AGP Executive Report

Deep-Sea Minerals Update: Deep Sea Minerals says it has submitted its NOAA application for U.S. deep-sea hard minerals and has received a “substantial compliance” determination, giving it priority rights in the application area while it continues regulatory, technical and environmental workstreams. NOAA Mapping for Cook Islands: NOAA will lead a 28-day expedition this July–August to map and study deep waters around the Cook Islands, using ROVs and live-streamed science, with data and samples shared publicly and with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority. Energy Costs Hit Northern Group: Penrhyn Island has run down to its last 100 litres of diesel and borrowed 5,000 litres from the police patrol boat Te Kukupa II, while restricting power use as fuel prices rise and battery replacement work continues. Maritime Security: RNZAF patrols targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity in Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZs as part of New Zealand’s Operation Kiwa, supporting fisheries protection and organised-crime disruption. Food Safety for EU Seafood: EU rules on freezer vessels are set to affect about 97% of EU-listed Pacific Island-flagged vessels, with Fiji-based training for national authorities aimed at keeping access to the EU seafood market. Tourism & Local Markets: Te Tapora Kai hosted a “Taste of the Cook Islands” pop-up to boost market foot traffic, featuring local dishes, crafts and cultural demonstrations. Rugby Business: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders back Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, arguing Pacific-led pathways must be protected as New Zealand Rugby weighs options.

Deep-sea minerals & geopolitics: NOAA will lead a 28-day expedition to map deep waters around the Cook Islands this July–August, working with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority and streaming ROV dives and live science, with data and samples set to be publicly shared to support local stewardship. Maritime security: New Zealand’s RNZAF targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity across Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZ during May as part of Operation Kiwa, supporting fisheries protection and regional organised-crime disruption through surveillance and follow-up by authorities. Food safety & trade access: EU rules on freezer-vessel temperatures are set to affect about 97% of EU-listed Pacific Island-flagged vessels; Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu trained on the new requirements to help keep EU seafood exports viable. Tourism & local business: Te Tapora Kai at Punanga Nui Market is running a “Taste of the Cook Islands” pop-up with local food, crafts and cultural demos to boost foot traffic and support registered vendors. Governance capability: CIIC continues director training for its group boards, focusing on decision-making, integrity and key governance challenges for 2026.

Deep-sea science for minerals: NOAA will lead a 28-day expedition this July–August to map and study deep waters around the Cook Islands, working with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority and streaming live ROV dives and shipboard science, with all data and samples to be made public. Food safety and market access: Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu joined a Suva training on new EU freezer-vessel food safety rules that could affect about 97% of Pacific Island-flagged vessels exporting to the EU, aiming to keep compliance strong and seafood trade open. Maritime security: RNZAF patrols in May targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity across Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZs, supporting FFA work and New Zealand’s Operation Kiwa to deter serious organised crime. Tourism push at Te Tapora Kai: Cook Islands Tourism Corporation ran a “Taste of the Cook Islands” pop-up at Punanga Nui Market to boost local produce sales and foot traffic, with new vendors, cultural demos and traditional dishes. Local governance capability: CIIC continued director training for boards, focusing on decision-making, conflicts of interest and emerging governance challenges. Energy pressure on Penrhyn: Penrhyn Island used its last 100 litres of diesel, borrowing 5,000 litres from the police patrol boat and restricting power use while a battery replacement project progresses. Regional rugby business: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders backed Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, arguing Pacific-led pathways must be protected as NZ Rugby weighs options.

