AGP Executive Report

Voter turnout and health of democracy: A Cook Islands election analysis flags a major gap between the electoral roll and preliminary votes in Rarotonga—about 40.9% of registered voters not represented—arguing non-voting can be a political message, not just apathy. Deep-sea mining and public health concerns: Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) took Cook Islands concerns to the International Seabed Authority meeting, opposing a US company’s push for exploration in the South Penrhyn Basin, raising questions for ocean stewardship. Bird flu preparedness: Pacific governments asked New Zealand for guidance on H5 avian influenza as it spreads in Australia and New Zealand; officials say human risk is low but warn Pacific wildlife could face serious impacts. Menopause support in the Cook Islands: Cook Islands women launched Te Marū o te Vaine, a Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness event with evidence-based education and support for perimenopause and menopause on Aug 14. Digital inclusion as a health issue: A Pacific internet governance interview stresses that digital inclusion is about people’s real needs—education, health, and family connections—especially for remote communities. COVID-era leadership recognition: Finance Secretary Garth Henderson dedicated the Prime Minister’s Leadership Mace to the people behind Cook Islands’ COVID-19 response, highlighting support for jobs, incomes, and businesses.

Voter turnout and health of democracy: A Cook Islands election analysis flags a major gap between the roll and preliminary votes in Rarotonga—about 9,600 registered but only 5,678 voting—raising concerns that non-voting may be a political signal, not apathy. Menopause support: Cook Islands women launched Te Marū o te Vaine, a new midlife health and menopause awareness event with evidence-based education and expert speakers, aiming to improve support for perimenopause and menopause. Bird flu watch: Pacific governments asked New Zealand for guidance on H5 avian influenza as it spreads in Australia and New Zealand; officials say human risk is low but seabirds and endemic wildlife face the biggest threat. COVID-era leadership recognition: Financial Secretary Garth Henderson dedicated the Prime Minister’s Leadership Mace to teams behind Cook Islands’ COVID-19 response, highlighting measures to protect jobs, incomes and businesses during border closures. Safety and health in the community: Police reported a domestic incident involving a bush knife, plus a crash where a motorcyclist was taken to hospital and blood testing was requested, with alcohol suspected as a key factor. Digital inclusion: A Pacific internet governance interview argues digital inclusion is a human issue tied to education, health and family connections—not just connectivity.

Election turnout and health of democracy: A Cook Islands election commentary flags a steep gap between the electoral roll and preliminary votes in Rarotonga—about 9,600 registered but only 5,678 voting—raising concerns that non-voting can be a political signal, not just apathy. Menopause support: Cook Islands women launch Te Marū o te Vaine, a women’s midlife health and menopause awareness event (Aug 14) focused on perimenopause, menopause and healthy ageing with evidence-based guidance and expert speakers. Bird flu watch: Pacific governments ask New Zealand for advice on H5 avian influenza as it spreads in Australia and New Zealand; officials say human risk is low but wildlife impacts could be severe for endemic seabirds. Deep-sea mining governance: Te Ipukarea Society takes Cook Islands concerns to the International Seabed Authority, opposing a US company’s exploration push in an area surrounded by Cook Islands, Kiribati and French Polynesia. Community health and safety: Police report a man remanded after an alleged bush-knife domestic threat, plus a crash where a motorcyclist was taken to hospital and blood testing was requested, with alcohol suspected.

