The National Environment Service (NES) is pleased to announce the appointment of Tessa Vaetoru, Director of Niva Consultants, as the Chief Strategy Adviser for the Cook Islands RESPONSE Project.
The role will provide strategic leadership and guidance to support the Cook Islands in reducing plastic pollution, promoting circular economy solutions, and strengthening environmental sustainability initiatives across the country. As Chief Strategy Adviser, Tessa will work closely with the RESPONSE Project Management Unit, NES staff, government agencies, development partners, and community stakeholders.
Vaetoru brings more than a decade of experience in governance, climate finance, strategic planning, and project management across the Cook Islands and the wider Pacific region. Her extensive work in mobilising international climate finance, strengthening national systems, and supporting large-scale environmental and development programmes makes her exceptionally well positioned to guide the strategic direction of the RESPONSE Project.
Manager Environmental Partnerships, Hayley Weeks, said that “Tessa brings a unique combination of strategic vision, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of the Cook Islands context. Her experience working across government, communities, development partners, and international climate finance institutions will be invaluable as we advance the RESPONSE Project.”
Her appointment is also a significant milestone for local leadership and expertise. It demonstrates the growing capacity of Cook Islands professionals to lead nationally important projects and contribute to global environmental solutions from a Pacific perspective.
Tessa Vaetoru said that, “Having spent years in international climate finance and board-level governance, I have learned that the most significant progress happens on the ground, driven by our local teams. I am honoured to bring that experience and knowledge home to support the National Environment Service and the Project Management Unit, working side-by-side to translate our shared vision into real, tangible results for our Ipukarea.”
The National Environment Service looks forward to working with Tessa and Niva Consultants as the RESPONSE Project enters its next phase of implementation, helping to create cleaner environments, stronger communities, and a more resilient future for the Cook Islands.
