Consultations were held in Aitutaki from 14–16 April 2026 as part of Project ENUA (GEF 7) to support the development of the Island Environment Management Plan (IEMP).
The IEMP is a practical, island-led plan that will guide how Aitutaki manages its environment, natural resources, and cultural values over the next 5–10 years. It is designed to move beyond discussion and focus on clear actions, responsibilities, and achievable outcomes for the island.
Under Project ENUA, Mitiaro, Mangaia, Atiu, and Penrhyn have also been identified for the development of their own IEMPs, ensuring a consistent and coordinated approach to environmental management across the Pa Enua.
The consultations were led by the National Environment Services (NES), working alongside local consultant Rima Moeka’a and Project ENUA Senior Project Officer Lydia Sijp, who together facilitated community engagement sessions and met with local stakeholders, growers, and community groups.
The purpose of the consultation was to:
· Identify Aitutaki’s priority environmental issues
· Understand what is already being done and where gaps exist
· Gather practical ideas from the community on what actions will actually work
· Ensure the plan reflects local knowledge, values, and realities
Key priority areas identified during the consultations include:
· Water security
· Waste and pollution management
· Biodiversity and wetlands protection
· Stronger governance and coordination
· Strengthening traditional knowledge
· Practical, community-driven solutions
· Improved access to information and funding
The information gathered will now be used to develop the Aitutaki IEMP, including clear management objectives, priority programs, and an implementation plan that outlines who will do what, and how actions will be supported.
NES acknowledges the time and input from the Aitutaki community and emphasizes that the next step is to translate these discussions into a plan that leads to visible, on-the-ground results.
Pictured: NES with Aitutaki Island Government
