Quick answers to the questions we get asked most about Cook Islands rugby league.
What does “Aitu” mean?
Te Aitu is the name of the Cook Islands men’s national team. In the Cook Islands Rugby League crest, AITU denotes a collective of warriors of the ocean, reflecting resilience and readiness to take on any challenge.
What is the women’s team called?
The Vaine Moana, or the Moana. Read about the Moana.
Who coaches the national teams?
Karmichael Hunt is head coach of Te Aitu, with Alex Glenn as assistant. Shar Atai coached the Moana against Tonga in October 2026, and Ron Griffiths led them to the 2025 Pacific Bowl.
Who runs rugby league in the Cook Islands?
Cook Islands Rugby League (CIRL), based at Constitution Park on Ara Tapu, Rarotonga. Charles Carlson is President. CIRL runs the national teams, the local Rarotonga League, junior and masters rugby league, and coaching and refereeing courses. Meet the executive.
What does the CIRL logo mean?
The wave inside the oval ball is the ocean the Cook Islands people travel. The cross represents faith, with the Southern Cross as a guiding light. The spear shows readiness for battle, the V shape represents the contest of rugby league, and the tikitiki tangata motif honours our people.
What is the pe’e?
The pe’e is a traditional Cook Islands chant. Both the Aitu and the Moana perform a pe’e before international matches.
Are the Cook Islands at the 2026 World Cup?
Yes. Te Aitu play Fiji, New Zealand and Australia in Group A. See fixtures and Rarotonga kick-off times.
Where can I follow results?
World Cup scores and the Group A ladder update automatically on our World Cup 2026 page. CIRL also posts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
How can my business sponsor Cook Islands Rugby League?
Get in touch to talk about partnership opportunities with the national teams or the local competition.
