Think Big! Careers Expo 2025 Inspires the Next Generation
Cook Islands students explore future pathways at the National Auditorium

The National Auditorium in Rarotonga came alive on Thursday 19 June 2025, as more than 300 students from Year 10 through to Level 3 gathered for the annual Careers Expo. This year’s theme — Think Big! — set the tone for a high-energy day filled with curiosity, ambition, and community connection.

Students had the chance to explore future career pathways and engage directly with professionals from both the public and private sectors. It was a one-stop hub of ideas, opportunities, and real-world experiences designed to open young minds to what's possible right here in the Cook Islands.

Representing the tourism sector with pride was Te Mana Turoto Intern, Kubethreana Taripo, who led the Cook Islands Tourism booth with support from the Destination Development team — Tina Kae, Jean Nootai, and the wider Industry Development crew. The team got straight into action the day before with full setup, styling the space with cultural visuals, prize packs, and activities to make the booth interactive and inviting.

“We wanted students to walk in, feel the energy, and know they belong in these spaces too.”

The Careers Expo brought together a powerful lineup of exhibitors, including Climate Change Cook Islands, Ministry of Marine Resources, Ministry of Health, Internal Affairs, BTIB, Ministry of Education, Cook Islands Police, Air Rarotonga, Air New Zealand, Pacific Resort, and many more. From government departments to private enterprises, it was a showcase of what’s available locally when it comes to career options.

Cook Islands Tourism’s booth stood out for its friendly vibe and high engagement. Students were encouraged to join in games, ask questions freely, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere — with more than a few commenting on how “fun and bubbly” it felt. That connection mattered.

With thanks to our incredible sponsors, the booth also featured a social media challenge with awesome prizes up for grabs. Big wins included a Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruise for two, vouchers for spa and dining at Pacific Resort, and a tablet with headphones. Minor prizes like a Koka Lagoon Cruise pass, island night experiences, and Kai and Co food vouchers kept the buzz going all day.

Our generous sponsors — Captain Tama’s, Koka Lagoon Cruises, Pacific Resort, Fine Jewellery, Rito Products, Kou Pareu, Te Vara Nui, Raro Safari, Edgewater Resort, and Kai and Co Café — helped bring this vision to life.

For many students, it wasn’t just about freebies or photos. It was about being seen. Feeling inspired. Knowing there are real opportunities to build a future right here at home.

“We don’t want our young people feeling like they have to leave to succeed. If we show them what’s already here and make it meaningful for them, they might choose to stay, grow, and lead in their own home.”

To every school, student, teacher, industry partner and sponsor — meitaki maata. Your support helped create an experience that mattered. As we continue to create these spaces for our rangatahi, let’s keep thinking big and showing them that their future has a place right here in the Cook Islands.