Kia Orana , WelcomeCook to the HandbookIslands: for ADBHandbook Missions in the Cookfor Islands.ADB Missions

This online booklet aims to provide you with information regarding our In-Country processes, Government contacts, protocols, resource availability and other general information which should be useful in planning your visit.

These pages will provide you with the following information: • ADB Support Structure and Contact details • ADB In-country Mission clearance process • ADB Project List • Cook Island Government contacts, processes & protocol • ODA Policy, principles and goals • Information on the Cook Islands and its’ culture

Visitor entry requirements: An entry permit is not required by persons who are entering the Cook Islands as bona-fide visitors.

A bona-fide visitor refers to any person who enters the Cook Islands for recreation or vacation/holiday and is exempted from requiring an entry permit for a stay of not more than 31 days. It also applies to any person who enters the Cook Islands for the purpose of exploring investment opportunities.

Those intending to attend business meetings, conferences, exhibitions and sports activities, including tournaments may also travel as bona-fide visitors. An extension beyond 31 days is however available only to those undertaking holiday or recreation.

Once the in-country mission is approved by the Cook Islands Ministry of Finance and Economic Management through a “concurrence to missions clearance”, the ADB Support Office will notify Cook Islands Immigration of your pending arrival.

Visitor Requirements

All visitors must have adequate financial means of supporting their stay, hold valid tickets for their return journey to a port of origin or next port of destination and their passports valid for a period of at least six (6) months beyond the contemplated period of stay. citizens travelling on New Zealand passports are not required to have proof of onward passage, except when applying for an extended stay.

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Cook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions Table of Contents Visitor entry requirements:...... 2 Acronyms ...... 4 Section One ...... 5 1.0 Cook Islands ADB Support Office: ...... 5 1.1 Cook Island Support team ...... 6 1.2 ADB Office location: ...... 6 1.3 Incoming Mission Protocol ...... 7 1.4 Cook Island Practice ...... 8 1.5 Mission process chart ...... 9 Section Two ...... 10 2.0 Parliament of the Cook Islands ...... 10 2.1 Ministerial Profiles ...... 11 Hon. ...... 11 Hon. Mark Stephen Brown ...... 12 Other Ministers ...... 13 Associate Ministers ...... 14 2.2 National Sustainable Development Commission (NSDC) ...... 14 Section Three ...... 15 3.0 Ministry of Finance and Economic Management ...... 15 3.1 Development Coordination Division ...... 15 3.2 ODA Guiding Principles, Goal, and Objectives: ...... 16 3.3 ODA Policy, Implementation Plan and Communications Strategy: ...... 17 3.4 Cook Islands Budget Process ...... 18 Appendix 1: Government Departments and Agencies ...... 19 Public Service ...... 19 Crown Funded Agencies ...... 21 Appendix 2: About the Cook Islands...... 22 Appendix 3: Income tax flow chart...... 25

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AcronymsCook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions Government Ministries: BTIB Business Trade and Investment Board CIG Cook Islands Government CIIC Cook Islands Investment Corporation DCD Development Coordination Division INTAFF Ministry of Internal Affairs MFAI Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration MFEM Ministry of Finance and Economic Management MMR Ministry of Marine Resources MOA Ministry of Agriculture MOE Ministry of Education MOH Ministry of Health MOW Ministry of Works NES National Environment Services OMIA Office of the Minister for Island Administration OPM Office of the Prime Minister SBA Seabed Minerals Authority

Other Acronyms: ADB Asian Development Bank ADB SO Asian Development Bank Support Office ChinaAid Peoples Republic of China EU FAO Food and Agriculture Organisation FFA Foreign Fisheries Agency GEF Global Environment Fund JFPR Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction NZAID New Zealand Aid PE Pa Enua/Sister Islands PIFS Secretariat PSDI Public Sector Development Initiative PRIF Pacific Regional Infrastructure Facility SPC Secretariat of the Pacific Community SPREP South Pacific Regional Environment Programme UNCCD Convention to Combat Desertification UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNESCAP United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific UNESCO United Nations Education , Scientific and Cultural Organisation UNFPA United Nations Population Fund UNICEF United Nations International Children Fund WHO World Health Organisation

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Section One

1.0 CookCook Islands ADBIslands: Support Office:Handbook fo ADB Missions The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has partnered with the Government of the Cook Islands since 1976. ADB’s harmonised strategy for the Cook Islands includes partnerships such as New Zealand Aid (NZAid), the European Union (EU), China and the United Nations.

