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Published by Cook Islands Sun Ltd, 2019-09-21 00:07:22

2019-2010 Cook Islands Sun

Travel magazine for visitors to the Cook Islands, including See & Do, Eat & Drink, News & Reviews, Shopping, and Local Stories.

Keywords: Cook Islands,Visitor Information,Rarotonga,Eat & Drink,See & Do

enjoycookislands.com FREE VISITOR MAGAZINE 2019-2020 EDITION 68

SEE& DO
EAT& DRINK
NEWS& REVIEWS

SHOPPING
LOCAL STORIES

5

MEET THE QUEEN'S
REPRESENTATIVE

21

TROPICAL FASHION VIBES

GUIDE TO EATING & DRINKING
IN RAROTONGA - Page 16-17

best rental experiences.

www.polynesianhire.co.ck

p +682 29227 e [email protected] / roadside assistance +682 54325

2 CoOK ISLANDS SuN

www.perfumes.co.ck THE

PRerafruomteosngoaf LIFE

2 Banana Court, Call: 27534,

www.facebook.com/thegoodlifestore

PWPWAACECEIIFFAAICVVEE

CI Sun Advertorial Full Page 2018 flatten.indd 1 11/06/2018 10:37:23 a.m.

CoOK ISLANDS SuN WELCOME 3

In this issueWanedlcMomineisftreormfotrheToPurriimsme Minister
Kia Orana,
INTERVIEWS 8
To all our visitors and 5 Meet the Queen’s Representative in the Cook Islands
those planning a holiday 10 Cook Islands biggest private employer CITC supports sustainability 32
in the Cook Islands, I’d 27 Lifestyle sea change is a real possibility in the Cook Islands 21
like to extend to you a 28 Cook Islands’ hard working commercial traveller, Robert Skews
very warm greeting and
welcome. AWARDS
11 A1 Meitaki Awards recognising excellence in service
As your hosts, we want
your stay with us to be as ISLAND LIFE
memorable and enjoyable as 8 Making the most of WiFi hotspots in the Cook Islands
possible. We are your home 21 Tropical fashion presented by id.CK
away from home and your
time with us will be more than experience – in our culture and DINING & ENTERTAINMENT
comfortable – it will take your traditions, as well as a wide 9 A great night out at a spectacular island show
breath away! range of recreational activities. 19 Antipodes, fine dining at its best in Rarotonga
22 Charlie’s, a great 'chilled-out' local eatery
There is much for you to Above all, we want you to stay
explore and discover, whether safe in this environment we SEE & DO 11
you are a first time visitor or a call our ‘little paradise’. Take 6 Learn about the Black Pearl industry of Manihiki
returning holidaymaker. care wherever you may be, 12 Helpful hints for first time visitors to Rarotonga
You can do that at your own whether on our roads or out 15 Getting married in Rarotonga?
pace and as your desire allows. in the water. And allow us to 23 Eco tourism on a bicycle
There is a natural freedom share with you all the reasons 25 Kura Happ amazing entertainer and reef tour guide
here that will put you at ease why you must come back and
and you will soon learn that see us again! AITUTAKI
Cook Islanders are keen to 29 Life experiences for Tamanu Beach’s general manager
join you in the fun – out on Kia Manuia,
the lagoon, trekking in the
mountains, or dining out at our Honorable Henry Puna
many restaurants and cafés. Prime Minister and Minister for
Our world is your world to Tourism The Cook Islands

PUBLISHER/EDITOR: Alastair Blount COMMUNITY 9
TELEPHONE: +682 20 222 31 Rare investiture of an ariki (chief) on
EMAIL: [email protected]
DESIGN & PRINT: Ovato - New Zealand Rarotonga
DISTRIBUTION RAROTONGA: 20 222 32 Cook Islands introduces eco certification
DISTRIBUTION AITUTAKI: 31 009
POSTAL: PO Box 30 Avarua, The Cook Islands for the tourism industry

www.enjoycookislands.com | enjoycookislands

Every effort has been made to ensure that information and content in this publication FRONT COVER IMAGE: KURA HAPP (Image by Jaia Arai)
is accurate; no responsibility is accepted for inadvertent errors or omissions. See the article on Page 25: "Kura Happ is the real deal!
Copyright © 2019 Cook Islands Sun Ltd. All rights reserved. Amazing entertainer and reef tour guide"

4 ISLAND LIFE CoOK ISLANDS SuN

No 1 in the Cook Islands

THERE HAS BEEN NO Federal Pacific House, Avarua in the form of Western
EVENT AS ENGAGING Union Money Transfers and
FOR THE NATIONS OF Foreign Currency. Jetsave is
THE PACIFIC IN 2019 fully accredited and IATA
THAN THE XVI PACIFIC registered. We stand behind
GAMES, WHICH TOOK all our products, and part
PLACE IN SAMOA IN of our mission statement is
JUNE. THIS YEAR WAS to provide ‘the very best we
THE SIXTEENTH PACIFIC can’ with all types of travel
GAMES TO BE HELD. arrangements, ticketing etc.

T wenty-four nations to be a major sponsor of the Fexco Pacific has operations How do you help No 1 Currency team in Rarotonga No.1 Currency Exchange
competed. It was 2019 Pacific Games. It was in 12 Pacific region countries visitors to the Cook is an integral part of
literally a mini Olympic our privilege to collaborate including New Zealand and Islands? cases – meals), Rarotonga Jetsave Cook Islands,
Games ‘Celebrating the best in with the organisers and the the Cook Islands. It is also activities, tours and shows. what services do they
the Pacific’. The Cook Islands community to bring forth the largest Agent for Western People just walk in and chat Our agents are never too busy provide?
came 12th in the medal tally, the best in our athletes in the Union in the Pacific. with our agents about what to have some one walk in and
but who’s counting in such pursuit of excellence. to see and do. This year we chat with them regarding the Foreign cash exchange,
a fun-filled event that In Rarotonga the company’s launched our new website services we offer. Western Union money transfer
united the nations of the operations are based in wwww.jetsave.co.ck. It is services, International Business
Pacific. Federal Pacific House, modern and very user friendly, You are part of the Payments. These are the main
which is located on the and features sections including FEXCO group, who are focuses of No1 Currency.
Fexco Pacific was a silver main road in the Cook the ‘Hottest Deals Available’, they?
sponsor of the 2019 Islands’ main business ‘Flights to Rarotonga’, ‘Things Jetsave Travel is located
Pacific Games where it centre, Avarua, together to do in Rarotonga,’ and Under the umbrella of the on the main road in
featured its own brand of with Jetsave Travel – one of ‘Events in Rarotonga’. It’s a one FEXCO group we are part Avarua, what do walk-
currency exchange service the most respected travel stop-travel shop for all things of Fexco Pacific. This is a in visitors ask for most
No1Currency. companies in the Pacific. Cook Islands! money transfer and foreign often?
exchange service provider
The retail network of Jetsave Travel agents Shona and Janice General manager of all What are some of the throughout the Pacific region. They want to know about
the businesses in Federal Cook Islands' trips Fexco is an Ireland-based the range of Rarotonga
No1Currency across the Pacific House is Julie Bateman. Jetsave recommend? financial services and financial activities, island night shows,
technology company focusing and specialty tours that are
Pacific, including Rarotonga, “We recognise the best in How would you We offer all international on bureau de change and available, and also outer
describe Jetsave Travel and domestic airfares and payment card services. Fexco island packages to places
enthusiastically promoted the Pacific and celebrate and the services it accommodation for couples, employs more than 2,300 such as Aitutaki, Atiu and
provides? groups, family reunions, staff spread between offices Mangaia; but visitors also ask
awareness and support in the everything that is Number1 in religious journeys, sports in 29 countries worldwide. general questions regarding the
Jetsave opened its doors in trips, and more. Other The Currency Exchange
run up to the Games in all of the Pacific!” 1998. It has been operating services we provide include Corporation is part of the Cooks.
successfully since then and Outer Island packages Fexco group of companies.
its locations. Fexco Pacific is a private has grown considerably. New (airfares and accommodation,
services have been introduced transportation, and in some
Steve Peregrino the Group company owned by Fexco and

