AGP Executive Report

Energy & Fuel Security: Cook Islands Government moves into phase two of its five-phase energy response framework as global fuel risks from the Middle East conflict continue, while Penrhyn Island runs down its last 100 litres of diesel and borrows 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II, with power use restricted and a June barge delivery expected. Tourism & Aviation: The Pacific Tourism Organisation says tourism growth depends on tighter tourism–aviation partnerships, highlighted at the ASPA81 meeting hosted in Rarotonga, as delegates push for better coordination across airlines, airports and tourism bodies. Sustainable Tourism Planning: Stakeholders review progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and map the next phase for sustainable tourism development. Tourism Data: SPTO and Niue Tourism Office release International Visitor Survey findings under the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, aimed at guiding visitor experience, spending and strategy across the region. Community Resilience: Rarotonga Safety Shelter Programme completes renovations to the Ngatangiia CICC Ekalesia–Sunday School Hall, adding accessibility upgrades and disaster-preparedness capacity. Agrifood Innovation: Global AgriInno Challenge 2026 opens applications for agrifood innovators in Small Island Developing States, with Cook Islands among the eligible SIDS teams. Education & Skills: Open Polytechnic graduation highlights Cook Islands-born learner Susan Aretere earning a Bachelor of Social Work, reflecting growing demand for workforce-ready qualifications.

Tourism Data & Visitor Demand: The Pacific Tourism Organisation, with Niue, released the 2024 International Visitor Survey under the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, highlighting New Zealand as the top source market (84%), visitor age patterns (60–69), and how the data will guide more resilient tourism planning across Cook Islands and the wider Pacific. Aviation–Tourism Link: At ASPA81 in Rarotonga, SPTO stressed that tourism can’t grow without stronger airline and airport partnerships, with delegates calling for closer coordination to improve connectivity for small island economies. Fuel Supply Pressure: Penrhyn Island hit a diesel crunch, borrowing 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II while restricting power use; the next fuel barge is expected mid-to-late June as regional prices keep climbing. Energy Policy Debate: The Opposition backed the National Energy Response Framework, urging calm, early preparation to avoid uncertainty for families, businesses and the Pa Enua. Shipping & Connectivity: PM Mark Brown marked the launch of the MV Tuitui Moana in China, calling it a practical step for safer, more reliable inter-island shipping and improved access for communities. Sustainable Tourism Planning: Stakeholders reviewed progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and mapped the next phase for sustainable tourism development. Community Safety Infrastructure: Ngatangiia’s CICC Ekalesia–Sunday School Hall renovation was completed under the Rarotonga Safety Shelter Programme, adding accessibility upgrades and updated solar and building works. Agri Innovation Call: Global AgriInno Challenge 2026 is open for agrifood innovators targeting Small Island Developing States, with Cook Islands among the eligible SIDS and finalists heading to Hangzhou in August.

Energy Security: Opposition backs the National Energy Response Framework, saying calm early preparation is better than leaving families and the Pa Enua in limbo. Fuel Supply Crunch: Penrhyn Island hit a diesel shortage, using its last 100 litres and borrowing 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II, while power use is restricted as the next barge is due mid/late June. Tourism-Aviation Link: The Pacific Tourism Organisation urged tighter tourism and aviation partnerships at ASPA81 in Rarotonga, stressing air connectivity as a key driver of sustainable tourism growth. Tourism Demand Risk: Cook Islands tourism leaders warn the country is still exposed to a global slowdown, even as government downplays a worst-case 5% GDP drop. Domestic Shipping Upgrade: PM Mark Brown marked the inauguration of MV Tuitui Moana in China, a co-funded inter-island vessel aimed at improving connectivity and lowering transport costs. Disaster Preparedness: Renovations to the Ngatangiia CICC Ekalesia Sunday School Hall were completed under the Rarotonga Safety Shelter Programme, adding roof, solar, accessibility and repainting works. Public Health: Cook Islands regained dengue-free status after 26 days without cases, but tourism and households are urged to avoid complacency. Regional Travel: Air New Zealand launched a seasonal Christchurch–Rarotonga direct service up to three times weekly through late October.

