The Social Centre has seen significant upgrades over the past three months, enhancing its appeal and functionality for locals and visitors alike.

Led by the Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC), these improvements include sanitation upgrades, new changing rooms, improved lighting and tree management in the area.

According to CIIC, the sanitation upgrades included the completion of new, accessible shower facilities and upgraded public toilets.

The new changing rooms will provide private and comfortable changing spaces for visitors while improved lighting is aimed at enhancing visibility and security at night around the public toilet areas. CIIC has also carried out strategic trimming and clearing of overgrown trees to improve safety, aesthetics and the overall visitor experience.

“Whether you're swimming, surfing, dining at the markets, or enjoying beach sports, the Social Centre is evolving into an even more vibrant hub for the entire community,” CIIC said in a statement.

In collaboration with local arborist Nooroa Baker, a recent tree survey identified and safely removed trees posing health risks. CIIC said. Additional safety measures include de-nutting over 40 coconut trees this season to ensure the area remains safe for all visitors.

“These upgrades have been carefully planned to minimise disruptions, especially during the festive season when the Social Centre is at its busiest. Public toilet facilities are serviced regularly by contractors to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.”

Emphasising shared responsibility, CIIC is kindly reminding everyone to take pride in the Social Centre by keeping the area clean.

“Please dispose of rubbish responsibly and help address ongoing issues like fly-tipping and household dumping. By working together, we can protect this space for everyone’s enjoyment.

“As families enjoy camping during the festive season, we ask campers to be mindful of the shared nature of this public beach. This is a space for everyone to enjoy – please respect others and the environment.”

Looking ahead, CIIC said more improvements are planned to further enhance the visitor experience, including installation of additional public signage and medium-term maintenance contracts with community and private contractors to ensure the Social Centre remains a valuable community asset.

“Let’s continue to take pride in our public facilities. By respecting and caring for these shared spaces, we can ensure they remain enjoyable for generations to come.”