Cook Islands kicks off 60th Constitution celebrations with a sea of colour

By Melina Etches, Cook Islands News

Prime Minister Mark Brown lights the cauldron to officially open the nation’s 60th Te Maeva Nui festival, celebrating the theme “Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku” (I know who I am, I have a homeland). Photo: Cook Islands News / Melina Etches

Rarotonga burst into a sea of beauty, colour, pride and joy as the Cook Islands officially opened its 60th Te Maeva Nui Constitution celebrations on Friday local time.

Avarua township was alive with energy as well over a thousand people gathered to witness the vibrant float parade and official opening ceremony.

The street was a heartwarming, spectacular sight, filled with colourful ei, pareu and team polos, while the sounds of music, song and dance echoed through the heart of town.

Crowds lined the route from the Avarua roundabout, where formalities and performances took place, stretching all the way to Avatiu.

The sacred Te Maeva Nui flame, lit at the King's Representative's office in Titikaveka, was carried by the Boys Brigade to the opening ceremony.

The flame was placed on beautifully carved torch stands and officially lit by the three pillars of Cook Islands society - traditional leaders (Ui Ariki) represented by Kaumaiti Nui Tou Travel Ariki, the church (Ekalesia) represented by Bishop Tutai Pere, and the government (Kavamani) represented by Prime Minister Mark Brown, who ignited the cauldron.

Mangaia youngsters dancing with joy during the 2025 Te Maeva Nui float parade, marking the official opening of the 60th Te Maeva Nui Constitution celebrations yesterday. MELINA ETCHES/25072548 Photo: Cook Islands News / Melina Etches

In his address, Prime Minister Mark Brown reflected on the country's journey.

"Today we celebrate 60 years of our Cook Islands nation. Sixty years of the transformation of our country and the transformation of our people," Brown said.

"Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku (I know who I am, I have a homeland). This tells a story of us - our Cook Islands people, our nation of islands and ocean.

"Let us remember, we are the descendants of voyagers, not afraid to navigate the ocean to find new lands that today we call home. We continue to navigate these waters today, reaching Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, and becoming part of the fabric of society in those countries. When we look back at 60 years, we have grown - in population, culture, leadership, ownership, and presence.

"This is a celebration this year about us, by us. We welcome our family from Aotearoa New Zealand, from Australia, and our friends from around the world. Your presence strengthens our bonds and our identity as Cook Islanders."

Forty-five brilliantly decorated floats paraded through the streets, each one telling its own story of heritage and pride.

Performances by Te Maeva Nui cultural teams from the Pa Enua brought the streets to life with heartfelt songs and dances, showcasing the richness of Cook Islands culture.

King's representative Sir Tom Marsters and Lady Tuaine Marsters, government ministers, and Ui Ariki from across Rarotonga and the Pa Enua joined the celebrations, which were coordinated by the Ministry of Cultural Development (Tauranga Vananga).

-Cook Islands News