Deep-Sea Mapping: NOAA will lead a 28-day expedition to map and study deep waters around the Cook Islands this July–August, using remotely operated vehicles and live-streamed science, with data and samples shared publicly and with local authorities. Food Safety & Exports: EU rules on freezer vessels under Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/1449 are set to affect about 97% of Pacific Island-flagged vessels exporting seafood to the EU, with Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu training to meet the new -18°C brine requirement. Maritime Security: New Zealand’s RNZAF targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity in the Cook Islands, Fiji and Niue EEZs during May as part of Operation Kiwa, supporting fisheries protection and regional organised-crime disruption. Tourism & Markets: The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation ran “Taste of the Cook Islands” at Te Tapora Kai to boost market foot traffic, featuring local dishes, crafts and cultural demos. Local Business & Governance: CIIC continues director training to strengthen governance capability across its boards, while the Opposition backs the National Energy Response Framework and urges early preparation. Energy Costs: Penrhyn Island hit a diesel crunch, borrowing fuel from the police patrol boat and restricting power use while a barge delivery is scheduled for late June. Sports & Culture: Rex Atirai performed in Samoa for its 64th independence, and the 2026 Cook Islands Rugby League Origin Series kicks off this weekend.

Nutrition & local business: Cook Islander Barbara Marsters has returned home after decades in government and business in NZ and Australia with a plan to lift nutrition “one tray at a time,” aiming to improve what families eat. Deep-sea resources & stewardship: NOAA will lead a 28-day expedition this July–August to map and explore deep waters around the Cook Islands, working with the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority; live streams and publicly shared data are promised to support local management. Food safety & trade access: EU rules on freezer vessels are set to affect about 97% of Pacific Island-flagged vessels exporting to the EU, with Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Tuvalu training on the new requirements to protect seafood market access. Maritime security: RNZAF patrols in May targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity in Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZ as part of Operation Kiwa, supporting fisheries protection and organised-crime disruption. Energy costs & resilience: Penrhyn Island has run down to its last 100 litres of diesel and is borrowing fuel from the police patrol boat while restricting power use, as regional fuel prices rise. Tourism & community activity: Te Tapora Kai returns at Punanga Nui Market with a “Taste of the Cook Islands” pop-up featuring local dishes, crafts and cultural demos, while tourism leaders also push for stronger stewardship planning as visitor growth pressures waste and services.

Rugby League Pathways: The 2026 Cook Islands Rugby League Origin Series kicks off this weekend at Nukupure Park, with Town Blues (Tupapa Panthers, Avatiu Eels, Takuvaine Warriors) taking on the Country Maroons (Arorangi Bears, Ngatangiia-Matavera Sea Eagles) and new coaches aiming to lift players into the National Residents squad and the Mantis-Hoff Series. Tourism & Market Activity: “Taste of the Cook Islands” returns to Te Tapora Kai at Punanga Nui Market today (9am-12noon), with local dishes, live music, cultural demos and new vendors to boost foot traffic. Food Security & Local Farming: A political analyst argues the Cook Islands should refocus on agriculture to cut import dependence, strengthen local businesses and improve resilience, especially across the Pa Enua. Energy Costs Watch: Penrhyn Island has run down its diesel and is borrowing fuel from the police patrol boat, while power use is restricted as regional fuel prices rise. Governance & Investment: CIIC continues director training to strengthen board governance capability across its group. Regional Security: RNZAF patrols targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity in Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZ as part of Operation Kiwa. Sustainable Tourism Pressure: Tourism leaders and stakeholders review progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan, as industry warns the country remains exposed to global slowdown risks.

Maritime Security & Trade: RNZAF patrols in May targeted vessels suspected of illegal activity in Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZ, supporting the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency and New Zealand Customs’ Operation Kiwa to deter serious organised crime. Energy & Cost Pressures: Penrhyn Island hit a diesel crunch, using its last 100 litres and borrowing 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II while restricting power use; the wider region is seeing renewed fuel price rises tied to Middle East conflict impacts. Tourism & Sustainability: Cook Islands tourism leaders are warning the country is still exposed to global slowdown risk, even as visitor growth continues; stakeholders also met on the Destination Stewardship Plan, while another report flags waste and environmental strain as arrivals push beyond 200,000 a year. Governance & Investment: CIIC continues director training to strengthen governance capability across its boards, focusing on decision-making, conflicts of interest and emerging 2026 governance challenges. Regional Connectivity: The Cook Islands hosted ASPA81, stressing aviation–tourism partnerships as the key to unlocking sustainable growth for island economies. Local Business & Resilience: A new five-phase energy response framework moves into phase two to manage fuel supply crises and economic risks. Sports Business: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders back Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, arguing Pacific-led pathways must be protected as the franchise faces financial pressure.

