The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) has committed to supporting the ongoing restoration and long-term management of Nikao Cemetery, located opposite the airport next to the RSA in Nikao. This move follows a request from Cate Walker, who leads the Nikao Cemetery Restoration Project and has long championed the respectful upkeep of this historically significant site.
The cemetery is the final resting place for generations of Cook Islands families, visitors, and veterans of both World Wars. Over the years, natural wear and a lack of a formal maintenance plan have led to the site’s gradual decline.
Since 2016, Cate Walker and her husband Paul Morrissey, along with a dedicated team of volunteers and researchers, have led restoration efforts at the site. Their work has included rebuilding graves, restoring headstones, and installing memorial plaques for families from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the United States and Europe who travel to honour their loved ones buried there.
Their efforts also uncovered that Nikao Cemetery is home to the largest group of Cook Islands WWI returned servicemen buried in a single location. Their research led to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission formally recognising six Cook Islands soldiers—the first official war graves identified in the country. Records from ‘Find a Grave’ indicate a total of 119 identified graves at the site.
“This is a significant development for our community. I’m grateful to CIIC for stepping in. Together, we can now ensure the cemetery receives the ongoing care and respect it deserves,” said Ms Walker.
CIIC General Manager of Asset Management, Ms Vasie Ngatoko-Poila, said: “Our immediate focus is on restoring regular grounds maintenance. Once that’s in place, we’ll begin shaping a basic management plan, working closely with key stakeholders. This is about honouring our past and creating a respectful, well-cared-for space for the future.”
Local MP and Minister Mac Mokoroa, whose constituency includes Nikao-Panama, has offered his full support. “This cemetery is an important part of our identity. I’m proud to see action being taken and I fully support these efforts.”
CIIC’s involvement builds on years of grassroots conservation led by Cate and Paul, who also launched the Cook Islands Online Cenotaph in 2024—a free digital resource that shares military history and burial records for Cook Islanders worldwide.
Cate also acknowledges the vital contributions of Pito ‘Bobby’ Nicholas, Paula Paniani, and Bobby Ryan Hansen, who have supported the project and helped maintain the cemetery grounds over the past nine years.
In the months ahead, CIIC will consult with families, community leaders, and relevant authorities to develop a simple, respectful management plan for the cemetery—ensuring that future decisions reflect shared values and community input.
