Inspiring Aitutaki’s children to protect the future of our precious ocean - School children in Aitutaki learned about the importance of loving "our little paradise" by becoming sacred guardians and sharing this same mana with our visitors. They explored how climate change threatens oceans and the environment, understanding how warm temperatures cause coral bleaching. Marine Resources engaged the children with underwater activities conducted by scientists who measured and counted different species of marine life relying on healthy oceans.

Following these educational sessions, Senior Science Students from Araura College were invited by Pacific Resort Aitutaki to participate in their coral planting initiative. Hosted by Joeli Vuadreu, the students learned about the Resort's innovative approach to coral restoration, using recycled crushed glass instead of sand in their planting process. This experience inspired the students, prompting some to inquire about volunteering regularly on Tuesdays, joining visitors in coral planting activities at the Resort.

Meanwhile, Individualised Educational Plan (IEP) students visited the pāua sanctuary at the Aitutaki Marine Research Centre (AMRC). Feedback from the students included gratitude for a rewarding day of discovery about coral and marine life, underscoring the value of hands-on educational experiences in fostering environmental stewardship among young learners.

There was a great turnout from the community at Base One, starting the day with a prayer before splitting into groups to cover an area from Arutanga to Base One (Ministry of Marine Resources Pā’ua Hatchery). School children from both primary and secondary schools, government workers, council members, and community elders joined forces and together collected over 25 sacks of rubbish, which Infrastructure Aitutaki sorted and disposed of appropriately. Special acknowledgment goes to Bobby Bishop from the Island Council for his support in collecting all the rubbish.

Volunteers assisted the Ministry of Marine Resources, led by Tutu Turua, in collecting crown-of-thorns (taramea) starfish in Aitutaki lagoon which was later buried by Infrastructure Aitutaki.

Cook Islands Tourism, along with all collaborative partners, extends sincere meitaki ma’ata to the communities of Rarotonga and Aitutaki for their support and care for the ocean. CI Tourism’s Regenerative Travel Manager Jeremy Goodwin said “The community's involvement was crucial to the success of World Ocean Day 2024 in the Cook Islands. Witnessing such impressive community support demonstrates the magic that happens when people come together for a common cause. You can expect to see more projects of this nature roll out over the coming months as Cook Islands Tourism continues to encourage, empower and enable visitors and community alike to really show our Mana Tiaki values and love for our little paradise.”

The Aitutaki Island Council not only supported the activities but also expressed their gratitude. During a previous visit, Cook Islands Tourism had been informed about the taramea issue, and their return with concrete actions to address it was highly appreciated. Pastor Charlie Taamo, an executive council member, expressed that it was good to see people not only talk but also take action, referring to Cook Islands Tourism's efforts.