Plans to upgrade the Cook Islands main port in Rarotonga have been revealed.
The rehabilitation and alignment of Avatiu Wharf has been endorsed by the government and will mean larger ships can berth and turn around in the harbour.
The Ports Authority Chief Executive, Bim Tou, says Avatiu Wharf has suffered from significant structural damage and major redevelopments will extend its lifespan by another 30 to 40 years.
"There's going to be a realignment of the new wharf, to allow for bigger vessels to come into the Avatiu Port. With the proposed extension and rehabilitation of the port, we can accommodate a vessel up to 120 metres."
Bim Tou says the Asian Development Bank will be lending 15 million US dollars for the three-year project, which is is expected to begin by next September.
