1 August 2025, Issue 1271
Crafting connections The Bay of Plenty’s Cook Islands community is ready to show off their colourful and vibrant culture as they celebrate their official language week from August 3-9. Pictured are local Cook Island Mamas group members Janine Lowe and Rosa Rakoia, preparing their craftwork for the Tīvaevae Exhibit, which
will showcase the traditional, brightly coloured, woven and treasured quilts to the public at The Cargo Shed from August 6-8. A community cultural event is also planned for The Cargo Shed next Saturday, August 9, from 10.30am-2pm. BOP Pacific Island Community Trust chairperson Bevan Rakoia said the language
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week is a chance for the BOP Cook Islander community to connect with one another – including the 100 seasonal workers who come from the islands to work in Western BOP kiwifruit orchards – and the wider community. “This is an opportunity to bridge that gap and to make them feel included and part of the
wider community, because they contribute to our regions just as much as the [Cook Islander] residents do.” The week also had much deeper meaning, said Rakoia. It celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Cook Islands’ self-governance. Read more on page 5. Photo / Brydie Thompson
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