Cook Islands was hit by Tropical Cyclone Martin on 1 November 1997. Reports indicate that food crops have been destroyed in the three islands of the Northern Cooks (Pukpuka, Manihiki et Rakahanga), Manihiki being the worst affected. The degradation of the lagoon in Manihiki not only threatens fishing but also black pearl cultivation, the main income generating activity and a major export of the Islands. Government Departments are currently assessing rehabilitation needs by sector, and a consolidated project proposal with costs and priorities will then be submitted to the international community, for consideration by potential donors. The Government has initiated a Hurricane Safety Centre to monitor the cyclone’s movements and requested United Nations assistance to field a Disaster Assessment and co-ordination team to the country.

The United Nations DHA has fielded a two-person UNDAC team to arrive on 4 November. In a response to a request from the Crook Islands Government, 9 tons of locally-sourced relief goods (food, water, medical supplies and clothing) was dispatched to Maniiki on 4 November.