Impact in the Islands: Our Leadership Journey in the Cook Islands, April 2025
- teagan275
- Apr 28
- 4 min read
Kia orana!
FLA has just returned from our incredible trip to the stunning Cook Islands, and we are filled with joy and a sense of fulfilment from our experiences there. Our time on the beautiful island of Rarotonga, often referred to as Raro, was nothing short of magical. We absolutely love taking our courses to this very welcoming island where the warm smiles of the locals and the vibrant landscapes creates an inviting and charming environment for all visitors. During our stay we took the opportunity to immerse ourselves deeply into their rich culture, which is steeped in history and tradition.
We gathered 40 eager students (5 Aussies & 35 NZ) to meet with 8 local Cook Island students and embarked on a week of leadership activities, building deep connections, embracing the culture and having real life opportunities to improve our leadership skills.
As we arrived...
Our journey started off a little different than our other trips. With the New Zealand flight being cancelled until the next evening. So the Aussies and locals got to really build personal connections together while the Kiwis got to adapt, pivot and build their relationships. It was great to see that at both ends, the students were adapting so easily, demonstrating resilience and able to bond together while they waited to start the course.
Upon the arrival, the locals and Aussies sang a beautiful welcome to our Kiwis before all mingling and getting to meet a few others before heading off to bed before a big day tomorrow.
The week started on Sunday
As we really like to immerse ourselves into the ways of the locals on each of the Pacific Islands, we started the day out with visiting a local church. Church is a big part of life here and it shows in such a strong sense of community and faith. The students got to sing along and enjoy a Sunday service. After the service we ducked over to Muri beach for a swim and relax before hitting up the Muri Night Markets for dinner. After the students bellies were full on local specialities, we made our way back to the accommodation at Marsters House where each syndicate set their values for the week and bonded with their team. This gave the students the opportunity to set their week up for success and to know the direction they were going in as a team.
Let the Activities begin..
From Monday we started our schedule of activities, leadership opportunities, business visits and cultural immersions. The Umu Experience, where Terry and Wokka guided us in learning about the cooking methods of the Cook Islands. The students got to lead their group through the process of preparing the meal, preparing the fire and even getting to husk a coconut.
A major highlight for many students was the Cross Island Hike, especially reaching the needle, which is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Two groups start at either end and meet somewhere in the middle. Think Jurassic park, luscious thick rain forrest, ropes assisting you up/down the steep slopes, treading through fresh water creeks and incredible views - that's the visual we had the entire time.
FLA has been partnering with Cook Island Tourism for a number of years which we are always so appreciative of. They actively engaged the students in their business, marketing strategies, and core values. They provided inspiration to the students by offering insights and ideas for potential future ventures. The students were given several tasks to consider the younger generation and to guide themselves through these processes.
Several of our syndicates had the chance to visit the vibrant Muri Environment Care - Takitumu Nursery, a local project focused on restoring waterways and the coastal ecosystem. The students participated in weeding, planting, and trimming the plants around the nursery. They also had the opportunity to lead their teams in the necessary tasks and learn about the systems they were maintaining.
Moana Minerals consists of specialists in engineering, science, deep-sea operations, and minerals, all dedicated to environmentally conscious and positive practices. Our students had the opportunity to board the ship for a comprehensive tour, visiting the bridge, various laboratories, and the kitchen, where they enjoyed a delicious snack prepared by the chef. They learned about Moana Minerals' positive environmental efforts and the mindful mining processes they implement.
At the Oasis Hydroponics Plantation, the students had the opportunity to learn extensively about organic farming and hydroponics. They actively participated in the process, getting their hands dirty. Additionally, they watched a worker climb a coconut tree, allowing everyone to enjoy fresh coconut drinks. The students could study how to cultivate lettuce in the tropical climate of the Cook Islands.
Duke of Edinburgh Students
During our trip, three students were also completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award. They had the opportunity to complete their Gold Residential Project through our course. By being away from home for at least 5 nights, surrounded by people they don't know and spending 8+ hours a day on purposeful projects. Our three students came from Kristin School and Tauhara College.
Last Day - Beach, Graduation, and Departure
Our final day was packed, beginning with some fun at the beach before concluding our time on the island. After drying off, we returned to our accommodation to get ready for our graduation at the Edge Water Resort, where we formally acknowledged our students, staff, and community partners. It truly takes a community to bring these courses to life and ensure the students benefit fully from them.
Special Thanks
While Future Leaders Academy designs and manages each course, the support and generosity of community partners, who believe in growing young leaders is a key part of our program. We would like to thank:
Marsters House and Aotearoa Hostel for our accommodation
Edge Water Resort
Vodafone
Cook Island Tourism
Terry & Wokka from Umu Experience
Muri Environment Care
Oasis Hyrdoponic Farm
The Pacific Resort
Moana Minerals
The Herman whanau for Oneroa Motu access
We also extend our gratitude to our staff on this course for supporting the journey of our young leaders.
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