Eleanor Roi. MCI/24122726 The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) has acknowledged the recent resignation of Eleanor Roi from the CIIC Board, effective December 1, 2024. In a statement, CIIC board chair Fletcher Melvin said: “Ms. Roi’s tenure on the Board has been marked by her unwavering dedication, strategic insights, and commitment to the Cook Islands’ development.” “We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her valuable contributions and wish her every success in her future endeavours.” In an exciting new chapter, Roi has been appointed vice-chairperson of the Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA) following its 33rd Annual General Meeting held in Hong Kong earlier this year. As the chief executive officer of the Cook Islands Shipowners Association (CISOA), Roi has been a staunch advocate for the maritime sector, ensuring the Cook Islands voice is heard on the international stage, the statement added. “Her new role reflects her leadership within the maritime industry...

The Wesley United Church congregation in Honiara celebrated the birth of Christ with a special Christmas Day service on Wednesday, 25th December.  Congregations from across the city and beyond gathered at the Central Wesley United Church, located opposite the Honiara Magistrate’s Court. Representatives from Wesley United Church, Kukum United Church, Naha United Church, and Gilbert Camp United Church congregations came together for the celebration.  Meanwhile, the Agape United Church congregation at Lungga held their own Christmas service. The sermon was delivered by a team of four ministers, including Reverend Kendrick Kasa, Reverend Patrick Ngasi, Reverend Amos Kube, and Reverend Hilton Roy.  The message was based on Isaiah 9, verses 1-7. The ministers emphasized that the birth of Jesus marked a turning point for humanity, with the child being both fully divine and fully human.  They encouraged the congregation to remember that the birth of hope is not just a historical...

A bizarre scam involving parcels of fabric, stuffed toys or even flower petals has ramped up across Australia in recent weeks. RPT

Fiji Meteorogical Service has issued its first advisory for a tropical disturbance that has now formed in waters between Vanuatu and Fiji. Fiji Met states the chances of this system to become a tropical cyclone in next 24-48 hours is low to very low. Based on current forecasts, no major intensification is expected and the system should remain weak. On its current path, TD01F will be close to Fiji around Tuesday. Forecasts suggests by then TDO1F will weaken.   RPT

Christmas is a time of joy and hope as we celebrate the birth of the Saviour. But His light wasn’t meant to shine only for a season; it’s a light we should carry with us every day. LDS/24122410 As we wrap up the Christmas season and look ahead to the new year, let’s take a moment to think about the true meaning of Christmas – the light of Jesus Christ that came into the world that night in Bethlehem, writes Kayla Kaimarama-Willie of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Christmas is a time of joy and hope as we celebrate the birth of the Saviour. But His light wasn’t meant to shine only for a season; it’s a light we should carry with us every day. Christmas celebrates Jesus, the Light of the World, who brings hope, love, peace, and salvation. The star over Bethlehem marked His...

The agreement between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of Solomon Islands on Mutual Visa Exemption for Citizens Holding Ordinary Passports enters into force on Saturday, 28th December, 2024 According to the agreement, citizens holding valid ordinary passports of the People’s Republic of China or Solomon Islands shall be exempted from visa requirement for entry into, exit from or transit through the territory of the other Contracting Party, for a single stay not exceeding 30 days and for a cumulative period of stay not exceeding 90 days in any 180-day-period. Citizens who intend to stay in the territory of the other Contracting Party for a period exceeding the above mentioned length or engage in employment, study, residence, media activities, or other activities which require prior approval from the competent authorities of the other Contracting Party, shall apply for an appropriate visa before entering the territory...

The driver allegedly drove off before being caught by authorities in a nearby town. RPT

VATULELE is an island located off the Coral Coast of Fiji’s main island Viti Levu and is a place famous for the red prawns endemic to it and intricate masi designs shaping the tapestry of vibrance within iTaukei culture. The island played host to the Mick’s Fiji Tours & Transfers Vatulele 7s, a two day tournament held from December 19-20 at the Vatulele District School ground, located in the village of Ekubu – the traditional seat of the Taukei na Vunisa Levu, Ratu Joji Toge. Running for a third year at home instead of various locations for past competitions, the Vatulele 7s provided those on the island with a chance to treat themselves to great rugby in two exciting days. The tournament was the brainchild of Vilive Qionikorolevu and Asesela Naborisi, two successful Ekubu villagers who conceived it with the intent of giving back to the community, particularly this year...

Cook Islands Moana international Kaiyah Atai. 24122610 Three Cook Islands Moana internationals have been confirmed in the One New Zealand Warriors’ 2025 squad. They are Lavinia Kitai, Lydia Turua-Quedley and Kaiyah Atai who have joined the club along with former NRLW players Emily Curtain and Felila Kia and Wellington-raised forward Maarire Puketapu, who has played in the Queensland women’s premiership. With 11 signings confirmed, there are now 22 spots filled in the Warriors’ roster. Front rower Kitai (20) has been a Cook Islands international since 2022 while playing at club level in both the New South Wales and Queensland premierships. Head coach Ronald Griffiths said: “I watched Lavinia play in the BMD (Queensland) competition and also the Harvey Norman NSW premiership.” “You could see by year’s end that when she took the field her presence grew with each game. Her coach at Harvey Norman level spoke highly of her attitude...

Passengers booked for the Lomlom flights operated by Solomon Airlines before Christmas are frustrated and disappointment over repeated cancellations, which has been going on for over a week. Many travellers, including families, have had their holiday plans disrupted, with no clear communication or updates from the airline. “We were excited to visit our relatives for the holidays, but the ongoing cancellations have left us stranded,” said one disappointed passengers at Henderson airport today.  Others shared similar concerns about the lack of alternative arrangements.  Solomon Airlines has, apologized for the inconvenience saying the cancellations were due to bad weather and aircraft maintenance issues. The weather office also issued issued strong wind warnings over the past days. The has also country experienced heavy showers in the past days. On Thursday morning, passengers hoping to travel to Lomlom arrived at the airport, only to find out that only the Santa Cruz flight was...