Cook Islands Case Study

Since 2012 the PacificTA has made significant improvements in the lives of Pacific Island communities and fostered some great working relationships between New Zealand and Pacific Island local government workers.

Advancing Asset Management in the Cook Islands

Over the past two years, significant strides have been made in asset management across the Cook Islands, driven by collaborative efforts between local governments, ministries, and international partners. This work builds on foundational activities with Infrastructure Cook Islands (ICI) and the Pa Enua Island Governments in 2024, and was further strengthened by a successful study tour to New Zealand earlier this year.

CIIC Asset Management Forum

The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC) hosted a pivotal Asset Management Forum, bringing together stakeholders from across government, consultancy, and island administrations. Highlights included:

  • A presentation by Sarah Flavall on PacificTA’s asset management journey.
  • Integration of ICI’s condition ratings into Assetfinda.
  • Insights from Emergency Management Cook Islands, Climate Change LiDAR initiatives, CIIC, and ICI.

The forum reinforced the strategic importance of PacificTA’s partnership with CIIC.

Engagement with Aitutaki Island Government

Following the forum, a meeting with Aitutaki’s new Executive Officer explored asset management priorities in roading, water, and waste infrastructure. With a unique asset profile and a tourism-driven economy, Aitutaki is taking a tailored approach to zoning and infrastructure planning.

Governance Developments

Ngatuaine Maui has taken on the role of Director of Pa Enua Governance within the Office of the Prime Minister. Early discussions have focused on the need for asset management plans across Pa Enua and potential governance training initiatives, with budget allocated for 2025/26.

Pa Enua Asset Management Programme

Island Government visits in September and October 2025 focused on training staff in Assetfinda. Support from Upper Hutt City Council has enabled data imports and valuation updates, with each island paired with a New Zealand council to reflect their unique needs and capacities.

Infrastructure Cook Islands Collaboration

ICI continues to play a vital role under the Infrastructure Act 2019, working with PacificTA and council partners to build asset registers and protocols. Cynthia Wilson from Dunedin City Council remains engaged in supporting RAMM use for roading assets in Rarotonga.

Pacific Community of Practice

In partnership with Apopo, digital badge training has been rolled out to staff across ICI, CIIC, and Island Governments. The first Pacific Community of Practice event, supported by MFAT and Apopo, is scheduled for 10 November 2025.

Meitaki Ma’ata – Thank you to all partners and participants for your continued commitment to strengthening infrastructure and governance across the Cook Islands.

Currently we have Technical Advisors from:  

  • Upper Hutt City Council working with their peers in Mangaia 
  • Hamilton City Council working with their peers in Atiu  
  • Waipa District Council working with their peers in Mauke 
  • Kaipara District Council working with their peers in Mitiaro