Traversing challenging forest trails will lead you to the summit of Te Rua Manga, a mountain peak crowned with an expansive rocky formation. This trek is quite strenuous and may require support in the form of a walking stick due to its steep and sometimes slippery terrain. As you approach the top, there are ropes and chains to help guide you through the ascent but should not be intimidating if taken slowly. The reward upon reaching the summit is breathtaking with unparalleled views of your surroundings.
Cool experience. Been on a lot of hikes and definitely found this one difficult as it's a steep hike and was slippery at times. Will pay to perhaps have a good stick with you as support as I found this handy. The ropes and chains towards the top might seem a bit daunting but is quite easy- just take your time. The reward is definitely once you reach the top and is spectacular 😍
The path to the track is a bit confusing. Once your parked up you want to take the road/path on the right. Follow path and keep going to the end then turn right and follow until you see a small make shift bridge leading into the forest.
LanaJD — Google review
Nice hike. I would recommend to hike it with a tour guide If you are not a experience hiker. Got lost a couple of times on my way down. Don't hike if it was raining the day before it get quite slippery.but all in all worth to hike up.
Sabina K. — Google review
Most amazing experience. A rooster followed us all the way up. Went on a rainy day a few years ago and it was quite dangerous. But definitely worthit!!
Maisey Craig — Google review
Have done this hike twice, in 2018 with a guide and 2019 with local family. Equally as stunning each time. Track upgrades were in place in 2019. Its sparingly signposted but if its the first time I recommend jumping on a guided tour with Pas treks which was awesome! The needle summit views are the reward and there is a small watering hole for a quick dip at the end.
Toni Jordan Feros — Google review
Awesome walk, even for kids like 8 — 10 years old. Not sure if it is suitable for 5 years old.
It has challenging bits. Don't walk it in your jendals as you'd be suffering from stuff falling into them. Close shoes are recommended.
Can be easily done in shorten time, than the description suggests, but taking photos and enjoying the space takes time too.
Also going down hill seemed even more challenging than going up hill. At least for people having issues with their knees.
And it is really slippery (downhill) so don't underestimate the terrain.
Daniel Mladek — Google review
The Needle the reward is the top
Justine Rigby — Google review
Coming down on the south side is harder than we thought., it's slippery, plus a bit confusing.
The Muri Lagoon is a picturesque body of water characterized by its shallow, turquoise color ideal for snorkeling and kayaking. The lagoon comprises several islands noted for their sand beaches. Its popularity among tourists is undeniable, and one can find multiple activities to engage in during a visit. These range from morning massages at the award-winning Rumours Waterfall Spa to aqua exercise on a standup paddleboard or kitesurfing in the lagoon's waters.
Gorgeous even on a grey winters day. Weddings on the beach. Boats, paddle boarding and swimming. Hope to get back on a sunnier day.
Aroa Beach is a popular destination for snorkelers due to its abundance of coral and marine life. Located at a tropical white-sand beach that's backed by a resort, it offers an amazing snorkeling experience. Along the road leading to the beach, there is a tiny palm tree and water faucet where visitors can wash their feet before heading out to sea.
I stayed in a walking distance bungalow from this wonderful beach stretching with a few interruption up to Black Rock. I snorkeled regularly in the lagoon at high tide, specially in the late afternoon till sunset. I was impressed by the variety of coral and sand fish species, and bigger pelagic species including spotted eagle sting rays, yellow spotted trevally, mureen eels, grand puffer fish and so many more, I have filled two pages of encountered species. Off course you will have the opportunity to see Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) feeding on sea cucumbers! So do not hesitate to take a plunge starting off the Rarotongan resort swimming towards the reef barrier and following the coral rocks emerging from the white sandy bottom. It is a five stars experience! If you are not a swimmer but beach comber Aroa is also a great place to enjoy long walks accompanied by the rumbling sound of the Pacific waves.
Pier Paolo Ficarelli — Google review
Nice spot with parking available. Note that the sun is behind you for the entire day, which is especially true during winter months. Convenient access to the best snorkeling on the island, although the sand is definitely rougher than on the east side of the island.
