AGP Executive Report

Pacific Security Push: Pacific nations wrapped up Operation Tui Moana 2026, a three-week regional fisheries surveillance drive that saw 61 vessel inspections and more than 200 detections, with Cook Islands among the participating countries. Aviation & Tourism Momentum: Cook Islands is adding flights despite global cutbacks, with Jetstar’s new Brisbane–Rarotonga link and more connectivity flagged at ASPA’s conference as tourism eyes a “best year ever.” Domestic Shipping Upgrade: PM Mark Brown heads to China next week for the inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana, a new inter-island vessel built to strengthen safer, more reliable links to the Pa Enua. Science at Sea: NOAA plans a July–August expedition to map deep waters and seabed around the Cook Islands, streaming ROV work online. Sports Spotlight: Athletics Cook Islands reports Leyon Caffery set two U18 national records at the Oceania Championships in Darwin.

Aviation & Tourism Boost: Cook Islands is adding flight capacity even as airlines cut elsewhere, with Jetstar’s new Brisbane–Rarotonga link and more direct services helping drive a “best year ever” for arrivals. Local Sports Spotlight: Athletics Cook Islands’ team is making noise at the Oceania Championships in Darwin, including Rochelle Ellison-Lupena’s first gold and debutant Leyon Caffery setting two new national records. Domestic Shipping Milestone: Prime Minister Mark Brown heads to China for the inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana, a newly built inter-island vessel meant to strengthen safer, more reliable links to the Pa Enua. Regional Security Push: Brown also backed Pacific-led, prevention-focused action against transnational crime at the Pacific Police Ministers’ Meeting in Fiji. Ocean Science & Environment: NOAA plans a July–August deep-sea mapping expedition off the Cook Islands, with live streaming and public data to support marine resource management.

Domestic Shipping Milestone: Prime Minister Mark Brown will travel to China next week to launch the MV Tuitui Moana, a newly built inter-island vessel chosen through a youth competition and designed to “stitch” Rarotonga with the Pa Enua, under a 2024 Cook Islands–China technical deal. Aviation & Tourism Boost: Cook Islands is adding flight capacity despite global airline cutbacks, with Jetstar’s new Brisbane–Rarotonga direct service and more network expansion helping drive a potential “best year ever,” as Australia remains the fastest-growing source market. Ocean Science: NOAA plans a 28-day July–August expedition to map deep waters and the seabed off the Cook Islands, streaming ROV work live and sharing data to support marine resource management. Regional Security Push: Mark Brown also backed Pacific-led, prevention-focused action against transnational crime at the inaugural Pacific Police Ministers’ Meeting in Fiji. EU Fisheries Deal: The European Parliament approved renewed EU fisheries access for Cook Islands waters through 2032, tying vessel permissions to financial support for local fisheries policy.

Maritime Security: U.S. forces say they briefly boarded the Iranian-flagged tanker Celestial Sea in the Gulf of Oman, inspected it, then ordered it to change course after suspecting it was trying to breach the U.S. blockade. The vessel is linked to Iran’s “shadow fleet,” and the U.S. says it was displaying a UAE destination while heading toward Iran. Ocean Science: NOAA will run a 28-day July–August expedition to map deep waters and the seabed around the Cook Islands, working with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority and streaming deep-sea ROV footage online. Regional Policing: PM Mark Brown pushed Pacific-led, prevention-focused action against transnational crime at the Pacific Police Ministers’ Meeting in Fiji. Tourism & Flights: Despite global cutbacks, the Cook Islands is adding capacity, including new Jetstar Brisbane–Rarotonga service and more routes expected to lift visitor numbers. Debate on Seabed Mining: A fresh letter questions how seabed mineral licences could shift control toward a foreign company through convertible structures.

Aviation & Tourism Boost: Cook Islands Deputy PM Albert Nicholas says the country is bucking the “weeding out flights” trend, pointing to Jetstar’s inaugural Brisbane–Rarotonga service and more direct links on the way, as Australia and New Zealand visitor numbers surge. Pacific Security: New Zealand Customs warns Pacific islands are increasingly being used by organised crime as storage and transit hubs for drugs headed for NZ and Australia, citing concerns about weak borders and possible infiltration. Regional Policing: Ministers at the Pacific Police Ministers’ Meeting in Fiji backed Pacific-led, intelligence-driven cooperation against transnational crime, with Cook Islands among the leaders and ministers attending. Local Justice: Rachel Marie Lamberth (now Rachel Wansbrough) was sentenced in Christchurch over $188k in fraud using payroll access and fake refund instructions. Community & Health: Firefighters from across the region, including a Cook Islands team, are gearing up for the Sky Tower climb for Blood Cancer NZ, with fundraising already topping $1.7m.

