Avaavaroa passage where the 50-year old New Zealand man died. Photo: Cook Islands News
A turtle tour owner in Cook Islands says he has not signed the latest safety agreement between operators because it's inadequate.
The latest MOU comes after a New Zealander died in the passage in December when he went out snorkelling by himself.
The majority of turtle tour operators have agreed to new safety and environmental standards with Cook Islands Tourism but Snorkel Cook Islands owner Josh Utanga is not convinced.
He says wants restrictions on boat use around swimmer in Avaavaroa Passage to be added.
However, Cook Islands tourism, told RNZ Pacific Snorkel Cook Islands did not sign the memorandum of understanding because the business is unable to agree to all the safety and environmental standards, including the requirement of a one to four guide to client ratio.
RNZ Pacific's Caleb Fotheringham speaks to Mr Utanga about the agreement.
