As part of the Cook Islands’ 60th anniversary of self-governance, a major upgrade is underway at Avana — one of the nation’s most culturally significant sites. Supported by landowners, Cook Islands Tourism, the Ministry of Cultural Development, and the Member of Parliament for Ngatangiia, Hon. Tukaka Ama, the project is a meaningful contribution to the anniversary theme: "Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku – I know who I am, I have a homeland."

Avana holds deep ancestral importance. It is the departure point of the seven great vaka—Mataatua, Te Arawa, Tainui, Aotea, Kurahaupō, Tokomaru, and Takitumu—whose voyages underpin the shared identity of many across Polynesia. It is both a sacred site and a symbol of resilience, navigation, and connection.

On 19 March, a landowners meeting was held at the Avana Meeting House, bringing together those with ancestral ties to the area. With the blessing of traditional titleholder Koropuaka Rangatira Tinirau Tamarua and overwhelming support from landowners, the project has received a strong cultural mandate to move forward.

The next phase will focus on ensuring that the stories of Avana are recorded accurately and respectfully. The Ministry of Cultural Development is leading the historical verification process, working closely with local knowledge holders and historians to preserve the authenticity and mana of the site’s voyaging legacy.

Simultaneously, Cook Islands Tourism is developing interpretive storyboards and coordinating the beautification of the site. The aim is to create a space that is visually engaging, culturally grounded, and welcoming to both locals and visitors — a place where people can learn, reflect, and connect with our shared history.

“This is more than just a beautification project — it’s a project led by respect,” says Jeremy Goodwin, Regenerative Tourism Manager at Cook Islands Tourism. “When we centre local voices and protect the integrity of our stories, we create places that reflect who we truly are.”

As we reflect on 60 years of self-governance, the upgrade at Avana stands as a living tribute to our ancestors and a proud affirmation of our identity. It honours the past while helping to shape a future where culture, heritage, and place remain at the heart of the Cook Islands story.