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Punanga Nui Market

The upgrade of the waterfront road between Avarua and Aviatu saw a number of small stalls previously on the roadside at Avarua moved to land next to the port at Avatiu.  The Punanga Nui project was an initative of Mike Tavioni working with Rosie Blake to provide an opportunity for small holders selling arts, crafts, produce and food to have a dedicated facility capable also of holding events.

The market development was a collabroative effort between the TMPIAP, the Cook Islands Government and the stall holders supervised by Mike Tavioni.  The TMPIAP supplied materials for the construction of the basic framework of a series of huts - concrete for the floors, poles and roofing.  These materials were primarily sourced from the Cook islands following a round of competitive quotes with some indication to local suppliers of what prices they needed to beat compared with sourcing from New Zealand.  Once the structures were completed the operators who secured them through a ballot were required to build the walls and fit out the huts at their own expense.  A rotunda was build as a communal performance and relaxation space and a stage constructed.  On Saturday mornings a produce market is also held on the site using tables and tents.  The whole project has proved extremely successful with an on-going waiting list for stalls despite the construction of extra huts. 

Orongo Centre, Aitutaki

When the TMPIAP began what was to become the Orongo Centre was the half burnt down relic of the island’s banana packing shed at the main wharf at Arutanga.  At the time is was used for storage containing some electrical equipment for the power supply and assorted other materials.  The prime position, however, begged for rehabilitation as a facility for visitors and locals alike.

The project was a collaboration between the TMPIAP, the island Tourism Committee and the Ministry of Works.  It included the complete reroofing of the about 60% of the building, establishment of a cafe at the seaward end, and refinishing the concreted  area to make a courtyard with building on three sides and the sports field on the fourth.  The refurbished building housed the cafe, a produce market, craft stalls, and office for the Island Council and a room for an ice machine.  The courtyard became an important area for local events including the Constitution Week celebrations.