In preparation for the bubble opening with New Zealand, Cook Islands Tourism delivered the Kia Orana Plus Training Programme to over 80 businesses and over 450 employees across Rarotonga and Aitutaki since September 2020. The one-day training programme was developed to equip businesses with the necessary basic facts, best practices, health measures, guidelines and access to key resources on COVID-19.

During the deliberations of the face-to-face training programme, Cook Islands Tourism enhanced the training framework by developing an online version of the Kia Orana Plus Training. Cook Islands Tourism is pleased to launch this free online programme and is presently available online at www.cookislandstourismtraining.com.

Secretary of Health, Bob Williams said, “I urge all members of the public to take part in this training as it offers practical advice endorsed by Te Marae Ora to safeguard our families, communities and eventually our visitors.”

The Kia Orana Plus Training Programme was developed in response to the effects of COVID-19 as a preparation tool offering best practice guidelines for businesses in the Cook Islands. “This training is a necessary precaution for businesses to remain vigilant and be as best prepared to welcome visitors back,” says Halatoa Fua, CEO for Cook Islands Tourism.

The online training programme is divided into two modules “Health and the Cook Islands Response” and “Hygienic Practices in the Cook Islands”. It will take up to an hour to complete and it includes interactive videos, multiple choice quizzes to test your knowledge after each module and access to a library of downloadable resources.

Cook Islands Tourism encourages businesses to take part in the Kia Orana Plus Training programme online and learn how to safeguard yourself, your family and your community. While Cook Islands Tourism continues to work with Te Marae Ora on simplifying the Alert Levels by sector, it is imperative for our public to complete the Kia Orana Plus training programme. Vigilance is key throughout this period as we acknowledge the need to protect our community and visitors.