ADB also works closely with the Pacific Financial Technical Assistance Centre, particularly on macroeconomic management and fiscal conditions, and with regional organisations including the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat (PIFS) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), who provide regional support in areas such as gender, health and statistics.

ADB’s Country Office Business plan (COBP) for the Cook Islands was prepared in close coordination with development partners, civil society organisations and the private sector and aligns with the Pacific Approach 2010-2014 and the National Sustainable Development Plan of the Cook Islands (NSDP 2011-15).

The Cook Islands ADB Support office was officially opened in August 2012.

Our Structure:

ADB Headquarters Finance Minister and ADB Governor, PARD Cook Islands

Financial Sub-Regional Secretary and Support Office ADB Alternate (SPSO) Governor, MFEM

ADB Support DCD Office, Cook ADB Support Islands Office

Links to ADB: ADB – SPSO Overview page ADB Operations – Project design and Management ADB Organisation Chart ADB Overview page AidFlows

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1.1 Asian Development Bank Cook Island Support team Cook Islands: Handbook fo ADB Missions

Vanessa Jenner ADB Liaison Officer Phone: +682 8503 Mobile: +682 56868 Email: [email protected]

Charmaine Dolan ADB Administration Officer Phone: +682 8513 Email: [email protected]

1.2 ADB Office location: Level 3, Ministry of Finance and Economic Management Building Phone: +682 29521 Fax: +682 29520 PO Box 120, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

We are here, Access ramp to Immigration with the DCD Alternate office is here team Governors office

Treasury and CIIC and the Statistics are here Audit office are here

Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MFEM) Building

1.3 IncomingCook MissionIslands: Protocol Handbook for ADB Missions For all ADB related Missions: As per ADB protocol, Mission clearance must be sought from the Cook Islands at least two weeks prior to travel (the more time the better). This should include your full TOR and if desired a list of ministries/positions/people you would like to meet. Mission Clearance should be sent to Etuatina Drollet and be copied to the ADB Support Office. Contact Person for Mission Clearance: Contact details: Etuatina Drollet Phone: +682 22878 Executive Secretary to Alternate Governor Fax: +682 23877 Ministry of Finance and Economic Management Email: [email protected]

Once concurrence of Mission Clearance is confirmed in writing, you can contact the ADB SO for any logistical support arrangements. Note that you will be required to send a copy of your itinerary for country booking purposes (note the Cook Islands is almost one day behind New Zealand).

Please note that as part of the in-country mission, you will be required to meet with the Financial Secretary (Alternate Governor to ADB) at his office on your first working day to brief him on what you are here to do and who you propose to meet with before commencing your scheduled visits. This will ensure his requirements are addressed and that all relevant ministries are involved as needed.

In most instances, on completion of every mission, a wrap-up meeting is required with the Alternate Governor to present your aide memoire. The Alternate Governor will then provide his signature once he is happy with the document. Those responsible for implementing the projects will also able to attend the wrap-up meeting so everyone receives the same information.

Mission related links: Project Lists ADB Mission templates

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1.4 CookCook Island PracticeIslands: Handbook for ADB Missions We have found that certain processes work well within the Cook Islands and want to share this information with you to assist you in your planning and preparation.

1. Terms of Reference It is critical that TOR’s are signed off in-country by the appropriate ministries before being finalised. It always pays to check that all relevant ministries have been notified and are in agreement regarding the Terms of Reference (not just the responsible implementing agency). Any amendments to the TOR should be done in writing and agreed between the CI Government and ADB.

2. Recruitment ADB will often manage the recruitment of TA resource according to the relevant policies and procedures. If you are recruiting for TA resource, please ensure you advise the appropriate ministry BEFORE signing agreements, or getting too far down the track. The ministry should be provided with a list of applicants and ADB’s recommendation for a shortlist with endorsement being sought on this list from the relevant ministry.

3. Workshops If you are planning to hold a workshop please work with the ministry involved or the ADB SO to ensure venue and logistical arrangements are best value and meet your needs. We have a number of preferred locations and providers who specialise and offer consistently good service.

4. Cross government meetings Where possible, we encourage cross departmental meetings to ensure appropriate consultation and robust discussion around content. While it is often appropriate to meet departments separately, where possible and still efficient, cross department meetings are encouraged for teamwork and shared understandings.

