Capacity Building – Kaongora Newsletter

TAK prepares for MV Hanseatic Inspiration Cruise call and Butaritari Atoll Tourism Product Launch

May 16, 2025May 16, 2025 by Taare Rikiai

On 1 April, a team from the Product Development and Investment Promotion (PDIP) Unit of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) travelled to Butaritari Atoll to spearhead preparations for two major tourism events: the highly anticipated visit of the MV Hanseatic Inspiration cruise ship on Bikati Islet and the Butaritari Tourism Product Launch.

This mission is part of TAK’s ongoing commitment to support and empower tourism-ready communities across Kiribati by equipping them with the tools and training needed to offer authentic, engaging, and sustainable visitor experiences.

Cruise Visit to Bikati Islet – 2 May
The MV Hanseatic Inspiration is scheduled to call at Bikati Islet on 2 May, generating strong anticipation among locals and stakeholders. Two TAK officers spent three days on the islet working closely with community members to prepare for the cruise visit.

Key activities included:
• Finalizing welcoming protocols
• Coordinating guided tours and cultural performances (including traditional dances and choir)
• Organizing local refreshments, such as fresh tropical fruits
• Conducting site assessments and marking designated areas for meet-and-greet points, restrooms, and performance spaces to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visitor flow.

These preparations aim to offer passengers a memorable, culturally rich experience while highlighting Bikati’s identity and its community-led, sustainable tourism approach.

Tourism Product Launch Preparation – Mainland Butaritari

Following their work on Bikaati, the TAK team continued preparations on the mainland of Butaritari, focusing on strengthening the readiness of local communities for the upcoming Butaritari Tourism Product Launch.
Working alongside the Butaritari Island Council, the team engaged with nine communities: Ukiangang, Antakana, Tanimaiaki, Tanimainiku, Keuea, Kuuma Village, Utirake Community, and Bikaati Islet.

Key tasks included:
• Finalizing tour programs and highlights
• Refining visitor experience packages to include:
o Traditional welcome ceremonies
o Cultural performances (dance and choir)
o Maneaba-based gatherings
o Local culinary tastings
o Handcrafted souvenirs

These efforts aim to enhance the guest experience while also positioning Butaritari as a vibrant, emerging tourism destination in Kiribati.

Towards Sustainable Tourism Development
The Butaritari Tourism Product Launch marks a pivotal milestone in the island’s tourism journey, paving the way for greater recognition of its unique attractions and cultural offerings. TAK extends its sincere gratitude to the Butaritari Island Council, participating communities, and all stakeholders for their dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work in bringing these initiatives to life.

These initiatives are not only a celebration of Butaritari’s rich heritage and natural beauty but also a contribution to Kiribati’s national tourism development goals—by building local capacity and promoting sustainable, inclusive tourism across the islands.

TAK conducts Mauri Way Customer Service Training on Butaritari Atoll

May 16, 2025May 16, 2025 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) successfully extended the Mauri Way Customer Service Training program to tourism operators and community-based tourism businesses in Butaritari. Held from the 2nd to the 5th of April 2025 at Isle Sunset Lodge, the training focused on enhancing customer service skills to deliver exceptional and uniquely Kiribati visitor experiences.

The Mauri Way Tourism and Hospitality Customer Service Training Program is tailored to empower employees of local tourism businesses by equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to elevate customer service standards to a national level. By showcasing Kiribati’s rich culture, the program aims to foster memorable, high-quality visitor experiences.

The training comprised seven interactive modules:
1. Introduction/Overview of Te Mauri Way
2. First Impressions
3. Types of Travellers and Cultural Awareness
4. Anticipating Travellers’ Needs and Wants
5. Problem-Solving, Complaint Handling, and Conflict Management
6. Customer Service
7. Bringing It All Together

The program included dynamic activities such as interactive sessions, group discussions, role-play exercises, open forums, and Q&A sessions. It was led by Tourism Officer Monika Rikita, with support from Acting Assistant Tourism Officer Tie Manuera.

A total of 29 participants from various tourism businesses attended, including representatives from Nemat Resort, Isle Sunset Lodge, Antinbwaan Iesu Guesthouse, Te Nikabubuti Eco Lodge, Buron Takenraoi Community, Nei Rakentaai, Tekaneati, Notiruru, Butirake Community, Ukiangang Meang & Maiaki, Te Toronibwai Community, Antekana, and the Butaritari Island Council.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Kamoriki Willie, a tour guide and representative from the Butaritari Island Council, emphasized the significance of the training in supporting the diverse roles and responsibilities of those involved in local tourism businesses.

