- EXPLORE ON WHEELS
Don’t get caught in a Raro downpour, hire a car and follow the coastal road come rain or shine. With only 32 kilometres of road it only takes about an hour to get around. Discover deserted beaches, villages and yummy eateries along the way. You can now drive in the Cook Islands for up to six months using your full overseas license. Scooters are available too. If you have a motorcycle class on your overseas license you do not need to take a test to acquire a Cook Islands license, you just need to pay $20 at the police station for a visitor license. If you do not have a motorcycle class on your license you’ll just need to head down to the Cook Islands Police Station in Avarua and take a test riding up and down the street without falling off! It is now compulsory to wear a safety helmet while driving a scooter.
- IT'S A SNORKELLERS PARADISE
From giant trevally to reef fish, Rarotonga’s underwater odyssey is replete with curiosities. Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve offers safe snorkelling and zero coral. Then there’s Tikioki - ‘Fruits of Rarotonga’, which is one of the island’s permanent marine parks, with a nearby café for post-snorkelling refreshments. Blackrock, which is considered one of the calmest places to snorkel in Rarotonga is great for families with kids, it also has a BBQ area.
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BOOK EARLY
This little paradise is becoming more and more popular for Kiwi’s. We’re already seeing resorts book out much earlier than usual, particularly over Easter and school holidays. Make sure you book early to ensure you get into your favourite resort and don’t miss out.
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HOLIDAY WITH THE RELLIES
When we live such busy lives, planning some time to be together with the ones we love most has become essential so why not book a multi-generational holiday in Raro with the in-laws, and grandparents in tow. It’s a good opportunity to reconnect and create memories and let’s be honest, the extra help with child care is a bonus! Ask us about super-sized villas, two and three bedroom apartments and holiday homes, we’ll help you find the right fit.
- HIT THE MARKETS
Punanga Nui Market is a must-do for unique and well-priced Pacifica pieces, clothing, handicrafts and black pearls. Although open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, Saturday is the main market day with more stalls and live music performed on the stage. For a delicious selection of food, Muri Beach night market boasts island specialities at very reasonable prices. From curries to locally baked cakes, entertainers and stage singers.
- ISLAND HOPPING
For an even slower pace of life, fly from Rarotonga to the laid-back islands of Aitutaki, Atiu, Ma’uke or Mangaia in just under an hour. The romantic island of Aitutaki is home to the most pristine turquoise, sun-kissed lagoon. Untouched and unspoiled Atiu offers secluded caves, rare tropical birds and coral sand beaches. Mau’ke known as the garden island is abundant with flowers, deep underground caves, fresh water pools and lakes. Estimated to be 18 million years old Mangaia encompasses rugged beauty, ancient artefacts and lush landscape.