Manager for Marketing Federal Pacific focussing on

and Business Development three core products - money

of Fexco Pacific said: transfer, money exchange

“No1Currency was honoured and business payments/TT's.

o Pay for Your friendly one-stop shop
3 days get for the Cook Islands

2 free ! Specialists for all local tours and activities
and inter-island packages.
n selected mode
Foreign exchange and money transfers
Opposite the Airport INTERNATIONAL & DOMESTIC
www.rarotongarentals.co.ck AIRFARES & ACCOMMODATION

[email protected] Located Main Road, Avarua
[email protected]
Phone: 22326 www.jetsave.co.ck

“Best deals on the Island” CALL 27 707
ls

Image by David Kirkland

THE BEST RATES IN TOWN FEDERAL PACIFIC HOUSE

Main Road, Downtown Avarua Jetsave
T: 29 907 E: [email protected] Travel

Western Union No.1 Currency

CoOK ISLANDS SuN ISLAND LIFE 5

Meet the head Marsters

THE COOK ISLANDS’ The symbol for the Cook Islands Queens Representative
MONARCHICAL
PRESENCE FOR THE I actually kept it on my desk Henry came back from New
NEXT THREE YEARS for years until it disappeared. I Zealand in 1964. I was still
WAS GREATLY don't know how I lost it! in my teens then, but my
ENHANCED WHEN H.E. grandmother actually said that
SIR TOM MARSTERS “But every time the question I should work with this guy.
KBE WAS POPULARLY was asked: what's that cricket This person will transform the
REAPPOINTED AS THE ball doing on your desk? I told Cook Islands.
COUNTRY’S QUEENS them the story of the Cook
REPRESENTATIVE (QR) Islander and the top England “So in 1964, I became part
IN JULY. MARSTERS WAS cricketer!” of his team; probably the
FIRST APPOINTED IN youngest executive on his
2013; THIS WILL BE HIS Sir Tom recalls just after the team. After the 1965 elections,
THIRD TERM AS QR. Grimsby match that he was I became the secretary of the
in the shower when the ‘great party for the next 30-odd
The Queen's man’ Illingworth tapped him years. So I've been with the
Representative is the on the shoulder, and asked:
formal title given to
the representative of Queen "Where are you from, young “I'm very proud to be
Elizabeth II, as Queen of New fellow? I hear you come from a
Zealand, in the Cook Islands. long way off.” a Marsters”

His Excellency Sir Tom political system since the
beginning”.
Marsters KBE is a humble “I said: ‘Yeah, Cook Islands,’ to
which he responded: "Where's On becoming the Queen’s
man of humble beginnings that?" Representative, Marsters
presents his typical modesty.
from the remote outer island
“I wasn't expecting it. The
of Palmerston. Following prime minister alluded to the

years in the Cook Islands Sir Tom knowing Illingworth point that government was
had visited New Zealand to thinking of honouring me,
public service, he achieved play test cricket explained that but I told him there were
the Cook Islands (then) was others who in my mind were
remarkable success in his part of New Zealand. more deserving of the honor
than myself, and I still
political career rising to the stand by my words”.