Fundraising Push: Over 1,100 firefighters are set to climb Auckland’s Sky Tower this Saturday (23 May) in the Blood Cancer NZ Firefighter Sky Tower Challenge, with Cook Islands firefighters among the teams and fundraising already topping $1.7m as they chase a $2m target. Pacific Connectivity: Cook Islands leaders say they’re bucking the “weeding out flights” trend by adding routes, pointing to Jetstar’s inaugural Brisbane–Rarotonga service and more direct links ahead. Regional Strategy: Cook Islands delegates joined Pacific planning talks in Suva to strengthen how the Pacific 2050 Strategy is monitored and delivered, with youth and shared responsibilities front and centre. Tourism Caution: Viral beach hype is sending visitors onto remote logging roads in Canada—leading to blown tires and stranded travellers where cell coverage is unreliable. Geopolitics Watch: The U.S. has expanded sanctions on Iran while President Trump delays a new round of attacks, as shipping disruptions continue.

Aviation Boost: Jetstar has launched the first Brisbane–Rarotonga flight, giving Queenslanders a direct link to the Cook Islands and marking a big connectivity milestone. Pacific Sports: From Cairns athletics to rugby highlights, the Oceania sports scene is buzzing with standout performances across codes. Geopolitics at the Forum: The 55th Pacific Islands Forum is set for Palau in late August, with leaders flagging how Cold War-style competition is reshaping the region. Health Watch: A major global study finds obesity trends are rising in many lower-income countries but plateauing in wealthy nations—no single “global epidemic.” Local Governance & Environment: The Cook Islands Meteorological Service has relaunched upper-air weather balloon monitoring, while PM Mark Brown reiterated ocean protection and science-based seabed mineral rules. Regional Links: Central Province and the Cook Islands renewed their sister-province partnership, aiming at culture, youth, tourism and climate action.

Aviation Boost: Jetstar launched the first Brisbane–Rarotonga flight, landing in Rarotonga just over six hours after departing Brisbane at 10.20pm on 18 May—an extra direct link for Queensland travellers, with a Cook Islands first officer on the flight deck. Health & Rights: The Health and Disability Commissioner ordered apologies after a teen received a bone graft without proper informed consent and with inadequate records, highlighting gaps in culturally appropriate care. Ocean Politics: Fiji says it won’t move ahead on deep-sea mining until international rules are finalised, while the Cook Islands continues to push ahead with seabed protection and science-based mineral governance. Regional Ties: Central Province (PNG) and the Cook Islands renewed their historic relationship by signing a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement covering culture, youth, tourism, climate and more. Tech & Youth: Pacific creators are getting more space in gaming and digital design, with a South Auckland showcase aimed at opening pathways for Pacific youth.

Black Sea Tensions: Ukraine says a Russian “Shahed”-type drone struck the Chinese-crew cargo ship KSL DEYANG near Odesa, with no injuries—an incident noted as happening ahead of Vladimir Putin’s visit to China. Pacific Geopolitics: The 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting is set for Palau (Aug 30–Sep 4) under “Building Economies,” with Palau’s growing China–US competition expected to shape the agenda. Health & Safety: Fiji says it won’t move toward deep-sea mining until international rules are finalised, while a separate case in New Zealand finds a teen’s bone graft consent and culturally appropriate communication fell short. Local & Regional Links: Central Province and the Cook Islands have renewed ties via a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement, expanding cooperation from culture and youth to climate and tourism. Tech & Youth: A Cook Islands digital creator is among Pacific voices pushing into gaming, as a South Auckland tech showcase aims to open pathways for young Pacific talent. Weather Watch: The Cook Islands Meteorological Service has relaunched upper-air weather balloon monitoring.

Church Leadership: Visiting Oceania Catholic bishops are meeting on Guam this week, with an islandwide Mass set for Tuesday at 6pm at Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica in Hagatña, as Archbishop Ryan P. Jimenez steps in as FCBCO president. Cook Islands & Pacific Links: The Cook Islands’ Prime Minister Mark Brown has been signing up regional partnerships, including renewed ties with PNG’s Central Province through a Sister Province arrangement aimed at culture, youth, tourism and climate work. Sport & Identity: Valentine Holmes says his Cook Islands World Cup dream has been delayed by injuries, but he’s now pushing for the tournament after moving into a coaching role. Ocean Stewardship vs Mining: Cook Islands leaders are again stressing “science-based” seabed decisions while promoting large marine protection under the Marae moana Act. Regional Watch: Oceania swimming chiefs say the medal gap is closing as Pacific nations challenge New Zealand and Australia.

Passport Watch: Oman’s passport climbed in the Henley Passport Index to rank 55 (up from 57 in January), with visa-free or Visa on Arrival access to 84 destinations, including the Cook Islands. Sport & Identity: Valentine Holmes says his long-delayed dream of wearing Cook Islands colours is finally within reach for the World Cup after injuries derailed earlier chances. Health Alert: The US CDC reports dengue cases surged 359% in 2024 versus the 2010–2023 average, with most cases linked to travel, prompting renewed travel precautions. Pacific Politics: Central Province and the Cook Islands renewed historic ties by signing a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement, aiming for cultural exchange, youth and women’s empowerment, tourism, and climate cooperation. Regional Focus: The Cook Islands also pushed ocean protection and science-led seabed mineral rules at the Melanesian Ocean Summit. Local Updates: The Cook Islands Meteorological Service relaunched upper-air weather balloon monitoring to boost Pacific forecasts.

