On Tuesday 28th May 2024, Cook Islands Immigration conducted training for the new Suwarrow Park Rangers, Johnnie Tangaroa and Keanu Harawira, on immigration legislation and border processes. The training, led by immigration officials, covered the Cook Islands Immigration Act 2021, passport and document verification, vessel clearance, passenger processing, and practical exercises.
As a result of the training, the new Suwarrow Park Rangers were issued their official warrants authorised by the Principal Immigration Officer on Tuesday, 23rd July 2024, designating them as warranted officers under the Cook Islands Immigration Act 2021.
This warrant enables the rangers to officially undertake immigration functions at Suwarrow National Park, which includes processing of crew and passengers arriving by vessel to the island.
"The new park rangers showed real interest in learning and understanding immigration legislation. They were fascinated to learn and understand what the functions of an Immigration Officer are and what they mandated by legislation to do," said Tereroa Pumati, Border Security Lead.
The new park rangers started their journey to Suwarrow National Park on Wednesday, 24th July 2024, where they will take up their positions on the island for the next six months.
“Johnnie and Keanu are two unique individuals who have the skills and enthusiasm to take on these roles on an remote island,” said Chere Arthur, Principal Immigration Officer. Ms Arthur added that they both come with a passion and drive for environmental issues, while also recognising the need to strengthen our country's response to border security measures, especially on remote islands like Suwarrow that are far from the main island of Rarotonga.
Cook Islands Immigration wishes them well in their endeavours and looks forward to their contribution in supporting and strengthening border security.
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