position of Deputy Leader of Marsters resigned as
Deputy Prime Minister to
the Cook Islands Party and "We're New Zealand citizens, take up the role Queen’s
but we're about 1700 miles Representative role in 2013.
Deputy Prime Minister of the Sir Tom and Lady Tuaine Marsters at the Marsters House building site
Cook Islands. His knighthood came five
years later in 2018, which
Sir Tom Marsters was knighted had with him some workers but because he came from a of adventure and fortune. was bestowed upon him for
a Bachelor Commander of from Tahiti. He had travelled place where there were lots According to chronicles he ‘service to the public and the
the British Empire (KBE) extensively in the Pacific, of castles”. The designers first settled on the islands community.’
on 16 November 2018 at obviously he was in Tahiti for a eventually settled on adding of Penrhyn, then Manuae,
Buckingham Palace. The while, and also Samoa.” in a rampart-style feature to before establishing his “Well, I suppose I've served
honour was bestowed upon dress up three sides of the family and business on the the public all my life!” said
him for his service to the Sir Tom was the chairman building. Another feature was island of Palmerston where Sir Tom.
public and to the communities of the board of trustees the inclusion of five pillars he mainly traded in copra
of the Cook Islands. responsible for raising funds representing William Marsters and bêche-de-mer (sea Today, HE Sir Tom
and building the project, a five original families. cucumber) with the notable Marsters KBE is the
Scottish trader from Tahiti, Queen’s Representative:
He has been married to dream for the many families “Basically, Marsters House is a John Brander. “My role is to protect the
Lady Tuaine (nee Wichman) of William Marsters that had stop over place for Palmerston constitution of the country,
Marsters for over 40 years, and procreated on the island since people going to and through The most celebrated and to protect the interests of
they have three sons, Tom, 1863. Rarotonga. For example they Marsters today is the the Her Majesty The Queen.
Clee and Giovanni, a daughter, come every other year to the Queens Representative
Eirangi, and a number of Tom Marsters son Giovanni, Constitution celebrations in for the Cook Islands, Sir “I just have my secretary, who
grandchildren. a builder, facilitated the July and August. At other Tom Marsters KBE. He is a senior lawyer, but we have
construction of Marsters is certainly considered the the backing of constitutional
leader of the Marsters clan, lawyers overseas. So any issue
2019 was also a times of the year we or the head Marsters! that affects the Crown, that
milestone year for Sir will rent it out to affects the Constitution, I am
Tom for another reason, visiting sporting groups “I'm very proud to be a well supported.
he opened Marsters and cultural groups
House (aka Palmerston to generate income to Marsters”. “I also call upon the Governor-
House) on 8th July; maintain the place. Generals in the region; we
a project he had been There are en suites, and Sir Tom Marsters KBE outside Buckingham have a good rapport, and a very
working on for many also dormitory style good relationship with all of
years on behalf of large rooms; and we have Amongst his achievements, Palace Her Majesties representatives
the tiny population a mezzanine on top.” in the region”.
Sir Tom Marsters is also away, north east of New
of Palmerston island William Marsters and families in Palmerston in the Sir Tom said he was an accomplished sportsman Zealand in the middle of the In conclusion, we asked Sir
(est.60). late19th century appreciative of the support having represented the Cook South Pacific Ocean." Tom about how he felt about
of food, labour and funds Islands in boxing, rugby and the rapid growth of tourism in
The grand opening date of 8 House, his older brother his committee received from golf. He has also shone in Illingworth was impressed, the Cook Islands, and if he had
July 2019 was chosen because Tom, also a builder, was also the various Marsters families tennis, lawn bowls, martial adding: "You've kept the ball, any concerns.
that was the date English involved. arts, and cricket. and I can guess why."
“I have no real concern, to
adventurer and trader William Much symbolic thinking went and from friends towards the Whilst he was in his twenties I replied: "Yeah, because I'm be honest. To me, tourism
Marsters landed on Palmerston into the design of Marsters construction of the building: at the Grimsby Institute going to tell all my friends and is our lifeline. I believe that
in Lincolnshire for two anyone who ask me about the provided we keep all the
with his families and workers House, which included “This project brought years studying international cricket ball that I hit 32 with it necessary amenities in place,
fisheries, Tom Marsters had off a former MCC captain!" our infrastructure in place,
in 1863. Marsters House is the taking some of the features everybody together. And, we the unique experience of especially with the sewerage
playing against two of England Illingworth laughed and said: and waste management, and
last of the island hostels to be of William Marsters iconic were even getting contributions cricket greats. "Good on you son!" water…all of those things;
provided we keep all of that
erected around Constitution tin house in Palmerston that from the other islands, they’d “During my time in Grimsby Tom Marsters was born on in check, then I think there
I enjoyed playing second grade Palmerston and brought up is room for expansion, there
Avenue in Avarua. still stands today. Sir Tom just ring up and say: "There's a cricket as a batsman and a by his paternal grandmother is room for growth and
bowler. in Avatiu and Nikao on prosperity”.
“On the eighth of July, 1863, said there was also discussion box of whatever coming... Rarotonga from the age of
William Marsters landed on “The one match that stands four.
Palmerston with his three sets early on to actually build a “People rallied behind us. I out in my mind was a charity
of families, and workers. He small castle to reflect William think maybe that's because we match between Yorkshire Later he attended Avele
Marsters English background: are the smallest of the islands, and Lincolnshire in Grimsby. Agricultural College in Samoa
“not that he lived in a castle and also because we were the On the other team we had to study general agriculture,
the likes of Geoff Boycott before moving on to the
last to build here”. (then Yorkshire and England Grimsby Institute in England
batsman) and Ray Illingworth to study the fishing industry.
One thing all the Marsters (then Yorkshire, Leicestershire
have in common is intense and England batsman spinner Sir Tom’s background in
pride in their English ancestor and batsman). Illingworth was agriculture and fisheries
William Marsters, who settled the Yorkshire captain for the naturally led him into a long
on Palmerston with his wife match. career in the Cook Islands
and mistresses in the 19th Public Service before he
century, which began the “I hit 32 runs off the ‘great’ entered politics.
dynasty that today includes Ray Illingworth! After the
countless descendants living match I took the ball with me! “I was involved with the new
in the Cook Islands, New era of politics when Albert
Zealand and Australia.

Entrance to Government House, Titikaveka William Marsters was in his
twenties when he arrived in
the South Pacific in search

6 BLACK PEARLS CoOK ISLANDS SuN

Pearls direct from the farm

FARM DIRECT PEARLS’ TEMU AND LESLEY OKOTAI started their own separate
HAVE A LONG ESTABLISHED CONNECTION TO farms, almost at the same time.
THE SOURCE OF COOK ISLANDS BLACK PEARL
INDUSTRY, THE ISLAND OF MANIHIKI, WHERE THEY The rest is history: the 1980s
OPERATE THEIR OWN PEARL FARM. and 1990s became a boom
period in pearl farming in
SITUATED IN HARBOUR HOUSE ON THE MAIN ROAD the Manihiki, Penrhyn, and
AT AVATIU HARBOUR, THE FARM DIRECT PEARLS Rakahanga lagoons. By the
SHOWROOM EXHIBITS AN ATTRACTIVE RANGE OF mid 1990s there were nearly
BLACK PEARLS AND JEWELLERY. WE ASKED TEMU 300 pearl farms operating in
AND LESLEY OKOTAI, A FEW QUESTIONS ABOUT these lagoons, and export value
THEIR LIVES AND THEIR LIVELIHOOD. for black pearls was close to
$20m.
T emu and Lesley operating a pearl farm, but Farm Direct Pearl’s Temu and Lesley Okotai
met as students in with no business or marketing Unfortunately in 1997 Cyclone
Christchurch in the experience. have blemishes visible on the for example peacock green, oyster started in the Cook Martin destroyed much of the
1970s. After graduating they surface and may also have a gold, silver, bronze, green, Islands in the Manihiki Manihiki pearl infrastructure.
returned to Rarotonga where Almost twenty years ago dull surface or matt look which and aubergine. Some have a lagoon in the mid 1960s. This was followed by a drastic
Temu worked as marketing we decided to start a retail means they lack lustre. beautiful rainbow of colours. Peter Cummings, who was downturn in world prices for
manager for what is now Cook outlet to sell the pearls, and Those with good lustre will involved in the harvesting of pearls, and combined with
Islands Tourism, and later he to sell pearl jewellery in an We always advise our reflect the colours we are the Golden lipped shells in a few spells of unfavourable
took over the management, old colonial house owned by customers to read the wearing. Broome, Australia, observed lagoon conditions, saw many
and Lesley taught at local CITC. When CITC built the Certificate of Authenticity the Japanese start to seed leave the industry.
primary schools. Building Centre on that site we before making a purchase. The The name ‘black pearls’ is a the golden-lipped oyster for
moved to the shop next door Certificate of Authenticity misnomer because few are pearls; he came to the Cook Today only the few with well-
Temu then sought out jobs so that our overseas customers informs them of the grade of black in colour. Some people Islands and started a farm in managed and substantial farms
in the private sector in New could still find us! the pear: Perfect, A, B, C, D, have the misconception that Manihiki. are able to continue farming,
Zealand and Papua New quality, size and shape, so they the darker they are the better. and only in the Manihiki
Guinea while Lesley taught We have expanded our range can compare prices and see Colour is very much personal Cummings successfully lagoon.
at an International school of black pearl jewellery how each attribute affects the taste relating to such things as produced beautiful black pearls
before returning to Rarotonga considerably since those pricing of each jewellery item. colours we like to wear, hair in the Manihiki lagoon, but What is the process
eleven years later with their humble beginnings. Today colour and skin tone. because of disagreements with of pearl cultivation on
two children to ensure they we cater for all tastes and for Cook Islands black pearls are the island Council, he closed Manihiki?
would connect with their Cook all budgets: from inexpensive defined as such because they Tell us about the the farm and left the island. It
Islands’ heritage. lower grade pearls with simple grow in the black-lipped oyster development of the was not until the mid 1980s The Manihiki lagoon
settings, to sophisticated, shell. In a harvest we find a black pearl industry in when pearl farming resumed in has always been an ideal
Temu was Chief of Staff for elegant designs with top wide range of exquisite colours: the Cook Islands? the Manihiki lagoon, when the environment for the black-
former Prime Minister Sir quality pearls set with 14 and late Papa Tekake Williams and lipped mother of pearl oyster.
Geoffrey Henry for nearly 18 carat yellow and white gold. The farming of the black- Yves Chen Pan from Tahiti Before pearl farming started
eight years, whilst Lesley lipped mother of pearl in the lagoon the shell has
continued to teach. How do you been a lucrative export, which
differentiate the quality was harvested regularly on a
Describe the Farm of Cook Islands black 3 -4 years intervals. Another
Direct Pearls business pearls? advantage of pearl farming in
operation the Manihiki lagoon is the
Top quality pearls are high ideal growing condition for
We became involved with in lustre with clean surfaces; spat collection for the oyster.
black pearls through Temu's that is no imperfections visible Much of what we learnt in
Manihiki connection with on the surface in contrast to pearl farming in the Cook
his father and brother lower grade pearls that may islands we learnt from Tahiti
and Japanese technicians who
Aerial view of the Manihiki lagoon worked in Manihiki.

