The 25th round of Te Vaka O Ru (TVOR), was concluded with a presentation in Aitutaki today, where prizes to the value of $3,500 were collectively presented by the TVOR committee to six different Aitutaki organisations.
The Te Vaka O Ru programme promotes, champions, and commemorates groups or individuals making positive contributions on the island of Aitutaki, under any or all of the four pillars of Cook Island living:
Akono I Te Ao Rangi (Environment), Turanga Vaerua (Religion/beliefs), Tupuranga Tangata (Community and wellbeing), and Peu Maori (Culture).
In recognising that these pillars are what define us as Cook Islanders, CIT is proud to continually fund this initiative alongside our other mana tiaki programmes such as Rarotonga's 'Vaka Pride', Atiu's 'Te Paa Tiare', & Mauke's 'Ie'ie O Te Orau'.
The 7-member committee is chaired by Aitutaki Tourism Coordinator Te'Aumata Rairi, with representation from the Religious Advisory Council, and Aitutaki Government Agencies; Ministry of Internal Affairs, Cook Islands Police, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Marine Resources, and Aitutaki Island Administration.
The TVOR committee convened in the month of June to meet with applicants, assessing their different projects' contribution to both community development and the island's tourism landscape.
After careful judgment, the committee had agreed on the following allocation.
Akono I Te Ao Rangi WINNER:
G.R.O.W Aitutaki - Granted 10 wetsuits to support their non-profit organisation's coral planting and marine preservation work. These resources will aid GROW in completing their regular environmental work, especially within the current winter season.
Turanga Vaerua & Tupuranga Tangata WINNER:
Vaipae CICC Youth - Granted a Vonnia's voucher to source music and sports equipment, in support of their youth social nights, which provide resident youth with a positive form of recreation.
Peu Maori WINNER:
Apii Vaitau, Araura Primary, Araura College & Tekaaroa SDA Primary - Bounty Bookstore vouchers to the combined value of $1,000, to recognise the effort of all students shown through their public performances at this year's Ui Ariki Day cultural performing arts constitution.
All winners prove to sustain our environment, culture, wellbeing, and values. An inspiring reminder that the Cook Islands is more than just a destination, but also a people.
The TVOR committee is proud to support these deserving local organisations, and wishes them the best in their future endeavours.
Judging for round 26 of Te Vaka O Ru will take place in October 2025 - Aitutaki projects are encouraged to apply here
For more information about eligibility to enter Te Vaka O Ru, or on this round's projects, contact Aitutaki's Tourism Office
