Infrastructure Cook Islands says the cost of tar-sealing a kilometre of road in Rarotonga is around $80,000 to $120,000.

In a statement, ICI said in addition to Rarotonga’s Ara Tapu (main road) and Ara Metua (back road), they manage the maintenance of an additional 188 cross, link and public roads.

The Ministry explained that in April 2023, they reviewed the way in which they conducted road and drainage maintenance with the hope of improving its service delivery and maximising return for the $800,000 received to undertake this task.

“With the costs of tar-sealing 1 kilometre of road averaging between $80,000 - $120,000, ICI endeavours to ensure fair distribution of its resources by attending to at least two link/cross roads or a section of backroad in all electoral constituencies.”

ICI said this year alone, it had addressed roads in Ngatangiia, Tupapa, Takuvaine and Avatiu, and is in the process of resealing Tai o te Tini, Parakoti, and Pitimani roads in Nikao.

The Ministry will later work on the Tereora College back road before addressing roads in Titikaveka then moving to Ruaau Ara Metua.

ICI further explained that the maintenance of the Ara Metua, link and cross roads is different to the Ara Tapu reconstruction work that is commissioned to the private sector.

According to the ICI Road Asset Management and Improvement Programme (RAMP) published in the 2024-25 budget book, the Rarotonga road network spans approximately 201km with varying degree of wear and tear and some sections of roads have experienced considerable deterioration due to weather conditions, erosion and heavy usage, failing to meet required standards of service.

Funding is allocated for planned maintenance and enhancements in accordance with the Road Asset Management plan. Planned works address structural pavement issues, improve roadside drainage, resurface roads, widen lanes and enhance pedestrian facilities and safety measures.

According to the ICI Road Asset Management and Improvement Programme, there are also plans for bridge structure replacement works, structural inspections, and repairs to improve safety for the public.

Rarotonga has 76 bridge structures on the transport network and some of them need improvements and structural replacement. These bridges include the bridge near the King’s Representative residence in Titikaveka, Baker’s bridge and the Sheraton bridges over the medium-term.