Today we have both foreign
and local technicians
working in the
Manihiki lagoon,
and many foreign
workers are employed
by farmers to work on
their farms.

What is most often
received feedback you
get from buyers of
Cook Islands black
pearls?

People who have
bought Cook Island
black pearls from us
tell us how much they
love them, and that
they receive lots of
compliments about
their Cook Islands
black pearl jewellery.

Lesley & Temu Okotai On display in the Farm Direct showroom
Harbour House, Avatiu, ph 20 635
email: [email protected]

CoOK ISLANDS SuN BLACK PEARLS 7

Cooks’ Delight

Engraved Pearls
for Pandora
Cook Islands

Engraved Pearls
Carved Shell
Jewellery
Free Name
Engraving

KiatnhopaMrotoaprhniuaiClhvaeeirkvaiai,ccpihcnpeeetsh(tsipesteeNoarorMolrnosthhtmheeerlelnrnmoGuefsraoPintue)pagsrleIlistrslzvahyenedrd(lelP.wmshVtioaetahtuaroitrlaga.otrnciaotapsnlhsahereororf:buDtnshadeivsitddahiseKdheiwralkiorclaeralndcdy). OOPPEENNIINNGG HHOOUURRSS
Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm
Tokerau Jim at the Market MTooknedraauyJ-iFmr’sidshaoyp,a9t aAmror-a2npgim

On a Saturday surprisingly affordable Toker-amu aJimn’sroshaodpoaptpoMsiatetavera
morning you pieces of artistry, - mCairnowronadBeoancheaRsteesronr-tside
might find including a wide range of nbexfotrteoMTuikrieB-teoaucrhs
yourself wandering around carved pearl necklaces.
Punanga Nui Market Tokerau Jim designed Saturday morning, 8am-12pm
in Avarua. Outside his and carved pearl
busy market hut you will jewellery is a perfect Tokerau Jim’s shop at Punanga Nui Market
encounter a modest ‘one of special gift for family in Avarua, with pearl carving demonstrations
a kind’ pearl carver, who and friends, especially
also happens to be one of engraved with the name and free name engraving.
the world’s best, Tokerau of the recipient.
Jim. www.tokeraujim.com
Tokerau Jim’s main retail
Tokerau demonstrates shop is located opposite COOK ISLANDS
his pearl carving on the Crown Beach Resort Top Jewellery & Gift Store
Saturdays, and also offers in Arorangi, open
free name engraving on his Monday to Friday. BEST PRICES • QUALITY • SELECTION • SERVICE

There’s more than gold in Goldmine! BLACK PEARL JEWELLERY

Goldmine is the Cook Islands – Avaiki Black Pearls –
largest jewellery and gift Karen Walker Jewellery
store, and it’s been located Polynesian Style Rings In Gold & Silver
on the main road of Avarua Wedding/Engagement & Dress Rings
in Rarotonga for more than Gold & Silver Chains, Charms, Earrings
twenty-five years. Lladro | Amber | Jade | Coral | Opal

Goldmine manager Ngari Tutaka- For the best deal in the Cook Islands
George has been there since it opened Come to Goldmine, Main Road, Avarua
in 1994, so what Ngari doesn’t know
about the jewellery and gift business is Phone 24 823 | Fax 24824 | email [email protected]
hard to imagine.
www.rarotongablackpearls.com
Specialising in black pearl jewellery,
Goldmine also stock gold and
silver chains and charms; wedding,
engagement and dress rings; unique
Polynesian style rings in gold and
silver; opal, coral, amber and jade;
Lladro and carvings.

Ngari is pictured left presenting a
cherry amber pendant set in sterling
silver, the cost: $1400.00. Whilst the
amber jewellery might be expensive,
Goldmine offers a variety of jewellery
and gifts for all budgets and tastes.

