Vaka Pride plays catch up

By
Cook Islands Tourism

The last round of Vaka Pride judging was held at the end of February, but because of the national response to the current crisis the announcement of winners has been delayed. 

This week Cook Islands Tourism and partners announce the winners of the 14th round of the Vaka Pride Competition for Rarotonga.   Prizes to the total value of $10,000.00 in cash will be shared out to community groups or individuals who work to maintain our little paradise.

The Akono i te Ao Rangi category awards community groups that keep public areas around the island clean and tidy.  These results are taken from the monthly clean up reports from Te Tango Akarangatira Ora’anga (Ministry of Internal Affairs) and the compliance report from Te Tuanga Taporoporo (National Environment Service).  Those groups that exceed their cleaning expectations have a higher chance of winning this category as this generates bonus points for their puna.

Congratulations to the following villages who during the months of November 2019 to February 2020 showed pride in their surroundings and as a result have gained cash prizes towards community projects

1st placing - $1,600 went to Ruaau

2nd placing - $1,400 went to Takuvaine/Tutakimoa

3rd placing - $1,000 went to Tupapa Maraerenga

During this last round the Vaka Pride committee also focused on historical sites contributing towards points in the Peu Maori section. The historical sites or Marae’s were scored based on their maintenance, historical significance and a bonus point for extra effort such as signage.

Well done to the following matakeinanga who contribute towards the maintenance and revival of our traditional practices;

1st placing – $1000 went to Marae Aretau

2nd placing - $800 went to Te Marae O Puati

3rd equal placing - $600 went to Manuka Arai Te Tonga

3rd equal placing - $600 went to Te Kura i te Ara Manu

Cook Islands Security, Cook Islands National Youth Council and TMS Fitness were nominated by members of the committee for prizes in the Tupuranga Tangata category. This category looks at individuals or groups that address social issues in the community. All three groups were given an opportunity to present to the committee and share some of the work they have done and continue to do in the community.  The Vaka Pride committee were most impressed with all three nominees, that they made an executive decision to award them all equal rewards for their community work. Each received a cash prize of $1,000.

Meitaki maata to all our Mana Tiaki champions. Keep an eye out for a revamped Vaka Pride competition scheduled for May which will reward the hard working Punas who have stepped up during these unprecedented times.

For more Vaka Pride information please contact Sieni Tiraa on [email protected] or +682 29435