7 Oct 2013

China-NZ aid project in Cooks shaping up as model for region

6:12 am on 7 October 2013

A researcher studying a ground-breaking aid project in the Cook Islands says it could be a model for other Pacific Island countries.

The 50 million US dollar venture between China, New Zealand and the Cook Islands to upgrade Rarotonga's water supply is due to start before the end of the year.

Dr Philippa Brant of the Lowy Institute says the Cook Islands is driving the Te Mato Vai project which involves New Zealand installing water treatment facilities and a Chinese infrsatructure company laying the pipes.

China has part-funded the upgrade with a 19 million US dollar loan.

"I was interested in why now is China ready to co-operate with another donor? What's the interest for them? I really think they are both generally interested in improving their image in the region but also learning about how other donors give aid."

Dr Brant says the venture will take about three years to complete.