Regional Ocean Priorities: Marshall Islands President Hilda Heine told a Tokyo ocean summit that island states need more access to finance, technology, scientific data and capacity-building to protect livelihoods and manage growing pressures on the sea. Maritime Security & Fisheries: New Zealand’s RNZAF ran patrols in Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands EEZ during May, supporting Operation Kiwa and the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency by photographing vessels of interest to deter serious organised crime. Food Security Focus: A Cook Islands political analyst argues agriculture deserves renewed attention to cut reliance on imported food and strengthen local jobs and businesses, especially across the Southern Group and Rarotonga. Cook Islands Energy Planning: The government has moved into phase two of a five-phase energy response framework to manage fuel supply risks linked to Middle East conflict, while Penrhyn Island tightens power use after running low on diesel. Tourism Under Pressure: Cook Islands tourism leaders warn the country is still vulnerable to a global slowdown, and stakeholders met to progress the Destination Stewardship Plan as waste burdens rise with visitor growth. Governance Investment: CIIC continues director training to strengthen governance capability across its boards, including decision-making, conflicts of interest and emerging board challenges. Rugby Business Stakes: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders back Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, pushing for Pacific-led decision-making as NZ Rugby weighs options.

Fuel Supply Stress: Penrhyn Island in the Cook Islands has burned through its last 100 litres of diesel and is now drawing on 5,000 litres borrowed from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II, with power use restricted to 6am–10pm while a barge fuel delivery is expected around 25–26 June. Regional Security & Trade: RNZAF and NZ Customs ran maritime surveillance patrols in Fiji, Niue and Cook Islands EEZs in May, photographing vessels of interest as part of Operation Kiwa and Pacific fisheries enforcement. Tourism Data & Strategy: The Pacific Tourism Organisation, via the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, released the 2024 International Visitor Survey findings for Niue and other Pacific markets, highlighting visitor sources and spending patterns to guide planning. Sustainable Tourism Pressure: Cook Islands tourism stakeholders reviewed progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and discussed the next phase of sustainable development as waste and environmental limits remain a growing concern. Governance Capability: CIIC continued director training in Rarotonga to strengthen board decision-making, integrity and emerging governance challenges. Pacific Rugby Business: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders backed Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, arguing for Pacific-led pathways as the franchise faces financial pressure and possible exit from Super Rugby after 2026. Aviation–Tourism Link: ASPA81 in Rarotonga reinforced that better coordination between airlines and tourism is key to unlocking sustainable growth for island economies.

Maritime Security: RNZAF and NZ Customs ran surveillance patrols in Fiji, Niue and the Cook Islands’ EEZ in May, targeting vessels of interest linked to serious organised crime and fisheries enforcement. Tourism Data & Strategy: The Pacific Tourism Organisation, with Niue under the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, released the 2024 International Visitor Survey, highlighting visitor preferences and spending to guide regional tourism planning. Fuel & Energy Resilience: Penrhyn Island burned through its last 100 litres of diesel, borrowing 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II while restricting power use as fuel deliveries are delayed. Governance & Investment Capability: CIIC continued director training for boards across its group, focusing on decision-making, conflicts of interest and key governance challenges for 2026. Pacific Rugby Business: Cook Islands and Tonga rugby leaders backed Kanaloa’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, arguing Pacific-led pathways must be protected as the franchise exits Super Rugby Pacific after 2026. Aviation–Tourism Link: ASPA81 in Rarotonga stressed closer coordination between airlines, airports and tourism bodies to strengthen connectivity and support island economies. Cook Islands–China Links: PM Mark Brown’s visit to Wuzhou highlighted new cooperation tied to the launch of the government vessel MV Tuitui Moana, aimed at improving connectivity.

