Te Vaka O Ru

By
Cook Islands Tourism
The 22nd round of Te Vaka O Ru was held last week in Aitutaki, which saw 5 local NGOs and 2 of the island's villages rewarded for positive works.

In the category of Akono I Te Ao Rangi, the Arenikau task force and Amuri Sports Club were rewarded for consistent maintenance of beaches and lookouts, while local operator Dive Aitutaki was commended for regular removal of harmful taramea. For the Peu Maori category, Oire Reureu and Oire Nikaupara were congratulated for their invigoration of traditional practices, as displayed during the unique festivity of 'Sapati Kapiti'. Finally, for Tupuranga Tangata, Aitutaki Oe Vaka was rewarded for reaching record-level involvement, and Aitutaki Aquatics for taking initiative to commence Aitutaki's only swim school. All winners' prove to benefit the local community as well as the tourism landscape, and will be aided by these monetary prizes from Cook Islands Tourism.