The Cook Islands Government is reinforcing its call for every household and business across the country to continue conserving fuel and energy, as global pressures driven by the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect supply and pricing across the Pacific.
Global fuel pressures are expected to continue for some time, and the choices households and businesses make at home, on the road, and in their daily operations will play an important role in protecting the supplies the Cook Islands has, supporting one another through this period, and managing the cost pressures that come with a tighter global market. Conservation is the most powerful tool available to every person in the Cook Islands today.
Financial Secretary Garth Henderson said the situation calls on every part of the community.
“Global fuel pressures are not going away in the short term, and we are preparing for ongoing pressure on the cost of fuel and energy in the months ahead,” Mr Henderson said. “The most powerful protection we have for our supplies, our households, and our businesses is the everyday choices each of us makes: planning trips, sharing rides, switching off what we are not using, and buying only what we need. Government is working alongside our partners, our suppliers, and our island administrations to support our people through this period, and we are asking every household and every business to keep up the conservation effort with us.”
Practical steps continue to make a real difference. Households are asked to plan trips, share rides where possible, walk or cycle for shorter journeys, switch off lights and appliances when not in use, and use cooking and hot water energy efficiently. Businesses are asked to review their fuel and energy use, schedule vehicle movements efficiently, and look for opportunities to reduce consumption without compromising service to customers.
Government is also asking everyone in the Cook Islands to buy only the fuel they need. Bulk-buying and stockpiling places pressure on supply for everyone, and is not necessary while shipments continue to arrive on schedule. Buying only what is needed allows supply to be shared fairly across households, businesses, and essential services.
In Aitutaki, where higher than usual demand on the island has prompted private suppliers to temporarily pause public petrol sales ahead of resupplies expected from 8 May, the Aitutaki Island Government is leading the local response with the support of Government and partner agencies. Diesel, aviation fuel, and fuel for essential services on the island are not affected, and the Aitutaki Island Government has its own fuel arrangements in place for community vehicles and machinery. Government acknowledges and thanks the Aitutaki community for the care they are showing one another through this period.
The Cook Islands remains open and welcoming to visitors. Flights, accommodation, restaurants, and visitor experiences continue to operate, and Tourism Cook Islands is working closely with operators and partners to support visitors throughout this period.
Government will continue to work closely with private suppliers, island administrations, and partner agencies to support communities across the Cook Islands as global pressures continue.
