Exploring the Tourism Offering at Tereora College

On 17 March 2025, the Industry Development Team met with Level 3 Tourism students at Tereora College to support their current assessment on the tourism offering in the Cook Islands. The session focused on building understanding of our destination’s unique attributes and visitor experiences, while also touching on the importance of cultural identity in tourism.

Led by Industry Development Manager Tina Kae, Coordinator Jean Nootai, and Kubethreana Taripo from the Te Mana Turoto internship programme, the visit provided students with insights into how tourism connects to people, place, and pride. The team shared their own journeys and highlighted the many pathways available in the industry when led by local knowledge and values.

“By supporting our youth to explore who they are and where they come from, we’re also helping shape the future of tourism in the Cook Islands — one that is grounded in culture, connection, and confidence,” said Jean Nootai, Industry Development Coordinator.

“It was meaningful to be part of this as a young person still learning too — I hope the students could see that there’s a place for all of us in tourism, especially when we lead with who we are,” shared Kubethreana Taripo, Te Mana Turoto Intern.

Living Our Values at Titikaveka College

Later in March, Kia Orana Ambassadors Marthalina Opuariki and Tiare Anguna visited Titikaveka College to introduce and promote the Kia Orana Values — kindness, respect, and a deep sense of community. The interactive session encouraged students to reflect on how these values can be lived in everyday life and how they reflect who we are as Cook Islanders.

By sharing practical insights and personal experiences, the Ambassadors encouraged students to see the value in leading by example — both at school and in their communities. Their visit echoed the Mana Tiaki spirit: a shared responsibility to care for our islands and people.

“These values are part of who we are — it’s powerful to see students thinking about how they live them every day, not just at school but in their families and villages too,” said Tiare Anguna, Kia Orana Ambassador.

Both visits aimed to build awareness, pride, and purpose among students, reinforcing the role of culture and community in growing a strong and values-led future for tourism.

Meitaki Ma‘ata to the dedicated teachers and students of Tereora and Titikaveka Colleges. These visits highlight the importance of working with our young people to grow the next generation of tourism leaders who are confident, connected, and grounded in who they are.