AGP Executive Report

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.

Tourism Outlook: Cook Islands tourism leaders are warning the economy remains exposed to global slowdown risks, even as government forecasts suggest a worst-case 5% GDP decline is unlikely. Sustainable Tourism & Waste: Stakeholders are reviewing progress on the Destination Stewardship Plan and mapping the next phase of sustainable tourism, with Te Ipukarea Society flagging a growing waste burden as visitor numbers rise. Energy Security: Government has moved into phase two of a five-phase energy response framework to manage fuel supply shocks linked to Middle East conflict. Domestic Shipping: PM Mark Brown says the MV Tuitui Moana’s completion in China is a key step in the domestic shipping roadmap, boosting connectivity and economic resilience across the Pa Enua. Trade & Regional Cooperation: The Cook Islands joined PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Health: The Cook Islands has been declared dengue-free after 26 days without a recorded case, though officials urge continued mosquito control. Aviation & Market Reach: Cook Islands Tourism is pushing deeper North America presence, highlighting airline partnerships and cruise opportunities.

Domestic Shipping & China Ties: PM Mark Brown’s landmark visit to Wuzhou, Guangxi, celebrated the launch/inauguration of the government co-funded MV Tuitui Moana, aimed at improving inter-island connectivity and economic resilience. Energy Security: Government moved into phase two of a five-phase plan to manage global fuel supply shocks and related economic risks tied to the Middle East conflict. Aviation & Tourism Connectivity: Air Rarotonga hosted Pacific aviation leaders for ASPA81 in Rarotonga, while Air New Zealand’s direct Christchurch–Rarotonga service begins to boost South Island access for tourism. Trade & Regional Cooperation: Cook Islands joined PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity, and private sector development. Fuel Relief (Regional): ADB says it can provide hundreds of millions for Pacific fuel crisis support, with Fiji already securing major budget support. Health & Business Continuity: Cook Islands regained dengue-free status after 26 days without cases, though officials urged continued mosquito control to protect tourism and local livelihoods. Economic Risk Watch: MFEM flagged scenarios where oil supply disruptions could cut GDP by up to 5% via higher fuel costs and weaker tourism. Fisheries Security: Operation Tui Moana 2026 wrapped up with Cook Islands among participants, targeting illegal fishing and broader maritime crime.

Cook Islands–China Connectivity: PM Mark Brown’s historic Wuzhou visit spotlighted the inauguration of the government-owned MV Tuitui Moana, a co-funded (US$1.5m each) inter-island vessel meant to improve safety and reduce transport costs across the Pa Enua. Energy Security: Government moved into phase two of a five-phase fuel response plan to manage global supply shocks and economic risk tied to the Middle East conflict. Aviation & Tourism Links: Air Rarotonga introduced a fuel surcharge as fuel prices nearly doubled, while Air New Zealand launched a seasonal Christchurch–Rarotonga direct service to boost South Island access. Regional Trade & Borders: Cook Islands joined PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Maritime Security: Operation Tui Moana 2026 wrapped up with Cook Islands participation in a Pacific-wide push against illegal fishing and other maritime crime, supported by Australia and New Zealand. Tourism Demand Signals: Cook Islands tourism continues expanding into North America, with new airline partnerships and demand for authentic experiences highlighted. Policy Watch: Opposition and business scrutiny continues over the 2026/27 Budget, described as the largest ever.

Aviation & Tourism Connectivity: Cook Islands hosted ASPA81 in Rarotonga, bringing together airline, tourism and aviation partners to focus on “Island Economies in Flight” and strengthen Pacific connectivity. Regional Trade & Policy: The Cook Islands joined PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals around trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Shipping & Infrastructure: PM Mark Brown marked the inauguration of MV Tuitui Moana in China, a co-funded inter-island vessel aimed at improving connectivity and lowering transport costs across the Pa Enua. Tourism Demand & Routes: Air New Zealand’s new direct Christchurch–Rarotonga service begins tonight, adding up to three weekly flights through October to boost South Island access. Budget & Cost Pressures: The 2026/27 national Budget faces scrutiny from opposition and business, while the new Cook Islands minimum wage of $10.50 from 1 July is welcomed by workers but flagged by firms for potential price rises and staffing strain. Economic Risk Watch: MFEM warns global oil supply disruptions and Middle East conflict could lift fuel costs, hit tourism and drive GDP down by up to 5%. Maritime Security: Operation Tui Moana 2026 wrapped up with Cook Islands among participating countries, supporting regional action against illegal fishing and transnational maritime crime.

Minimum Wage & Cost Pressures: Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises from $10 to $10.50 per hour from 1 July 2026, sparking debate as workers say it won’t keep up with inflation while businesses warn of higher prices and possible layoffs. Tourism & Air Access: Air New Zealand launches a seasonal direct Christchurch–Rarotonga service (up to three times weekly), boosting South Island connectivity as Cook Islands tourism targets more authentic experiences. Shipping Connectivity: MV Tuitui Moana is inaugurated in China, strengthening domestic inter-island transport under Cook Islands–China cooperation. Budget & Economic Risk: MFEM flags scenarios where Middle East conflict and oil supply disruptions could lift fuel costs, hit tourism and push real GDP down by up to 5%, while the 2026/27 Budget faces scrutiny from opposition and business. Trade & Regional Integration: Cook Islands participates in PACER Plus meetings in Tonga, shaping trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector priorities. Fisheries Security: Operation Tui Moana 2026 wraps up with Cook Islands among participating countries, supporting Pacific surveillance against illegal fishing and related crime. Climate Action Diplomacy: PM Mark Brown calls for faster climate action and better access to finance at UN ESCAP in Bangkok. Health Update: Cook Islands is declared dengue-free again after 26 days without cases, though other Pacific areas still report outbreaks.