Moana Pasifika takeover push: Tonga and Cook Islands rugby leaders say the future of Pacific rugby must be shaped by Pacific voices as the Kanaloa consortium seeks to take over the franchise after it exits Super Rugby Pacific following 2026, with Samoa, Tonga, Cook Islands and Niue unions backing the bid while New Zealand Rugby weighs “long-term, sustainable” plans. Tourism data for operators: The Pacific Tourism Organisation and Niue Tourism Office released 2024 International Visitor Survey findings under the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, highlighting New Zealand as the top source market and giving destinations a steer on visitor preferences and spending. Fuel squeeze hits Pa Enua: Penrhyn Island used its last 100 litres of diesel and borrowed 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II, while restricting power use as regional fuel prices rise and a barge delivery is expected late June. Aviation-tourism link: ASPA81 in Rarotonga reinforced that better coordination between airlines, airports and tourism authorities is key to unlocking sustainable growth for island economies. Sustainable tourism pressure: Tourism leaders and stakeholders reviewed progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan, with waste and managing growth front and centre. Energy planning: Opposition backs the National Energy Response Framework, urging government to lead early to avoid uncertainty for families, businesses and the Pa Enua. Regional trade talks: Cook Islands joined PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Business risk backdrop: A Cook Islands tourism warning flags vulnerability to global downturns despite assurances around a worst-case 5% GDP decline scenario.

Tourism Data & Strategy: The Pacific Tourism Organisation, with Niue’s Tourism Office under the Pacific Tourism Data Initiative, released the 2024 International Visitor Survey, highlighting visitor preferences, spending and experiences to guide regional tourism planning. Energy & Cost Pressures: Cook Islands Opposition backs the National Energy Response Framework but warns government must act early to avoid uncertainty for families, businesses and the Pa Enua. Fuel Supply Risk: Penrhyn Island in the Northern Group has hit a diesel crunch, drawing on 5,000 litres borrowed from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II while restricting power use until the next barge delivery expected late June. Aviation–Tourism Link: At ASPA81 in Rarotonga, tourism and airline leaders stressed stronger aviation partnerships to improve connectivity and support sustainable tourism growth. Tourism Outlook: The industry warns the Cook Islands remains exposed to a global slowdown, even as government points to a worst-case 5% GDP decline scenario. Shipping Connectivity: PM Mark Brown says the MV Tuitui Moana’s completion in China is a milestone for safer, more reliable inter-island shipping and improved access for communities. Budget Scrutiny: The 2026/27 national Budget is drawing increasing scrutiny from opposition and business over priorities and spending choices.

Moana Pasifika Takeover: Tonga and Cook Islands rugby leaders back the Kanaloa consortium’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika as the franchise faces financial pressure and an expected Super Rugby exit after 2026, with New Zealand Rugby under growing pressure to respond as liquidation looms. Aviation-Tourism Link: The Pacific Tourism Organisation used ASPA81 in Rarotonga to stress that tourism growth depends on tighter coordination with airlines and airports, highlighting connectivity as a key enabler for island economies. Fuel Squeeze in the Northern Group: Penrhyn Island has run down its diesel, borrowing 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II while restricting power use, as regional fuel prices rise and the next barge delivery is expected mid/late June. Tourism Risk Warning: The tourism sector says the Cook Islands remains exposed to global slowdown risks, even as government points to a potential 5% GDP decline as unlikely. Sustainable Tourism Planning: Stakeholders met to review progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and map the next phase of sustainable tourism development. Energy Security Plan: Government moved into phase two of a five-phase framework to manage fuel supply crises and economic risks tied to Middle East conflict. Connectivity Upgrade: PM Mark Brown marked the completion of the MV Tuitui Moana in China, calling it a practical step for safer inter-island shipping and stronger Cook Islands–China cooperation. Pacific Trade Talks: Cook Islands participated in PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: A letter raises concerns about a gap between government caution on seabed mining and corporate merger filings suggesting companies are positioning for commercial permits.

