Telecom Sports Arena handed over

On Friday 31 July 2009 the Chinese builders handed over the multi sports centre to the Cook Islands. The building will be known as the Telecom Sports Arena for the next three years, as part of a sponsorship deal. Invited guests included the Queen's Representative Sir Frederick Goodwin and the deputy prime minister Sir Terepai Maoate. A prayer from the local pastor was followed by the signing of the handover documents by Cook Islands Investment Corporation chairman Tapi Taio, CEO John Tini, and two CCECC representatives Zhongning Zhao and Mr Liu. Local MP andminister of sports Ngamau Munukoa gave an emotional address thanking the workers who have become part of the Nikao community. After the 'ribbon' cutting everyone went into the arena where the Nikao village cultural troupe performed. Ushers then demonstrated the retractable seating which is very quick to deploy.