Kia Orana,
I was appointed onto the Cook Islands Taokotai’anga Board of Trustees in July 2018. I’m honoured for the appointment and the opportunity, and look forward to the challenges this role may present, but even moreso to the good work that we will no doubt do in our communities. First and foremost, I want to offer words of gratitute to the Chairman, Board members, and CEO for the introduction and the on-going support whilst being in this role, of which I am very humbled by.
My interest and inspirations have always been heavily focused on the development of our people and community, and more importantly enhancing individual and collective resiliance. I’m located in Christchurch (South Island), where resiliance has been integral in providing us with the will and motivation to rebuild our city, and regather our communities. It is my hope that my role as a Board of Trustees member will provide significant opportunities and benefits to our Cook Islands communities on the South Island.
During the months I’ve been in this role, I was impressed with the level of passion, commitment and the strategic direction which the Board and CIDANZ offers to the community. The portfolio under my guidance is the oneCHILD project, a significant milestone in the development of our Cook Islands language and culture in New Zealand. We look forward to turn soil this year.
There are two distinct focus area’s that Id like to see going forward into the future. For one, a rise in investment opportunities in the South Island so that our communities there continue to gain from the good work done in Auckland. And secondly, for more South Islanders to sit on the Board, a vision I know that the Board will be moving towards.
I understand the challenges our communities face, and the reluctance to trust an organisation like CIDANZ, so here is a little word of encouragement: CIDANZ is equipped with the right tools and instruments such as strategic development plans (both short and long-term), supported by unique partners. They are servants of the people, working not for their own benefit, but for the good of us all. It’s in our best interest to align ourselves not with their vision, but our vision of a united and prosperous community. And lastly, we need more champions to take our work forward, so when the next elections comes around, please consider championing an organisation working for the people, and apply to be a board member.
Meitaki atupaka
Te Atua Te Aroa
Terekino (Tino) Vaireka | Christchurch
Email: tino@cidanz.co.nz