Miss Cook Islands Petra Mataiti hopes to inspire young people to embrace challenges that encourage growth and self-belief.
Source: Miss Pacific Islands Pageant
An Aitutaki-born aviation worker will represent the Cook Islands at the 2026 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Nadi, from February 13-14.
Petra Mataiti, who was born and raised on the picturesque island of Aitutaki, grew up surrounded by the rich traditions, songs and stories that have been passed down through generations of Cook Islanders.
“From a young age, I learned the importance of preserving and passing on our culture to future generations,” Petra says.
Coming from a large family, Petra credits her upbringing with instilling in her a strong sense of community and connection – values that remain central to her identity today.
Her journey into pageantry is not simply about competition, but about purpose and cultural representation.
“Through pageantry, I hope to share our culture on an international stage and inspire young people to embrace challenges that encourage growth and self-belief,” she explains.
Currently based in Melbourne, Australia, Petra is working toward her dream of a career in aviation.
She is employed at Melbourne International Airport, gaining valuable experience as she pursues her professional goals.
Despite her busy schedule, she remains connected to her roots through dancing, singing and creating cultural content – activities that keep her grounded in Cook Islands traditions while living abroad.
For Petra, taking part in the pageant represents an opportunity to honour her homeland while encouraging other young Pacific Islanders to believe in themselves and their potential.
“I want to show that we can embrace our culture while pursuing our dreams, wherever they may take us,” she says.
The pageant is expected to draw significant regional attention as contestants compete not only in traditional categories but also in cultural presentation and community engagement.
The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant 2026, hosted in Nadi from February 13-14, celebrates cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and leadership among young Pacific women.
Check with Pasifika TV and your local broadcasters for coverage of the 2026 Miss Pacific Islands Pageant.