The Cook Islands do parties well, with exotic and erotic dancing on offer. One woman did what Premier Geoffrey Henry said was a dance to express ‘deep and passionate love’ for leaders. Catholic priest Catiano Paulo joined the theme: ‘Are you are lover, are you in love. It takes a lover to seek what's best for the other.’
Aitutaki Atoll, a classic Pacific escape, was the venue for the retreat.
It was part of the Coral Route, the seaplane service across the Pacific flown by TEAL, Air New Zealand’s predecessor. On one flight, the plane landed and discovered an engine needed maintenance. They were obliged to leave the complaining passengers at Aitutaki and fly back to Suva for repairs. The passengers had several days on the atoll, swimming, snoozing and eating good food. Most were unhappy to see the plane return.
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