The Government of the Cook Islands, through the Airport Authority Cook Islands (AACI) and the Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC), has now completed leasing arrangements with landowners of the two Kaikaveka blocks closest to the existing runway, enabling the development of a Runway End Safety Area (RESA) at Rarotonga International Airport.
The execution of these two leases – for Kaikaveka Part Sections 103E1B and 103E2B – unlocks the release of necessary funding for RESA works to proceed.
Clarification
Recent reporting has caused concern about the position of landowners in Kaikaveka 103E3.
To be clear: Kaikaveka 103E3 has not been leased, and there are no plans to lease this land unless international aviation rule changes make that necessary.
Responding to landowner concerns that more land was being leased than required, the Airport Authority Cook Islands reviewed its initial RESA design. That review reduced the footprint and provided a positive outcome for owners of Kaikaveka 103E3, ensuring they can continue occupying and using their land unless or until needed for future expansion.
Similar arrangements apply to part of Kaikaveka 103E2B, which is not leased but may be subject to negotiated covenants. Negotiations with owners of both 103E3 and 103E2B will resume in the coming months. For now, the priority is completing the RESA works.
We apologise for any mistaken impression that negotiations with 103E3 owners had been concluded. All matters relating to 103E3 and 103E2B (land to the east of the two leased blocks) will continue to be progressed carefully and transparently with landowner representatives and their solicitor.
National Significance
The establishment of the RESA ensures the Cook Islands complies with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) standards. This strengthens the safety of flight operations, protects international connectivity, and provides long-term resilience for the Cook Islands’ most important gateway.
Acknowledgement
The Government, CIIC, and the Airport Authority acknowledge the generosity, foresight, and leadership of the Kaikaveka landowners in supporting this national initiative. Their collaboration provides a lasting contribution to the safety of all air travellers and the prosperity of the Cook Islands.
