Connexis is proud to have supported its first cohort of learners based in the Cook Islands, marking an important milestone in delivering bespoke services off shore. Over the past few years, Connexis worked in partnership with To Tatou Vai Ltd, the state-owned authority responsible for the Cook Island’s water supply, supporting five learners to complete the New Zealand Certificate in Drinking Water Treatment Multi-stage process – Level 4.
To support learner success, Connexis developed a tailored learning plan that recognised both the learners’ workplace context and their limited prior experience with online learning. The programme included fortnightly online tutorials led by Connexis Water Treatment Consultant Martyn Simpson, who provided encouragement, structure, and motivation to help learners stay on track with workbooks and agreed timelines.
“This collaborative approach aligned well with the learners’ strengths, as they were accustomed to working together as a group,” says Kate Wallace Quality Assurance Manager. “One learner naturally stepped into a mentoring role, helping others link their learning to practical workplace experience.”
Regular engagement with To Tatou Vai Ltd was a key contributor to the programme’s success. Connexis worked closely with the learners’ manager, with monthly progress meetings involving the Connexis Quality Assurance Manager and a Customer Service Account Manager. These conversations reinforced the importance of giving learners dedicated time and resources to study while learning on the job.
After completing their online learning, the learners travelled to Wellington to attend a four-day block course. Connexis worked to provide pastoral care, ensuring learners were well supported during their stay, including accommodation. In partnership with Wellington Water, Connexis also arranged a site visit so learners could complete one of their compulsory Level 4 assessments at a working water treatment facility.
In June 2025, Connexis Water Treatment Consultant Martyn Simpson travelled to the Rarotonga to conduct onsite assessments of all five learners. Every learner successfully completed their assessment and attained the qualification, a testament to their commitment and the strength of the support around them.
“We are grateful for all the assistance and support we have received in enabling our learners to complete and attain this qualification.”- Ringi Tumutoa, HR Admin, To Tatou Vai Ltd.
This initiative reflects Connexis’ commitment to high-quality pastoral care and inclusive learning pathways for all learners. As part of its Code of Pastoral Care, Connexis continues to develop and strengthen opportunities that support diverse learners.
* The Cook Islands is a self-governing state in ‘free association’ with New Zealand, with a population of around 25,900.
Images: Learners Patricia Taea and Wilson Rau at the Greytown Water Treatment plant working on their Chlorine Assessment with one of our contracted onsite Water Treatment Assessors, Nick Hewer-Hewitt.
