The Cook Islands Government has this week approved funding the construction of a synthetic athletics track at the National Sports Stadium as part of preparations for the Mini Pacific Games in September this year.
The synthetic track will cost taxpayers close to half a million US dollars.
The Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee says the track is vital for the Games, but there has been some criticism that it is an unecessary expense.
In justifying the expense, the Minister responsible for the Cook Islands Investment Corporation, Tangata Vavia, says having a track that meets international standards will help make the Cook Islands an even more attractive venue for international sportings fixtures.