Election participation and health of democracy: A Thomas Wynne op-ed flags a major turnout gap in Rarotonga—about 9,600 are on the roll but only 5,678 voted in the preliminary count—arguing non-voting can be a political message, not just apathy. Deep-sea mining and public health concerns: Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) has taken Cook Islands concerns about seabed mining to the International Seabed Authority, opposing a US company’s exploration push in the South Penrhyn Basin. Bird flu watch for the Pacific: Pacific governments have asked New Zealand for guidance on H5 avian influenza as it spreads in Australia and New Zealand, with risk to wildlife seen as the biggest threat. Women’s midlife health: Cook Islands launches Te Marū o te Vaine, a new menopause awareness event on Aug 14 with evidence-based support for perimenopause, menopause and healthy ageing. Cost of living and water tariffs in the campaign: Election coverage highlights competing plans around welfare support and potential removal/review of Rarotonga water use tariffs. COVID-era leadership recognition: Financial Secretary Garth Henderson dedicates the Prime Minister’s Leadership Mace to pandemic response teams, honouring work protecting jobs and incomes during border closures. Community safety: Police report a man remanded after an alleged bush-knife domestic threat, plus other incidents including a crash where alcohol is believed to be a factor.

Avian Influenza Watch: Pacific governments, including Cook Islands-linked partners, have asked New Zealand for guidance on H5 bird flu as the virus is now detected in both Australia and New Zealand; officials say the risk to human health remains low, but the bigger concern is wildlife impacts on endemic seabirds and island ecosystems. Election & Health Access: Cook Islands caretaker Associate Minister Tereapii Maki Kavana says he retained his Aitutaki seat while hospitalised in Rarotonga, highlighting how health and continuity of representation intersect during election season. Menopause Support: Cook Islands launches its first Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness event, with evidence-based sessions and expert speakers aimed at improving education and support for perimenopause and menopause. NCDs & Leadership Scrutiny: A letter urges political leaders to model healthier lifestyles amid ongoing non-communicable disease pressure, pointing to high NCD burden in midlife age groups. Community Safety: Police report a 33-year-old remanded over an alleged domestic bush-knife threat, plus other incidents including a crash where alcohol is believed to be a key factor. Digital Inclusion: A Cook Islands internet governance advocate argues digital inclusion is a human issue tied to health, education, and family connections—not just connectivity.

Election & Health Access: Cook Islands Party candidate Tereapii Maki Kavana says he retained his Aitutaki seat even while hospitalised in Rarotonga, highlighting how election life continues alongside health needs. Menopause & Women’s Midlife Care: The Cook Islands launches Te Marū o te Vaine, a Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness event on Aug 14, aiming to share trusted, evidence-based support for perimenopause, menopause and healthy ageing. NCDs & Leadership Scrutiny: A letter urges political leaders to model healthier lifestyles as non-communicable diseases remain a major public health challenge, questioning whether campaigns reflect the standards they promote. Cost of Living & Water Tariffs: Ahead of the election, voters are focused on cost of living, with opposition plans to remove or review residential and agricultural water use tariffs on Rarotonga. Digital Inclusion: Maureen Hilyard argues digital inclusion is a human issue—connecting people to education, health and family links—drawing on Cook Islands experience. Public Safety: Police report a 33-year-old remanded over a bush-knife threat in a domestic incident, alongside other minor road incidents and investigations. Regional Policy: Biden’s Pacific summit includes U.S. recognition of the Cook Islands and Niue and new infrastructure plans, including internet connectivity via undersea cables.

Men’s Health & Care Access: Cook Islands women are set to get a dedicated boost with the launch of Te Marū o te Vaine, a Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness event on Friday (Aug 14) featuring evidence-based talks and support for perimenopause, menopause and healthy ageing. Public Safety & Health Risks: A 33-year-old man has been remanded after allegedly threatening to kill his ex-partner with a bush knife, while police also report a Matavera motorcyclist crash where alcohol is believed to be a key factor and blood testing was requested. Election & Living Costs: As the Cook Islands heads to its general election, cost of living and water tariffs are front and centre, with opposition plans to remove residential and agricultural water use tariffs on Rarotonga and review the To Tatou Vai structure. Health Policy & Leadership: A letter raises concerns about leadership standards during a time when non-communicable diseases remain a major public health challenge, questioning whether candidates model healthier lifestyles. Digital Inclusion: A Cook Islands internet governance leader argues digital inclusion is a human issue tied to education, health and family connections—not just connectivity. Regional Context: New Zealand’s leadership turmoil and election politics are also in the news, alongside broader Pacific security and climate agenda items.

