Why the MOU isn't enough

Some people have asked why we haven't signed the Cook Islands Tourism Turtle Tour MOU. Here is our answer, based on the MOU's own text:

• It is voluntary. RNZ reported Cook Islands Tourism's explanation that the agreement "is not legally binding" (RNZ, 3 Mar 2024).
• It sets no limits on the number of boats or sea scooters, speed, engine type, noise or fuel.
• Its only clause on motorboats asks operators to follow existing Ministry of Transport rules, and nobody has to show they comply.
• Cook Islands Tourism itself has said "voluntary compliance alone is not enough" (Cook Islands News, 19 Mar 2025).

We support the permit system Cook Islands Tourism has said it is reviewing. We're asking that it include real limits on motorised craft, and protection for the turtles and the reef.

Read the side-by-side table at snorkelcookislands.com/petition#mou.

Your action: add a comment saying why a quiet, engine-free passage matters to you. If you live in the Cook Islands, please say so. We'll include your words when we hand the petition to the Ministry of Transport, the National Environment Service and Cook Islands Tourism.