What is CINAA Inc. and how was it established?  

CINAA is the Cook Islands Nurses Association Aotearoa Incorporated. CINAA is a support network for nurses of Cook Islands heritage living in Aotearoa, New Zealand. We offer connection and support to our wider network, including nurses, living back home in the Cook Islands, Australia and globally.  
Cook Islands Nurses Association (CINA) NZ was established in 1991 by a small group of Cook Islands nurses. In the early 2000s, CINA NZ moved under the umbrella of the Cook Islands Health Network (CIHNA), led by the late Dr Joe Williams. They aimed to represent the healthcare interests of Cook Islanders living in NZ. 
In 2017, at the New Zealand Nurses Organisation Pacific section’s International Nurses Day celebration, the refreshed CINAA was launched.  

What is CINAA purpose?  

CINAA’s vision is to Navigate Nursing Excellence for Cook Islands Nurses. 
Our mission is to promote clinical leadership and governance with a commitment to the representation of its members. CINAA is committed to improving the health and well-being of all people and communities in New Zealand and the Cook Islands.  
We have approximately 75 nurses on our CINAA Facebook network page. This allows nurses to receive our calendar of events, notices of Pasifika nursing events, and any health, nursing or Cook Islands community notices.   

2024 CINAA Executive Committee are: 

• President (Metua Daniel-Atutolu) 

• Vice president (Tareta Hannah Koronui), Secretary (Liliane Valoa)  

• Assistant secretary (Apii Upoko)

• Treasurer (Caroline Rota) 

• Assistant treasurer (Tarani Lave) 

• Member (Metua Bates) 

• Member (Mary Kata) 

• Member (Geoff Rua’ine) 

  
  Each member is responsible for guiding our work streams:  

• Culture  

• Clinical practice  

• Education & Research  

• Mentorship & leadership  

•  Constitution  

•  Wellbeing  

What is the best thing about being a nurse?  

The opportunity to serve our people and all other people from different communities. Alongside the range of experiences, adaptability, and professional development that nursing offers.

How does language & culture help nurses in their profession?  

Our language (whether fluent or beginner) opens connections and our culture builds relationships with people. Our values help us to show respect, give care and serve others. The beautiful thing is that these values underpin the nursing profession.  

Any words of encouragement for those wanting to become a nurse? 

Nursing is a lifelong learner journey. It gives you so many opportunities in different settings, fields and environments. Whether it’s in theatre, community, research or travel nursing, the opportunities are endless. 
Nurses have the privilege to help and serve people throughout their lifespans. This is rewarding and fulfilling especially when we see people heal and thrive.