5. Block out dates The Cook Islands has agreed dates where the Ministries are not available for In-country missions or consultation. • 1 December – 15 January – all Cook Islands Government Ministries • February – End May – Treasury department of MFEM (Budgeting period)

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1.5 Mission process chart Cook Islands: Handbook fo ADB Missions • Signed agreement for the Country Office Business Plan 2014-2016 Country Office Business Plan

• Terms of Reference should be well consulted across government and signed off by the appropriate ministry Terms of • Changes to TOR should be in writing and signed by CI Government and ADB Reference

• Mission clearance ensures access to relevant ministries for consultation • The Cook Island Government reserves the right to manage TA so that effective Mission Clearance government processes are maximised and resource s are appropriately allocated

• Note that often consultations have occured around key processes like the NSDP, COBP, TA requirements and the Business plans and Budget, so further consultations can often be kept to a minimum In country consultations • The ADB SO as well as the Implementing Entity will be able to provide expert guidance on the appropriate ministries/private sector/NGO sectors to consult

• The Financial Secretary as Alternate Governer aproves in country missions, TOR and signs off most documentation on behalf of the Cook Island Government • It will sometimes be appropriate for a meeting to be scheduled with the ADB Governor, Alternate Minister of Finance Govenor Meeting

• It is good practice to have a signed Aide Memoire prior to your departure from the Cook Islands. In some cases, where significant changes have occured and signing cannot Memorandum of happen in-country, this should be followed up within one week of your visit Understanding

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Section Two

2.0 ParliamentCook of Islands:the Cook IslandsHandbook fo ADB Missions

The Cook Islands has a Westminster parliamentary style of government similar to that of New Zealand and England.

The country is a State in free association with New Zealand. While the Constitution provides for New Zealand to be responsible for defence and some aspects of international relation, this can only be enacted upon request by the Government of the Cook Islands. The Government is fully responsible for enacting all legislation and is fully competent to enter into any international agreements and does conduct its own international relation.

Parliament consists of a single chamber of 24 elected members, 10 of whom are from the main island of Rarotonga and the rest are from the outer islands.

The Head of State is Her Majesty the Queen, Elizabeth II who is represented by the Queen’s Representative. The position is currently held by Hon. .

Hansard is the traditional name for the printed reports of parliamentary debates in the Westminster system of Parliament. It is the official edited reports of proceedings in the Parliament Chamber. The Cook Islands Parliament still maintains this tradition.

Since self-government in 1965 Cook Islands Parliament has reported its proceedings in Hansard. These reports are nearly verbatim as possible and are privileged. They are also available for public reading at Parliament House.

Standing Orders 385 provides that all proceedings of Parliament are to be broadcast live over Radio Cook Islands

The Cook Islands also has a traditional

The House of Ariki (Are Ariki) is a parliamentary body in the Cook Islands. It is composed of the High chiefs (ariki) of the Cook Islands. There are up to twenty four members, who represent the 15 Islands that make up the Cook Islands.

Its function is to: "Consider matters beneficial to the welfare of the people of the Cook Islands as may be submitted to [Parliament] for its consideration, and it shall express its opinion and make recommendations to Parliament" leadership structure which aligns to the parliamentary system.

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2.1 Ministerial Profiles

Cook Islands: Handbook fo ADBHon. HenrMissionsy Puna Prime Minister of the Cook Islands

Office of the Prime Minister Energy and Renewable Energy Outer Islands Attorney General Public Service Commission Marine Resources Foreign Affairs and Immigration Transport

Honourable Henry Puna was appointed Prime Minister in November 2010, following a successful General Election for the . He had become Party Leader in 2006, succeeding long-time leader Sir . Puna entered Parliament for the seat of in 2004, and again in 2010.

Puna’s professional background began in law having graduated in , where he was also admitted to the Bar. He worked for a time as a partner in his own law firm but in the late 1980s moved into the Cook Islands Public Service where he gained extensive experience in the Transport sector, heading the department of Trade Labour and Transport (TLT), and also Tourism as head of Tourism and Transport. During the 1990s, he fulfilled a number of Statutory Board positions, including Chair of the Ports Authority.

Puna was born and raised in and being part Manihikian, he moved to the Northern Group Island and established a pearl farming business in the late 1990s. He remains keenly interested in the welfare of the pearl farming sector and enjoys diving and fishing, having grown up in Aitutaki and being closely tied to the sea. Puna is also an avid golfer and follows a number of sports, especially rugby and also British football. He is married to Akaiti Puna.

