OPSC partners with Mangaia Island Government to build a Future-Ready Public Service

27 November 2025

OPSC partners with Mangaia Island Government to build a Future-Ready Public Service

Mangaia, Cook Islands, 10-11 November 2025 – The Office of the Public Service Commissioner (OPSC), led by Human Resources Manager Tepaeru Tauraki and Head of Agencies Coordinator Mary Strickland, visited Mangaia from 10–12 November to deliver workshops designed to strengthen governance, enhance workforce capability, and deepen understanding of key public sector processes.

The programme included targeted sessions for managers and a Public Sector Orientation for all Government workers, setting the foundation for stronger leadership and improved service delivery across the island.

Managers engaged in practical workshops on business planning, performance management, job design, Island Government organization structures, complaint handling, and Public Sector conduct. These sessions provided tools to align structures with roles, develop clear job descriptions, and apply performance processes consistently—critical steps toward building resilient and accountable leadership. The orientation for all staff reinforced expectations of Public Servants, professional conduct, and standards that underpin a high-performing Cook Islands Public Service.

Staff also raised questions on leave entitlements, accruals, and the impact of leave without pay. OPSC will review these matters as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting Pa Enua administrations.

Also visiting the island during this period, was OPSC VSA (Volunteer Service Abroad) Volunteer Chris McIntyre who is currently reviewing the Public Service Act 2009 to ensure that it remains relevant and fit for purpose.  McIntyre met with Mia Teaurima, Mangaia Island Administration Executive Officer, and the Mayor, Makitua Tutai. Both welcomed the review of the Act and expressed their appreciation of OPSC staff visiting Mangaia and engaging on the review and providing training to staff. Teaurima stressed the need for all Pa Enua EOs to be more proactive in creating links with OPSC

to facilitate training and provide support and guidance. He noted there is a need to significantly improve capacity and capability within the Mangaia Island Government workforce and all efforts by OPSC and other Government agencies to assist the EO, the Mayor and the Island Administration to inform and upskill their staff would provide real benefits. Both Teaurima and Tutai looked forward to a closer ongoing relationship with OPSC.  

Looking ahead, OPSC will continue partnering with Island Governments to build capability, strengthen consistency, and expand access to training and resources—ensuring that the Cook Islands Public Service is equipped to meet future challenges.

For enquiries related to this release, please email opschr@cookislands.gov.ck.