NZ PM opens Australian built infrastructure

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has opened various wharf and ramp structures built by an Australian company in Tokelau.

Hall Contracting, a civil construction and dredging company from the Sunshine Coast built the structures, with funding from the NZ Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Tokelau is a remote territory of New Zealand in the south pacific ocean.

The wharves were funded to prepare for the expected impacts of climate change in the area over the next 50 years. The project will enable more reliable ship-to-shore operations.

Hall Contracting CEO Cameron Hall said he was honoured to have Ms Ardern officially launch the important pieces of infrastructure on the Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo atolls.

“The New Zealand Government provides significant support to developing countries, particularly those in the Pacific Islands, and we’re delighted to be playing a role in delivering these important aid projects,” Mr. Hall said.

The work also included widening and deepening the reef passage leading into each atoll, to enable fishing boats and inter-island vessels to navigate those areas easily and safely.

“Works began in Atafu in mid-2018, with the project expected to conclude in Fakaofo later this year,” Mr. Hall said.

Hall Contracting and its Pacific Island division have been servicing the Pacific Islands for more than 10 years.

The company specialises in climate change adaptation and infrastructure delivery in remote locations.