Fuel & Energy Security: Penrhyn Island burned through its last 100 litres of diesel, then borrowed 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II, with power use restricted to 6am–10pm while a barge fuel delivery is expected around 25–26 June. Disaster Preparedness & Community Infrastructure: The Rarotonga Safety Shelter Programme has finished renovating the Ngatangiia CICC Ekalesia–Sunday School Hall, including a new roof, solar panel reinstalls, accessibility upgrades, and new disability-friendly facilities. Shipping & Connectivity: PM Mark Brown marked the inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana in Wuzhou, China—an inter-island vessel co-funded by Cook Islands and China to strengthen domestic maritime transport. Aviation & Tourism Access: Air New Zealand launched a seasonal non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service up to three times weekly through late October, aiming to make travel easier for South Islanders. Tourism Risk Watch: Cook Islands tourism leaders warned the sector remains exposed to a global slowdown, even as government points to a 5% GDP decline as a worst-case scenario. Public Health Update: The Cook Islands has regained dengue-free status after 26 days without a recorded case, but officials urged continued mosquito-breeding control to avoid complacency. Regional Ocean & Culture: Pacific voyaging and ocean conservation leaders gathered at Rapa Nui to strengthen ancestral ties and push high-seas marine protection. Sports & Youth: The CITC Prince of Wales Primary School Athletics Championship kicked off in Rarotonga with strong performances and “energy and enthusiasm” from schools. Energy Transition Debate: A letter criticises delays in Cook Islands renewable electricity targets, arguing residents are paying the price through rising fossil fuel costs.

Nuclear & Pacific politics: Fukushima’s treated wastewater release is back in the spotlight as critics challenge Japan’s ALPS plan, with scientists and activists arguing the approach is scientifically flawed. Energy & cost pressure: The Cook Islands moves into phase two of a five-phase fuel supply response as Middle East conflict risks keep fuel volatility front and centre. Disaster readiness: Ngatangiia’s CICC Ekalesia Sunday School Hall has been renovated to serve as a stronger community safety shelter, with accessibility upgrades and solar panel work included. Tourism sustainability: Stakeholders reviewed progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and mapped the next phase for sustainable tourism development. Tourism demand risk: The tourism industry warns the Cook Islands is still highly exposed to a global economic slowdown, even as government downplays a worst-case 5% GDP decline. Aviation & connectivity: Cook Islands hosts ASPA81 aviation leaders, while a new Air New Zealand non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service adds more seats for South Island travellers. Shipping upgrade: MV Tuitui Moana was inaugurated in China, a new inter-island vessel aimed at improving connectivity across the Pa Enua. Labour & inflation debate: A minimum wage rise to $10.50 from 1 July 2026 is sparking pushback from workers and concern from businesses about price rises and layoffs. Health update: The Cook Islands is declared dengue-free again after 26 days without cases, though other Pacific outbreaks continue.

Aviation & Tourism Connectivity: Air New Zealand launches a new seasonal non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service (up to three times weekly), giving South Islanders a faster route to the Cook Islands. Sustainable Tourism Planning: Stakeholders review progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and map the next phase for sustainable tourism development. Shipping & Domestic Transport: PM Mark Brown marks the inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana in China, a co-funded inter-island vessel aimed at improving connectivity and lowering transport costs across the Pa Enua. Energy Security: Government moves into phase two of a five-phase fuel supply response plan to manage global fuel risks tied to Middle East conflict. Tourism Demand Risk: The tourism industry warns the Cook Islands remains exposed to a global slowdown, even as government points to a worst-case 5% GDP decline scenario. Labour & Costs: Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises to $10.50/hour from 1 July 2026, sparking debate over inflation pressure, potential price hikes, and possible layoffs. Health: Cook Islands regains dengue-free status after 26 days without a case, while other Pacific areas still report outbreaks. Regional Influence: Commentary questions whether Quad-driven port plans for Fiji are being shaped without enough Pacific voice in the room.

