“To share information and to train others is why we are here. To upskill ourselves so that we can then upskill others,” shared Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council President, Liana Scott during her presentation at week 4 of the Kia Orana Plus rapid training programme.

Kia Orana Plus, now in its 4th week has had over 70 businesses across Rarotonga and Aitutaki taking part. “We have had a great response to the training,’ said Business Partnerships Manager for Cook Islands Tourism Claire Wilson, “the programme has been designed to provide information and recommendations for business owners to make educated decisions on best practices for their individual businesses during these trying times.”

During the training, the Cook Islands Promise, our Kia Orana spirit, and common sense values such as kindness and consideration, are highlighted regularly to reinforce the foundations of best practices for the tourism industry. “We face our future with confidence and we can steer ourselves out of this situation” states tourism icon Emile Kairua during the Kia Orana Plus
training videos.

“The programme is divided into three key modules,” explains Ms Wilson, “The first is focused on Health and the national response to COVID-19. It’s important that we as a community understand the disease, the potential risks and how to stop the spread of misinformation. The second module discusses hygienic practices and safety in the workplace; providing tips and recommendations in the lead up to reopening the tourism sector. The final module is focused on Business Management during Covid-19, this includes financial planning and forecasting, as well as employee relations and managing the wellbeing of your team.”

Each participant is provided with all training materials and resources to take away and effectively deliver the programme to their own teams. These resources will also be made available online in the coming month for public access and download. “I found the training very good, as we all came together to face the challenges ahead and ensure the Cook Islands Promise is practiced” said Rongo Preston, manager of Sands Villas, Rarotonga.

The Kia Orana Plus rapid training programme will continue for one more week from the 29th September to the 1st October before it is transferred to an online platform. If you would like to register for next week’s training, please register your interest and confirm your place with Carlene Mapu: [email protected] or phone +682 29435.