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About Us

No runga ia matou

Our Vision

'ÅŒrama

“To see Cook Islands Cultural Heritage honoured, valued and thriving for generations to come”
Te Rito Pate Ceremony.png

Our Mission

'Akakoro'anga

Te Rito O Taku Peu Tupuna exists to support and empower individuals, entities and projects that support the preservation of Cook Islands Cultural Heritage via the following avenues:

Funding

Providing grants to assist with the development or implementation of projects that have a focus on
Cook Islands Cultural Heritage

Elevation

Supporting collaboration initiatives that bring
Cook Islands Cultural Heritage to the people to make it accessible, relevant, informative and alive

Capacity
Building

Providing training, mentoring and opportunities to improve the skills of those involved and ensure long term success  

Our Values

To Matou Au 'Irinaki'anga

Each letter of TE RITO represents a core value that shapes who we are as a trust. These values reflect the heart of Te Rito and guide how we serve our people, culture, and future generations.

TE RITO

  • We value collaboration with artists and like-minded organisations as together we can reach more people and achieve so much more

  • Shoot for the stars think outside the box
    – be creative, innovative

  • We strive for excellence in all we do

  • We acknowledge the diversity of Cook Islands Cultural Heritage and want to ensure there are opportunities for all of our people

  • We create space for the significance of the arts and the valuable contribution artists bring to our nation

  • There is depth and substance in all we do

An explanation of the Te Rito logo

The Te Rito logo is deep in meaning, with each element reflecting an authentic connection to Cook Islands culture. Hover over each part of the design to see its significance.
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The Kumete represents a holding space for others to share their traditional arts knowledge.

Kumete

The Atamira is where the Kumete sits, it lifts everyone up and honours the value of the knowledge holders contributing to the Kumete bowl

Atamira

The Weaving pattern represents unity for our people and culture.

Weaving Pattern

The Manutai (birds) represent ‘bringing you home’, similar to when you are sailing on the vaka and the birds guide you home. 

Manutui Pattern

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