TAK extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Pacer Plus Implementation Unit for funding this crucial initiative. Appreciation is also extended to the Ministry of Tourism, Commerce, Industry, and Cooperatives for their unwavering support in implementing the training, as well as the Butaritari Island Council for their invaluable assistance during the program.

TAK Officer Participates in Tourism Resources & Utilization Training Workshop in Hainan, China

October 2, 2024October 1, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

Ms Monika Rikita of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati participated in a thirteen-day training focused on Tourism Resources and Utilization for Pacific Island Countries, which was hosted by the International Cooperation and Exchange Center of the Department of Commerce, Hainan Province, China, from the 27th of August to the 9th of September 2024.

The overall aim of the program is to nurture competitive tourism professionals for the South Pacific region, supporting the sustainable prosperity of its tourism industry and elevating it as an international tourism destination. This training program is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond to global challenges, ensuring that the tourism sector in the South Pacific remains competitive.

It is an opportunity for China’s tourism industry and tertiary institutions to present and showcase their professional courses to participants, which overall focuses on the theme, ‘Tourism Resources Development and Utilization.’ In this course, the highlighted topics covered are:

-Planning and Management of Tourism Resources in China
-Public Tourism Policies in China
-Impact of Tourism Industry: Theory and Practice
-Sustainable Development of Tourism Industry
-Tourism Destination Services and Marketing
-Planning, Design, Operation, and Management of Tourist Attractions
-Marketing and Brand Building
-Concepts and Classic Case Analysis of Cultural and Tourism Integration – Application of Digital Tourism Technology
-Hotel Management: Intelligent Hotel Development

Apart from the theory-based sessions, participants had a chance to tour Hainan Province and visit the most famous tourist attractions, such as Qinghai City, Sanya City, and Wanning City. Participants also spent three days touring Shanghai Municipality and Suzhou City in Jiangsu Province. This activity brought participants together for an interactive exercise, allowing them to reflect on and share what they had observed and learned during the training program. It encouraged them to apply these insights in the areas most relevant to their respective islands.

A big ‘Thank You’ to the People’s Republic of China through the International Cooperation and Exchange Center of the Department of Commerce, Hainan Province, for funding support and the organization of this wonderful and rewarding training program.

Kiribati participated in the Te Ūnga Mai Professional Development Training in Rotorua New Zealand

September 5, 2024September 4, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

Among the tourism professionals from the Pacific islands who participated at the Te Ūnga Mai Professional Development Training, Kiribati was represented by Ms Kiarake Karuaki – the Product Development and Investment Promotions officer from the Tourism Authority of Kiribati.

The four-day training held in Rotorua from 30 July to 2 August 2024 is designed to enhance the skills and capabilities of tourism professionals where the Pacific leaders come together and share their destination management journey including successes and challenges. It was an opportunity for networking and gathering practical knowledge, insights, and best practices where Pacific leaders further broaden their perspective allowing for a global exchange of ideas and strategies. Overall, such a program is instrumental in shaping future-ready tourism leaders who can navigate and manage destinations with foresight and responsibility.

Throughout the program, the Pacific Delegates also had the opportunity to join the New Zealand cohort of the Climate Champions Training facilitated by the Travel Foundation in partnership with Expedia Group. It brought together an interactive learning exchange that further discussed the urge for sustainable tourism development against the impact of global climate change for a resilient tourism industry in the Pacific.

TAK acknowledges the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade for the funding support, Regional Tourism New Zealand, Rotorua Regional Tourism Organisation and the RTOs, private sector, and government agencies at Te Unga Mai for the privilege to learn from their successes and the challenges they faced.

TAK Officer Embarks on Digital Tourism Journey with PTI Australia

September 4, 2024September 4, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

Mr. Tiuti Biribo an officer of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati or TAK has recently completed a dynamic two-week internship with Pacific Trade Invest (PTI) Australia, focusing on Digital Tourism as part of the organization’s Talent Development Program. From August 5th to 19th, 2024, Mr. Biribo was immersed in the world of tourism promotion and digital engagement under the guidance of Tourism Manager, Ms. Onorina Fugawai.