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Hon. Mark Stephen Brown Minister of Finance & Economic Management Cook Islands: HandbookADB Alternate Governorfo ADB Missions

Mark is a Minister of the Crown holding the following portfolios:

• Ministry of Finance & Economic Management • Seabed Minerals & Natural Resources • CIIC • Financial Services Development Authority • C Is National Superannuation • Telecommunications • PERCA (Audit) • Financial Supervisory Commission

• Office of Head of State

• Sports & Olympic Committee •

Mark was brought up in the Tapere of Parekura in the heart of Avarua, Rarotonga. He attended primary school at Nikao Maori School and Nikao Side School along with a stint at a primary school in Auckland. He spent his secondary school years at Tereora College and was awarded a scholarship along with a number of other students to finish his final year at Gisborne Boys High School. Like many of our young people, Mark studied and worked in NZ and Australia for 10 years from 1982 to 1991.

In 1991, Mark returned to the Cook Islands and joined the Cook Islands Public Service where he held a number of senior positions including Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister’s Office, Senior Performance Manager at the Public Service Commission and the Head of Ministry for the Ministry of Agriculture.

In 2001, Mark ventured into the Private Sector and spent 10 years as a Company Director in the Property Management and Development Sector. In 2010, Mark entered the world of politics as a Member of Parliament for the constituency of Takuvaine, Tutakimoa.

Mark has always retained a strong interest in sports as a national athlete, national coach and national manager for numerous teams. He has a keen interest in the development of the Cook Islands and it is evident by key positions he has held over the years including: • President of the Takuvaine Rugby and Rugby League Club • President of the Cook Islands Touch Association • Vice President of the Cook Islands Sports & National Olympic Committee • Vice President of the Cook Islands Party • Vice President of the Cook Islands Chamber of Commerce

Mark holds a Diploma in Public Sector Management (Massey University) and a Masters in Business Administration (University of the South Pacific). He is bilingual being fluent in both Cook Islands Maori and English. Married to Daphne and they have two children.

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Other Ministers Cook Islands: Handbook fo ADB Missions HON.

Minister of the Crown holding the following portfolios: • Ministry of Education • Tourism Cook Islands

HON.

Minister of the Crown holding the following portfolios: • Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning • Ministry of Cultural Development • House of Ariki

• Police • Ministry of Justice

• Justice HON.

Minister of the Crown holding the following portfolios: • Ministry of Health • Ombudsman • Internal Affairs • Parliamentary Services

HON.

Minister of the Crown holding the following portfolios: • Ministry of Agriculture

• Environment • Business Trade and Investment Board

AssociateCook MinistersIslands: Handbook for ADB Missions

Hon John Mokoenga Tikaka Henry – Associate Minister of Sports

Hon. Atatoa Joseph Herman – Associate Minister of Environment

Hon. George Maggie Angene – Associate Minister of Justice

2.2 National Sustainable Development Commission (NSDC) The main role of the NSDC is to provide sound strategic advice to Cabinet on the proper allocation of the developmental aid to all sectors of the economy and to ensure that such allocation is aligned to the successful implementation of the National Sustainable Development Plan 2011-15. Furthermore, this entity ensures the successful fulfilment of the Budget Policy Statement and the Mid-term Budgeting framework.

NSDC objectives are to provide: • Systematic allocation of budgets and aid resources, in line with National Plan directions/ strategies/ programs and projects. • Top end policy advice to Cabinet on sustainable development and resource allocation decisions and implications.

Membership - Chiefs of Staff or Heads of Ministries of: • Office of the Prime Minister (Chair, NSDP and policy advice) • Crown Law (legal implications) • MFEM/DCD (resource advice) • Foreign Affairs (aid and foreign relations advice) • Public Service Commission (public service implications) • Ministry of Education for Human Resource Development (capacity and up-skilling implications) • Central Planning and Policy Office (Secretariat).

Please click here to view the National Sustainable Development Commission – Terms of Reference

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Section Three

3.0 MinistrCooky of FinanIslands:ce and EconHandbookomic Management fo ADB Missions

Richard Neves

Financial Secretary

Richard Neves is the Financial Secretary for the Cook Islands Ministry of Financial and Economic Management and Alternate Governor of the ADB. The Ministry is the central public finance management Ministry and is responsible for advising the Government on financial and economic issues as well as revenue and aid management, Treasury, the Budget and statistics.

