Pa Enua leaders to convene in Rarotonga for 2025 Governance Forum

The Government of the Cook Islands will welcome island leaders from across the Pa Enua to Rarotonga next week for the Pa Enua Governance Forum 2025, a national gathering dedicated to strengthening collaboration between the Pa Enua and Central Government.

The Forum, hosted by the Office of the Prime Minister – Pa Enua Governance Unit, will run from Monday 21 July to Thursday 24 July 2025. It coincides with the 60th anniversary year of self-governance, bringing added significance to this year’s discussions under the theme “Akatinamou’anga i te Itiki’anga Ora – The ties that bind.”

The Forum provides Mayors, Executive Officers, and Island Councillors with an opportunity to engage directly with national agencies on shared planning, public service priorities, and delivery of services across all islands.

Prime Minister Hon. Mark Brown said the Forum represents a continued commitment to inclusive leadership and strategic dialogue.

“As we mark 60 years of self-governance, we reaffirm that the strength of our nation lies in the strength of our unity. The Pa Enua have always been central to our identity and our progress. This Forum is about deepening our shared purpose, strengthening relationships across government, and continuing to deliver meaningful outcomes for every island in our nation.”

The Forum will feature interactive sessions focused on action planning, service delivery, and system-wide coordination. A more collaborative approach has been adopted this year, with fewer presentations and more space for co-designing practical outcomes.

Karopaerangi Ngatoko, Chief of Staff at the Office of the Prime Minister, will formally open the Forum and said the programme has been designed to empower Pa Enua leaders with practical tools and tailored support.

“This is a working forum. Island leaders will be supported to refine their action plans, and central agencies are coming ready to listen, support, and align. Our focus is on delivery, and ensuring the efforts of our island leaders fit clearly into the national picture.”

The Forum will also include a dedicated session on public service values and performance, led by the Office of the Public Service Commissioner.

Carl Hunter, Public Service Commissioner, said the Forum reinforces shared standards of service across all islands.

“Our public service values: honesty, impartiality, accountability, and respect, are the foundation of how we serve. This Forum is an opportunity to reaffirm those principles and to ensure we continue to uphold high standards of leadership and integrity across the Pa Enua.”

Delegates from all 10 island governments will attend, including Mayors, Executive Officers, and Island Councillors who are in Rarotonga for the upcoming Te Maeva Nui celebrations. The Forum also welcomes several newly appointed local government leaders, expected to bring fresh energy and ideas.

A summary of key outcomes will be released at the close of the Forum.