The newly resurfaced Areora Hard Courts in Atiu are set to be officially open today, celebrating an important occasion for sports and youth development on the island.

Originally constructed to support various sporting activities, including the rotating Manea Games across the Pa Enua Tonga, the courts have served as a key recreational hub for the Areora community.

After years of wear and disrepair, local leaders sought help to bring them back to life.

Joshua Jim, Executive Committee member of Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau (KO) and leader of its ‘Ātui’anga ki te Tango branch in Atiu, responded to the call.

With his coordination, KO has led the court resurfacing project, drawing on a wide network of support.

The resurfacing is backed by the three Mataiapo Tūtara and landowners of the court area, who agreed to designate the site as a native reserve for sports and recreation.

The project brought together multiple partners: Plexipave New Zealand and Tennis Cook Islands provided resurfacing expertise and nets; KO’s generous sponsors - Nia Tero, CS Fund, and the GEF Small Grants Programme - contributed funding for equipment and materials; and Cook Islands General Transport facilitated shipping from Rarotonga to Atiu.

“The Areora Hard Courts provide a safe, quality space for sports that not only promote physical wellness but also values like teamwork, sportsmanship, and discipline,” said KO project manager Joshua Jim.

“It’s been a long time since the community had access to this level of sporting facility.”

The upgraded facility includes two courts for tennis and volleyball and one for netball.

The courts will now be used for training, community events, and possibly even local tournaments and sports workshops.

KO trustee Jackie Rongo said the project aligns with their mission: Kia mātūtū te tūranga o te iti tangata Kuki Airani e to tātou ao natura – To improve the well-being of the indigenous people of the Cook Islands and our environment.

She added that the resurfacing complements ongoing sports initiatives on the island, such as the Rising Stars Championship for netball, rugby, and volleyball, which Joshua and his partner Maui Matakino also oversee.

Julian Faulls and Mellany Mann of Plexipave NZ, known for their previous work in renovating Rarotonga’s Nikao and Titikaveka courts, returned to the Cooks for a family holiday and timed their visit perfectly to take on the Atiu project.

The newly resurfaced Areora Hard Courts in Atiu are set to be officially opened today. Maui Matakino of Kōrero o te ‘Ōrau/25062402

Construction began on June 19, with KO Chairperson Dr. Teina Rongo expected to attend the opening ceremony today Wednesday, June 25.

One of the initial hurdles was determining the land status, which was resolved thanks to Helen Williams at the Ministry of Justice and the rediscovery of a 2007 native reserve application initiated by the late MP Nandi Glassie.

The resurfacing work involved water blasting and cement repairs, carried out by Joshua Jim and Atiu youth under the guidance of the Plexipave team.

The Areora community, led by Konitara Papa Teaumarae Glassie, played an important role in hosting and assisting the workers throughout the process.

The Konitara of Areora will oversee the future use and maintenance of the courts, coordinating with KO and other partners.

There is strong community interest in using the new courts for a range of events, including tournaments, cultural gatherings, and youth development programmes.

“The opening of these courts is more than just a sports upgrade - it’s a renewal of community spirit and an investment in our young people,” said Joshua Jim. “We’re excited for what the future holds.”