Regional and international bidders are being invited to tender for the conceptualisation and design of a purpose-built Cook Islands ferry.
Cook Islands Transport Minister Tangata Vavia said a new vessel with passenger facilities is required to replace the cargo boat that currently carries people from the northern islands to Rarotonga. Due to close in June this year, it is understood the tender process has already attracted one submission from a New Zealand-based company.
Mr Vavia has estimated a new vessel would cost about NZ$10 million (US$4.93 million).
"Whatever the costs the tender would show and from there the Government would need to make a decision," he said.
Iain McIntyre
