Work has resumed on a $US14 million Tokelau wharf project after a Samoan contractor died on Atafu in May.
The Ship to Shore infrastructure project, which will improve access to all three of Tokelau's remote atolls, was put on hold after stormy weather overturned a barge offloading supplies.
Atafu Photo: Wikimedia Commons
A Samoan contractor for the construction company Ah Liki died in the accident and his body was later taken back to Samoa on the Mataliki ferry.
Hall Pacific is managing the project and the company's diretor, Cameron Hall, said an investigation had been completed and work was resuming.
The accident was a mix of unpredictable weather and human error, Mr Hall said.
Locals from Atafu would now be more involved in the operation to prevent further issues, he said.
The project will cost an estimated $US13.9 million, with New Zealand providing $US10.8 million and Tokelau paying the rest.
It is expected to be completed on the atolls of Atafu and Nukunonu by 2018 and Fakaofo by 2019.
Tokelau is only reachable by boat from Samoa and poor infrastructure means getting to shore is often dangerous.