Pacific Voyaging & Ocean Stewardship: Rapa Nui hosted Te Piri mā’ohi o Te Moana Nui a Hiva, bringing together voyaging leaders, scientists and government reps to share wayfinding knowledge and push marine conservation, with Cook Islands among the participating communities. Sustainable Tourism Planning: Stakeholders reviewed progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and mapped the next phase of sustainable tourism development, as industry voices warn the sector remains exposed to global downturn risks. Aviation & Connectivity: Cook Islands welcomed Pacific aviation leaders for ASPA81, focused on strategic partnerships between aviation and tourism, while a new Air New Zealand non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service adds more seats for South Island travellers. Domestic Shipping Upgrade: PM Mark Brown backed the inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana in China, a co-funded vessel aimed at improving safe inter-island connectivity across the Pa Enua. Fuel Security Response: Government moved into phase two of a five-phase energy response framework to manage fuel supply shocks tied to Middle East conflict. Minimum Wage Pressure: The $10.50 hourly minimum wage from 1 July 2026 is welcomed by workers but sparks business fears of higher prices and layoffs. Public Health Update: Cook Islands regained dengue-free status after 26 days without cases, though other Pacific outbreaks continue. Tourism Demand Signals: Industry data and visitor survey work continues across the region, including Kiribati’s 2025 International Visitor Survey report. Critical Minerals & Wider Pacific Politics: Regional diplomacy and major power moves—from Quad port plans in Fiji to critical minerals deals—keep shaping the business environment around the Pacific.

Inter-island shipping: PM Mark Brown marked the completion and inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana in Wuzhou, China, calling it a key step in the domestic shipping roadmap and a practical outcome of Cook Islands–China cooperation to improve connectivity and reduce costs for Pa Enua communities. Energy security: Government moved into phase two of a five-phase fuel supply response framework to manage global fuel risks tied to Middle East conflict. Aviation & tourism links: Cook Islands hosted Pacific aviation leaders for ASPA81, with the theme “Island Economies in Flight” focused on aviation–tourism partnerships and regional connectivity. Labour & prices: A minimum wage rise to $10.50 from 1 July 2026 is set to ease some pressure but is already sparking business anxiety over higher costs, workloads and possible price rises. Public health: The Cook Islands has regained dengue-free status after 26 days without a recorded case, though officials urge continued mosquito control. Agrifood innovation: Cook Islands is among SIDS invited to apply for the Global AgriInno Challenge 2026, aimed at new agrifood solutions for small island contexts. Governance & sport: Athletics Championship opened at the National Stadium with strong school participation and standout performances from young athletes.

Inter-island shipping: PM Mark Brown marked the completion and inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana in Wuzhou, China, calling it a key step in the domestic shipping roadmap and a practical outcome of Cook Islands–China cooperation to boost connectivity for Pa Enua communities. Energy security: Government moved into phase two of a five-phase energy response plan to manage global fuel supply shocks and economic risks linked to Middle East conflict. Aviation & tourism links: Cook Islands hosted Pacific aviation leaders for ASPA81, with delegates focused on strategic partnerships between aviation and tourism to strengthen regional connectivity. Labour & costs: A minimum wage rise to $10.50 from 1 July 2026 is set to ease some pressure for workers, but businesses warn of ripple effects like higher prices and tighter hiring. Health: The Cook Islands regained dengue-free status after 26 days without a case, while other Pacific areas still report outbreaks. Local industry pipeline: CITTI graduation highlighted skills growth, including Pa Enua students and an Aitutaki family trio completing automotive engineering. Sports community: Athletics Championship day one brought standout performances from Rarotonga schools, building momentum for the two-day event.