Prior to the Cook Islands Richard has had significant experience in public financial and economic matters, working at all levels of Government in Australia. He has previously worked for the Commonwealth Department of Finance, the Australian Local Government Association, the International Union of Local Authorities, and the Australian Capital Territory Treasury. Richard also spent five years in Timor-Leste as the lead budget adviser in the Australian Government funded Ministry of Planning and Finance Capacity Building Project.

3.1 Development Coordination Division

DCD fosters relationships with development partners and acts to broker cooperative arrangements funded by ODA. These activities are increasingly delivered through diverse partnerships at a variety of levels including local government, civil society, the private sector and national government agencies.

The division seeks to provide high quality Development advice to a range of diverse national and local partners including Ministers, government agencies, committees, community groups, private interest groups and donors.

DCD Team 2013

Cook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions The work of the Division is directed by the CI National Official Development Assistance (ODA) Policy approved by cabinet in October 2011 and is overseen by the National Sustainable Development Commission (NSDC). The ODA policy states that the achievement of the Cook Islands development outcomes will be supported by the effective and efficient use of ODA aligned to the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP).

DCD hosts the Support Office of the Asian Development Bank and contributes to the development of concessional loans and blended financing arrangements with the Asian Development Bank, European Union and Development Partners like the People’s Republic of China. Cook Islands Government Policy requires all Official Development Assistance to be appropriated in the Budget including Technical Assistance received in-country. Each year DCD asks ADB to advise on anticipated budget and TA resource and then to report on actuals received in-country. DCD has an overall “ODA Conversion Rate” whereby targets have been set to contribute towards our aid effectiveness goals.

3.2 ODA Guiding Principles, Goal, and Objectives:

When working in partnership with the Cook Islands Government, the following principles from the ODA policy should guide your thinking:

• Aid and its delivery mechanisms must be relevant and aligned to national development priorities (NSDP);

• Aid must foster accountable partnerships between stakeholders at all levels including government, development partners, private sector and civil society;

• Aid processes must be efficient and well managed using local systems and procedures and based on sustainable local capacities;

• Aid needs to be effective and well coordinated at all levels and use a range of mechanisms adapted to diverse community situations. Budget support is the favoured modality;

• Aid support must lead to measurable sustainable and equitable results which promote positive outcomes for women, people with disabilities and young people;

• Aid must improve the capacity of the Cook Islands to become self reliant by fostering opportunities for local people to provide services and increase skills and experience by participating in all stages of development initiatives.

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3.3 ODA Policy, Implementation Plan and Communications Strategy: Cook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions Since the time of self-governing the Cook Islands’ progress has been substantial and with the economic reforms of the mid 1990’s ODA has played a crucial role in development. Access to ODA is expected to continue building the resilience of communities to address economic, social and environmental challenges. The likelihood of ongoing economic shocks, natural disasters, climate change impacts and depopulation make acting on opportunities important. To this end Government of the Cook Islands (CIGov) recognises that the effective and efficient use of ODA has a significant contribution to achieving national development priorities.

Marking this commitment the Cook Islands is a signatory to the: • Paris Declaration for Aid Effectiveness 2005; • Pacific Aid Effectiveness Principles; and • Cairns Compact 2009.

Improving aid effectiveness is intended to ensure development assistance works for the long term interest of the people of the Cook Islands. The ODA policy affirms the Cook Islands Government’s leadership and management of ODA. It establishes how this source of assistance will be used for the priorities identified by the national development framework:

• Te Kaveinga Nui 2007-2020; and the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP )(2011-2015) • Such management will be guided by a robust legislative framework that includes: • the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management Act 1995-96; • the Public Service Act 2009; • the Public Expenditure Review Committee and Audit Act 1995-96; In addition, CIGov: • is developing a Medium Term Budget Framework;

The Cook Island government carried out an assessment of the Public Expenditure Framework and agreed on actions to improve systems; and is strengthening monitoring, evaluation and reporting mechanisms.

Related Links:

Cook Islands Official Development Assistance Policy 2011 (ODA Policy)

Official Development Assistance Implementation Plan (ODA Plan)

PFM Roadmap

Peer Review 2013

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3.4 Cook Islands Budget Process Cook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions The Cook Islands financial year runs from 1 July – 30 June. ADB works on a calendar year based on a two year rolling Country Operations Business Plan. Therefore when discussing financial periods, be mindful of ADB committed funds relating to the calendar year, but programs/projects will often need to be completed within the Cook Islands financial year (or over a number of financial years).