Cook Islands Election 2026 (Health & Cost of Living): With voters heading to the polls, RNZ Pacific reports cost of living is a top priority, alongside promises to protect welfare payments and pensions as the country consolidates growth after reopening borders post-COVID. Water & Household Bills: Opposition leader Tina Browne says a future government would push to remove water use tariffs for residential and agricultural users on Rarotonga and review the To Tatou Vai structure. COVID Preparedness & Public Trust (Regional Politics): A wider political backdrop is forming as New Zealand’s government accepts recommendations from the COVID-19 inquiry’s second phase, keeping pandemic preparedness and public confidence in the spotlight heading into elections. Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause: The Cook Islands launches Te Marū o te Vaine, a Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness event (Aug 14) offering trusted, evidence-based support for perimenopause, menopause and healthy ageing, with experts and livestream access for Pa Enua. Community Safety & Health Links: Police report a 33-year-old man remanded after an alleged domestic bush-knife threat, and a Matavera motorcyclist crash where alcohol is believed to be a key factor; blood testing followed hospital treatment. Digital Inclusion (Wellness via Access): Maureen Hilyard argues digital inclusion is a human issue tied to education, health and family connections—less about tech and more about what communities need to thrive. NCDs & Leadership Standards (Letter): A letter challenges political leaders to model healthier lifestyles as non-communicable diseases remain a major public health concern. Breast Cancer Fundraiser: The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation’s Beehive Ball in Wellington (Aug 8) spotlights support that can help save lives, with major entertainers backing the cause.

Cook Islands Election 2026 & Health: Voters head to the polls this week with stability, cost of living and public trust high on the agenda, as parties debate how to fund welfare supports and tackle pressures that followed COVID-19. Water & Household Costs: Opposition leader Tina Browne says a future government would push to remove residential and agricultural water use tariffs on Rarotonga and review the To Tatou Vai structure—an issue that directly affects everyday health through affordability and access. Menopause Awareness: Cook Islands women have launched Te Marū o te Vaine, a new midlife health and menopause event on Aug 14 (Muri Beach Club Hotel, livestreamed to the Pa Enua) aiming to improve education, support and healthy ageing. COVID Leadership Recognition: Financial Secretary Garth Henderson dedicated the Prime Minister’s Leadership Mace to people who led the Cook Islands COVID-19 response, highlighting measures to protect jobs, incomes and businesses. Community Health & Safety: Police report a 33-year-old man remanded over an alleged bush-knife threat in a domestic incident, while also noting a crash involving a motorcyclist where alcohol is believed to be a key factor. Breast Cancer Support: The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation’s Beehive Ball in Wellington (Aug 8) is set to raise funds for life-saving screening and support.

Cook Islands Election Focus: Voters head to the polls this week with cost of living front and centre, as Prime Minister Mark Brown points to growth since borders reopened and plans to lift welfare payments, pensions and child benefits. Water Affordability: Opposition leader Tina Browne says a future Democratic Party government would remove water use tariffs for residential and agricultural users on Rarotonga and review the structure of To Tatou Vai. Women’s Health: Cook Islands launches its first Te Marū o te Vaine event, a Women’s Midlife Health & Menopause Awareness day on Aug 14, aiming to boost education, support and trusted guidance for perimenopause and menopause. Community Safety: Police report a 33-year-old man remanded after a domestic bush-knife threat; officers also responded to a Matavera crash where alcohol is believed to be a factor. Digital Inclusion: Maureen Hilyard argues digital inclusion is a human issue—connectivity should be shaped around education, health and family connections, not just technology. NCD & Leadership Debate: A letter raises concerns about whether political leaders model healthier lifestyles amid ongoing non-communicable disease pressure. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: The Pacific’s seabed mining debate continues, with Cook Islands exploring potential benefits while other territories push for moratoriums or pauses. Public Health Reminder: Scabies is highlighted as a serious public health issue linked to skin infections and broader complications, not just an itchy rash.