8 ISLAND LIFE CoOK ISLANDS SuN

with bluesky Shipwrecked on a tropical island

all your tours and make ENGLISH BORN NEW
reservations using your ZEALANDER’S STEVE
minutes while on holiday. AND GERALDINE
MARSON ARE LIVING
• Save Data by switching off A DREAM OF OWNING
all auto-updates, restrict ‘THE PERFECT BEACH
background data downloads BAR ON A TROPICAL
on your device. ISLAND’; AND IT’S APTLY
NAMED THE SHIPWRECK
• Use Data for live updates HUT BEACH BAR.
or ‘in the moment’ posts via
your social media channels. Located at the Aro’a
Upload your pics later using Beachside Inn on
WiFi. Rarotonga’s sunset
coast, you couldn’t pick a
• Switch off your data if
you're not using it - also better location with guaranteed
saves your battery life.
mind-blowing sunset views Geraldine and Steve Marson in their Shipwreck Hut Beach Bar, with staff
• Data add-on bundles are every evening (weather Anna, Stephanie and Priest in the background
not available on Visitor SIM permitting).
What services do such as our airport, restaurants Card, so if you're needing IT and barcoding with this at Aro’a Beachside Inn since
Bluesky offer to visitors & cafes, resorts, bars, shops, more data BUY another
to the Cook Islands? markets and most public Visitor SIM card just in Meeting and marrying in company. They took me on Steve and Geraldine bought it.
meeting areas. A full list is case.
Bluesky keeps our visitors available on www.bluesky.co.ck Cheshire, both Steve and to introduce barcoding to the Every Tuesday Stephanie does
connected while on • Download the MyBluesky
holiday. We have over What tips do Bluesky app on arrival to monitor Geraldine are from sales whole group. It was really a popular guest appearance
300 Bluezone WiFi hotspots offer visitors to your data/mins/txts usage.
in the Cook Islands, giving maximise their SIM backgrounds: Steve in pioneering stuff at the time! singing with the band at the
you easy Internet access to cards/WiFi? • Need to upload your photos
your family, friends and social from your computer? Tether engineering, electronics, “The business was sold, so Bar. “We are lucky to have
media. Visitors can also enable Assuming the visitor is data from your phone to computer and IT, and then I set up my own business such a wonderful, fun team!”
roaming on their devices. purchasing a Bluesky Visitor your computer and get Geraldine in pharmaceuticals. in Kent called Lynk Data
We have over 270 roaming SIM card: those important captures up We asked Steve if the
partners. Check if your online in no time! Systems. I did that for ten years Shipwreck Hut Beach Bar had
network roams in the Cook • First tip would be to make “We met at night school
Islands on www.bluesky.co.ck. good use of the free SMS • Avoid using data when
Get talking with international txts and calling minutes to visiting sites that may have because we were working for then I sold it, which made me anything to do with them
capped calling. Our one-hour contact friends and family low data range/signal. Take
capped calling rates are some back home instead of relying your photos and upload German or Swiss German enough to retire on at the age buying the place.
of the best under the Pacific on data operated apps (e.g. them later once you're in
sun. For up to an hour pay Messenger/WhatsApp/ good range. companies, so we both went to of 47! “Every man wants
only $5 to call New Zealand Viber). Better yet, book night school to learn to have his own bar,
and $10 to call Australia, Fiji, German!” said Steve. sure!” said Steve.
UK, USA and Canada. Grab
yourself a Visitor SimCard “We just clicked and “I remember, at the
today. For only $49 it is pre-
loaded with 3GB Data, 30min started going out in age of 17, we were
calling time and 300 texts.
January '86. We got sitting on a beach
Where are the Bluesky
retail offices, and what engaged about March in Italy next to this
are the opening hours.
and got married in beach bar and I
Bluesky services the whole of
the Cook Islands. We have July.” thought, that would
outlets on all islands except
Takutea, Manuae, Suwarrow They now have be cool, to have a
and Nassau. We have three two boys Will and little beach bar.”
Bluesky outlets on Rarotonga
open everyday. Main office in Dan, who are in Since arriving on
Parekura opens from 8am -
6pm; CITC Avarua complex WiFi Tips their mid-twenties: the island Steve has
office opens from 8am - 4pm;
Muri outlet opens from 10am Will is completing developed his own
- 6pm. We also have an outlet
located outside international his Masters; he's a Steve performing with Anania Brown singing and guitar
arrivals area, which only opens geomorphologist, and skills to the point
during international flights.
Dan is a musician where he performs
Where and how can
visitors find Bluesky in a band. “He’s a very good “We moved to New Zealand in at the Shipwreck BBQ on
hotspots? guitarist and sings well too!” 2008! Geraldine got a teaching Saturdays. He also sings in
job. I was there three months a guest spot on Tuesday and
Bluezone WiFi Hotspots are “The boys were born in before I got so bored I joined Thursday nights when live
located throughout Rarotonga, Cheshire. We moved to Kent a company as general manager music is featured from 6.30pm
Aitutaki, the rest of the outer when Dan was about six weeks doing very similar things I was to 8.30pm. Famously, the
islands at a variety of places old, as I got a job there with doing in the UK. That business popular Rockin’ Jandals play
a company as European Sales eventually got sold, so I took on Tuesdays with Rarotonga
Manager for FACIT.” time off and then found this guitar great Anania Brown,

Geraldine gave up work to look place.” and local DJ legend Ian

after the children then later Wheeldon.

• If you have access to a door or around the corner studied to become a science We are lucky to have “What got me into singing
teacher. was when Geraldine and I
Bluezone hotspot at your from you.

accommodation then save • Make sure to log off your “She is actually a scientist. such a wonderful, were on a skiing holiday in
on mobile data and upload WiFi after each browsing Her speciality was biology, fun team! France. They had this dress-
your photos/videos using session to conserve MBs microbiology. And she's got a up karaoke night. I went as
WiFi instead. degree in microbiology. So she Batman, Geraldine went as Cat

• Can't find your nearest • Out of range? Visit any now got a secondary degree, Woman. I thought: I'll give
of Rarotonga's cafes/
Bluezone hotspot? Visit which is a teaching degree.” Steve said he and Geraldine this a go and sang an Elton

www.bluesky.co.ck and restaurant with our The next big thing for Steve had stayed at Aro’a Beachside John song. Then surprisingly
was when they made him Inn in 2012, then came back in I had a request: Can Batman
Bluezone hotspots instead managing director in the UK 2014 to find out it was for sale please sing Daydream Believer?
find our map with over 100 and enjoy the comfort for FACIT. and bought it. Which I did, and I still sing
it today at the Shipwreck Hut
hotspots located around there, along with good “I was now seriously into the Stephanie Vaiimene, the Beach Bar!”
general manager, has been
Rarotonga and Aitutaki. food and atmosphere, and

There's sure to be one next a refreshing beverage!

DON’T MISS MOMENTS LIKE $49only
THIS - GRAB YOUR VISITOR
SIM TODAY

From any of our Bluesky
Outlets in our litte paradise.

Preloaded with:

3GB 30 300
DATA MIN TXT

+682 29680 www.bluesky.co.ck BlueskyCookIslands Bluesky_CK bluesky_ck bluesky_ck

CoOK ISLANDS SuN ISLAND LIFE 9

RaA grreaot ntigohtnougt ina!
“Thias nSdpeBcutaffcceuutllaDturinrOanvleedrreilWsigaahntte!ar”uNthigehnttiSchow

LONG ACKNOWLEDGED AS THE Nui’s Spectacular Over Water
LEADING PROVIDER OF CULTURAL Night Show and Buffet Dinner
ENTERTAINMENT IN THE COOK ISLANDS, TE is an authentic cultural delight!
VARA NUI VILLAGE WON THE ‘PEOPLE’S CHOICE
AWARD’ AT THE MOST RECENT COOK ISLANDS As they say at Te Vara Nui
TOURISM AWARDS; THAT WAS NO SURPRISE AS Village, quite simply: “This
THE IMPRESSIVE OVERWATER CULTURAL SHOW IS special place of tribute to
WORLD-CLASS. our distinctive culture and
its breathtaking setting will
F rom the moment you torchlight on floating and remain in your memory long
step into Te Vara fixed stages within a waterfall after you return home."
Nui Village you will garden. And, let’s not forget
engage with local Maori the delectable island-western The Te Vara Nui Spectacular
people who will share their fusion buffet dinner, which in Overwater Extravaganza
stories and their heritage; and itself is spectacular. happens in Muri every Tuesday,
Rarotonga’s finest dancers and Thursday and Saturday evening
musicians will entertain you Located in the heart of the from 7.30pm. Call 24 006.
as they perform by flaming Muri, a night out at Te Vara

