President of House of Ariki visits Aronga Mana in Araura

President of the House of Ariki, Tou Ariki said he visited Araura Enua to see the situation on the island on behalf of the House of Ariki. Tou Ariki said he wanted his own observation of the response to the cyclone by the Aronga Mana and the people of Aitutaki. The meeting included the Minister of the House of Ariki, Hon Smiley Heather who encouraged the traditional leaders to be with their people and provide leadership in this time of need.
Tou Ariki said they met with the three Ariki of Aitutaki: Tamatoa, Manarangi and Vaeruarangi, who were heartened by his visit and told him that they were shocked at the extent of the damage which is the first time it has been so severe. He said his tears were falling as they described what had happened to them and the terror they felt during the cyclone.
However, since that time, the Ui Ariki have been impressed with the recovery programme and have called their own village communities to discuss what is needed for their people.
The President said that some people in the community were still in shock but that there is a support team to help from Welfare and also from Red Cross to assist them.
The visit was very important in order to reassure the traditional leaders of Araura Enua and the community that they will receive help from the Government to rebuild their lives.