Arutanga Harbour is Aitutaki’s vital lifeline to the supply of food, fuel and other necessities that are delivered by sea.
With the Memorandum of Understanding signed last year, and phase 1 of the Arutanga Harbour Project – widening and deepening the channel completed earlier this year, construction is now underway on the new concrete hardstand at Arutanga Harbour, with works being delivered by Landholdings Ltd.
This milestone follows the contract signing on 20 June 2025 and the successful mobilisation of materials to site.
Driven by Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC), the Cook Islands Ports Authority (CIPA) and the Aitutaki Island Government, the central aim of the Arutanga Harbour Project is to improve the safety and usability of the harbour and port.
The Arutanga Harbour project formed part of the Orongo Development Masterplan in 2011, as well as the Te Tau Papa o Araura-Aitutaki Plan, approved by the Island Council in 2019.
Cook Islands Investment Corporation General Manager, Asset Development Anne Taoro says the project represents a significant investment in Aitutaki’s critical infrastructure, enhancing the harbour’s role as a vital lifeline for the island.
Construction is being staged in three parts to minimise disruption to daily port operations, particularly on busy boat-days.
Stage 1 will deliver a usable section of the hardstand, allowing port operations to safely shift while Stages 2 and 3 are completed.
The full hardstand contract works are scheduled for completion by end of December 2025, delivering improved functionality and resilience for maritime services.
Mayor of Aitutaki Nick Henry is pleased with progress.
While John Batty, says on behalf of Landholdings Ltd they are excited to be working on the project and delivering significant improvements to the island’s infrastructure that will benefit the people.
Other works happening in and around the port include construction of a new jetty on the foreshore of the Fishing Club for small crafts and cruise ship tenders; deepening of the basin to 4.5 metres, drainage and beautification works.