WINNER OF AIR NZ TOURISM AWARDS - SUPREME AWARD, TOURS & ATTRACTION 2017 & PEOPLE'S CHOICE 2018 ! Muri Beach
Phone 24006

10 I S L A N D L I F E CoOK ISLANDS SuN

The last straw

TOURISM IS BOOMING AND FOR THE COOK Significantly for CITC the
ISLANDS THAT MEANS ADDITIONAL STRESS ON program was funded from the
OUR PRISTINE ENVIRONMENT AND ECOSYSTEMS, proceeds of the sale of plastic
SO WE HAD A CHAT WITH COOK ISLANDS’ LARGEST bags in CITC’s retail outlets.
CORPORATION AND THE BIGGEST EMPLOYER
OUTSIDE GOVERNMENT, CITC (COOK ISLANDS are usually leading the way in CITC also drive an initiative
TRADING CORPORATION), TO FIND OUT WHAT most of those areas. I think involving discarded cardboard
THEY ARE DOING TO HELP RELIEF THE PRESSURE where people see us as being centred at Foodland in
ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND TO SUSTAIN THE COOK the biggest, and a bit of a downtown Avarua.
ISLANDS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS. monopoly, we're not, we've got
lots of competition within all “Anybody can drop off their

areas of our business”. cardboard to Foodland. We

Certainly, one of the compact it and separate it into
areas of differentiation
CITC is is CITC’s Environment colored and non-colored. The
everywhere Sustainability Policy,
in Rarotonga; part of which states: As ones that are colored get bailed
they import, distribute, a business leader, we
wholesale and retail a will take initiatives to and sent overseas at our cost.
vast range of products guide our community in
from building materials, environmental protection. A New Zealand company
food and beverages, We will work with
to pharmaceuticals, Government and Non- reuses the cardboard. Local Leading the way with environmental products
clothing, electrical Government organisations farmers use the non-coloured
goods and furniture. and community interests cardboard, which contains no “People today want less of other stores as well. So
Most of CITC’s revenue to determine and promote chemicals, for composting in chemicals going into their own whatever changes we make
is derived from tourism, specific initiatives to taro patches for example”. bodies. But as far as chemicals filters down through the
or tourism-related protect and enhance our going into the lagoon, in small stores. That's one of
businesses. environment… CITC are a big importer of particular, the Ministry of the big things for us; what we
fruits and vegetables; their Marine Resources approached do makes a difference to the
Gaye Whitta is Gaye said the key to preference is to bring in as us to ask if we would consider whole country,” said Shannon.
their Environment much of that produce in going Oxybenzone free.
the energetic chief Sustainability Policy is training cardboard. It is clear CITC engage in best
CITC staff and getting them “Straight away we advised all environmental practices when
executive officer of the aboard with the company’s “Where we can, we just buy our suppliers we would not be they make purchase choices
programs and initiatives. local; it’s better because it's importing any products with for their retail and wholesale
fresher. We do bring in some Oxybenzone, which included businesses; each year adding
“Part of the induction for produce in polystyrene
corporation, which Gaye Whiita, General Manager of CITC new employees includes containers to reduce more to the list of
includes a department environmental training; they the damage to the things they can do
learn about recycling and likes of broccoli and to reduce the impact
store - CITC Avarua, CITC “There's no law that bans waste management, and all cauliflower. But then on the environment,
Pharmacy, the CITC Building polystyrene; there's no law that things green. It comes down to we re-use all of that. predominantly from
Centre, CITC Liquor, CITC bans phosphate soap powders, education!” We also encourage imported products.
Supermarket, Foodland, there is nothing there! As a people to reuse the
and three convenience stores company, we had to look at the “Education about caring for polystyrene if they are “This year we stopped
around Rarotonga: Oasis sustainability of the country the environment in Rarotonga going back overseas; importing plastic
Energy, Kavera Central and because that's our income,” really starts in the schools. if they buy their fish straws. So this year
KAPS Matavera; in addition said Gaye. That's why we started a they can transport it in was the last straw!”
to CITC Duty Free at the campaign through the primary beamed Gaye.
schools with a bin project,
airport. “When former New Zealand donating a new recycling polystyrene. That also “And, in 2020 we will
station. applies to chestnuts or no longer import single
Notably CITC are proud prime minister Helen Clark any local produce”. use plastic bags. We
of their ‘Environment spoke to business leaders here “The schools and the teachers
Sustainability Policy’ and their earlier this year, she pointed wanted to be involved with it. CITC Pharmacy aim to be plastic bag
staunch commitment to the out that you can't rely on So whenever we introduced free!
future of the Cook Islands. government to do everything. a bin system, George George under the leadership CITC recycling bins
We know that the government (CITC’s key brands manager) of manager Shannon “CITC really is
would go out and talk to leading the way with this; it is
We asked Gaye what the is always going to be on the the students about sorting, Saunders, who has since sunscreens and some facial actually our corporate tagline,”
and how it can save on the returned to New Zealand, products as well”. said Gaye.
connection was between being back foot. It always takes too environment.” has steered the pharmacy
long for them to make any “I think for anything to work
the biggest corporation in in the Cook Islands, you need
Rarotonga and conceiving an change, so what little we can in support of CITC’s to have good direction. And
do, hopefully will make a big environmental sustainability Oxybenzone is an endocrine that's where we come from
environmental sustainability policy, particularly in the disruptor that interferes with as CITC, we've got good
change to the future”. quest to reduce the amount of the ecosystems in lagoons, in direction and we can use that
policy. chemicals entering lagoons and particular the growth of coral. direction to help shape the
landfill. future of the Cook Islands.
Gaye explained there were not CITC are the biggest in just Shannon said ideally the ban
enough government guidelines about every business area Shannon said CITC Pharmacy on Oxybenzone would be “We will continue to work
or importation legislation they operate, but they are not opt for natural product legislated so visitors would be with the government (I sit
at the moment, suggesting without competition. options in every section of the discouraged from bringing on the Waste Management
CITC could do ‘pretty well pharmacy. products into the Cook Islands Committee), the local Te
want it wanted’ as there’s really “In all of our areas we have containing the chemical,
nothing to stop them. strong competition, but we

resulting in confiscation and

possibly a fine.

“Just like when you come into Ipukarea Society, a non-
a country where you're not
government organisation
allowed to bring in fruit and
dedicated to the health and
vegetables; there would be
well being of the Cook Islands,
a bin offered to drop in the
Rotary, and others who
banned items.
approach us with worthwhile

Panorama of CITC Avarua “And, because we're the biggest initiatives to help sustain the
importer, what we bring into environment of the Cook
the country is sold to a lot Islands into the future”.

Supporting Sustainability in the Cook Islands

No No Say NO
single serve Plastic to Plastic
polystyrene Straws
Bags
food
containers No No
Phosphates Oxybenzone

