Climate-resilient maritime infrastructure improves safe access, connectivity and opportunity for Tuvalu.
Nuitao Island (Tuvalu) completed harbour Aerial Shot
Consulting engineering company Haskoning has marked the completion of Tuvalu’s third and final outer-island harbour under the Outer Island Maritime Investment Project, with the opening of the new Niutao harbour. This critical piece of climate-resilient maritime infrastructure has been designed and delivered to improve accessibility, safety and long-term resilience for one of the Pacific nation’s most remote and climate-exposed communities.
The Niutao harbour forms part of Tuvalu’s Outer Island Maritime Investment Project, supported by the Asian Development Bank, the Government of Tuvalu and development partners. The Australian Government, through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific, co-financed the Niutao and Nui Island Boat Harbours. The now four completed boat harbour projects, represents a significant step forward in improving maritime connectivity across Tuvalu’s outer islands.
Niutao (Tuvalu) Boat Harbour Completion 2026 – HOM David Charlton delivering remarks
Niutao (Tuvalu) Boat Harbour Completion 2026 – Community welcome
Niutao Harbour completion event – Group photo of VIPs on the harbour
Tuvalu is among the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, with its highest elevation just two metres above sea level. For communities on outer islands like Niutao, where all travel, goods and essential services depend on the ocean, environmental exposure has historically made travel and cargo transfer dangerous and unreliable, limiting access to healthcare, education, employment and supplies.
The newly built Niutao harbour addresses these challenges with an excavated sea access channel and turning basin through the fringing hardpan, along with a load-out wharf and approach jetty anchored into the hard pan. It also includes passenger and cargo facilities, all-tide boat ramps, and added features such as solar lighting, guard rails and accessibility enhancements. These upgrades enable the safer transfer, mooring and landing of boats, significantly reducing risks and improving the reliability of transport for people and goods.
Niutao Island (Tuvalu) harbour completion ceremony 2026 – ADB representative, Community Leader, Prime Minister of Tuvalu and High Commissioner to Australia
“For communities like Niutao, access isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about safety, opportunity and connection,” said David Perbey, Business Development Director Australia, New Zealand and Pacific at Haskoning. “By working closely with the island leaders and residents, we were able to design a harbour that responds to the realities of daily life on a remote outer island. This harbour will not only make sea travel safer and more reliable but will strengthen everyday life – improving access to health, education and economic activity, whilst creating resilience in the face of a changing climate.”
Beyond improving physical infrastructure, the project placed strong emphasis on community consultation and long-term social outcomes. Haskoning engaged island leaders prior to design and held fortnightly meetings throughout delivery to share ideas, address concerns and incorporate local knowledge into the final solution. This collaborative approach ensured the harbour aligned with community priorities and served as a shared asset for the island.
Niutao (Tuvalu) Boat Harbour Completion 2026 – Project Signage
Niutao (Tuvalu) Boat Harbour Completion 2026 – Community Hall
“Improving maritime connectivity in Tuvalu’s outer islands goes beyond building infrastructure – it’s about enhancing access to essential services, reducing isolation and supporting long-term resilience,” said Mr. Masayuki Tachiiri, Deputy Director General, Pacific Department at Asian Development Bank. “The new Niutao harbour will strengthen the island’s capacity to withstand the increasing impacts of climate change and unlocking opportunities for inclusive growth.”
Training programs were delivered to enable safe operation and ongoing maintenance of the harbour, alongside broader health and safety training to strengthen community preparedness in a climate-exposed environment. Since completion, the harbour has become a hub for the community, supporting daily activity, transport and economic connection.
Nuitao Island (Tuvalu) completed harbour
“Australia is committed to delivering critical infrastructure in the Pacific and to support the Government of Tuvalu’s priorities on security, climate resilience, and sustainable development,” said David Charlton, Australian High Commissioner. “These harbours have strengthened connections, built resilience, and laid the foundation for a safer, more prosperous future for the communities of Niutao and Nui islands, and the whole of Tuvalu.
For more information, visit www.haskoning.com/en/countries/australia
