Highlighting Seabed Minerals and 60 Years of Self-Government
Prime Minister Honourable Mark Brown led the Cook Islands Government delegation through a week-long series of consultations with Cook Islands communities across New Zealand. These engagements provided valuable opportunities to share updates on the Seabed Minerals (SBM) sector and outline plans for the country’s 60th anniversary of self-governance in 2025.
Consultations in Auckland, Tokoroa, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin over the last week were well received by our Cook Islands diaspora in New Zealand. These engagements emphasised the significance of transparency in shaping the country’s sustainable development path and national celebrations.
Seabed Minerals: Shaping a Sustainable Future
The Cook Islands Seabed Minerals sector, which the attendees were especially curious about, was significant to the discussions. Commissioner Alex Herman highlighted the sector’s commitment to sustainability, transparency, and community empowerment.
“Our objective is to responsibly protect and manage our natural resources while fostering economic and social wellbeing for all Cook Islanders,” said Commissioner Herman. This aligns with the Cook Islands Tourism and National Environment strategies, that underscores the sustainability approach for our nation’s future.
Our Cook Islands community members asked insightful and interesting questions about environmental protection, fair benefits, and long-term strategies. The delegation reiterated the government’s commitment to strong regulations and transparent resource management. These conversations have been extremely beneficial in developing the understanding and perspective. Our people were very appreciative for this opportunity to listen to the presentations and to provide comments and ask questions.
It is not often that they receive these updates in person on the developments in the Cook Islands. This experience has been invaluable to their learning and understanding. It highlights the importance of involving the Cook Islands communities in New Zealand by active engagement as opposed to relying on information available via traditional and social media forums, and online platforms.
The commissioner continued: “We are grateful for the feedback and questions we received and will continue to and proactively engage constructively with our people.” Our Prime Minister concluded in Tokoroa, “The presentation was well received by our people, many supported our Seabed Minerals Journey, and also those that urged caution.”
Commemorate 60 Years of Self-Governance
2025 marks the 60th Anniversary of the Cook Islands’ self-governance, a time to reflect on our resilience, progress and cultural pride.
Prime Minister Mark Brown shared how the 60th anniversary is not just about looking back – it’s about moving forward with a shared vision. “Together, we honour our past achievements while focusing on opportunities for growth, resilience, and unity”.
Next steps: Continuing the dialogue
As the consultations have concluded, the government remains committed to maintaining open lines of communication with the diaspora. We encourage community members to stay involved through online platforms, resource forums, and upcoming events.
“The bonds between Cook Islanders, whether at home or abroad, are what make our nation strong,” said the Prime Minister. “By working together, we can build a sustainable, prosperous future for all.”
The delegation expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in the consultations. From Auckland to Dunedin, the Cook Islands community’s warmth, insights, and enthusiasm have set a good tone for the journey ahead.
Media enquiries for this release opm.media@cookislands.gov.ck