Trentyz — Google review
Best place to snorkel on the island! we came here nearly ever day. I think the best way to experience the snorkeling is to slow follow the coral around the edge. On our last day we learned you can smash open a coconut and using a piece of rough coral you can grate the coconut which drives nearby fish wild to the point they can eat out of your hand!
Thomas Wallace — Google review
Had a fantastic snorkeling experience. There is a tiny Palm Tree and a Water Faucet for washing your feet near the road. Go straight out from those land marks and about half way to the reef you'll have an amazing snorkeling experience. As you go out you'll begin to adventure through large pieces of coral...you're not there yet...you'll be there when you see it and you'll know because you'll be surrounded by many large coral and tons of fish. I'd say it was about 5 feet deep when I was out there...not sure of the tide status though...
Mike Olson — Google review
Beautiful, peaceful location
Lesina Simeona — Google review
We were lucky to find this amazing hidden beach on the main highway, Once you or on the main island just use the GPS and type in Aroa Beach and you should reach within 20 mins no matter which part of the island you are.
a very secluded beach with low crowd, do remember to wear your reef shoes as sharp rocks are across the beach under water. Grab a pair of snorkling gear and enjoy a different world beneath the ocean.
Clean = 5/5
Crowd = Moderate 4/5
Review Ranger Rating = 5/5
Life In — Google review
Great snorkeling spot, calm water but pretty cold compared to other beach. I saw lots of fish and nice corals.
Aroa Tapere is a small village located in the Cook Islands, specifically on the island of Rarotonga. It is known for its lush greenery and stunning beaches. The locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists who come to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The village has a few shops and restaurants that offer local cuisine, including fresh seafood dishes.
The Muri Night Markets offer a selection of food options from around 20 stalls without any touristy merchandise. The market has separate bins for food scraps and recycling, and provides ample seating for visitors to eat, drink and people watch in the evening. Most dishes are priced at around 15 NZD, but portions may be smaller compared to other restaurants. It is recommended to arrive by 5:30pm to avoid popular dishes running out.
Great vibe. Hot and delicious food and nice relaxed dining in experience. Had the Tiger Prawns specially prepared with the Garlic Sauce, rice and veges and also tried the new Salt and Pepper Squid dish. Get it everybody! Well worth it. You won’t regret it!
Noor Rams — Google review
Short 200 m walk from Pacific Resort good value meals will be more stalls when more tourists arrive
Brian Norton — Google review
Mauri night market is a food market open Sun and Tues to Thurs 5-9pm.
Many choices and heaps of places to sit. It’s well worth going for an easy dinner out and change of scene from restaurants.
Loved the atmosphere and people watching.
We got two things from different places and shared. A beef roll and pork belly on rice. Both were good. Pork belly son of the two. Quantity and quality both better than beef roll. $20 and $25 respectively is pretty good.
Jenny Miller — Google review
I had a really good time here. The market itself is reasonably small, with no more than 20 stalls the night I was there, and all serving a variety of food. No trinkets or touristy stuff. Plenty of tables and a good crowd. We parked on the side of the road and there was a fair bit of traffic passing through, but it was a short walk to the market. Nice to see separate bins for food scraps and recycling.
Peter Kinley — Google review
Great night market which supports the local small businesses. Seafood curry sells quick with a huge line at 5pm on the dot! Sunday nights are most lively.
Mark Raymundo — Google review
This is an open air market with approx eight venders , a great selection off locals serving some yummy fast foods I had the crispy roast pork with salads and chips very nice .
Finished with a apple and cinnamon crepe the crepe was dry and lacking but their home made ginger and lemonade made up for it
Gary Read — Google review
A great place on hang out at the end of day, to eat, drink and people watch. Dishes usually costs around 15 NZD, but majority of them are not the island portion you would expect from other places.
Be there around 5:30pm if you can. Or they may run out of your favorite dish.
Cathy Yang — Google review
Slowly recovering from a couple of years of lockdown. Five or six food vendors on site. About half of what there use to be. But good value for money and a lot of variety. Seafood, Burgers, Pizzas, Noodles, Crepes and Smoothies.
Only road side parking.
