Mana Tiaki guardians lead the way to Meitaki

By
Cook Islands Tourism

Cook Islands Tourism Corporation would like to say Meitaki to the Mana Tiaki guardians who are leading the way in the second phase of the Kia Orana Community campaign.

This phase is focused on building a sustainable foundation for both our people, business and tourism sector. The practises that are implemented now will lead us to be Meitaki in the future, when ‘everything here is good and well.’

To demonstrate the Corporation’s gratitude, today, a heartfelt and appreciative Meitaki video was released on the Kia Orana Values Facebook Page. The video serves to say Meitaki Maata to the hardworking people of the Cook Islands despite these trying times. A pertinent message that we must continue to work together and look after one another.

The Meitaki video, produced by local company Creators Hype, features local icons Shona Mato, Maruia Willie, and Aberahama Tauta.  “The message behind this video is one of appreciation, and that we must work together to perpetuate our Little Paradise” says Metua Vaiimene Director of Destination Development at CI Tourism.

“There are circumstances beyond our control, and there are those that we can control.” Dr Evangeline Daniela-Wong. Wise words that remind us to focus on what we can achieve in our Mana Tiaki phase:  protection of Peu Maori (traditions, customs and lifestyle), Tupuranga Tangata (the development of our people), Akono I Te Ao Rangi (our natural environment), and, Turanga Evangelia (respect for all religious beliefs).

In the last month the Corporation have worked with Te Ara O te Onu on the release of Ponu the Green Sea Turtle, visited businesses who remain open during these times to discuss and promote their current operations, the Corporation will be going plastic free in July by introducing paper bin liners, continue to encourage home plantations, promote recyclable products and these are just to name a few. The most recent project is in support of Motone Productions documentary of renowned Cook Islands artist, Mike Tavioni aimed at preserving our art, storytelling and culture.

“We have much to say Meitaki for” says Director of Destination Development at CI Tourism, Metua Vaiimene, “we must continue to work as Mana Tiaki guardians to ensure the Cook Islands reach a state of Meitaki. This means listening to one another with respect and taking time to consider all of our options. This means being patient. Good decisions take time.”

Our Government continues to negotiate with the New Zealand Government and Air New Zealand to determine the opening date of our border. There will be set backs. The Mana Tiaki phase has seen our Government first and foremost protecting our people and keeping our Little Paradise COVID free. Carefully refreshing our tourism industry, and working together to prepare for the reopening of our borders. 

Mana Tiaki denotes the Mana or Responsibility that has been given to all of us as Tiaki or Guardians of our Little Paradise.  We are continuing to work with to ensure that we strategically support the business and community sector by aligning our Sustainable Tourism Goals with the initiatives in the national recovery plan, concentrating on eco-friendly standards and quality assurance. 

For more information please visit the Kia Orana Values Facebook page and to sign up for the Kia Orana Community weekly emails, please contact Carlene Mapu: [email protected]