Cook Islanders should not pay anymore for Rarotongan water system

The Cook Islands Opposition says the government should not get any more money for Rarotonga's costly new water system.

Called Te Mato Vai, the system has cost the New Zealand taxpayer tens of millions, China has given a huge concessional loan, and the Cook Islands has made a considerable contribution.

The Chinese company, CCECC, built the first stage of the system on which millions are being spent correcting faults.

Now the opposition's William 'Smiley' Heather says the government is seeking another $NZ5 million dollars.

He told Don Wiseman the Cook Islands cannot afford to waste another cent on the system.