Public toilet on site
David Smith — Google review
Very popular with both locals & tourists. Great variety of food, I tried the garlic prawns from "the local fish man" they were yum, the dumplings with mango salsa also a good choice.
Leigh Butler — Google review
Had dinner here one night. Lots of choice. Reasonably priced. Great food big portions, we shared.
Sandra Jennings — Google review
The night markets were nearby which made it easy to grab a bite in the evening, knowing that you’d have good quality food and variety. Don’t expect street food prices - each dish that I purchased was a minimum of $25 but I have to say, the servings were huge, they were prepared fresh and all were delicious
David Maddison — Google review
We were expecting a more local atmosphere but actually we found that there was not live music, only a music booster. Also be aware of the stands without price. I paid 19$ for a fries and 15$ for a smoothie.
My husband got fish, chips and salad from another stand for 24$ and we found it fine.
One thing is that the economy of the Island turn around the tourism, another thing is to rip off the tourists. We spend less for dinner in the resort we stay.
IDA MORELLI — Google review
An interesting experience. A little tip: try to taste the food from the small traders. don't be fooled by the big marquees with better marketing. you will be pleasantly surprised by the little ones
Adrian Vaman — Google review
This stand on the left hand side entrance is amazing! The steak roll is unreal! We’ve tried a lot of the stands in the market over our stay and this is by far the best!
Sabrina Wood — Google review
Really not worth it. We came the week before Christmas and most of the vendors were closed. The "Fish Guy" was out of everything and suggested we come earlier. So that left the main stall in the front. We got "Chicken and Prawn Fried Noodles" and "Chicken and Prawn Laksa." Quantities looked good, but in the end very few prawns (4?) and very little chicken. Under the fried noodles was a bed of rice propping it all up. We spent $57 on these two dishes....poor value. Take your money elsewhere like OTB or Little Polynesian or Pacific Resort. We thought this would be a great local spot, but it wasn't.
Alec Simonson — Google review
Asked our AirBnB host for a good place to get food and atmosphere on a Sunday evening. She recommend the Muri Night Market and we could not have been more pleased. A wide variety of dinner selections, desserts and more. Food was excellent, prices fair and lots of seating. Kids loved the food too!
The only two minor things are that parking in the street can be tight & hard to come by and most of the stands are cash only. Just be prepared to walk a little after parking and have cash on hand, you'll be fine! Also, once vendors run out of food, they are done so get there early!
pbandj37 — Google review
A tourist hot spot for eating variety of foods. Don't expect to find authentic Cook islands foods here. Some can be quite pricey for small portions.
Sundays are really busy and expect long queues and difficulty finding parking spots.
Weeknights can be much quieter but some stores don't open.
Get there early as soon as it opens at 5pm. Some stores close earlier at 8pm. Most items on the menu sell out quick.
Warren Hau — Google review
The market is alright. Same price I guess you can buy in town. Food is nice. Only nightmarket in whole island. Very busy place.
The Punanga Nui Market in Rarotonga is a lively outdoor market that offers handicrafts, tropical fruits, and snacks from various vendors. Visitors can also enjoy live folk music and entertainment while shopping for souvenirs to take back home. This market is deemed as one of the best markets in the South Pacific with a variety of casual dining options available at affordable prices ranging from NZD10-15.
Visited in January 2022 just after the quarantine travel restarted.
The market is a great place to be on a Saturday morning, there is a variety of stalls, food, smoothies, all readily accessible off of the main road. Value for money is good, meals ranging NZD10-15, with serving sizes quite generous.
There are toilet facilities, water refill stations, and helpful people around.
Raniera Paniora-Hepi — Google review
Great market, lots of local products. They had a dance show as well. Really nice atmosphere!
Cherry Chen-Egan — Google review
It might be because we were there during off-season but the market didn't seem that lively. Prices were consistent throughout every stalls. Good selection of pareau.
Penny Mar — Google review
Oh thank you for the beautiful food, the most amazing arts and crafts that you all had made. The beautiful smiles from the stalls.
Thank you so much.
I always enjoy talking and watching what the market has available.
You need to see for yourself, I am not going to tell you too much, be surprised. Always ask if you want to know what is happening. enjoy. It is a great experience.