Cook Islands Election Focus: With the general election this week, voters are weighing stability after global shocks, especially Cost of Living pressures; Prime Minister Mark Brown points to growth and recovery since borders reopened, alongside plans to lift welfare payments, pensions and child benefits, while the opposition highlights Water Tariffs—including a push to remove residential and agricultural water use charges on Rarotonga and review the To Tatou Vai structure. Women’s Midlife Health: Cook Islands women are launching Menopause Awareness with Te Marū o te Vaine, a livestreamed event on Aug 14 featuring Pacific and Australasian experts to support perimenopause/menopause education and healthy ageing. Public Safety: Police report a 33-year-old man remanded after an alleged Bush Knife Threat in a domestic incident, plus separate road incidents including a crash linked to alcohol. Digital Inclusion: A Cook Islands internet governance leader says Digital Inclusion is “fundamentally a human issue,” urging connectivity that serves education, health and family connections. Breast Cancer Fundraising: The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation’s Breast Screening Support drive includes an inaugural Beehive Ball in New Zealand Parliament on Aug 8.

Cook Islands Election Focus: With the general election this week, voters are weighing stability after reopening and the cost of living. Water Tariffs: Opposition leader Tina Browne says, if elected, her party would remove water use tariffs for residential and agricultural users on Rarotonga and review the To Tatou Vai structure. Digital Inclusion: Maureen Hilyard says digital inclusion is “fundamentally a human issue,” urging connectivity that supports education, health, family ties and opportunity—drawing on Cook Islands lessons from outer-island access. Health & Leadership Debate: A letter raises concerns about whether political leaders model healthier lifestyles as non-communicable diseases remain a major public health challenge. Breast Screening Support: Stars are backing Cook Islands women to access life-saving breast screening. Deep Sea Mining Tension: Commentary highlights the regional fight over seabed mining, with Cook Islands exploration framed as jobs and revenue, while others warn about identity and environmental uncertainty. Deep Sea Research: NOAA’s ROV surveys near the Cook Islands continue, mapping deep-sea areas to guide future exploration. Regional Health Alert: Samoa travel advice is updated amid dengue risk, urging mosquito bite protection. Finance Appointment: American Ocean Minerals appoints Paul Warmé as CFO as it advances its critical minerals and rare earth plans.

Digital inclusion: Maureen Hilyard says digital inclusion is a human issue, urging connectivity that supports real needs like education, health, and family links—less “tech first,” more “people first.” NCD leadership & public health: A letter challenges political leaders to model healthier lifestyles as non-communicable diseases remain a major Cook Islands concern, arguing accountability should include what candidates do, not just what they promise. Breast screening support: Stars are uniting to help Cook Islands women access life-saving breast screening, with community momentum building around earlier detection. Language revival: Cook Islands Māori Language Week highlights a push to reconnect families with te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani, as experts warn language loss has reached a critical point. Dengue travel warning: Australia’s Smart Traveller urges extra mosquito protection for visitors to Samoa amid a dengue outbreak, citing thousands of confirmed cases across the Pacific and warning that severe disease can follow after initial infection. Scabies as a health priority: A commentary argues scabies isn’t just an itchy nuisance—linking it to serious complications like skin infections and rheumatic fever, calling for it to be treated as a public health priority. Deep-sea mining debate: The region continues to weigh deep sea mining risks and benefits, with Cook Islands exploring potential economic gains while others push for moratoriums.

