Tokelau Wharfs and Reef Channels
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Tokelau, New Zealand
Helping the tiny nation of Tokelau to improve safety for transferring passengers and goods.
Tokelau is one of the most remote nations in the world. It consists of three atolls and has no port facilities or an airport. The only way to reach the islands is by transfer from ships to small barges that navigate through narrow channels cut into the coral reefs. Transfers are highly subject to weather and can be dangerous because of the waves that break into the channels causing choppy conditions and unpredictable currents.
The Tokelau Government sought help from the New Zealand Government to improve safety for transferring passengers and goods through the four reef channels on Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo.
Engaging with locals to understand local needs
Calibre Built Environment was engaged to investigate solutions, obtain agreement from the villages and manage the project implementation. Our team worked closely with the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research to understand the effect of climate and weather on the channels, now and in the future, and spent time on each atoll consulting with the Taupulega (village council) on local needs for improved safety and operability.
Delivering enhanced safety of passage to the community
The NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern opened the new facilities on Fakaofo atoll that have significantly improved operability and enhanced the safety of passengers and crew transfer to and from the atoll.