Block out periods in the Cook Islands for in-country Technical Assistance:

• 1 December – 15 January – all Cook Islands Government Ministries • February – End May – Treasury department of MFEM (Budgeting period)

Exceptions can be made where circumstances require it, but these will need to be signed off by the Alternate Governor – Richard Neves.

Related links: Treasury resources link to SOE Reporting Budget and Planning

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Appendix 1: Government Departments and Agencies

Public ServiceCook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions As of July 2012, there are thirteen Ministries and Offices within the public service, all managed by the Office of the Public Service Commission.

Government Ministries Contact details Description of key activities

1 Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) Crop Research and Development Ph: (682) 28 711 Mr. Matairangi Purea, Head of Ministry Biosecurity Management Fx: (682) 21 881 Project and Policy Development PO Box 96, Head Office, Livestock Management Arorangi, Rarotonga www.agriculture.gov.ck 2 Ministry of Cultural Development (MoCD) - Culture Development Ph: (682) 20 725 Tauranga Vananga Cultural Activities Fx: (682) 23 725 Mr. Sonny Williams, Head of Ministry Cultural Heritage PO Box 8,Tupapa, Rarotonga National Records and Information www.mocd.gov.ck 3 Ministry of Education (MoE) - Maraurau o Providing education for all age groups Ph: (682) 29 357 te Pae Apii (Early childhood, primary, secondary, Fx: (682) 28 357 Mrs. Sharyn Paio, Head of Ministry tertiary and continuing education) PO Box 97,Nikao, Rarotonga Emphasis on C.Is. Maori language, www.education.gov.ck culture, perspective and aspirations Equitable access to quality learning 4 Ministry of Finance & Economic Fiscal advice Ph: (682) 22 878 Management (MFEM) Fiscal and Economic Management Fx: (682) 23 877 Mr Richard Neves, Head of Ministry Taxation PO Box 120, Avarua, Rarotonga Statistics www.mfem.gov.ck Development Coordination 5 Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Immigration Enhancing Cook Islands relations with Ph: (682) 29 347 (MFAI) NZ & the public Fx: (682) 21 247 Mrs. Myra Patai, Head of Ministry Promoting Cook Islands interests in PO Box 105, Avarua, Rarotonga the broader International Community www.mfai.gov.ck Promoting Trade interests Management of Immigration Service 6 Ministry of Health (MoH) - Te Marae Ora Community Health Services Ph: (682) 29 664 Mrs. Elizabeth Iro, Head of Ministry Hospital Health Services Fx: (682) 23 109 Outer Islands Health Services PO Box 109, Tupapa, Rarotonga www.health.gov.ck 7 Ministry of Internal Affairs (INTAFF) Welfare Payments Ph: (682) 29 370 Ms. Bredina Drollet, Head of Ministry Social Policy (Child & Family; Fx: (682) 23 608 Disability; Gender & Development; PO Box 98, Tupapa, Rarotonga Youth & Sports) Labour and Employment Relations www.intaff.gov.ck Consumer Services Community Services Censorship 8 Ministry of Justice & Lands (MoJ) – Ph: (682) 29 410 Administering laws and legislations – Te Tango Tutara o te Ture Fx: (682) 29 610 Courts, Tribunals, Registries Mr , Head of Ministry Promote a safe and fair society within PO Box 111, Avarua, Rarotonga the Cook Islands – Probation, Prisons www.justice.gov.ck Electoral Office

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9 Ministry of Marine Resources (MMR) Ensuring sustainable development Mr. Ben Ponia, Head of Ministry Ph: (682) 28 730 and use of marine resources Cook Islands: HandbookFx: (682) 29 721 for ADB Missions PO Box 85, Parekura, Avarua, Rarotonga www.mmr.gov.ck 10 Ministry of Infrastructure & Planning To take infrastructure development (MoIP) Ph: (682) 20 321 to the next level Mr Vaine (Mac) Mokoroa, Head of Ministry Fx: (682) 24 321 Ensure that investment in infrastructure will maximize PO Box 102, , economic return, improve livelihoods Arorangi,Rarotonga and build resilience www.moip.gov.ck 11 Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) Central Policy and Planning Mrs Elizabeth Wright-Koteka, Chief of Staff Ph: (682) 25 494 Emergency Management Fx: (682) 20 856 Information Communication Private Bag, Rarotonga Technology www.pmoffice.gov.ck Corporate Services Outer Islands Reps Cabinet Services Research 12 Office of the Public Service Commissioner To review the machinery of (OPSC) Ph: (682) 29 421 Government Mr Russell Thomas, PS Commissioner Fx: (682) 21 321 Employment contracts of HoMs Mrs Daphne Ringi, Chief Executive Officer PO Box 24, Avarua, Rarotonga Determine salary ranges within the www.psc.gov.ck Public Service Performance manage Heads of Ministries and CEOs Disputes resolutions 13 Ministry of Transport (MoT) Civil Aviation Mr Ned Howard, Head of Ministry Ph: (682) 28 810 Maritime Fx: (682) 21 191 Liquor Licensing PO Box 61, Head Office, Avatiu Motor Vehicle Driving Licensing Harbour, Rarotonga Cook Islands Meteorological Services www.transport.gov.ck

