AGP Executive Report
Last update: 7 hours agoMoana 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.
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