Understanding Evidence for Accreditation

This information will help you get ready for Accreditation. It explains what evidence is, why it matters, and what you need to prepare.

Every product or service you want to use a Token with must be included in your accreditation application. Each one also requires its own evidence of connection to the Cook Islands. Each Token also has a different level of evidence requirement, with some needing more detailed checks than others.

Evidence is important because it protects the integrity of the Mark and Tokens. By asking for clear proof, we make sure the program stays strong, valuable, and beneficial for Cook Islands businesses and people. It also helps safeguard cultural heritage and traditions and prevents non-Cook Islands people or businesses from slipping into the program when they do not qualify.

Providing the right evidence makes it easier for your application to be reviewed and approved. It also helps you prepare and feel confident in telling your story.

Ito Manava – Local Production & Innovation

Ito Manava is about Cook Islands people making and creating locally in ways that show innovation and contribution. The evidence confirms that your product or service is genuinely connected to the Cook Islands.

You might submit:

  • Photos showing your product being made or service delivered locally
  • Short description of the process (design, stitching, cooking, finishing, quality control, etc.) showing the Cook Islands connection
  • Copies of invoices, receipts, or supplier letters showing materials purchased locally
  • Product labels, packaging, or promotional materials that show Cook Islands origin

If you are not sure about the evidence you have (or don’t have), you can contact BTIB for advice.

Vaka – Overseas / Diaspora

Vaka is for Cook Islands people and businesses overseas. The evidence confirms your Cook Islands heritage and shows how your work connects back to the home islands.
Your evidence could include:

The evidence confirms two things:

  1. Your Cook Islands heritage (to show you qualify for the program)
  2. How your product or service connects back to the home islands (by returning value or lifting the Cook Islands profile internationally)

There are two ways to show this connection. You only need to choose one.

Option 1: Returning value home
Evidence should show how you give back to the Cook Islands. This could be by sourcing materials, sharing skills, or investing in local people or projects.
You might submit:

  • Copies of invoices or receipts showing you regularly buy Cook Islands materials or ingredients (eg rito fibre, pearls, vanilla, noni, tivaevae fabrics)
  • Photos of the Cook Islands raw materials you use in your products
  • Letters or statements from Cook Islands suppliers confirming you buy from them
  • Records of skills training or mentoring Cook Islands people (e.g. workshop flyers, certificates, testimonials)
  • Proof of investments or financial support given to Cook Islands projects, makers or businesses

Option 2: Raising the Cook Islands profile overseas
Evidence should show how your work promotes Cook Islands identity internationally.
You might submit:

  • Photos or videos of your product, service, or performance being presented overseas
  • Media coverage, event programs, or promotional materials featuring your work and identifying it as Cook Islands
  • Screenshots of social media posts or websites showing you promote Cook Islands culture abroad
  • A short statement explaining how your work helps raise the Cook Islands profile (e.g. “my food stall introduces Cook Islands cuisine to Australian audiences”)

For both options, you also need evidence of your Cook Islands heritage and family connection (e.g. short statement of genealogy, family letter, or community recognition).

If you are not sure about the evidence you have (or don’t have), you can contact BTIB for advice.

Taʻunga – Cultural Protection & Preservation

Taʻunga is about safeguarding our old ways, our culture, history, and traditions. The evidence confirms that your practice is authentic and recognised in the community.
Your evidence could include:

  • Photos or videos of your work showing traditional tools, processes, and materials
  • A short description of who you learned from and how you continue that practice
  • Letters or recognition from your community or mentors
  • Endorsement from cultural elders who can confirm your knowledge and skills
  • Records of teaching or passing knowledge to others (eg workshop flyers, student testimonials, community acknowledgements)

All Taʻunga applications will be reviewed by the Cultural Review Group with members who have direct expertise in your area of craftsmanship. 

If you are not sure about the evidence you have (or don’t have), you can contact BTIB for advice.

Checklist

To make it easier, a downloadable checklist is available in the Resource Library. This will help you gather the right information and documents before you begin Accreditation.

Last Updated: 02/10/2025

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