Rarotonga, Cook Islands, 15 December 2025 - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration (MFA) today hosted a special ceremony honouring Immigration Officers who have successfully completed the Immigration Core Elements (ICE) programme, a milestone that marks a new pathway for professional development for Cook Islands Immigration.
The ceremony, attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Hon. Tingika Elikana, New Zealand High Commissioner to the Cook Islands, Her Excellency Catherine Graham, MFAI staff, family, friends, and representatives from law enforcement agencies, celebrated the completion of six months of intensive training for Immigration Officers. Officers attended up to six sessions per week to complete the ICE programme, that was developed in partnership with Immigration New Zealand through Hakili Matagi.
ICE is a comprehensive programme comprising 30 modules across six key immigration topics, Context, Partners, Intelligence, Process, People, and Products. It reinforces core immigration knowledge, builds on officers’ experience, and provides new recruits with a strong foundation for continuous learning and on the job experience.
This achievement also represents a historic milestone, Cook Islands Immigration is the first immigration department in the Pacific to complete the ICE programme.
"I’m incredibly proud of the team," said Principal Immigration Officer, Ms Chere Arthur. "They are the first in the Pacific to achieve this milestone, gaining valuable tools and skills that will strengthen our border security initiatives and enhance the integrity of our immigration processes."
A total of 23 officers successfully completed the programme and were awarded certificates of completion along with their law enforcement badges, symbols of their status as warranted Immigration Officers.
“Our success is measured not just in milestones, but in the confidence and capability of our people,” said Acting Secretary, Mr Joshua Mitchell “Through programmes like ICE, we are equipping our officers with the knowledge and skills they need to make sound decisions, uphold the law, and protect our borders with professionalism and pride.”
The Ministry acknowledges the dedication and commitment shown by the officers and looks forward to continuing investment in their professional development.
Taku Ipukarea, Kia Rangatira
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