by Martin Haffner Associate Editor In a notable shift in the diplomatic landscape of the South Pacific, the Prime Minister of the Cook Islands has expressed a desire to redefine the relationship with New Zealand, aiming for a partnership that emphasizes independence rather than dependency. This move reflects a growing sentiment among small Pacific nations…
by Martin Haffner Associste Editor Recent discoveries have highlighted the existence of a chain of underwater active volcanic hotspots near the Cook Islands in the South Pacific. This finding is significant as it adds to our understanding of volcanic activity in the region and the geological processes that shape oceanic islands. These volcanic hotspots are…
by Marrtin Haffner Associate Editor The Cook Islands, an archipelago located in the South Pacific, boasts stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and ancient traditions. However, their history is marked by a long struggle against colonial oppression, particularly during New Zealand’s administration in the early to mid-20th century. This article explores the complex relationship between New…
Richard Sanders The churches in the Cook Islands, led by the Cook Islands Christian Church, are advocating for the country to be recognized as a Christian nation. This push follows the discovery of a mosque in Rarotonga and has sparked significant debate. A Religious Organisation Special Select Committee has been formed to consider submissions on…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The Cook Islands said Saturday it has struck a five-year agreement with China to cooperate in exploring and researching the Pacific nation’s seabed mineral riches. A copy of the deal – which is likely to irk close partner and former colonial ruler New Zealand – showed it covers working together…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The comprehensive agreement the Cook Islands has signed with China “deliberately” contains few details because the government has not yet committed to any specific projects, says Prime Minister Mark Brown. On Monday, the government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, published the Action Plan 2025-2030 for the Comprehensive…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Rarotonga, Cook Islands – A recent deal between the Cook Islands government and China has sparked widespread protest and ignited a fierce debate regarding the nation’s sovereignty, economic future, and delicate geopolitical balance. The agreement, details of which remain largely undisclosed, has fueled concerns amongst citizens and opposition leaders who…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Tarotonga, Cook Islands – Prime Minister Mark Brown has announced his government’s commitment to releasing details of a significant deal with China, amidst growing concerns about transparency and potential impacts on the South Pacific nation’s sovereignty. The move comes after increasing pressure from the opposition and international observers demanding more…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown is hoping to have “an opportunity to talk” with the New Zealand government to “heal some of the rift that has occurred from our side.” Brown returned to Avarua on Monday afternoon (Sunday, Cook Islands Time), following his week-long state visit to China, where…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown (left), Cook Islands Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Tukaka Ama, China’s Premier Li Qiang, China’s Minister of Natural Resources Guan ZhiouFrom left: Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown and Cook Islands Associate Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration Tukaka Ama meeting with…