The National Environment Service (NES) has received an updated Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed Avatiu Shopping Mall in Avatiu, Rarotonga, and is inviting further public feedback.
This application previously went through public consultation, with submissions closing on Wednesday 21 January 2026. Updated information has now been provided in response to matters raised during that consultation period.
NES is making the updated EIA report and revised plans available for a shorter supplementary consultation period before the application progresses further.
Applicant: Pacific Properties Ltd
Application: Avatiu Shopping Mall Development
The proposal is for a new elevated shopping mall with several retail units, covered walkways, a shared toilet block, ground-level/under-building parking and on-site parking. The site is the current car yard and parking area beside Raro Cars, next to the Avatiu roundabout on Ara Tapu.
The updated EIA information includes changes and further details on:
- revised building plans and parking layout
- building height, piling details and ground level/under-building parking
- stormwater drainage measures, including soak holes
- roof rainwater collection and storage tank
- wastewater treatment and soak field details
- flooding and drainage risks around the site
- dust, noise, waste and other construction impacts
The report also outlines measures to help manage these effects. NES will consider the updated information, previous public submissions, any further submissions received during this supplementary consultation period, and advice from relevant agencies before any decision is made on the application.
The updated EIA report and revised plans for the proposed Avatiu Shopping Mall are available below. A hard copy can also be viewed at the NES office in Avarua during normal office hours.
Submissions can be made within 14 days of the publication of this notice, no later than 1 June 2026. Feedback is welcome in both Cook Islands Māori and English.
Please send submissions by email to nes@cookislands.gov.ck or deliver hard copies to:
National Environment Service
Pue, Tupapa
