Over 400 people have taken to the streets to protest the Cook Islands Prime Minister's recent decisions, which have led to a diplomatic spat with New Zealand.
The protest, led by Opposition MP and Cook Islands United Party leader Teariki Heather, is taking place outside the Cook Islands parliament in Avarua - a day after Brown returned from China.
Protesters have come out with placards, stating "Stay connected with New Zealand".
Some government ministers are standing outside parliament, including Foreign Minister Tingika Elikana.
Heather says he is present at the rally to how how much Cook Islanders care about the relationship with New Zealand and value the New Zealand passport.
He has apologised to the New Zealand government on behalf of hte Cook Islands government.
More than 400 people took to the streets a day after the prime minister returned from China, where he signed a strategic partnership deal. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Caleb Fotheringham
Leader of the opposition and Democratic Party leader Tina Browne says she wanted the local passport to be off the table "forever and ever".
"We have no problem with our government going and seeking assistance," she said.
"We do have a problem when it is risking our sovereignty, risking our relationship with Nee Zealand."
