating a new platform for community pride and participation.

Event Director Dani Adendorff shared her enthusiasm: “This event is about inclusion. Village sports are central to community life here, so we wanted to incorporate that sense of rivalry and teamwork into something new and exciting for everyone.”

Click here to read more about Aitutaki Liftoff 2024.

Industry Updates

Waterfoot House: Luxury Beachfront Villa Complex Reopens on Rarotonga’s Sunset Coast

Waterfoot House, the exclusive 4-suite beachfront villa complex in Rarotonga, has reopened its doors under new management. This stunning property offers guests a secluded and luxurious escape with stunning ocean views, a 20-meter infinity pool, and private cabanas.

Click here for more information about Waterfoot House. For bookings, please contact: Tim & Lucile Meyer - relax@waterfoothouse.com

Resort Tava'e Commences Weekly Island Night

Beginning November 26th, Aitutaki's Tava’e Resort will host an exciting weekly Island-night dinner every Tuesday. Guests can indulge in a delicious Cook Island buffet, enjoy a captivating cultural show, and take in breathtaking beachfront views. The evening culminates with a spectacular fire performance, creating an unforgettable experience.

To reserve your spot, click here or contact the team at (+682) 31842.

Successful Delivery of Boatmasters Course in Aitutaki

From 18–22 November, the Boatmasters course was delivered in Aitutaki by CITTI's Deon Wong and Aitutaki Boating Education's Onu Hewett. This session also included VHF radio-operator certification for the first time.

All twenty participants successfully completed the programme, contributing to improved marine safety and operator standards across the Cook Islands.

Cook Islands Tourism sponsored this initiative to support professional development for local boat operators and enhance the delivery of safe, high-quality maritime experiences.

For more information on industry training opportunities, visit CITTI's website.

Streamline Your Cook Islands Bookings with Turama Pacific

Turama Pacific Travel Group now offers a new online booking platform for travel agents, providing access to Cook Islands properties, transfers, tours, and flights with live inventory and instant booking confirmation. Locally owned since 1990, Turama enhances its services with this platform. For access, contact vacation@islandhopper.co.ck.

Turtles Bubble Tea: A Refreshing New Addition to Rarotonga

Turtles Bubble Tea has officially opened its doors on the main road in Panama, offering Rarotonga an authentic bubble tea café experience.

Located between Onu Sportswear Shop and Manea by Cici, Turtles Bubble Tea invites you to enjoy a refreshing selection of bubble tea flavours, real fruit ice creams, and a wide variety of other treats. All of this is served in a fully air-conditioned café, providing the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're after a sweet pick-me-up or a cool spot to enjoy a treat, Turtles Bubble Tea is your new go-to destination.

Filipino-Fusion Dining in Paradise

Kaena Restaurant has reopened its doors in Arorangi, near the Rarotongan Resort, bringing Filipino-fusion cuisine to Rarotonga. As the island’s first restaurant of its kind, Kaena blends traditional Filipino flavours with influences from Western, Asian, and Cook Islands culinary traditions.

The menu features an array of thoughtfully crafted dishes that celebrate bold flavours and innovative combinations, offering something unique for every palate.

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort Farm to Table Experience

Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort is redefining sustainability with its self-sustaining farm. Guests enjoy farm-to-table dining featuring organic produce grown on-site and can actively participate in planting and harvesting. This innovative approach celebrates Aitutaki’s biodiversity, enriches Motu Akitua, and highlights the natural beauty and kai natura of the Cook Islands. For more information about the programme click here.

Useful Tools

Optimise Your Google Business Profile

In the Cook Islands, businesses could greatly benefit from adding more details to their profiles, such as phone numbers, location and map, operating hours, full menus, and complete lists of services. By providing this information, you make it easier for customers to connect with and choose your business, ensuring a better experience for everyone!

7 Steps to Optimise Your Google Business Profile

1. Claim & Verify: Visit [Google Business Profile] (https://www.google.com/business) to claim your profile and verify your business.
2. Complete Info: Add your name, address, phone number, website, and operating hours. Keep it accurate and up-to-date.
3. Use Photos & Videos: Upload high-quality images and short videos showcasing your business, products, or services.
4. Write a Great Description: Highlight what makes your business unique. Use keywords to improve search visibility.
5. Encourage Reviews: Ask happy customers to leave reviews and respond to them—thank positive ones and address negatives professionally.
6. Post Updates: Share news, promotions, or events to keep your profile active and engaging.
7. Monitor Performance: Use Google’s analytics to track profile views, calls, and clicks, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Events & Activities

Vaka Eiva 2024

Mark your calendars for the 20th annual Vaka Eiva event, a week-long celebration of paddling. This event will take place from November 22nd to 29th 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