U.S. and New Zealand Announce US$60 Million Penrhyn Port Upgrade

The United States, Cook Islands and New Zealand announced plans to partner on a major port upgrade at Omoka village on Penrhyn, also known as Tongareva. The U.S. Department of State, working with Congress, intends to contribute US$50 million, while New Zealand will provide NZ$17.5 million, about US$10 million. New Zealand will implement the project in coordination with the other governments. Officials said the upgraded facilities would improve safety and security, strengthen transport links and expand economic opportunities across the northern Cook Islands; the announcement was made in Palau before the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.