Continuing to minimise our impact on the environment

CoOK ISLANDS SuN A1 M E ITAKI AWARDS 11

Tourism operators recognised with
A1 Meitaki Awards

2019 MARKS THE FOURTH YEAR OF A1 MEITAKI customer service to our Burger Joint, Desiree Palomo
AWARD PRESENTATIONS TO WORTHY TOURISM visitors. The A1 Meitaki from Avana Waterfront
OPERATORS IN RAROTONGA AND AITUTAKI. WHAT Awards is one way that we Apartments, Kura Happ,
IS SPECIAL ABOUT THE AWARDS IS THAT THE ONLY can give that recognition Muri Beachcomber, Matutu
REWARD THE INDIVIDUAL OR BUSINESS RECEIVES to those members of Brewery, Danny Mataroa,
IS PUBLIC RECOGNITION AND A CERTIFICATE. the industry who show Chad Hicks of Destination
RECIPIENTS CAN ONLY BE DESIGNATED BY passion in the way they Cook Islands and formerly of
VISITORS FILLING IN A NOMINATION FORM, EITHER look after their guests and Hawaiki Villas, Louisa Charlie
AT A COOK ISLANDS TOURISM INFORMATION clients”. formerly of Club Raro, Paul
OFFICE, OR AT THE AIRPORT DEPARTURE HALL AT and Michelle of Castaway
RAROTONGA AIRPORT. The Prime Minister Resort, Captain Tamas
Henry Puna, who is also Lagoon Cruises, Café Jireh,
The master of ceremonies “Cook Islands Tourism Minister for Tourism, Steph Jansen of Raro Reef Sub,
and driving force behind encourages Tupuranga Tangata was unable to make the Sunset Palms Rarotonga, Dr.
the A1 Meitaki Awards, or ‘development of our people’ presentations at this year’s Nick Stephany of the Ministry
Metua Vaiimene, who is Cook as one of the principles of our awards so he nominated of Education, Caroline Parel
Islands Tourism’s Director of Mana Tiaki values under the Kia Orana Ambassador, of Pacific Resort, Little
Destination Development, Kia Orana Values programme. Aunty Nane Papa to Polynesian Resort, Kiikii
said at this year’s Rarotonga Kia Orana, Mana Tiaki, and present the certificates on Motel, Antonia Poa of Captain
presentation ceremony: Tupuranga Tangata: These his behalf. Tamas Lagoon Cruises,
values and principles have Chantal Napa of Chantal’s
“We gather to acknowledge the been adopted by the tourism This past year there were Concierge, David Putairi at
people in the tourism industry industry. This means that we the Rarotongan Beach Resort
and the Rarotonga community will all celebrate, acknowledge, over 500 nominations, Hotel, Alone Aumaro formerly
who provide authentic and reward those members of of Shipwreck Hut Beach Bar
customer service to our visitors. our industry that work with however only the top 35 and Aroa Beachside Inn,
Through their friendly and passion to show our visitors Lagoon Breeze Villas, Coral
professional engagement with how we love our home – the individuals or businesses Sands Apartments, Josephine
our visitors, members of the Cook Islands. Tupuranga Jessie formerly of Ikurangi Eco
community continue to ensure Tangata means that we will for Rarotonga are Retreat, Charlie’s Café and
that any of our visitors can reward and recognise the Beach Hire, Thomas Ngauru
access the wonders of our little skills, knowledge, talent and presented with an A1 and Cook Islands Badminton.
paradise. The award winner that
Koka Lagoon Cruises received the highest number of nominations of any business Meitaki Award certificate. received the highest number
of nominations over the past
or individual. Pictured with the A1 Meitaki certificate is Serena Hunter This year A1 Meitaki 18 months was Koka Lagoon
Cruises.
passion in our people in the members of our tourism Award recipients were:
tourism industry. industry, some are individuals, Ikurangi Eco Retreat, Cook “I am so proud that five Cook
and some are businesses that Islands Library and Museum Islands Tourism staff members
Today, we recognise and have shown this exceptional Society, Tumutoa Tours were placed in the top 35 this
acknowledge particular Ngametua Mamanu, Villis year: Marthalina Opuariki,
Tony Fe'ao, Ani Katu,
Lydia Nga, and Nane Papa,”
concluded Metua Vaiimene.

AITUTAKI:

There was also an A1

1 2 3 4 Meitaki Award presentation
in Aitutaki, the 2019

CAPTIONS: recipients were: Arerua ‘Ali’

1. Coral Sands Apartments: L-R Maao-The Vaka Cruise,

Vanissa, Brent and Eve Hayden, Vaikoa Units, Aitutaki
and Eren Village, Etu Moana

2. Musician Kura Happ with Aunty Resort, Aitutaki Lagoon
Nane Resort, Bubbles Below,
Elaine Savage-Aitutaki
3. Matutu Brewery’s Eric Newnham Village, Teumere Koteka-
with Aunty Nane Heather-Aitutaki Escape,

4. Steph Jansen from Reef Sub with
Aunty Nane

5. Castaway Resort’s Paul Ash with Paul Turepu-The Vaka

Aunty Nane Cruise, Andrew Rave-The

6. Tumutoa Tours’ Ngametua Vaka Cruise, The Vaka

Mamanu Cruise, and Pacific Resort,

7. Debra Graham from Café Jireh Aitutaki.
7 with Aunty Nane
5 6

COOK ISLANDS HOLIDAY VILLAS
Cook Islands Tourism Awards 2018-2019
“Cook Islands News Business Sustainability Award 2018-2019”

TURANGI LAGOON VILLAS TUORO HOLIDAY VILLAS MURI LAGOON VILLA BLUE LAGOON VILLA BLUE LAGOON 5 BDRM VILLA
Our Turangi Lagoon Villa is a 4 bedroom, Our Tuoro Holiday Villa is a 4 bedroom, Our Muri Lagoon Villa is a 2 bedroom, Our Blue Lagoon Villa is a 1 bedroom, Our Blue Lagoon 5 BDRM villa

2 bathroom complex that can fit a 2 bathroom complex that fits a 1 bathroom complex that can fit a 1 bathroom complex that can fit a located behind our 1 bedroom villa.
maximum of 8 people. There are two maximum of 8 people. There are four maximum of 4 people. maximum of 3 people. Can accommodate 10 people in our
villas situated on one property on the villas situated on one property on the fully self-contained villa and is a 40
back road in the village of Arorangi. This villa is situated right on the This villa is located 20 metres from
sea side in the village of Turangi. beach in the village of Muri. beach front metre walk from beachfront.

HONEYMOON AND WEDDING PACKAGES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

EMAIL: [email protected] PHONE: +68252321 WEBSITE: WWW.COOKISLANDSHOLIDAYVILLAS.COM