Toyah Baker — Google review
A great market right in town that most likely has everything you're looking for! Went here with friends on a Thu and a Mon and there was a bit of a difference. Mondays tend to be much more light in terms of stalls (or maybe showing up at 8am was perhaps a tad too early). On Thu I had a waffle from The Waffle Shack and was able to withdraw cash from the BSP ATM (there was a withdrawal fee of NZD5.50c for international cards). You don't really need cash as you can use your card to pay for most things. I paid for my waffle with my Debit card. On Thu there was also entertainment. Check out the market for sure - I certainly will be the next time I'm back!
Rachel Spencer — Google review
Love this place!
Came to Rarotonga twice and spend a lot of times in Punanga Nui market. Great place to look for gifts, local artisan works, paintings, fresh food and local fresh produce, organic products, jewelries (pearl, rito or the traditional earrings) and many more.
My favorite stands are Mama Dora’s tivaevae (I hope I write it right), Paul’s hot sauce, Mareko, Olie’s , and many more.
I got my tivaevae , pareu, block printing fabrics, Island dresses, rito earrings, t-shirts, bags, fridge magnets and more here.
I also enjoy the hot sauce (Paul’s got so many interesting flavors you need to try!), fresh soursop juice, ika mata (fresh fish with coconut cream and herbs), rukau (taro leaves & coconut cream) and more.
Parking is abundant, people are friendly and helpful, the vibe is fun. There are a lot of cafes as well here.
Happy to be back here again whenever I get the chance.
indah nuria Savitri — Google review
Great place to go on a Saturday morning to shop for food, clothes, and souvenirs.
Phillip Richmond — Google review
Saturday morning markets in Avarua, where there are small stalls selling fresh fruit, as well as bigger stalls selling food, drinks, clothing, gifts/souvenirs and also black pearls. There is also a playground in the back for the kids to play. Go early as it can be quite hot getting close to midday
William Lin — Google review
What a great way to spend a Saturday morning in beautiful Rarotonga.
The Punanga markets offer all sorts of produce - from food through to clothes. Obviously making the most of the tourist population, the stalls here are well stocked and plentiful.
A couple of pieces of advice:
The best time to visit is between 8am and 10am - The stalls will be well stocked, and it wont be too hot!
Walk the entire market prior to ordering any food, to get a good idea of what is available before committing!
There are a LOT of amazing food options - I enjoyed Grills and Chills - BBQ'd skewers of seafood and land food and also ice blocks and cold treats...I guess you figured that from the name!! (A must have on a hot island!) We also found a stall selling Umu (Hangi) and fry bread, and that was incredible. As a Maori family we have eaten a lot of hangi, and this was incredible.
Another thing worth mentioning is to be able to discern between true local crafts and mass produced stuff. Im not judging at all, as I have some of the mass produced stuff adorning the walls of my office, but just be sure to know if you are supporting the local community.
But do visit, it will be a highlight of your stay in the Cook Islands.
Phill Urquhart — Google review
This market is great. Get there early to get local fruit and veges, before 8! But there are also shacks and stalls selling great local crafts, ukuleles, clothing and the like. If you're lucky you might catch a drumming show. Afterwards we headed over the road to Ride Rarotonga and hired some e-bikes for the day - best fun of our trip.
Janna Jansen — Google review
I love this place and all it has to offer, I was on a mission to get gifts for the whānau, I don’t love the crowds though, so got what I needed and left 🤣
Treena Shee — Google review
Enjoyed the Fried Maroro..(flying fish) Fried Noodles yummy, great to collect souvenirs & arts/crafts.
Food ready made or to take back to your accommodation.
Nice way to spend the morning in Raro.
40 Murray St — Google review
Nice experience even for tourists, most merchants take cash, but there's and ATM on the side of the road. There's food, crafts, clothes and souvenirs. Also lots of parking behind the market and on the road.
Lucía S — Google review
We were fortunate to visit there during BCI trade days so it was much more quieter. We also went back on the Saturday and it was hectic and really packed.
Overall nice to wander through the different stands seeing the local produce and merchandise for sale. Plenty of food to eat there as well.
