Rules & Requirements

Before you can register for the Uniquely Cook Islands program, you must agree to the Rules & Requirements. These protect Cook Islands culture, ensure fairness for all members, and keep the Mark and Tokens trusted.

Key Rules (Summary):

Verifiable cultural connection
To join the program, the business, the maker, or the seller must have a verifiable cultural connection to the Cook Islands. This connection must be truthful, demonstrable, and supported by evidence if requested.

Accredited use only
The Mark and Tokens can only be used by members who are fully accredited and in good standing. This ensures customers can always trust that the Mark means a genuine, verified connection to the Cook Islands.

Truthful and respectful use
All use of the Mark and Tokens must be accurate and not misleading. Cultural stories, motifs, and references must always be treated with respect and only used in appropriate contexts.

Guidelines and official versions
You agree to follow all guidelines and rules governing the use of the Mark, the Tokens, and all other program materials. You further agree to use only the official versions provided and agree not to alter them.

Tokens tied to accredited items
Tokens can only be displayed with the specific products or services that have been approved in your application. You cannot use them with unapproved items or in ways that suggest a broader approval than was granted.

Permission for cultural knowledge
If your product or service uses traditional knowledge, motifs, or stories, you must have permission where required, or a clear reason why it is not needed. You must be prepared to show this if asked.

Record keeping
Members must keep records to support their claims (such as evidence, invoices, or permissions). BTIB may request these at any time during review, renewal, or a complaint investigation.

Renewal
Accreditation must be renewed every 24 months to remain Active. If you do not renew, your status will change to Inactive and you must stop using the Mark and Tokens until you are reapproved.

Compliance
Misuse of the Mark or Tokens may result in warnings, suspension, or revocation of your accreditation. Serious misuse may also result in legal action.

You can read the full Rules, Regulations & Requirements.