The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is proud to announce its participation in the Pacific Regenerative Verification Exchange Program, with Mrs. Kiarake Karuaki, Tourism Officer for Product Development and Investment Promotion, representing Kiribati during a threeweek immersive experience hosted by Five Sixty Farms in Lismore, New South Wales, Australia.
The program brought together representatives from across the Pacific to explore three core pillars of regenerative practice:
- Regenerative Farming and Agriculture
- Regenerative Gastronomy
- Regenerative Agritourism
Through this exchange, Mrs. Karuaki and her regional peers gained valuable insights into how tourism can be developed through regenerative approaches that honour traditional knowledge, strengthen cultural identity, and promote sustainable livelihoods.
One of the key highlights of the program was the focus on nourishment through local food sources. This approach not only enhances visitor experiences but also supports the health and wellbeing of local communities. Considering the high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kiribati, the promotion of traditional, nutritious food practices holds great potential as part of community-based tourism initiatives.
Another major learning outcome centred on the importance of soil health—its essential role in sustaining food systems, human wellbeing, and ecological balance. This holistic perspective, rooted in regenerative farming and agriculture, forms the foundation for regenerative gastronomy and agritourism. It reinforces the deep interconnection between land, culture, and community resilience.
The exchange also highlighted the importance of grounding tourism development in the authentic livelihoods of local communities, rather than solely responding to market trends. Regenerative approaches in farming, gastronomy, and agritourism serve as powerful pathways to revitalise cultural traditions that risk being lost over time.
Kiribati’s participation in this program represents an important milestone in its journey towards regenerative tourism – one that celebrates authenticity, sustainability, and cultural pride.
The Tourism Authority of Kiribati extends its sincere gratitude to the Pacific Islands Forum, the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR), and the Regenerative Vanua for their invaluable support and coordination. Special appreciation is also given to Five Sixty Farms for their warm hospitality and knowledge-sharing throughout the exchange program.