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Crown Funded Agencies Crown Agency Contact details Description of key activities 1 ParliamentaryCook ServicesIslands: Ph: (682)Handbook 26 500 forManagesADB servicesMissions for Parliament Mr John Tangi, Fx: (682) 21 260 Clerk of Parliament PO Box 13, Nikao, Rarotonga www.parliament.gov.ck 2 Office of the Ombudsman – Ph: (682) 20 605 Represents interests of public by investigating Te Mato Akamoeau Fx: (682) 21 605 and addressing complaints reported by Mr Tearoa Tini, Ombudsman individual citizens PO Box748, Avarua, Rarotonga www.ombudsman.gov.ck 3 Audit Office (PERCA) Ph: (682) 21 231 Exists as a constitutional safeguard to maintain Mr Allen Parker, Fx: (682) 25 231 the financial integrity of the country's Director of Audit parliamentary system of government PO Box 659, Avarua, Rarotonga Is independent of the executive branch of www.auditoffice.gov.ck government 4 Business Trade Investment Ph: (682) 24 296 Promote Cook Islands products and services for Board (BTIB) Fx: (682) 24 98 exports Mr Terry Rangi, CEO Business mentoring and advice Private Bag, Avarua, Rarotonga One-stop-shop for foreign investment www.btib.gov.ck registrations

5 National Environmental Services Ph: (682)21 256 Building a more sustainable future in our (NES) - Tuanga Taporoporo Fx: (682) 22 256 environment Mr Vaitoti Tupa, Director PO Box 371, Avarua, Rarotonga www.environment.gov.ck 6 Cook Islands Tourism Ph: (682) 29 435 Manages the activities of the Cook Islands Corporation Fx: (682) 21 435 Tourism Authority. Mr Halatoa Fua, CEO PO Box 14, Avarua, Rarotonga www.cookislands.travel 7 Cook Islands National Ph: (682) 25 515 Manages the Cook Islands National Superannuation Fund (CINSF) Fx: (682) 26 615 Superannuation Fund Ms Anne Herrman-Fua, CEO PO Box 3076, varua,Rarotonga www.cinsf.com 8 Ph: (682) 29 182/ 20 798 CIFIU facilitates prevention, detection, Cook Islands Financial Fx: (682) 29 183/21 798 investigation and prosecution of money Intelligence Unit (CIFIU) & laundering, the financing of terrorism and other Financial Supervisory PO Box 594, Parekura, Rarotonga serious offences Commission (FSC) Responsible for the supervision of regulated Paul Heckles, CEO financial entities and financial services in the www.cifiu.gov.ck Cook Islands www.fsc.gov.ck Licensing authority for all financial institutions being banks, insurers, money-changing and remittance businesses and trustee companies Operates the Registry of International & Foreign Companies, Limited Liability Companies, International Trusts and Partnerships 9 Cook Islands Financial Services Ph: (682) 21 175 Asset Protection Development Authority (FSDA) Fx: (682) 21 176 International Trusts Ms Jenner Davis, CEO International Companies PO Box 3255, Clarke’s Building, Limited Liability Companies Parekura, Rarotonga Banking & Insurance www.cookislandsfinance.com International Partnerships

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Appendix 2: About the Cook Islands Cook Islands: Handbook for ADB Missions In the Cook Islands you’ll hear the words Kia Orana ...which translated means “May you live long”. Like a necklace delicately draped across a portion of the Pacific Ocean, are the Cook Islands. The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands, of which not all are inhabited. These islands are geographically divided into two groups, commonly referred to as the Northern and Southern Group islands, with Rarotonga being centre of governance and commerce. Each Island portrays distinct differences to the other, from the bush clad volcanic mountains, the Palm fringed blue lagoons to their social, cultural and economic manner; however regardless of where you travel in the Cook Islands you will always find a smile and warm-hearted welcome to all who stay on these friendly shores.

