The project to extend and strengthen Sir Robert’s wharf was officially commissioned yesterday by Premier Dalton Tagelagi. Cabinet ministers, guests, and NZ deputy high commissioner joined the government officials to thank the contractors for the completion of this part of the project.
A blessing ceremony was conducted led by the President of the Ekalesia Niue Rev. Nuka Tauevihi.
The Minister of Infrastructure Crossley Tatui, thanked all the officials and the contractor Bays Underwater from New Zealand for the completion of this crucial phase of the project, that despite the restrictions this year with COVID 19, the project was still able to proceed.
Minister Tatui paid tribute to the former government led by the late former premier Sir Toke Talagi, and his Cabinet for making sure that this project strengthening and extending a key infrastructure which provides for the economic lifeline of the country proceeded.
The wharf needed major structural work to stabilise it after the damages from cyclones earlier in the year were fixed, a timely completion as we are already weeks into another cyclone season.
Premier Dalton Tagelagi in his remarks congratulated everyone who had a role to play in the project and apologised for theft of steel rods a few months ago.
The Bays Underwater team have been on the island for several months working on this. They hired local workers as well to join their team and all were at the wharf yesterday morning to toast the success of this wharf extension and the contribution that this key piece of infrastructure plays in the economic lifeline of the country.
CEO of Bays Underwater Rob Campbell thanked his team and especially the local workers for being part of this major project to improve and extend the wharf even through some trying time. He told the local boys to be proud of their work and to “tell your grandchildren about it”.
The Director-General of the Ministry of Infrastructure Andre Siohane thanked all the government officials and departments and the contractor Bays Underwater and DTB for the completion of this crucial phase of the wharf redevelopment project but there is still some work to be done by DTB.