Students at Pukapuka Niua School are now benefiting from safe, reliable, and purpose-built sanitary facilities following the completion of a new toilet block on the island.
The school previously relied on temporary corrugated iron structures that offered limited privacy and durability. The new facility provides improved hygiene, ventilation, and a more secure water supply, helping create a cleaner, safer, and more dignified environment for students and staff.
The project was delivered by the Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) Buildings and Maintenance team, led on the ground by CIIC staff member Vengi Akai, and supported by the Pukapuka Island Administration.
Despite the logistical challenges of transporting materials and equipment to one of the country’s most remote islands, the project was completed successfully through strong collaboration between CIIC, local leadership, and community members.
CIIC Board Chair Fletcher Melvin said the project highlights the importance of ensuring Pa Enua schools have access to safe and functional infrastructure.
“Every child in the Cook Islands deserves to learn in a safe and healthy environment, no matter where they live. Upgrading essential facilities like sanitation blocks is fundamental to student wellbeing, school attendance, and dignity.”
He said the work also reflects CIIC’s broader responsibility to maintain public assets across the Pa Enua.
“Delivering projects in remote islands takes careful planning and partnership. This project shows what can be achieved when government agencies and island communities work together to improve everyday infrastructure that makes a real difference.”
Additional works completed on Pukapuka
Alongside the school project, CIIC completed a range of maintenance and infrastructure works across the island, including:
These works form part of CIIC’s ongoing programme to maintain and strengthen public buildings and essential infrastructure across the Cook Islands, ensuring facilities remain safe, functional, and resilient for communities in both Rarotonga and the Pa Enua.
