Aka’tika Uira (Realign the Wheel): An analysis of the climate adaptation methods adopted by farmers in Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Climate change is already a critical issue for Pacific nations and threatens the ability of local farmers to produce crops. Despite this issue, farmers have been historically left out when it comes to research. Understanding Pacific farmers’ experiences of climate change, the way they adapt in response, and the challenges they face in sustaining their production is essential. This study analyses the adaptation methods used by farmers in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, using data from a survey conducted by PHOAFS Regional Research Agenda partners across multiple Pacific countries. A sample of 174 farmers were surveyed across August-September 2024. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were employed. Farmers reported experiencing inconsistent rainfall (49%), rising temperatures (50%) and increasing frequency and/or severity of droughts (49%). Overall, most farmers (87.9%) had made at least one adaptation method in response to changing weather patterns and were more likely to adapt in response to increasing drought conditions. The major adaptation methods implemented by Rarotonga farmers were crop and soil management methods (52% of all adaptations), such as crop rotation, mulching, and composting. Contrary to other bits of research, there were no demographic factors influencing farmers’ likelihood of adapting. The findings from this research illustrate that farming is holistic. And point to a practical focus on increasing support from the government through improving opportunities for education and access to resources.