Highly recommend visiting this market to see what the island has to offer.
Warren Hau — Google review
Tropical and vibrant!
Song and dance amazing, kai delicious, and loved the papaya smoothies! Spent an enjoyable couple of hours at the stalls, the people are so warm! A pleasant Saturday morning!
Tibor Csizmadia — Google review
What a great Market, todY we found all the souvenirs we wanted before leaving beautiful Rarotonga. Miss the people and all the lovely things to do there.
Janis Iggo — Google review
Such an amazing experience to visit the market and buy some fresh goods. The meat pies and fresh scones were delicious. The perfect spot to score some treasures to gift friends and family. Also some fabulous island dancing and drumming to top off your morning. Definitely a must see. Only open on Saturdays.
The Cook Islands National Museum is a fascinating cultural institution that boasts an impressive collection of traditional outfits, weaponry, artwork and other local items. Visitors can learn about the history of the Cook Islands and neighboring countries, gaining a deeper understanding of their place in the world. The museum also features an art gallery showcasing stunning pieces and exhibits tivaivai, traditional quilts unique to the region. The friendly staff offer informative insights into the exhibits, making it an enriching experience for all visitors.
Cool little museum with a good collection of artifacts from the Cook Islands and neighbouring countries. I learned about the history of the country and its people, and have more of an understanding of where they fit in the world. There is a little art gallery down the back too. The staff are lovely.
Peter Kinley — Google review
Small museum. Nothing special.
$5 entry fee.
John Yoon — Google review
It's a really nice place with lots of history with friendly helpful staff. It costs 5 dollars entry fee
David Corner — Google review
Great little museum
Lots of cultural artifacts. Tivaivai (traditional quilts) on display!
Friendly staff and good info.
Marl The Quig — Google review
The most amazing and beautiful place to visit
Christine Edwards — Google review
Wish it were in a more prominent location. Ended up at the old museum that is attached to the library. A case of mistaken identity.
Gary R — Google review
beautiful place to visit, the displays was awesome and if you're into history and admiring the beautiful tools and cultural costume that has been work back in the day - you will enjoy what the museum has to offer you. A place where one can connect to the cook islands.
ema utatao — Google review
Smallish space but good information and displays. There is a display of historic stone adzes atm, and a video of recent archeological excavations
St Joseph's Cathedral, a catholic church, held a delightful Sunday service that featured exquisite vocal performances. The church itself is stunningly beautiful and evokes a sense of peace and reverence. It is known for its grand architecture, intricate stained glass windows and ornate decor. The service was conducted with great solemnity and devotion, creating an atmosphere of spiritual tranquility for all in attendance.
Lovely Sunday service with beautiful singing
Lynda Goulden — Google review
Big Catholic Church in Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Arlene Barraca — Google review
(Translated by Google) Very cute!
(Original)
Muy linda!
Te Vara Nui Village is a must-visit cultural site in Rarotonga that offers an enchanting overwater island night show and buffet dinner. The village features floating stages, waterfall gardens, and talented dancers and drummers who put on an unforgettable performance for guests. While the cost of $109 NZD may seem steep, the massive buffet featuring delicious food is sure to impress with its taste and presentation.
Had an enjoyable night here. Great food options especially for vegetarians!! Food was amazing with lots of different flavours and was very filling. Even if you’re somehow hungry after the unlimited amount of food you can eat at dinner, well they also serve a big variety of dessert!! The Night show was interesting and a good learn about the history. The host was engaging, funny and really kind. I would recommend this experience to anyone visiting Rarotonga.
Celeste Stella — Google review
The cultural tour was quite informational. Our guide was very funny who started “I flew from Auckland yesterday and was told to read this piece paper” haha. A great show accompanied with a feast followed that made this evening quite an adventure and entertainment.
Michael Xu — Google review
We had an awesome night, high energy performance, amazing cultural experience, food was out the gate delicious ! Staff were so friendly and professional, venue was clean and tidy. Truely an amazing experience. Thank you to all the performers and staff. Highly recommend going ! You won’t regret it.