World Cup Rugby League Buzz: Valentine Holmes says his Cook Islands dream is finally back on track after injuries derailed his last two seasons, with a shoulder injury ending his 2025 run but a World Cup call-up at year’s end now in sight. Regional Partnerships: Central Province and the Cook Islands have renewed their 150-year friendship by signing a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement with Papua New Guinea’s Central Province, aiming at culture, youth, women’s empowerment, tourism, climate work and trade. Ocean Policy: PM Mark Brown told Pacific leaders the Cook Islands is protecting the “sacred ocean” through the Marae moana marine park and science-based rules on seabed minerals. Health Alert (US): A CDC report shows dengue cases in the US jumped 359% in 2024 versus the 2010–2023 average, with most cases linked to travel. Local Weather: The Cook Islands Meteorological Service has relaunched upper-air weather balloon monitoring to boost forecasts. Sport (Cricket): Japan’s Asian Games cricket build-up includes qualifiers featuring the Cook Islands alongside Pacific neighbours.

Pacific Culture on Screen: TVNZ’s new 40-minute documentary “400 Weddings and a Funeral” is built for anyone trying to get Pacific protocols right, with cultural experts from Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands, Fiji and Niue. Regional Partnerships: The Cook Islands and PNG’s Central Province have renewed ties by signing a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement at APEC Haus, aiming for cultural exchange, education, youth and women’s empowerment, tourism and climate work. Cook Islands in the Ocean Spotlight: PM Mark Brown told Pacific leaders the Marae moana marine park and science-led seabed mineral governance are central to protecting the “sacred ocean.” Elections & Geopolitics: With 2026 elections looming, coverage notes improving Cook Islands–New Zealand relations after a defence and security declaration, following earlier China-linked tensions. Local Governance Watch: A letter from the Airport Authority board says acting CEO Joe Ngamata will cover day-to-day leadership during approved leave, citing continuity and oversight. Regional News Beyond: Oceania swimming reports a narrowing gap as Pacific nations challenge Australia and New Zealand.

Pacific Culture Spotlight: TVNZ’s new documentary “400 Weddings and a Funeral” is a practical guide to Pacific wedding and funeral protocols, featuring cultural experts from islands including the Cook Islands. Regional Partnerships: The Cook Islands and PNG’s Central Province have renewed historic ties by signing a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement at APEC Haus, aiming for cultural exchange, youth and women’s empowerment, tourism, trade, and climate cooperation. Geopolitics & Security: A separate report says Cook Islands–New Zealand relations have eased after a new defence and security declaration, following earlier strain tied to the Cook Islands’ China partnership. Elections Watch: Coverage flags 2026 as a tense year for Pacific politics as elections approach amid rising strategic competition. Weather Update: The Cook Islands Meteorological Service has relaunched upper-air weather balloon monitoring after years of inactivity, boosting forecast capability. Travel Rules Abroad: A global passport ranking story notes Sri Lanka’s passport sits at 94th, while another update lists visa-free access for Cook Islands in Oceania.

Sister Province Deal: Central Province Governor Rufina Peter and Cook Islands PM Mark Brown have signed a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement at APEC Haus, formalising a relationship dating back over 150 years and aiming to boost cultural exchanges, education, youth and women’s empowerment, tourism, climate action, agriculture, sports, and trade. Elections & Geopolitics: A separate report says 2026 is shaping up as a high-stakes year for Cook Islands and New Zealand politics, with defence ties easing after earlier strains linked to the Cook Islands’ China partnership. Regional Watch: In the wider Pacific, the Cook Islands’ ocean protection push and seabed-minerals debate continue to draw attention, while other coverage this week ranges from Pacific sports to health and education research. Quick Note: Some of the week’s biggest non-Cook Islands items were thinly connected to local impact.

Cook Islands–PNG ties: Central Province and the Cook Islands have signed a Sister Province Partnership Arrangement, formalising more than 150 years of shared history with cooperation on tourism, culture, trade, education, climate action, plus youth, agriculture, sport and women’s empowerment. Weather watch: The Cook Islands Meteorological Service has relaunched upper-air weather balloon monitoring after years of inactivity, aiming to strengthen Pacific forecasts. Ocean protection: PM Mark Brown told Melanesian Ocean Summit leaders the Cook Islands is backing science-based seabed-minerals governance alongside Marae moana’s huge marine protections. Regional health and learning: A Samoa study is tracking how heat and humidity affect children’s wellbeing and classroom learning. Cricket buzz: Japan’s Asian Games cricket venue is drawing curious first-timers, including Cook Islands teams in the qualifiers. Telecom update (region): Nepal Telecom is moving to a 60-second pulse for international calls to 58 countries, effective May 15.