AI & Insurance Leadership: Tower Insurance has appointed Cook Islands–Tahitian executive Michael Skeens as Chief Operations Officer, tasked with rolling out AI tools across customer service and operations across Aotearoa and the Pacific. Moana Pasifika Ownership: NZ Rugby declined to confirm whether Pacific unions—including the Cook Islands—back the Kanaloa Consortium bid as Moana Pasifika moves through liquidation and competing licence offers. Trade & Regional Cooperation: The Cook Islands delegation joined PACER Plus budget and joint committee meetings in Tonga, shaping proposals on trade facilitation, customs, standards and biosecurity. Shipping Connectivity: PM Mark Brown marked the inauguration of MV Tuitui Moana, a new inter-island vessel built in China to strengthen Pa Enua connectivity. Fisheries Security: Operation Tui Moana 2026 wrapped up with Cook Islands participation, including Te Kukupa II boarding and inspecting 13 vessels, as regional partners target IUU fishing. Tourism & Transport: Cook Islands tourism is pushing deeper into North America, while Air New Zealand begins a direct Christchurch–Rarotonga service to boost South Island access. Cost of Living Pressure: The Cook Islands minimum wage rises to $10.50 from 1 July 2026, sparking business warnings of price hikes and staffing strain. Health Update: The Cook Islands has been declared dengue-free after 26 days without a case, though other Pacific areas still report outbreaks.

Minimum Wage & Budget Pressure: Cook Islands’ minimum wage rises from $10 to $10.50 per hour from 1 July 2026, easing some worker strain but sparking business fears of higher costs, price rises and possible layoffs as the 2026/27 Budget faces fresh scrutiny from opposition and the business community. Tourism Connectivity & Demand: Air New Zealand launches a direct Christchurch–Rarotonga service up to three times weekly through October, while Cook Islands Tourism pushes deeper into North America with new airline links and a focus on authentic experiences. Tourism Risk Management: Air Rarotonga introduces a fuel surcharge amid Middle East-driven fuel price spikes, and the tourism corporation shifts toward a Destination Stewardship Plan to improve visitor yield and sustainability rather than just growing arrivals. Trade & Regional Cooperation: The Cook Islands joins PACER Plus meetings in Tonga, shaping priorities around trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private sector development. Maritime Security & Fisheries: Operation Tui Moana 2026 wraps up with Cook Islands police and maritime crews boarding and inspecting vessels, supporting broader regional action against illegal fishing. Health Update: The Cook Islands is declared dengue-free after 26 days without cases, though other Pacific areas still report outbreaks. Seabed Mining Debate: Letters raise concerns that seabed mining merger filings suggest accelerated “production” timelines even as government says no decision has been made and baseline science continues.

Rugby League World Cup Funding: Australia’s federal government has pledged NZ$15.1m (A$12.4m) to help deliver the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, including a double-header at Te Kaha Stadium in Christchurch where New Zealand will face the Cook Islands in the men’s competition on Oct 25. Regional Trade & Diplomacy: The Cook Islands joined PACER Plus Budget Committee and Joint Committee meetings in Tonga, shaping trade facilitation, customs, standards, biosecurity and private-sector development priorities. Tourism & Connectivity: Cook Islands tourism push into North America continues, while Air New Zealand’s direct Christchurch–Rarotonga service starts tonight (up to three weekly flights), aiming to boost winter travel demand. Cost of Living & Jobs: PM Mark Brown set the Cook Islands minimum wage at $10.50 from 1 July 2026, easing some pressure but sparking business fears of higher costs and layoffs. Health Update: The Cook Islands has been declared dengue-free after 26 days without a case, though other Pacific areas still report infections. Maritime Security: Australia’s ADF is supporting Cook Islands and Pacific partners under Operation Tui Moana to deter illegal fishing, with Cook Islands crews boarding and inspecting vessels during OPTM26. Economic Outlook: MFEM warns global shocks and fuel disruptions could drag real GDP down by up to 5% if tourism weakens.

Drug Crime Crackdown: A Christchurch court heard tech entrepreneur Mannion ran a “business-like” national drug supply operation using darknet shopfronts, encryption, crypto, gift cards, multiple phones and fake ID, with 55 confirmed drug imports to March 2024 including 42kg MDMA, 10kg ketamine and 2kg cocaine, netting “millions.” Pacific Rugby Power Shift: Kanaloa’s takeover bid for Moana Pasifika gained backing from Sāmoa, Tonga, Cook Islands and Niue unions as shareholders moved toward liquidation, while the future of the franchise hangs in the balance. Climate & Security Diplomacy: PM Mark Brown pushed faster climate action at UN ESCAP in Bangkok, while the ADF joined regional efforts to deter illegal fishing under Operation SOLANIA alongside Operation Tui Moana. Tourism & Cost Pressures: MFEM warned global shocks could drag Cook Islands GDP down by up to 5% via fuel and tourism hits, as Air Rarotonga introduced a fuel surcharge and the government’s minimum wage rise to $10.50 from 1 July 2026 sparks business anxiety. Connectivity Boost: The MV Tuitui Moana inter-island vessel was inaugurated in China, set to strengthen Pa Enua shipping links.