Pukapuka Deckhands Arrive in Preparation for Tuitui Moana

Three men from Pukapuka have arrived in Rarotonga to begin preparations for their roles as deckhands aboard the Cook Islands’ new passenger and cargo vessel, Tuitui Moana.

The new deckhands are:

Mozela Teiho-Tua

Tokoiva Ruarau

Takuria Patakuria

Their arrival is another important step in preparing the Cook Islands crew who will support the vessel once it arrives home and enters service. As part of their preparation, the three deckhands will travel to New Zealand to undertake Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) training.

STCW training provides seafarers with the essential safety knowledge and practical skills required to work aboard a merchant vessel. This includes emergency procedures, personal survival techniques, fire prevention and firefighting, first aid, and personal safety responsibilities at sea.

The training will help prepare Mozela, Tokoiva and Takuria for their responsibilities aboard Tuitui Moana and ensure they meet the required international standards for working at sea. Their recruitment also reflects the important role Tuitui Moana will play in supporting the Pa Enua. As men from Pukapuka, they understand firsthand how important reliable shipping services are for the movement of passengers, cargo and essential supplies between Rarotonga and our island communities.

Tuitui Moana is currently undertaking her delivery voyage from China to the Cook Islands. The vessel departed Cebu, Philippines, on 25 July and is making her way towards Lae, Papua New Guinea. From there, she will continue to Suva, Fiji, before beginning the final leg of the journey to Rarotonga.

While the vessel continues her journey across the Pacific, preparations are progressing in the Cook Islands to ensure the crew and operational systems are ready for her arrival.

The addition of Mozela, Tokoiva and Takuria brings the Cook Islands another step closer to welcoming Tuitui Moana home and preparing the vessel for her future service between Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.

Further updates will be shared as Tuitui Moana continues her journey home.

For more information, please contact:

Taina Iro Major Projects and Procurement Support Division Ministry of Finance and Economic Management taina.iro@cookislands.gov.ck