Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CIT) representatives met with Ui Ariki at the House of Ariki yesterday to discuss the draft Cook Islands National Tourism Policy as public consultation opened. Pictured seated in the middle is Kaumaiti Nui Travel Tou Ariki, alongside Makea Vakatini Phillip Ariki (back left), Te Maeu O Te Rangi Teikamata Mii Ariki (3rd left) and Tetava Maara Ariki (far right). CIT/26102023
Cook Islands Tourism Corporation (CIT) representatives met with Ui Ariki at Atupare Marae, the House of Ariki yesterday to discuss the draft Cook Islands National Tourism Policy as public consultation officially opened.
The consultation invites people in the Cook Islands to help shape the future of tourism and its contribution to communities, culture, the environment and the national economy.
CIT’s Chief Executive Officer Karla Eggelton said tourism was everyone’s business and encouraged people across the islands to share their views and ideas.
“Tourism touches all of our lives, through the work we do, the businesses we support, our culture, our environment and the places we share,” Eggelton said.
“You don’t have to work in tourism to have a view on its future. We want to hear what matters to you and what tourism should contribute to your island or community.”
The proposed policy aims to establish a shared, long-term direction for tourism, guided by the principle that the Cook Islands must first be a good place for its people to live, work and enjoy life.
This, CIT says, is the foundation of a good place to visit.
The development of the policy follows the implementation of Te Kaveinga Mana Tiaki o te Ipukarea, the Cook Islands Destination Stewardship Plan, which highlighted the need for clearer national direction on decisions affecting tourism and the impact tourism has on the country.
The proposed policy would guide tourism-related decisions across Government while recognising the different needs, opportunities and limitations of Rarotonga and each of the Pa Enua.
It would not replace existing laws or the responsibilities of traditional and religious leaders, customary authorities, Island Governments or government bodies.
Consultation will focus on the proposed direction for tourism, the pressures requiring greater attention, how these should be identified and addressed, and who should be involved in tourism-related decisions.
“We want to hear what tourism is doing well, what needs to change, and what you want for your island’s future,” Eggelton said.
CIT also hosted Southern Group Pa Enua executive officers on Tuesday, 13 October, to discuss the draft policy and participation by the outer islands.
Public consultation runs from 1pm on Tuesday, 20 October 20, until 11.59pm on Friday, November 6, 2026.
On Rarotonga, public consultation sessions will be held by vaka and are open to traditional and religious leaders, community members, tourism businesses, Government representatives and non-government organisations.
The sessions are scheduled as follows:
- Takitumu: Tuesday, October 27, at Avana Meeting House.
- Puaikura: Monday, November 2, at Ruaau Meeting House.
- Te Au o Tonga: Wednesday, November 4, at FADC Church.
All three sessions will run from 5.30pm to 7pm.
Consultation visits are also planned for Atiu from 2–4 November and Aitutaki from 4–6 November, with meeting dates, times and venues to be confirmed. Details of these visits and online meetings with wider Pa Enua Island Councils will be published as arrangements are finalised.
The consultation webpage provides summaries of the proposed policy in English and Cook Islands Māori, the full draft policy and a feedback survey. Submissions are encouraged through the online survey.
CIT will review feedback and revise the draft throughout November, with a report outlining public responses and how they informed changes expected by 30 November 2026.
The revised policy is targeted for Cabinet consideration in December 2026.
Members of the public can access the draft policy, submit feedback and find updated consultation dates and venues at cookislands.travel/national-tourism-policy.
- CIT/ME