The Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC), in partnership with Emergency Management Cook Islands (EMCI) and the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), has initiated the Rarotonga Safety Shelter Program (RSSP) to enhance community resilience against natural disasters.
Established in 2021, the RSSP aims to upgrade community buildings to meet cyclone shelter standards, ensuring a significant portion of Rarotonga’s population has access to safe havens during emergencies.
The program offers grants of up to NZ$100,000 per hall for renovations, with communities contributing additional funds as needed.
Mrs. Tatari Mitchell-Ngatoko, Secretary of the Matavera Catholic Church, expressed surprise at their eligibility for the fund. “After meeting with CIIC, we are preparing ourselves to take part in this programme with the blessings of our community, and formalize our Hall as a place of refuge and shelter during times of disaster. This is something our faith propels us to do,” she said.
MCI Director John Strickland emphasized the program’s inclusivity. “It is important that we act in service of our people, those living in Rarotonga, and those visiting too. The RSSP is non-discriminatory in its reach; we plan and prepare for our locals, our visitors, and all the demographics within our society,” he said.
Allan Jensen, CIIC’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the efficiency of government-community partnerships. “The role of community groups goes beyond just the physical buildings; they have established networks and are usually the first responders in times of crisis. Collaborating in this way leads to better long-term outcomes for all,” he said.