Karleen Cowan — Google review
The walk through the Village was incredible and entertaining. Linking the connection between the Rarotonga People & The NZ maori. The Entertainment and food was Excellent.....well done. Oct 2019 still got that great entertainment and food. The only difference was last year tour Guide the chief was gone or retired.
Black Beauty — Google review
Such a fantastic experience!! Would definitley recommend anyone going over to Raro to book in! You will not regret it! The show was absolutely amazing. Staff were super friendly. Staff were constantly back and forth to tables making sure our drinks were always full! Buffet was also amazing!
Aimee Venables — Google review
We visited Te Vara Nui recently with our two boys, 1 and 7, who loved the show! My 7 year old couldn't stop telling us how awesome the show was, his face and reactions said it all. Our 1 year old even thoroughly enjoyed it. The service is amazing, the food is even better and they have kid-friendly options available too which was a relief. Would highly recommend this experience, with or without kids it's an amazing experience for all. The dancers are awesome and the staff are super friendly.
Paige Veza — Google review
Fantastic show!!!! Mesmerizing! Must go! Great atmosphere! Food was good too! We love everything about our experience!
Inna Savina — Google review
WOW! It might not be the most traditional but it’s by far the best! Amazing show, awesome performance and excellent food. Highly recommended
Nick H — Google review
I've been here on a previous trip and it's still as good as I remember. Great food, lots to choose from, awesome show with a really cool story, and a lovely environment and atmosphere.
Definitely worth checking out when you're next in Raro.
Luana Hoskin — Google review
This was the most amazing experience we had in Rarotonga. Certainly something I HIGHLY recommend for anyone visiting Rarotonga. It costs about $109 NZD but you get an unforgettable show from the amazing dancers and drummers after you eat at the massive buffet with food that will take you over the edge for taste and presentation. This is certainly a place to take the family for a treat on a Saturday night or a date with your partner. Either way you WON'T be disappointed.
JSAK TuBe — Google review
Great night! The show was very nice. The food and service was spot on! If you’re looking for a relaxing and entertaining night out, head to Te Vara Nui.
Cameron Wilson — Google review
We (my extended family and I) arrived to find that there had been a stuff up with our booking which had been made through the hotel but not entered in Te Vara Nui's system. How they deal with these things is one of the best tests of what good tourist operators do though, and we were incredibly impressed that they found more seats, consulted with us where they could be placed, and then gave us free drinks in compensation. The food and the show were outstanding - one of the very best I have ever seen. But their customer service was just amazing. I cant speak highly enough of Te Vara Nui and can only offer my fullest recommendation and thanks for a wonderful evening - the music, the dance, the drums and the food - all superb! Thank You!
D W Brook — Google review
Absolutely awesome night, loved the food and drinks, great company and awesome entertainment. All round highly recommend to all like to book Te Vara Nui village 10/10 you'll never be disappointed!!
Shane Edwards — Google review
A truly amazing event that fully captures Rarotongan culture. 10/10 for the show. If you're picky like I am when it comes to food, there are lots of options to fill you up, such as salads, island fries, potato gratin, fried rice, chop suey, and delicious sweets like doughnuts, fruit salad, and custards. I strongly advise all tourists to Rarotonga to check out this place because the service and ambiance were both excellent. Big shout out to Ruth the host.
Kasey Willis — Google review
I did the village tour plus the dinner and show. Yes it's a bit pricey but you're only going to do it once. Village tour was informative and fun, the host,(and her twin sisters 😉 ) were really lovely. The food was gorgeous and plentiful. The show was amazing. Pick up and drop off was efficient. Definitely a must do in Rarotonga.
Lisa Grindrod — Google review
Great buffet dinner, with a large selection of fresh foods, raw fish, paw paw salad. Different meats and dessert. Premises was well kept, staff were friendly and well presented. Show on water was spectacular, the Chief floating his raft around was amazing, dancers and the fire show was out of this world. Would highly recommend it to anyone who has not been. It is a must see.
Noema Purnell — Google review
Great show. Amazing cultural experience. Beautiful surroundings.
