The Cook Islands Government has today launched the Itiki’anga Ora Series, a powerful new digital storytelling initiative celebrating 60 years of self-governance and national identity.
Prime Minister Mark Brown said the series is a timely reflection on the journey of the Cook Islands and its people.
“The Itiki’anga Ora Series is more than a celebration, it is a declaration,” said Prime Minister Brown. “A declaration of who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we are going. These are our stories, told by Cook Islanders, for Cook Islanders, and they speak to the heart of what it means to be a Cook Islander in 2025.”
The Itiki’anga Ora Series is a three-part multimedia project that highlights the voices and experiences of Cook Islanders across generations, islands, and the wider Pacific diaspora. The title draws from our language and cultural foundations, itiki’anga meaning “the ties that bind,” and ora signifying life, resilience, and growth.
Delivered across digital platforms, series comprises:
- Avaiki Across the Moana – profiling 30 Cook Islanders, both local and overseas, whose contributions across culture, health, education and community reflect the strength of our identity.
- Journey to Te Maeva Nui – following the journeys of six individuals behind this year’s Te Maeva Nui performances, from choreographers and costume makers to dancers from Rarotonga, the Pa Enua, and abroad.
- Mapu e Tū – showcasing 30 exceptional young Cook Islanders under the age of 30 who are already leading in their fields and shaping the next generation of leadership.
The Office of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Cultural Development have also acknowledged Teherenui Koteka, creator and producer of the Itiki’anga Ora Series, for her vision and leadership.
“Itiki’anga Ora is a celebration of our people. From our tamariki, to our mapu, to our metua, we all contribute to making our ipukarea one of the most special places in the world,” said Ms Koteka. “I truly believe that every single Cook Islander could tell me a story that would make me feel something powerful. I stand in awe of my people every day and I wanted to share that feeling with everyone”.
“Teherenui’s creative direction has brought together Cook Islands voices from across the globe in a project that truly celebrates who we are, in all our diversity and strength,” said Karopaerangi Ngatoko, Chief of Staff in the Office of the Prime Minister.
Minister for Cultural Development, Hon. George Maggie Angene, welcomed the series, noting its role in connecting generations through shared cultural pride.
“This is storytelling that uplifts and connects us. It honours our reo, our peu, and our iti tangata. It gives voice to our past, our present, and most importantly, our future,” said Minister Angene.
Secretary for the Ministry of Cultural Development, Emile Kairua, added:
“Kia vai arangatu uatu rai to tatou iti tangata. My prayer is that we hold our heads high, remain humble in our achievements, and stay grounded in the firm foundation of our Avaiki, under one God and one faith in Jesus.”
“Our story is our strength,” said Prime Minister Brown. “Through these series, we honour the generations who came before, celebrate those who serve today, and uplift those who will lead tomorrow. This is what it means to be a self-governing nation, not just in law or politics, but in voice, in pride, and in vision.”
“The Itiki’anga Ora Series is a key feature of this year’s commemorations under the national theme “Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku – I know who I am, I have a homeland”.
Follow our Facebook page here to see the series – https://www.facebook.com/pmoffice.gov.ck/
