–Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown has marked the nation’s 60th anniversary of self-governance with a firm message of pride, unity, and cultural identity.
“Today we stand together as a nation, not just to remember a moment in time, but to honour a legacy,” Brown told Parliament during his Constitution address.
“Sixty years ago, our people made a bold and deliberate choice, to govern ourselves. To take responsibility for our future. To stand tall among the nations of the world, proud of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going.”
Speaking under the theme Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku — I know who I am, I have a homeland — Brown said the message was more than symbolic.
“These are not just words. They are a declaration of identity. A reflection of belonging. A reminder that wherever we stand in Rarotonga, in Manihiki, in Auckland or Sydney, we carry with us a deep connection to our enua, to our people, and to our purpose.”
Brown underscored the central role of culture in the Cook Islands’ nationhood, calling Te Peu Māori — the cultural system — the “compass” of the country’s journey to statehood.
“Te Peu Māori – Our Way – has been tested by time. It has withstood the pressures of change, colonisation, migration, and modernisation. And yet it remains solid… resilient and responsive. It is from this foundation that we draw strength as a people.”
He described the country’s cultural resilience as a strategic asset in facing modern challenges and shaping the future.
“When we speak of resilience and navigation, we are also speaking of culture. Because it is culture that gives us grounding in times of change… and confidence to shape our future with clarity and care.”
Brown praised the creativity of young artists and cultural leaders whose performances during the Constitution celebrations show that Peu Māori is not only being preserved but reimagined.
“They are showing the world that the Cook Islands is not only preserving our heritage, but creating futures from it.”
Reflecting on his own leadership, Brown said embracing his reo Māori Kūki ‘Āirani had strengthened his connection to the people and helped guide his time as Prime Minister.
“My leadership has been shaped by the values passed down through our elders – values of service, humility, and collective strength.”
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the Cook Islands diaspora, calling their contribution the “wind in our sails.”
“When Cook Islanders pursue opportunities abroad, we expand our borders. We may live across continents, but we are not scattered. We are connected. By papa’anga, by aro’a, and by a deep enduring bond to our Ipukarea, our land.”
He highlighted the powerful emotional moment when diaspora groups returned home to perform during the national celebrations.
“When the island made a call, aere mai e taku iti, our people came and they stood proud for their island and their vaka. What a proud moment for all of us.”
Brown also called on Cook Islanders at home and abroad to continue walking forward together.
“As we mark 60 years of self-governance, let this also be a moment of homecoming… Because kua kite tatou i to tatou turanga – we know our place. And e Avaiki toku – we all have a homeland.”.