The highlight of Biribo’s internship was representing the six “Hidden Treasures of the South Pacific” — Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Tuvalu, Tonga, and the Federated States of Micronesia — throughout the roadshows. Held in six different Australian cities, these events provided a platform to showcase the unique charm and allure of these lesser-known destinations.
• Day 1 (August 5th): QT Hotel, Canberra
• Day 2 (August 6th): View By Sydney, Pier 2, Walsh Bay, Sydney
• Day 3 (August 7th): Cargo Hall, South Wharf Promenade, Melbourne
• Day 4 (August 12th): The Warehouse Loft, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
• Day 5 (August 13th): Pier 33, Mooloolaba, Sunshine Coast
• Day 6 (August 14th): QT Hotel, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast

Mr. Biribo’s internship journey was marked by a transition from observation to active participation. During the first three days, he keenly observed the roadshow dynamics, gaining valuable insights into event management, marketing techniques, and audience engagement. Empowered by this knowledge, he confidently took the stage from Day 4 to Day 6, delivering captivating presentations that highlighted the unique offerings of the six Hidden Treasures.

Mr. Biribo’s internship with PTI Australia proved to be a transformative experience. The blend of expert mentorship, hands-on involvement in the roadshows, and the opportunity to represent the captivating Hidden Treasures of the South Pacific has equipped him with a unique skill set and a deep appreciation for the power of digital tourism. This experience will undoubtedly propel him toward a successful career where he will be able to share his new knowledge and skills with TAK team to better promote Kiribati as a tourism destination.

Tourism Authority of Kiribati attended the inaugural stakeholder workshop on Pacific Island Early Warning System Workshop

August 9, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The U. S. National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) gathered climate change stakeholders in the Pacific to assist in assessing the current capacity and challenges in advancing flood and drought EWS. Participants included professionals from the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs), Sustainable Pacific Community (SPC), the World Meteorological Organization RA-V Regional Office, Non-Governmental Organizations such as Red Cross, local authorities, community organizations, and other stakeholders from the agricultural, tourism, and/or transportation sectors.

The 9-days’ workshop commenced from the 15th to 23rd July 2024, and in two-fold – one week workshop first for the forecasters and followed by the stakeholders’ workshop on the 22nd – 23rd July. The Ministry of Line & Phoenix Islands Development led the Kiribati team.

The stakeholder workshop is part of the implementation of the Pacific PREPARE (President Emergency Plan for Adaptation and Resilience) Plan. The PREPARE project will enhance capacity in the Pacific by developing training materials and delivering the training to climate services professionals and decision makers institutions in the region.

Following the workshop, NOAA will use state-of-the-art scientific methods to develop drought monitoring and outlook tools, provide training to stakeholders in the Pacific, and work with regional and national institutions in the region to co-develop drought risks in agriculture, water resource management, and food security. NOAA will further foster collaboration within the Pacific to enable effective planning to reduce the impacts of drought on the livelihood of people.

Kiribati, Solomon Islands, and Fiji are selected as pilot islands for this project.

TAK participates in the Kiribati Career Fair

August 8, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Ministry of Women, Youth, and Social Affairs organized a one-day career fair on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at the Sports Complex, inviting secondary school students from Forms 6 and 7 to attend.

Students from various secondary schools visited the TAK information booth, eager to learn about career opportunities in tourism and the role of the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) in the country. The TAK booth staff provided extensive information and encouraged students to visit the TAK office if they required further assistance.

TAK informed the students that one of its key roles is to provide tourism education and awareness, which it conducts annually during its School Visit Programs. These programs help students enhance their understanding of tourism concepts and the significant role TAK plays in the planning and development of tourism in Kiribati.

Additionally, during the career fair some students received assistance from TAK staff in filling out application forms to study tourism programs at universities abroad.

Overall, the students showed great interest in visiting the TAK office for further assistance and advice, eager to deepen their understanding of tourism and the pivotal role TAK plays in the development of tourism in Kiribati.

The ‘Mauri Way’ Tourism & Hospitality Customer Service Training Program rolls out in North Tarawa

July 1, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has completed delivering a four-day Tourism & Hospitality Mauri Way Customer Service Training Program to local tourism operators in North Tarawa. The training was held from Wednesday 12th to Saturday 15th June 2024 at Moturerei Motel Maneaba in Abaokoro, North Tarawa.

The Mauri Way is a Kiribati Tourism & Hospitality Customer Service training program designed to educate our local operators in ways to share our culture with visitors and deliver a memorable and exceptional visitor experience, the Kiribati way.

