Petition to Protect Swimmers and Marine Life in Avaavaroa Passage

THE ISSUE

For years, Avaavaroa Passage has been a place we’ve cherished and protected. What began in 2018 with just four sets of snorkeling gear and a commitment to offering a gentle, eco-friendly experience has grown into a mission to safeguard one of Rarotonga’s most fragile marine environments. Guided by five years of professional lifeguarding experience, our goal has always been to share the joy of the ocean while ensuring its wellbeing.

In 2018, Avaavaroa Passage was in a relatively undisturbed state. The coral was healthy, marine life was consistent, and the area functioned as a balanced ecosystem. Unfortunately, in recent years, the growing popularity of the Avaavaroa Passage as a tourist attraction has led to increased boat traffic, sea scooters, and similar operations. These pressures are now affecting the passage’s ability to support the marine life that depends on it. 

Scientific research shows that reef fish larvae rely on natural reef sounds to locate safe habitat during the most vulnerable stage of their lives. Boat noise masks these cues and can drive nearly half of them away from the reef instead of toward it (Holles et al., 2013). Studies also reveal that sea turtles feeding in coastal areas are exposed to harmful levels of underwater noise, disrupting their behaviour, interfering with foraging, and affecting their overall well-being (Samuel et al., 2005). Noise pollution isn’t just a disturbance; it is actively harming the species that rely on the Avaavaroa Passage for survival. And noise is only one part of the problem. Fuel and oil leakage, overcrowding, and divers entering the water in such a small, delicate space add even more pressure to an ecosystem already struggling to cope.

Hawksbill sea turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) are also regularly sighted within Avaavaroa Passage, using the area for feeding and resting. Their presence further highlights the ecological significance of this fragile marine habitat. Globally, hawksbills are classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to threats such as habitat loss, marine pollution, and human disturbance. Their populations have declined by more than 80% over the last century, and they remain one of the most threatened marine species in the world (Mortimer et al., 2008). Studies have found that Hawksbill turtles rely heavily on calm, healthy reef areas where they can feed safely (Sanchez et al., 2024). This makes protecting places like Avaavaroa Passage essential for helping their populations recover and remain part of Rarotonga’s natural heritage.

These changes affect both the marine environment and the community members who rely on sustainable tourism. We know marine protection works. The Aroa Marine Reserve, established more than 30 years ago, is living proof. Its waters are clearer, healthier, and more vibrant than anywhere else on the island. Avaavaroa Passage deserves the same chance to recover, regenerate, and thrive.

We are calling on Cook Islands authorities and environmental guardians particularly in Titikaveka and the wider Takitumu District to take urgent action. By prohibiting motor boats, sea scooters, and fishing within Avaavaroa Passage, we can give this precious ecosystem the opportunity it needs to heal, just as Aroa did decades ago. Together, we can protect Avaavaroa Passage for future generations. Let’s ensure its beauty, biodiversity, and cultural significance endure for years to come.

Your voice matters. Your support is essential. Please sign this petition to help designate Avaavaroa passage as a protected marine reserve and ban powered vessels.

References

Holles, S., Simpson, S. D., Radford, A. N., Berten, L., & Lecchini, D. (2013). Boat noise disrupts orientation behaviour in a coral reef fish. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 485, 295-300. https://www.jstor.org/stable/24892077 

Mortimer, J. A., & Donnelley, M. (2008). Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata). Marine Turtle Specialist Group 2008 IUCN Red List. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/pdf/12881238/attachment&ved=2ahUKEwjDroO7tfyQAxVHg68BHTcrOr0QFnoECBkQAQ&usg=AOvVaw1TDR2ERFQMpeOtHxek7k6- 

Sanchez, C. L., Bunbury, N., Mortimer, J. A., A’Bear, L., Appoo, J., Betts, M., von Brandis, R., Cook, L., van de Crommenacker, J., Currie, J. C., Doak, N., Fleischer-Dogley, F., Mahoune, T., Mederic, E., Mels, B., Pistorius, P., Richards, H., Samedi, U., & Casale, P. (2024). Small-scale movements and site fidelity of two sympatric sea turtle species at a remote atoll. Marine Biology International Journal on Life in Oceans and Coastal Waters. 171(91), 7-11. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00227-024-04414-5#citeas

Samuel, Y., Morreale, S. J., Clark, C. W., Greene, C. H., & Richmond, M. E. (2005). Underwater, low-frequency noise in a coastal sea turtle habitat. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 117, 1465-1472. https://pubs.aip.org/asa/jasa/article-abstract/117/3/1465/543741/Underwater-low-frequency-noise-in-a-coastal-sea