A dependent territory of New Zealand, Tokelau is one of the most remote nations in the world. Tokelau is located approximately 500 kilometres to the north of Samoa - it consists of three tropical coral atolls - Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo - and has no port facilities or airfields. 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.
Client
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)
Timeline
2017 – 2019
Goal
Helping the tiny nation of Tokelau to improve safety for transferring passengers and goods
Key figures.
10km2 of combined land
in Tokelau’s three atolls
≈1,500total population
First100% solar-powered nation
Challenge.
Imagine.
Engaging with locals to understand local needs
A significant upgrade of Tokelau’s wharf and reef channel infrastructure was undertaken to make transferring passengers and goods safer through the four reef channels on Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo.
The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade engaged our team to investigate solutions, obtain agreement from the villages and manage the project’s implementation. Our team worked closely with National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) staff 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.
The successful delivery of this project resulted from working collaboratively with key stakeholders, engaging the community, planning proficiently and being culturally aware.
Achieve.
Delivering enhanced safety of passage to the community
The new facilities on Fakaofo Atoll were officially opened by then New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, and have significantly improved operability and enhanced the safety of passengers and crew transfers to and from the atoll.