Te Mato Vai (source of water) project
At a glance
The Cook Island’s Government was committed to ensuring that the communities living in Rarotonga had access to clean, treated water.
The challenge
Rarotonga was struggling with an aging water network. It needed upgraded water storage and water treatment systems to provide its population with a dependable and safe water supply.
Our response
The Rarotonga Water Management Project has brought clean and treated water to the island for the first time, laying the groundwork for future water infrastructure improvements across all of Rarotonga.
In collaboration with the Cook Islands Government, we worked on various aspects of the project, including contract documentation, environmental assessments, water treatment advice and public communication materials. These efforts were essential for designing treatment facilities and efficient main water pipelines.
Starting in 2012, the Te Mato Vai Project became one of the largest infrastructure undertakings in the Cook Islands. Beyond providing clean water to locals and visitors, it promoted responsible water usage and empowered the local community by enhancing their skills and setting a positive precedent for large-scale projects.
Our involvement covered a wide range of project services, demanding us to navigate challenges and contribute beyond project completion, with the goal of leaving a lasting beneficial impact on the community.
An important outcome of our work was the establishment of To Tatou Vai, a government-owned entity responsible for managing and maintaining the upgraded water system. Additionally, the project created learning and career opportunities for Cook Islanders, enabling local engineers to effectively run the improved infrastructure.
The Te Mato Vai Project stands as a significant achievement for the Cook Islands, benefiting the economy, environment, and the health of its people. It showcases the government's capability to handle substantial international projects, setting the stage for future sustainable infrastructure plans.
The impact
Communities living in Rarotonga and the island's visitors can now enjoy clean and treated water. This effort promotes responsible water use and sets an inspiring example for future communities to follow in the footsteps of Te Mato Vai.