Cook Islands Traditional Arts and Craft Tour

Cook Islands Traditional Arts and Craft Tour

Black pearls and the traditional arts and crafts of the Cook Islands will be the focus of a new tour launched by Statement Journeys at the recent Maketi Ples exhibition of Pacific art and craft at Sydney's Global Gallery.

The two week tour to Rarotonga from 1st-14th of September will include visits to local pearl farmers and artisans, art galleries - including a workshop with renowned screenprinter Kay George, and a demonstration of tivaevae making, the traditional quilts unique to the Cook Islands.

The journey will be escorted by jewellery connoisseur Julie Ankers, owner of the Statement Pieces jewellery collection. Julie made her first visit to the Cook Islands last year attracted by the superior cultured black pearls farmed on the northern island of Manahiki, but readily available on the main island of Rarotonga.

'I found paradise," says Julie. 'I've collected jewellery all my life and it's always been the people that I buy it from that most impress me. In the Cook Islands I met the warmest and most welcoming people living in the most beautiful, unspoilt islands and I wanted to share this experience with other like-minded people.

'On return to Sydney I established Statement Journeys to provide travel for the discerning collector interested in collecting everything from highly-memorable experiences to one-off pieces of artisan jewellery and authentic indigenous wares."

The Statement Journeys tour will also include a cruise across idyllic Muri Lagoon to Koka Island, the Te Vara Nui Cultural Experience dinner and show and a special feast of local cuisine at the Plantation House.

Packages includes return direct flights from Sydney with Air New Zealand, 13 nights' accommodation at the four star Pacific Resort Rarotonga including daily breakfast, snorkelling gear and kayaks, and airport transfers for $2999 twin share. Enquiries for a 7 day option welcome. Bookings Wendy Crane International, phone 02 9518 7746 or for more information visit www.statementpieces.com.au