This new program aims to empower local representatives from accommodation providers and communities with valuable insights and knowledge to enhance customer service to a national level, creating a memorable visitor experience.
Mauri Way Customer Service training program was covered with Seven modules including:

• Module 1: Introduction/Overview of Te Mauri Way
• Module 2: First Impression
• Module 3: Types of Travellers and Cultural Awareness
• Module 4: Anticipating Travellers Needs and Wants
• Module 5: Problem-Solving, Complaint Handling and Conflict Management
• Module 6: Customer Service
• Module 7: Bring it all Together.

As part of this training, participants engaged in various activities led by the trainers, including role-play demonstrations, group presentations, and Q&A sessions. The training was conducted by two tourism officers, Ms. Monika Rikita and Ms. Tie Manuera, an Acting Assistant Tourism Officer.

Sixteen participants from various local tourism operators attended the newly introduced Mauri Way training. These participants represented Buariki Paradise Resort, Tarabuka Hideaway Lodge, Moturerei Motel, Oceanview Motel, and Eutan Tarawaieta Council.

Tourism Authority of Kiribati continues to acknowledge the Pacer Plus Implementation Unit for financing this program and for the Ministry of Tourism Commerce Industry and Cooperatives for smooth support and facilitation during the delivery of the new national Tourism & Hospitality Mauri Way Customer Service training program.

Kiribati Draws Closer to a New Destination Brand

July 4, 2024July 1, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

The Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) is making significant progress towards unveiling a new destination brand for Kiribati. This development follows the successful Branding Validation Workshop held on June 20, 2024, at the Marine Training Center (MTC) in South Tarawa. The workshop coincided with the visit of branding consultant Mr. Carl Solomon from the Destination Marketing Store (DMS) in Australia. Mr. Solomon conducted the workshop to share the results of his consultation in South Tarawa, which took place in March 2024.

Mr. Solomon was referred to TAK by the Pacific Private Sector Development Initiative (PSDI), a regional technical assistance program partnered with the governments of Australia and New Zealand, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The PSDI is funding the project to assist TAK in developing a new destination brand for Kiribati.

The primary goal of the rebranding initiative is to create a refreshed brand that aligns with the values of the Kiribati community and key policies and strategies, such as the Kiribati Vision 20 (KV20), the Kiribati Sustainable Tourism Policy (KSTP), and TAK’s Strategic Plan.

Mr. Solomon emphasized that the new brand would center around the Local Hero archetype, highlighting the ‘I-Kiribati’ culture, heritage, and community. He noted that the brand will be shaped by the people of Kiribati, reflecting how they wish to present their destination brand to the world. The aim is to capture their passion for their homeland and culture while delivering unique visitor experiences that attract high-yield, low-impact tourism. This brand approach promotes sustainable tourism development, balancing cultural preservation, environmental protection, and economic growth.

The Branding Validation Workshop on June 20th brought together representatives from the local tourism industry, NGOs, and government agencies. Mr. Solomon presented the Kiribati New Brand Strategy and visual brand identity concepts, inspired by the Local Hero archetype. Despite the progress made during the workshop, TAK recognizes that further work is needed to finalize the brand, with the official launch planned soon this year, 2024.

Abemama Island revisited to re-engage Community-Based Tourism Operators.

June 4, 2024June 3, 2024 by Taare Rikiai

After launching Abemama as a tourism-ready island in 2022, the Tourism Authority of Kiribati (TAK) has revisited the island to support and evaluate tourism operators as part of its sustainability plan. TAK conducted a monitoring and evaluation (M&E) assessment from May 10th to 19th, focusing on Community-Based Tourism (CBT) operators.

This initial M&E mission aimed to ensure ongoing engagement with CBT operators, maintaining strong partnerships and successful tourism operations. During the visit, Ms. Kiarake Karuaki introduced the concept of homestay development to CBT operators. She emphasized how homestays can complement existing tour programs, highlighting the potential for tourism to grow and benefit the community. Homestays, being a popular trend in the travel industry, offer authentic experiences that can enhance the appeal of Abemama.

As part of the mission, TAK established the Abemama Tourism Working Group Committee. This committee includes representatives from tour operators, accommodation providers, and the island council. Its purpose is to oversee tourism operations, address challenges, and ensure smooth and effective management. The executive body of the committee will play a crucial role in coordinating efforts and supporting the tourism sector on the island.
The M&E mission reflects TAK’s ongoing commitment to supporting CBT operators. By continuously monitoring and evaluating tourism operations, TAK aims to strengthen partnerships and ensure sustainable tourism development on Abemama.

Tourism Authority Kiribati