Accommodation and holiday advice on Rarotonga and the Cook Islands - from local experts.
ON LAND AND IN THE AIR
Sightseeing
Sacred Places (Marae)
There are a number of marae's situated at various points around the island. If you see a formation of rocks in a circle or semicircle surrounded by a wall of rocks, then you are most likely looking at one of them. Many of the original marae's were destroyed by the missionaries, so most of what you see are restored marae's., and there are only a few original marae left. In ancient Cook Islands, marae's were used as burial grounds, for investitures (appointing chiefs and subchiefs) and as meeting places for a tribe. Today, use is primarily for investitures.
As marae are sacred places to Cook Islands people, please treat with respect any marae you visit.
CICC Churches
The missionaries influence in the Cook Islands is clearly obvious and some of the biggest buildings in the Cook Islands are coral limestone churches built in the early 1800's.
Seven Coconut Trees
In Avarua (town), ouside the Court House there are six coconut trees that came from a single coconut. There were originally seven but one fell during a cyclone some years ago. Behind these trees, where a new Courthouse now stands, an old colonial style Courthouse stood until destroyed by fire in 1991.
Ara Nui O Toi
The "great road of Toi" is the inland road that is referred to as the "back road" and stretches most of the way round Rarotonga.
Toi is the warrior who constructed parts of this road in 1000AD.
Takamoa Theological College
The Theological College is also reminiscent of the missionary days. And was built in much the same way as the CICC.
Across the Island Trek
During PA's MOUNTAIN TREK, you can learn much about indigenous plants and flowers.
Departing from all major hotels/motels, Pa, your Polynesian Guide will lead you over the mountains of Rarotonga ending at Wigmore's Water Fall. Mon-Sat: 10:00am
Highland Paradise
Superb Panoramic views enhance your visit to Rarotonga's tropical botanical garden featuring native plants, medicinal herbs, and a variety of flowers. Visit a Marae (sacred site) and the wedding pillar "Wedding Paepae". Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 2pm
Learn fascinating local history by taking in a Guided or Self-guided tour.
Also enjoy their "Island Feast" & "Drums of our Forefathers Cultural Show" Wednesdays & Fridays.
Island Discovery Tour
Depart from all major hotels/motels and visit Avarua Town with a stop for shopping. Visit the Perfume Factory, Library and Museum, and one of the local picturesque churches. A short sop at Avana Passage, Ngatangiia where the seven canoes set sail for New Zealand in the 1300's and a visit to Muri Beach, with time to explore Rarotonga's finest lagoon. Daily 9am - 1pm
Takitumu Nature Walk
Enjoy a gentle nature walk through the Takitumu Conservation Area. See the endangered Rarotongan Flycatcher. Walk through lush tropical forests and along mountain streams. Enjoy scenic views. Lunch included.
Raro Safari Tours
Travel up hills and down valleys for a unique island experience.
Departing from all major hotels/motels by 4-wheel safari jeep, you can travel the back roads of Rarotonga and experience the thrill of climbing hospital hill with a fabulous view at the top. Daily 9am, 1pm
Nightlife Tour
An action packed evening full of fun for all is assured as your tour guide leads you around a variety of pubs and bars in Avarua Town.
Departs from the Edgewater Resort every Friday: 7:45pm
IN THE AIR
Sightseeing Flights
Experience the thrill of flying over Rarotonga Island in a fixed wing Cessna.
This provides a bird's eye view of Rarotonga Island and all of its beauty
AT NIGHT
Island Nights
Most major resorts hold an Island Night at least once a week. This is your chance to sample the local cuisine and enjoy Cook Islands dancing.
Cook Islands dancing is quite similar to Tahitian dancing, and is a lot of fun to try.
The way to tell a good female dancer is if her shoulders remain steady while she is swaying her hips.
Male Dancers appear to knock their knees together, but somehow do it with flair and at an incredible tempo.
The drumming beat that accompanies dancing is compulsive, and invites participation.
Come On, have a go. Sway those hips! Shake those knees!