Breast Cancer Fundraiser: The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation is set to host its inaugural Beehive Ball in New Zealand Parliament on Saturday, August 8, with Dame Lynda Topp and other major performers helping raise support for life-saving screening and care. Heart Health Research: A University of Otago PhD study is exploring whether bathing in naturally warm lagoon waters could support heart health for Cook Islands Māori communities, linking everyday culture with high blood pressure and heart disease risk. NCDs & Leadership: A letter raises concerns about political leadership standards at a time when non-communicable diseases remain a major public health challenge, urging candidates to model healthier lifestyles. Scabies as Public Health: A commentary argues scabies is far more than an itchy rash, linking it to serious skin infections and even conditions like kidney disease and rheumatic fever, calling for it to be treated as a priority. Dengue Risk for Travellers: Travel advisories warn Australians heading to Samoa to protect against mosquito bites amid a dengue outbreak, citing thousands of cases and hospitalisations across the Pacific. Language & Wellness: Cook Islands Māori Language Week highlights urgent support needs for te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani, with community leaders warning language loss threatens cultural wellbeing. Deep Sea Mining Debate: Pacific-wide arguments over deep sea mining continue, with the Cook Islands weighing potential economic benefits while others push for moratoriums over environmental uncertainty.

Dengue Alert for Samoa: Australia and New Zealand travel advisories are urging extra mosquito protection after Samoa reported a dengue fever outbreak, with Safe Travel citing thousands of confirmed cases, hundreds of hospitalisations, and deaths across the region—no vaccine for first infection, so repellent and protective clothing are key. Breast Cancer Fundraiser: The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation’s Beehive Ball in New Zealand Parliament (Aug 8) spotlights breast screening and support, featuring Dame Lynda Topp and other major performers. Heart Health Research: A University of Otago PhD study led by Mary-Ann Rongo Moller is exploring whether warm lagoon bathing could support heart health for Cook Islands Māori communities, linking science with community knowledge. Language Revival Push: Cook Islands Māori Language Week is highlighting urgent te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani reconnecting efforts, with experts warning only a small share of New Zealand-born Cook Islanders know the language. NCDs & Leadership Letter: A letter raises concerns about leadership standards during serious NCD pressures, pointing to high NCD burden in older age groups and asking candidates to model healthier lifestyles. Scabies as a Public Health Issue: A New Zealand-focused report argues scabies should be treated as a serious health priority, linking it to skin infections and more severe illness outcomes. Deep-Sea Exploration: NOAA’s live deep-sea survey near the Cook Islands is set to map and collect data from the abyssal plains, feeding future ocean research. Governance & Accountability Letters: Multiple opinion pieces debate leadership, integrity institutions, and what standards public officials should model—especially when health challenges are front and centre.

Dengue risk for travellers: Samoa is facing a dengue fever outbreak, and Australian and New Zealand travel advisories are urging people to prevent mosquito bites with repellent and protective clothing, after thousands of confirmed cases and hospitalisations were reported across the Pacific. Breast cancer support in the Cook Islands community: The Cook Islands Breast Cancer Foundation’s Beehive Ball in Wellington is set to bring major entertainers together to raise funds for a cause that can save lives. Breast screening access for Cook Islands women: Stars are uniting to help Cook Islands women get access to life-saving breast screening. Heart health study rooted in culture: A Cook Islands Māori PhD researcher at the University of Otago is exploring whether bathing in naturally warm lagoon waters could support heart health, linking science with community knowledge. Language revival push: Cook Islands Māori Language Week is highlighting urgent support needs for te reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani, with experts warning language loss has reached a critical point. Scabies as a public health priority: A commentary argues scabies is far more than an itchy rash, linking it to serious skin infections and wider health impacts, and calling for it to be treated as a priority. Deep-sea exploration near the Cook Islands: NOAA’s Okeanos expedition is surveying deep waters near the Cook Islands, with live-style updates planned as a remotely operated vehicle maps and collects marine data. Waste and plastics: A local-focused piece discusses why incineration is often a poor fit for small island waste systems, and highlights the real pressure plastics create for Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.