From 29 September to 1 October 2026, the National Environment Service (NES) hosted the Good Practices in Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning (GPR) Training in Aitutaki.The training aimed to strengthen the practical knowledge and skills of Pa Enua refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) technicians in the safe and proper installation, servicing, maintenance, repair, removal and decommissioning of RAC equipment. These practices help reduce refrigerant emissions and minimise their harmful impacts on the environment.
“We had a great turnout of participants attending the training,” said Ngatupuna Kae from NES. The training brought together participants from government services and local businesses in Aitutaki, many of whom were new to the field. Participants highlighted the value of the training, particularly in response to the growing demand for refrigeration and air-conditioning services driven by tourism on the island.
As tourism continues to grow, more accommodation providers and businesses are installing air-conditioning units to improve comfort for their guests. However, some businesses face challenges with troubleshooting and maintaining their equipment, highlighting the need for workers with the appropriate knowledge and practical skills.
The training covered good practices in refrigerant recovery, system evacuation, refrigerant charging, leak testing and the safe handling of refrigerants. These skills are essential to ensure RAC equipment operates efficiently, prevent unnecessary refrigerant releases and reduce environmental impacts.
A highlight of the training was a site visit to the Aitutaki Waste Facility, where participants had the opportunity to apply their learning in a practical setting. During the visit, participants recovered refrigerants from air-conditioning units for appropriate disposal and destruction.
The training provided an important opportunity for participants to develop their practical skills, strengthen their understanding of environmentally responsible RAC practices and better support the growing needs of Aitutaki’s tourism industry and local communities.
Through initiatives such as the GPR Training, NES continues to support capacity-building in the Pa Enua and promote good practices that protect the environment while meeting the Cook Islands’ growing demand for refrigeration and air-conditioning services.
Images: Participants taking part in practical demonstrations and classroom sessions during the refrigeration and air-conditioning training in Aitutaki.
