Representatives from the National Environment Service, Maria Tuoro (Marae Moana Coordinator) and Anita Harmon (ODA Finance Officer), attended the 11th Pacific Islands Conference on Nature Conservation and Protected Areas at the Tjibaou Cultural Centre in Noumea, New Caledonia, from 7–11 September 2026.
The conference brought together Pacific country representatives, youth, regional and international organisations, development partners and conservation practitioners. Delegates considered regional priorities including area-based conservation, species and ecosystems, invasive species, nature-based solutions, environmental governance and the relationship between people, nature and conservation. The conference also highlighted the Pacific Islands Framework for Nature Conservation 2026–2030 and regional work supporting biodiversity, ecosystem resilience and Pacific communities.
Alongside the conference, Cook Islands representatives joined a dedicated Bezos Earth Fund session for Wave I and Wave II grantees. The Cook Islands has been successful in securing a Wave II grant of US$4 million for marine spatial planning. Discussions focused on practical preparation for implementation, including reporting arrangements, sustainable financing, access to technical expertise, partner support and progress towards the 30×30 conservation vision.
The NES team also engaged in sessions on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, Indigenous voices and traditional leadership in conservation, sustainable finance, and environmental legal matters. These discussions provided useful regional perspectives and lessons relevant to ongoing conservation work in the Cook Islands.
The conference strengthened links with Pacific partners and provided an opportunity to share experiences, learn from other countries and development partners, and prepare for the next stage of the Cook Islands’ Bezos Earth Fund-supported work.