Spoken languages: Cook Island Maori and English

Communication: International telephone, mobile telephone, facsimile and internet services (including Broadband) are available through Telecom Cook Islands. Several internet cafes are located on Rarotonga and Aitutaki . WiFi is available at key hotspot locations. SPSO are happy to arrange internet access for your time in our offices.

Currency: NZ dollar, however the Cook Islands have their currency too

Banking services: ANZ, Westpac, Bank of Cook Islands - All located in town / Avarua. ATM’s are located in key locations around the island.

Climate

May- October Cooler / Drier 22◦C - 24◦C November – April Warmer / Wet 24◦C - 28◦C

Cultural awareness

Greetings – While a handshake is satisfactory, in the Cook Islands it is cultural acceptable to kiss women on the left cheek whether you are male or female as a warm greeting.

Meetings - If you are holding consultation meetings, you will need to arrange for someone local to formally greet people and open the meeting in prayer. Prayer is also required for breaks where food is served. If you are working with the Pa Enua (sister islands) you will need to organise with the implementing ministry a translator.

Elders – all Elders (anyone who looks older than you) should be treated with the upmost respect at all times and should be acknowledged and encouraged to speak.

Land – Connection to the land is central to Cook Islands identity and is sacred. It is passed down traditionally through families. Please note that where projects have land issues (access, ownership etc) that this is a complex issue which should be discussed fully with the Implementing Ministry in the first instance and CIIC for formal advice.

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Population: 2011 Census

Rarotonga Cook Islands:13,095 Handbook fo ADB Missions

Aitutaki 2,038

Mangaia 572

Atiu 480

Mauke 307

Mitiaro 189

Manihiki 239

Penrhyn 213

Rakahanga 77

Pukapuka 451

Nassau 73

Palmerston 60

Suwarrow 0

Preferred Accommodation:

Hotel/ Resort / Self-catering Phone (+682) Website Central Motel 25 735 www.central-motel.com Club Raro Resort 22 415 www.clubraro.co.ck Muri Beach Resort 22 779 www.muribeachresort.com Pacific Resort Rarotonga 20 427 www.pacificresort.com The Edgewater Resort & Spa 25 435 www.edgewater.co.ck The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa 25 800 www.therarotongan.com The Sanctuary 25900 www.sanctuaryrarotonga.com Note that ADB has very good preferred rates at The Rarotongan and The Sanctuary.

Transport: Most Hotels and Resorts have rental cars and scooters available for guests to hire. Airport Transfers:

Business name Phone (+682) Raro Tours 25 325

Emergency, Medical and Dental Services:

Business Phone (+682) Police, Fire & Ambulance 999 Rarotonga Hospital 22 664 Tupapa Health Centre 20 065 Tupapa Dental 29 312

Rental cars, vans,4WD, scooters and motorbikes:

BusinessCook name Islands:PhoneHandbook (+682) Email for ADB Missions Avis 22 833 [email protected] Island Car & Bike Hire 22 632 [email protected] Polynesian Rentals 29 227 none cars & Bikes Rarotonga Rentals 22 326 [email protected] Tipani Rentals 22 328 none

Taxi services:

Business name Phone (+682) Areiti Taxis - 55752 JP Taxis 26 572 Muri Beach Taxi 21 625 PECEL Taxi 72 888

Driving in the Cook Islands:

• The standard driving on the left- hand side of the road applies in the Cook Islands • A drivers licence is required, this can be obtained from the Police Station in Avarua. You’ll need: 2 types of Identification: 1. Your overseas drivers licence 2. Your passport If you’re intending on hiring a scooter/ motorbike, you are required to pass a practical test. This is held at the Police Station in Avarua.

Speed LIMITS: Scooters/ motorbikes:

• 20km in school zones during school hours • 20 - 30km in and around town • 30 – 40km ( it is compulsory to wear a helmet if you travel over 40km on a scooter/ motorbikes)

Cars: 50km

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Appendix 3: Income tax flow chart Cook Islands: Handbook fo ADB Missions

Should you wish to discuss tax obligations we recommend that Agencies and Contractors contact Philip Eyre, Senior Tax Advisor for the Revenue Management Division. Email: [email protected] Revenue Management Division, MFEM. Phone: +682 29365, Fax: +682 29465

Please click here for more Tax information.