The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) would like to share developments at the Nikao Social Centre and the planned relocation of the Blackrock Early Childhood Education (ECE) centre.
Background
Over many years, CIIC has been working on comprehensive plans to redevelop the Nikao Social Centre area into a vibrant recreational and social hub. This includes better integration of the beach esplanade, enhanced sporting facilities, and improved public amenities.
Key features of the redevelopment plan include:
- Expanded recreational areas and beach access for the public.
- New sporting facilities, including more beach courts and the nation’s first accredited public swimming pool.
- Improved connectivity between the road, the sports facilities, and the lagoon area.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Throughout this process, CIIC has conducted extensive consultations with sporting federations, the public, and the Nikao community. For over two years, we have also engaged in discussions with the Blackrock ECE Board about the proposed relocation of their centre, with the Board recognizing the broader benefits of this redevelopment.
Details of the Relocation
The Blackrock ECE is set to move approximately 30 meters to the former Esther Honey building on the corner of Tipani Drive. CIIC is committed to working with Blackrock ECE to ensure the new location is fit for purpose. This includes:
- Adding fencing to enhance safety.
- Planting trees and providing shade to create a comfortable environment for the children.
- Working closely with KDE to scope and implement necessary improvements.
CIIC is committed to working with Blackrock ECE to ensure the new location is fit for purpose, child friendly and safe.
It is expected that Blackrock ECE will commence operating from its new site in the new calendar year.
Preserving Heritage and Prioritizing Needs
The current preschool building, which holds historical value, is planned to stay initially and will be initially repurposed to support local sporting codes, aligning with the vision of a balanced heritage, education, and recreational hub, and will be subject to finalization of the broader Nikao Social Centre plan in the near future.
Balancing Community Needs
CIIC’s overarching goal is to deliver broad benefits to the Cook Islands community. By enhancing the Nikao Social Centre, we aim to create a space that supports sporting development, recreation, and public enjoyment while maintaining respect for the area’s heritage and the needs of Blackrock ECE.
We acknowledge the concerns raised and reaffirm our commitment to working collaboratively with the Blackrock ECE and the community to ensure a smooth transition and positive outcomes for all.
