The Te Tapora Kai building construction, led by the Project Management Unit within
Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC), is now entering its final stages, with
completion expected by the end of September.
Stage 1 of Te Tau Papa o Avarua (TTPA) covers the completion of three new
buildings at the Terevete Park site: the new Fish Market and toilet block (both already
completed), the Te Tapora Kai building – the Farmers & Crafts Market which is now
90% complete and undergoing its final fit-out.
A wide range of local contractors have contributed to the build, under the oversight of
the TTPA Project Management Unit and site supervisors KDE Consult.
Companies involved include GIO Contractors, NIA Construction, Complete
Construction, Rarotonga Welding, Aurupa Painting Contractors, RKG Electrical Ltd,
Raro Plumbing Ltd, Gray 8 Ltd, Mark Rere, and Nga Katuke’s team, with civil works
by T&M Heather, and other contractors. Vodafone has also installed fibre optic
cabling, laying the foundation for future WiFi connectivity across the market.
Additional infrastructure works have been delivered to support the site long-term.
TAU has installed a new power substation and cabling through to Terevete, while To
Tatou Vai (TTV) has overseen the installation of a new water submain, ensuring
improved utility access and services for market vendors and visitors alike.
While the project was originally scheduled for completion in August, challenges such
as labour shortages, periods of poor weather, and supply chain challenges have
caused minor delays.
“From the beginning, this project has been about creating a community hub where
our vendors can thrive and our people can gather,” said Alana Short, Project
Manager. “It’s also been about proving that we have the capability right here at home
— and our local contractors have shown that in abundance.”
All three sites will be officially opened together at a launch event in late September.
[The TTPA project will then progress into Stage 2, scheduled to run through to
December.]
ENDS
Enquiries to Jaewynn McKay, +682 55486,