Aviation & Tourism: The Cook Islands hosted ASPA81 in Rarotonga (18–20 May), bringing together airline executives and partners to focus on “Island Economies in Flight” and strengthen aviation–tourism partnerships across the Pacific. Inter-island Shipping: MV Tuitui Moana was completed and inaugurated in Wuzhou, China, with the vessel co-funded by Cook Islands and China (US$1.5m each) to improve safer, more reliable Pa Enua connectivity. Minimum Wage: The Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises from $10 to $10.50 per hour from 1 July 2026, easing some pressure for workers but sparking business fears of higher costs, price rises and staffing strain. Health & Tourism Risk: The country has regained dengue-free status after 26 days without a case, while officials warn businesses not to get complacent as outbreaks continue elsewhere in the Pacific. Skills & Jobs: CITTI graduation highlights growing local training momentum, including Pa Enua students and an Aitutaki family trio completing automotive engineering. Energy & Policy Debate: A renewed public push questions whether renewable electricity targets are being delivered fast enough, amid rising fossil fuel costs. Regional Business Watch: A Pacific Business Brief flags ADB fuel relief support, critical minerals diplomacy, and leadership fallout at a publicly funded trust.

Inter-island Shipping Upgrade: PM Mark Brown attended the inauguration of the newly built MV Tuitui Moana in Wuzhou, China, a co-funded vessel aimed at safer, more reliable connectivity across the Pa Enua. Aviation & Tourism Access: Air New Zealand launched a seasonal non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service (up to three times weekly), boosting visitor convenience for South Islanders. Fuel & Regional Economy: The ADB says it’s ready to provide major fuel-crisis relief to Pacific countries, with support levels varying by country size. Minimum Wage Debate: Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises to $10.50 from 1 July 2026, sparking worker hopes for relief and business fears of price rises and layoffs. Health Update: The Cook Islands has regained dengue-free status after 26 days without a case, while Tonga and parts of the region still report infections. Seabed Mining Watch: Letters raise concerns that seabed-miner merger filings suggest accelerated commercial timelines despite government caution and ongoing baseline science. Agri Innovation Call: Cook Islands is included in the Global AgriInno Challenge 2026, with reserved finalist spots for SIDS teams. Workforce & Skills: CITTI graduation highlights Pa Enua participation (including automotive engineering graduates) and Open Polytechnic celebrates graduates with Cook Islands ties.

AI & Customer Service: Tower Insurance’s new AI rollout is being led by Cook Islands–Tahitian executive Michael Skeens, who says the real work is helping people adapt, not just installing tools. Shipping & Connectivity: The MV Tuitui Moana—Cook Islands’ first newly built inter-island vessel—was completed in Wuzhou, China, with equal government co-funding, boosting safer, more reliable Pa Enua transport. Tourism & Air Access: Air New Zealand launched a seasonal non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service, adding up to three flights weekly through late October. Health & Risk Management: Cook Islands has regained dengue-free status after 26 days without cases, but officials and tourism leaders warn against complacency as outbreaks continue elsewhere in the Pacific. Labour & Costs: A minimum wage rise to $10.50 from 1 July 2026 is welcomed by workers but sparks business fears of higher prices and layoffs. Agrifood Innovation: Cook Islands is among SIDS with reserved finalist spots in the Global AgriInno Challenge 2026, pushing new agrifood solutions into small island contexts. Maritime Leadership: Cook Islands’ Amy Ngatamaine becomes the first Cook Islander to chair PACWIMA, highlighting growing Pacific women’s leadership in maritime security. Seabed Mining Debate: Letters and commentary question whether seabed mining timelines in corporate merger filings align with government caution and ongoing environmental baseline work.

