The new guardian of Suvarov Park

With complementary skills and a passion for conservation, the newly appointed Suvarof Park Rangers are well-positioned to protect the island’s ecological and cultural heritage.

Suvarof Island has been a national park and bird sanctuary in the Cook Islands since 1978, and is home to a wide variety of marine life, birds and wildlife.

Cook Islanders Johnnie Tangaroa and Keanu Harawira have been appointed as the new park rangers for Suwarof Island, charged with maintaining the island’s ecological balance and cultural significance.

Despite coming from different backgrounds, they both share a passion for environmental protection. Tangaroa, who has a background in military and construction, and 22-year-old Harawira are both “excited” about taking on their new roles.

The selection panel for the new rangers consisted of Elisabeth Munro from the National Environment Service (NES), representatives from the police patrol vessel Te Kukupa II and Customs.

NES biodiversity co-ordinator Jessie Nicholson said it had been over a month since Tangaroa and his assistant Harawira had been conducting the training and progress had been good.

“Johnny has a wealth of experience which he can pass on to Keanu, and they have a relaxed demeanor, a good attitude and want to get the job done. They communicate very well and seem to be a very good team,” Nicholson said.

Harawira is the grandson of Puaikura resident Sally Ben, who worked as a turtle tour guide.

Harawira said he didn’t put much thought into applying for the job.

“I saw the ad and thought, I want to try it and experience it.”

He believes he will enjoy the experience and is eager to learn more about Suvarov’s natural environment.

Tangaroa is a former soldier and with his experience and local knowledge he is looking forward to landing on Suvarof Island and starting a new life.

He returned to the Cook Islands a few years ago to work on a solar project and has visited the South Island but not the North Island.

“My initial excitement is that I’m going to learn more about my own backyard,” Tangaroa said.

“It’s a privilege. We’ll take care of each other … just like we do in the military.”

Tangaroa was the son of Mii Tangaroa and Tere Tangaroa.

He was born and raised in the Cook Islands, leaving in 1977 and later returning to New Zealand to work in construction for Eddie Karika.

As part of the training, rangers discussed with Te Ipukarea past rat eradication projects on Suvarof Island and the monitoring work needed to ensure Suvarof Island remains rat-free.

They also held a workshop with Te Marae Ora on the responsibility for public health protection.

Meet Johnny Tangaroa –Johnny is a former military engineer who has served in a number of conflict zones including Iraq, Afghanistan, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Bougainville, Papua New Guinea and Samoa.

His military experience includes construction, water management and cross-training with agencies such as the Navy, New Zealand Police, Australian Training Programs, and overseas agencies such as the FBI, DEA and the US Marshals Service. Bomb disposal is Johnny’s main job and hobby, and he is often deployed to New Zealand for combat-related emergencies.

In addition to his military career, Johnny was actively involved with organisations such as Outward Bound New Zealand and the Department of Conservation (DOC). His contributions also extended to community projects such as the Gore Trail at Bluff and the wharf at Chatmans Islands.

In his personal life, Johnny found solace in his roots, craving stability and cultural understanding. During his dance career, he was a member of the Orama cultural group and performed in Japan. In his adventurous life, Johnny had his fair share of memorable moments, including a daring skydive in 1988 that nearly led to his arrest in Rarotonga.

Johnny brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and NEA is delighted to have him as part of the team.

Meet Keanu Halawira– Keanu is eager to bring efficient methods to his role as Suvarof Island Ranger, which includes general maintenance tasks such as cleaning out stagnant water tanks on the island, clearing areas and blockages.

Keanu brings unique technical knowledge to the position, with over two years of practical experience in plumbing and expertise in butchering. Additionally, his background in construction, including architecture, further highlights his versatility. Keanu’s commitment to water safety is well demonstrated through his experience as a turtle guide with Ariki Adventures. He also brings fishing experience, demonstrating his adaptability to different environments. Keanu enjoys a systematic approach, and he is eager to bring efficient methods to his Suvarov ranger role, including general maintenance tasks such as cleaning out stagnant water tanks on the island, clearing areas and blockages.

In addition to his professional skills, his love of free diving adds an adventurous spirit to his personality, reflecting his love of life both on and off the island. Keanu brings a spirit of innovation, adaptability and enthusiasm that makes him a great asset to the National Environmental Services team.