Page 23 - Pacific Paradises 2019

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AITUTAKI

Aitutaki, the second most visited the coastline and island interior. Most at Arutanga.
island in the Cook Islands group, roads are tar sealed and transport is Aitutaki offers a range of
is geologically part volcanic and mainly by motor scooter, although accommodation for any budget and
part atoll. bicycles and cars are also used to get there are a few restaurants and cafés
people around.
Just 220 kilometres north and an easy on the island for your dining pleasure.
45-minute flight from Rarotonga, its The low rolling hills of the island are Live entertainment can be found at
lagoon is considered one of the most flanked by banana plantations and hotels or local watering holes.
magnificient in the world. coconut groves. Be sure to book a full-day lagoon

Local legend claims that its highest A triangular barrier reef seems to catch cruise. There will be plenty of
hill, Maungapu, is said to be the top of the exquisite turquoise Aitutaki lagoon snorkelling opportunities and you can
Rarotonga’s Raemaru mountain that like a giant fishhook. The crystal clear even hand feed schools of tropical fish
was chopped off and brought back by water in the lagoon is ideal for sailing, and see giant clams up close. Some
victorious Aitutaki warriors. swimming, snorkelling, kitesurfing, operators offer snorkelling gear and
stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, towels and serve a barbecue lunch
Polynesian myth holds that beautiful and scuba diving and beneath the blue when you arrive on an island.
Aitutaki is a giant fish tethered to the surface is a world of sea creatures that
seabed by a vine from the air. The light will leave you fascinated. There’s also A cultural day tour is an opportunity
turquoise lagoon looks like a huge pale the elusive fighting bonefish which is to discover, and interact with a
oyster against the vivid blue ocean. culture that was hidden for 200
favoured by anglers. years as a result of the influence of
Captain Bligh discovered Aitutaki in To reach the summit of Maungapu, the new culture that was adopted in
1789, only 17 days before the notorious take a leisurely half-hour walk to the 1821. Punarei Culture Village offers
mutiny on the Bounty. Christian west side of the island. At its peak visitors the experience of engaging
missionaries followed which meant it you’ll discover a breathtaking view of in some cultural practices such as
was the first island in the Cook Islands Aitutaki. The shopping and business making umukai, sharing stories of
to receive Christianity.
district is between Amuri and Ureia the ancient past and visiting sacred
Today the people live in villages along and also clustered near the wharf and scenic sites.

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