The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC), in partnership with the Aitutaki Island Government and the Ports Authority, is pleased to announce continued strong progress at Arutanga Harbour, with the concrete hardstand works now reaching practical completion.
This marks an important milestone in Phase 2 of the Arutanga Harbour Project, a key component of the Te Papa Tau o Araura programme to strengthen marine infrastructure and support Aitutaki’s long-term economic growth.
The hardstand works were delivered by Landholdings, who commenced construction in July 2025. The completed works provide approximately 1,000 square metres of new, durable concrete pavement, designed to support harbour operations well into the future.
CIIC Chair Fletcher Melvin said the completion of the hardstand significantly enhances the functionality of the harbour.
“The new hardstand provides a robust and reliable surface for cargo handling and heavy equipment movements. This improves the efficiency and safety of day-to-day port operations and strengthens the overall resilience of the harbour.”
The works form part of a broader programme of upgrades currently underway across the harbour.
Additional works progressing include:
Aitutaki Mayor Nick Henry said the continued progress is delivering tangible benefits for the island.
“The Island Government congratulates the CIIC project management team, contractors Landholdings and the Ports Authority for the work to date improving our harbour facility. Recent cruise ship visits have successfully utilised the new dock at the Fishing Club (north basin) while the Ports team simultaneously unloaded the international cargo vessel in the southern basin. We look forward to completing the dredging of both basins at Arutanga and the small marinas in Tautu, Vaipae and Vaipeka. The Aitutaki Island Government is also pleased to announce the arrival of concrete floating docks to be installed for local tour operators and visiting yachts as we move a step closer to completing the Arutanga Harbour and Marina.”
Mr Melvin acknowledged the contribution of contractors and partners involved in delivering the works.
“We acknowledge Landholdings and all those working on the ground for their continued commitment to delivering this project. The progress we are seeing reflects strong collaboration and careful planning, and we are pleased to see these improvements taking shape.”
The Arutanga Harbour upgrades form part of the wider Te Papa Tau o Araura programme, focused on improving marine infrastructure, supporting economic activity, and ensuring Aitutaki is well-positioned for future growth.