Amanda Corp — Google review
Highly recommend this as part of your trip! The optional transfer from our hotel for our group of 25 was very helpful. Our driver was lovely and made even the bus ride there and back fun. When we arrived the service was very quick and friendly. Food was delicious and there was something for everyone. The show itself was spectacular and very engaging. Definitely a must-see!
Gabrielle Murphy — Google review
Kia orana. Highly recommended place to visit. A true cultural experience. The hospitality staff was exceptional!!! The entertainment & food was ON!!! Was so good to be back for a holiday/wedding in our homeland. Meitaki maata 😍🌴🥥🍹
Ngam Tere — Google review
The place is very beautiful with the stunning pond and Lilly’s setting the atmosphere we arrived on a rainy nite but we’re well sheltered and treated to a good show and an entertaining host provided laugh’s and entertainment, the buffet was filling but unfortunately the food was cold and their is better value for money for the cost
I enjoyed the nite x
Gary Read — Google review
The show is truly authentic and you will get a chance to try all sorts of local cuisine in one place. We loved it! The guys on the drums were really enthusiastic.
Olga Iftinka — Google review
We did this on our last night and what a way to leave. Awesome historical tour first and the buffet dinner was beautiful. The setting is stunning. But the show was fantastic. The dancers were amazing and always smiling. Loved the drums and vibe of the night. You can't help but shake your hips. Such gracious friendly people. A must do in Rarotonga. You can have photos with the dancers after also. We loved it!!
Darnell Blackman — Google review
Awesome show, food was delicious (and lots of it!!). Also arranged for transfers to and from the resort we stayed at which worked perfectly. Thanks for a great time!
Te Rua Manga, also known as The Needle, is a popular tourist destination located on the island's interior. It offers magnificent panoramic views to visitors who take the Cross Island Track from the north to south of the island. However, signposting for the summit could be improved as they are not very visible. It is recommended to visit in the morning and complete your hike by lunchtime.
I definitely recommend doing this hike with a guided tour. We went with Maunga tours and it was excellent. Make sure you are geared up with the right footwear. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit.
Deidre “Deeds” Holtzhausen — Google review
Good hike and nice views from the top. Slippery and dangerous in a few places so not recommended for young kids. Also to go up the needle (you cannot reach the top) is steep and requires good skills. Option to hike up and down the same way on the north part or down the south part which is longer but has nice stream crossings. Total track takes roughly 4 hours. Going up and down north part only between 1 and 3 hours.
Sebastiaan van Gils — Google review
This was a much harder hike than we expected (67 yr old unfit woman, 57 yr old male with below knee prosthetic leg. We made it by having rests and by just not giving up.
Started off gently: road, then green field, then NZ like bush track, then after the steam it slayed us as the track became tree root ladders often extremely steep.
Do not go if it has been raining as it would be dangerous. Not suitable for the very; old, unfit, young.
Ok views from the top but the biggest buzz is actually making it. Going down is easier but still difficult if that makes sense.
We went from the Avarua side to the Needle and back down the same way.
Done but wouldn't do again.
Carol Bailey — Google review
It's a relatively easy hike. about 4 hours round trip. We eventually didn't go though the cross island hike since it was closed due to the construction. Although it's mud road, but the vines and roots of trees provide pretty good platforms on ground and foundation that you can hold on to. Check out my youtube channel under my name for travel documentary during covid 19.
Camille Kuo — Google review
Good walk didn’t find as hard as a lot said did the full cross island 2/half hours nice views!
carey — Google review
Nice walk although not up with the best if you are a regular hiker. Good climb and quite steep in the last half but not too prolonged (400m?). Pretty warm and humid though. Take a litre of water. Quite safe but you do need to scramble with tree roots etc. Dry when we did it but I imagine it could be muddy and slippery after a bit of rain. (I am 61 and regularly active but no athlete)
Tom Robinson — Google review
It's a great walk up to the Needle, the views at the top are amazing. You will need to have a good level of fitness, wear good shoes, take plenty of water.
Best to start from the township side of the track and you can either complete the whole walk and end up coming out by the abandoned Sheraton hotel, or just visit the top then come down the same way. Best to walk this track when its dry, very challenging and slippery if it's been raining. They have a tour guide that takes daily tours up the needle and he is very knowledgeable.