Moana Pasifika Takeover: Tonga and Cook Islands rugby leaders have backed the Kanaloa consortium’s bid to take over Moana Pasifika, arguing Pacific voices must shape the franchise as it exits Super Rugby Pacific after 2026; New Zealand Rugby has declined to confirm details of who supports the bid. Fuel Security: Penrhyn Island has run out of diesel (last 100 litres) and is borrowing 5,000 litres from police patrol boat Te Kukupa II while power use is restricted; the next fuel barge is expected around June 25-26. Tourism Pressure: The industry warns Cook Islands remains exposed to a global slowdown, even as government points to a “worst-case” 5% GDP decline scenario; meanwhile, stakeholders are reviewing progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and pushing sustainable tourism that doesn’t outpace waste capacity. Energy Response: Government has moved into phase two of a five-phase framework to manage fuel supply crises and economic risks tied to Middle East conflict. Connectivity & Trade: PM Mark Brown’s China visit marked the launch of the MV Tuitui Moana, boosting inter-island shipping links, while Cook Islands also attended PACER Plus meetings in Tonga to progress trade facilitation and resilience priorities.

Tourism Risk Check: Cook Islands tourism leaders warn the economy is still exposed to a global slowdown, even as Government points to a “worst-case” 5% GDP decline scenario. Sustainable Tourism Push: Stakeholders met to review progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and map the next phase of sustainable tourism development. Budget & Funding Watch: Government says reinstated NZ$20m funding equals about 5% of the 2026/27 budget appropriation, while the wider 2026/27 Budget faces scrutiny from opposition and business. Energy Security: The Government moves into phase two of a five-phase plan to safeguard fuel supply amid global supply risks tied to Middle East conflict. Connectivity & Shipping: PM Mark Brown marks the inauguration of the MV Tuitui Moana in China, a co-funded inter-island vessel aimed at improving access and resilience across the Pa Enua. Regional Trade Work: Cook Islands participates in PACER Plus meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Aviation & Tourism Markets: Cook Islands continues strengthening North America tourism presence ahead of new airline partnerships and cruise opportunities. Sports & Community: Apii Avarua wins its 16th athletics title, while Moana Pasifika’s future remains uncertain amid financial pressures.

Tourism & Risk: Cook Islands tourism leaders say the economy remains exposed to global shocks, warning that even a “worst-case” 5% GDP decline scenario would hit hard in a small, tourism-dependent nation. Sustainable Tourism: Stakeholders have mapped next steps under the Destination Stewardship Plan, aiming to keep tourism growth aligned with environmental and community limits. Waste & Growth Pressure: Te Ipukarea Society highlights how rising visitor numbers and new air links can quickly increase the waste burden on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Budget & Funding: Government says reinstated NZ$20m funding is about 5% of the 2026/27 appropriation, while the Budget is drawing scrutiny from opposition and business. Energy Security: The government moves into phase two of a five-phase plan to safeguard fuel supply amid global supply risks. Maritime Connectivity: PM Mark Brown marks the inauguration of MV Tuitui Moana in China, calling it a practical boost to inter-island shipping and connectivity. Regional Trade Talks: Cook Islands joins PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga to progress trade facilitation, customs, standards and biosecurity priorities. Aviation & Tourism Demand: Cook Islands continues pushing North America with new airline partnerships and cruise opportunities. Health: The Cook Islands is declared dengue-free after 26 days with no new cases, though Pacific neighbours still report outbreaks. Sports & Youth: Apii Avarua wins its 16th athletics title; Lae Football Association backs youth players with funding for qualifiers in the Cook Islands. Crime & Governance (Regional): New Zealand warns the Pacific can’t “arrest” its way out of organised crime, stressing better legislation, border support and cross-agency action. Business & Education (Regional): Open Polytechnic graduation coverage includes a Cook Islander graduate spotlighting social work pathways.