The National Environment Service (NES) has received an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Permit Application for public consultation.
NES is responsible for reviewing projects that may impact the environment, categorized under Tiers 1, 2, and 3. This particular application falls under Tier 3, indicating a development with the potential for significant environmental impact. As required under the Environment Act 2003, NES will conduct a public consultation process by making project details available to the public.
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- Applicant: Pavo & Tara Mustonen
- Project: Maii Residential Hillside Development Project
- Location: Maii Heights, Maii Pt Sec 12C
The Maii Residential Hillside Development Project aims to establish a stable and secure building platform for a residential dwelling, along with a sloping driveway. Given the moderate to steep slopes of the site, the project incorporates careful engineering and environmental management practices to ensure stability, improve drainage, and minimize environmental impact. Erosion and sediment control measures are key components to ensure compliance with local regulations.
The EIA Report outlines the project’s stages, emergency and infrastructure requirements, and the management of potential environmental impacts on land, waste, erosion control, hazards, and risks. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is included, detailing strategies to mitigate any adverse effects.
Vavia Tangatataia, NES Manager of Environmental Compliance, emphasized the importance of public participation and stated that “As part of NES’s new communication strategy, we are pleased to share EIA applications through multiple media channels to reach our community. Public consultation is essential in fulfilling our mandate to protect the environment, and we encourage community members to engage in this process.”
The EIA Report is available for public access on the NES website and as a hard copy at the NES office. Additional updates will be shared via the NES Facebook page, e-newsletter, and print media.
Public Submissions: Members of the public are invited to submit feedback on the EIA Permit Application by 5th May 2025. Submissions can be made in Cook Islands Māori or English and sent via Email:nes@cookislands.gov.ck In-person: NES Office, Tupapa