The Skies the limit dronestar — Google review
A fun hike, sign posting could be better for the summit as the signs are barely visible. Make sure to go in the morning as you dont want to hike here when it gets dark
AGladers — Google review
We walked to the needle from the opposite start point of of the waterfall end and back. (Not starting at waterfall). Very steep and alot of root climbing. Parts of the climb are narrow. Bumped into 10+ tourists maybe ranging from 10 years old to 70+ years old in small groups who found the climb very challenging. It is ok in the heat of 27 degrees, you sure break a sweat but the root climbing is not long so there are many spots you can catch your breath in. The walk down the same way is easier and not too dangerous as it feels going up. Not what we expected but the needle at the top is worth the climb! Magnificent views and a few chickens up there!
Jessica O'Neill — Google review
Absolute must do! Was a fun hike, under good shade with a great view! Take swimming clothes or a towel with you to take a dip in the fresh water stream on the way to the Needle!
Alex Fakatoumafi — Google review
It's a pretty stern walk to get up here but we'll worth it for the views - can see almost the entirety of the island. Best to do it from North to South if possible. Heavy rain will make the path slippery and muddy, as well as swell the streams a bit. Need a good level of fitness and an adventurous spirit at times. Remember to bring plenty of water and some snacks with you, nowhere to access these at either end or anywhere on the trail. Possible to clamber up the rock at the summit via a chain, but at own risk. Great way to spend a day if you're bored of the beach though and the views and without peer on the island
Muri Beach is a renowned destination with crystal-clear turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and water sports like kayaking. One can indulge in an invigorating morning massage at the award-winning Rumours Waterfall Spa, followed by aqua exercises on standup paddleboards or kitesurfing in the lagoon. After a fun-filled day, one can relish lunch at the nearby Mooring Fish Cafe located in historic Avana Harbor.
Lovely beach and clean. Quite as well
Sabina K. — Google review
A gorgeous, turquoise colored lagoon with three islands within a swim or short boat ride. Decent amount of parking near the rugby pitch. Beautiful white sand beaches, lots of shells and coral to explore. You can get a tour of the lagoon by one of the companies or explore on your own. Many choices in lodging available also. Food is nearby too.
Muri Lagoon is the kind of place you see in magazines on cold, grey winter days up north. Usually pictures over-represent or amend the hues & colors: not here. The photos are accurate. You'll have to believe me until you find out for yourself! Highly recommend!
pbandj37 — Google review
Really beautiful beach with beautiful turquoise waters.
The water is really clear, like being in a swimming pool.
It is shallow for quite a distance, so great for the kids.
Nice for snorkeling too, beautiful tropical fish can be seen swimming around.
Loved our time here, can't get enough of the views.
Bruno Orfao — Google review
Beautiful beach in Rarotonga, where you want to be if you're looking to catch the sunrise.
Toni Jordan Feros — Google review
A great place to go swimming or snorkelling. Can be a bit windy at times, but you can’t beat it on a good day.
Connor Murphy — Google review
Beautiful beach in Rarotonga. The water is blue and the sand is white. There are motus that you can swim and walk to from the beach. There are also a couple of restaurants on the beach. There are spots to lay down on it. It also provides enough area to walk down it. Highly recommend going!
Kassandra Solsrud — Google review
Clear and warm waters on a massive lagoon, wish I had the time to snorkel here like the many others I saw! It’s shallow too, you could walk to the other islands opposite if you wanted to. The resorts along the beach provide kayaks and lounge chairs. Perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon.
Clare Sim — Google review
Had a great day here, just relaxing and cilling out. The odd dog came over to say hi and wag their tail and move on to the next crowd haha. But a beautiful beach especially if you go on the right day when its hot, sunny and clear. I highly recommend this beach.
JSAK TuBe — Google review
Lovely beach. Can get windy.
Alex Radford — Google review
Beautiful turquoise coloured lagoon. Great for snorkelling and swimming. The water is reasonably shallow.
Shamal Kumar — Google review
The best beach of the island!!!
Giorgio P — Google review
Stunning beach, great for swimming and snorkelling.