Domestic Shipping Upgrade: MV Tuitui Moana has been completed and inaugurated in Wuzhou, China, with Prime Minister Mark Brown calling it a key milestone for safer, more reliable inter-island transport and stronger connectivity across the Pa Enua. Aviation & Tourism Demand: Air New Zealand launched a seasonal non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga service (up to three times weekly), boosting visitor access for South Islanders and adding capacity through late October. Labour & Cost Pressure: The Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises from $10 to $10.50 per hour from 1 July 2026, bringing relief for workers but sparking business warnings about price hikes, heavier workloads, and possible layoffs. Public Health: The Ministry of Health declared the Cook Islands dengue-free after 26 days without cases, while Tonga and parts of the Pacific continue reporting infections. Seabed Mining Debate: New filings tied to an American Ocean Minerals–Odyssey merger raise concerns about accelerated seabed mining timelines versus government claims of ongoing baseline science and no final decision. Innovation for Food Security: The Global AgriInno Challenge 2026 is open for innovators targeting agrifood solutions in Small Island Developing States, with Cook Islands teams among those with reserved finalist spots.

Domestic Shipping & China Links: PM Mark Brown will travel to Wuzhou, China next week to inaugurate the MV Tuitui Moana, a 43-metre inter-island vessel built in Guangxi under a 2024 Cook Islands–China technical deal, aimed at safer, more reliable Pa Enua connectivity. Aviation & Tourism Demand: Air New Zealand launches a seasonal Christchurch–Rarotonga non-stop service (up to three times weekly to late October), adding seats for South Island travellers as the Cook Islands pushes “Island Economics” at aviation talks. Minimum Wage Pressure: The Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises from $10 to $10.50 per hour from 1 July 2026, bringing relief for workers but anxiety for small businesses facing higher costs and possible job impacts. Public Health Update: The Cook Islands is declared dengue-free after 26 days without cases, though other Pacific areas (including Tonga, Samoa and New Caledonia) still report infections. Seabed Mining Debate: AOM–Odyssey’s proposed merger is reigniting concerns about accelerated “path to production” timelines while Cook Islands seabed minerals remain in the exploration phase. Regional Security: Mark Brown backs Pacific-led, prevention-based policing at the inaugural Pacific Police Ministers Meeting in Fiji, targeting transnational crime and drug harm.

Diplomatic Appointment: The US Senate has confirmed billionaire Jared Novelly as ambassador to New Zealand, with the posting covering Samoa, the Cook Islands and Niue—likely within two months—adding fresh US political muscle to Pacific ties. Connectivity & Shipping: In China’s Guangxi, the Cook Islands inaugurated MV Tuitui Moana, a 43-metre inter-island vessel built for safer, more reliable Pa Enua connections; PM Mark Brown will attend the launch next week. Tourism Demand: Christchurch–Rarotonga is now non-stop via Air New Zealand, up to three times weekly through late October, boosting South Island access. Public Health: The Cook Islands has been declared dengue-free after 26 days without cases, but Tonga and parts of the Pacific are still reporting infections. Cost of Living: The new Cook Islands minimum wage of $10.50 from 1 July brings relief for workers, while businesses warn of price rises and staffing pressure. Regional Security: PM Brown pushed Pacific-led, prevention-first policing cooperation at the Pacific Police Ministers Meeting in Fiji.

Critical Minerals Deal: India and the US signed a framework to secure critical minerals and rare earths, including mining and processing—another step in the race to lock in supply chains. Connectivity Boost: The Cook Islands officially named its new inter-island ship MV Tuitui Moana at an inauguration in China, aimed at strengthening links to the Pa Enua. Travel Demand: Air New Zealand launched a non-stop Christchurch–Rarotonga seasonal service, giving South Islanders a faster route to the islands. Public Health Win: The Cook Islands declared dengue-free after 26 days without a case, though Tonga, New Caledonia and Samoa are still reporting outbreaks. Cost-of-Living Pressure: A minimum wage rise to $10.50 from 1 July offers mild relief but is already sparking business anxiety over prices and staffing. Governance in Sport: Oceania athletes challenged IOC and ONOC leaders at the Oceania Athletes Forum, pushing for tougher accountability. Tourism Reality Check: Viral beach travel is still causing trouble—tourists are damaging rentals and getting stranded on rough, low-signal routes.