12 I S L A N D L I F E CoOK ISLANDS SuN

Helpful hints for first time
visitors to Rarotonga

Belinda and Andrew Griffin, formerly of Rumours Luxury Villas & Spa

Belinda & Andrew Griffin are a couple of joyful Café, or takeaway Sushi and THE Multi Award Winning
Australian adventurers who until recently ran smoothies from Body Fuel in ★★★★★
Rumours Luxury Villas and Rumours Waterfall the market area and sit on the
Spa in Muri. Over the past five years they became rocks overlooking the ocean. WATERFALL SPA
experienced in offering their guests suggestions on
how to make the most of holidaying in Rarotonga. Some recommended INDOOR WATERFALLS
These are some of the helpful hints they offered top photo spots VICHY SHOWER
their guests.
Sunsets! Sooo many spots on COUPLES ROMANCE MASSAGES & VARIOUS OTHER MASSAGES
Relax his own coffee roasting house the west coast: head to almost HALF DAY ESCAPES
in Matavera - located near any beach or beach bar!
Interact with the locals the KAPS store for that During the day take a snap at FACIALS & BODY SCRUBS
wherever you can; they early morning fix (closes at the ‘leaning’ palms beachside PEDICURES & MANICURES
really are friendly. A good 11am). Muri township has it at the defunct Sheraton FULLY TR AINED THER APISTS
introduction we recommend covered: Ariki Café serves up Hotel; the back roads and
to our guests is to head off to spectacular cold brew coffee… planted fields of Rarotonga MAIN ROAD, MURI BEACH, RAROTONGA
Charlie’s for lunch or dinner LBV and Deli-Lious Café are photogenic; venture into +682 22 551 [email protected]
(or both), and enjoy their local serve constantly good coffee. the lagoon and take a shot
family hospitality and good back towards the island and w w w. r u m o u r s - ra r o t o n ga .co m
vibes. Beluga in Arorangi, where you its ‘gob smacking’ landscapes.
will find ‘Clarke Kent’ behind There are some beautiful
Explore Rarotonga’s coast (and the coffee machine serving homes and old forgotten
inland) at your own pace; be up a meal in a cup! Beluga houses that dot the island.
that on the buses; or rented also supports local artisans by Many of your best images
vehicle; there is so much to see stocking a range of gifts. will be on tour: from lagoon
and do! cruises, to inland adventures,
The Café located at and trekking. Sunrise at Muri tip… search her out as a ‘must Centre in Aro’a Beach; and at years ago has given us the
Experience lagoon life in Beachcomber in town; Lagoon is special for the keen see’ act whilst on Rarotonga. Black Rock in Nikao. They opportunity to share our love
so many ways: snorkeling, dependably great coffee served photographer! Antipodes at Black Rock all have wonderful marine for this island with the outside
kayaking, SUP paddleboards barefoot with a smile - drop opens at 5pm on a Sunday - reserves. If you love snorkeling world. What do we love most?
(day & night), kitesurfing, or in and spin some cool Retro Nice place to eat and head up the hill and enjoy a be sure to book a sea-scooter The people, the people, the
have fun just cruising to the tunes on the turntable while relax on a Sunday spectacular sunset drinks, live tour with Ariki Adventures - people; did we mention... the
motu (little islands) in the you enjoy your brew. afternoon music, and dinner (booking very James Bond! people?
lagoon at Muri for a swim and essential).
a BBQ lunch. Getting your scooter license? Order a spectacular Gourmet Things we love about The colours, the culture,
There’s a great tiny coffee Picnic Basket, Platter or BBQ Some of the top Rarotonga the smiles, the laughter, the
Enjoy an island night show,, or outlet called Salt located right pack from Jenny and Grant at snorkelling spots on local community and their
try the ‘Progressive Dinner’ for next door to the Police Station Island Platters; given 24 hours the island Do you mean besides the passion and vision for their
an insight into the lives of the in town. notice they will deliver and super stunning environment; environment and future -
locals. But the BEST way to you can do your own thing! Most of Rarotonga’s lagoon palm tree laden landscape, be prepared to fall in love -
start your holiday is booking in Or, need a pick me up at beaches offer ideal snorkeling. and pristine unpopulated we did!
with the multi-award winning the end of the day? Nautilus Nice places include Hidden Three spots we recommend beaches? Buying the business
Rumours Waterfall Spa! Restaurant in Muri does a Spirit Café at the Maire Nui are: the Fruits of Rarotonga in of running Rumours Luxury Belinda & Andrew Griffin
great Espresso Martini. Tropical Gardens; Sunday Tikioki; in front of the Dive Villas and Spa nearly five
If you get the opportunity, lunches at Tuoro Restaurant
spend a full day in Aitutaki on Things to do in the at Black Rock (you must
an Air Rarotonga package; the township of Avarua book) are always good value
lagoon there is considered the accompanied by the sweet
worlds best! Take a relaxing walk along turns of Kura Happ - top
the waterfront, great views
Some places to sip on including the SS Maitai Access & Benefit Sharing Inspired by traditional, scientifically-proven,
shipwreck…clearly visible Cook Islands regenerative medicines
cally-ptahrceooscvuknetasenilta,nd watch off-shore; visit Avarua’s
dicinesBuy a fresh coconut off a white washed CICC (Cook A key ingredient in the TeTika® Skincare
Islands Christian Church), range, Bioactive Cook Islands Oils are the
roadside vendor – top it up which was built in 1853; result of intense research into the traditional
ook IslandswOitihlsrum & pineapple juice across the road from CICC Cook Islands medicinal practices.
sdlaenrmdsismoef dth(sbicfieeopianrsocaakhnlip,npysi.oñrlaiuapcrcytvoioceluareydrsas.o)hw,ownesaSlokofufttoahnthde is the Cook Islands Library These remarkable oils have a rejuvenating
CITC PharmPaacciyficincoAcvkatariul!a. and Museum Society effect on the epidermis of the skin.
building, special for local
Alternatively, there are history lovers. Close by is See the full range of the TeTika® Skincare
fabulous beach bars dotted the historic Beachcomber products at CITC Pharmacy in Avarua.
around the island – some of building, a favourite drop
our favorites: the Sunset Bar at in spot: encompasses an art www.tetika.cInos.pcirked by traditional, scientifically-proven,
OTB Restaurant…they make gallery, a lovely retails shop,
a great Coconut Mojito; head and The Café for breakfast Cook Islands regenerative medicines
up the hill at Black Rock to or lunch.
Antipodes for the best sunset A key ingredient in the TeTika® Skincare range, Bioactive Cook Islands Oils
view and their rum punch On Saturday mornings are the result of intense research into the traditional Cook Islands medicinal practices.
cocktails; the cocktails at the These remarkable oils have a rejuvenating effect on the epidermis of the skin.
Shipwreck Hut Beach Bar are wander around the Punanga See the full range of the TeTika® Skincare products at CITC Pharmacy in Avarua.
served in jam-jars; Wilsons gNruabi Myoaurrkferte:sLbhAelNyeDabSralkyBetIdoOACTIVE
Beach Bar at Castaway Resort goods, almond croissants
is humming at sunset!
and yummy sausage rolls
Need a designated driver?
Book a ‘Cocktail Hop’ with from VMV.
Tik-e Tours - lots of fun on COOK IS
their electric tuk tuks! LANDS

Nice places to enjoy a COOK IS
coffee and relax LANDS
Eat out at a couple of our OILS
We are so spoilt for choice; MA
with some excellent baristas favorites: Trade Jacks - rub
on the island… some of our OILS
favorites: Neil Dearlove at shoulders with the locals,MA
cthoeldbbDeEesetIrNp, iazTnzHdaEsroeClniOshO K
grab a IS
one of

the island whilst sitting LANDS BIOACTIVE

waterside; then catch a DE IN THE COOK IS
AVAIL ABLE AT
movie at The Empire AVAIL ABLE AT
PHARMACY
Theatre across the road.

Enjoy a quiet lunch by the

pool at The Lazy Trout PHARMACY

www.citc.co.ck • www.tetika.com.au

CoOK ISLANDS SuN ISLAND LIFE 13

R omanceon the Beach
SET AMONGST FIVE ACRES OF TROPICAL “It is a beautiful setting
BEACHSIDE GARDENS, THE ADULTS-ONLY that allows for privacy and
CROWN BEACH RESORT & SPA IN ARORANGI intimacy to celebrate special
IS A POPULAR CHOICE FOR TRAVELLERS occasions, or simply to spoil
INTERESTED IN UNDERSTATED LUXURY, A your loved one. You can even
HIGH STANDARD SERVICE, AND SUNSETS! surprise your loved one with a
Romantic Dinner on the Beach
The resort’s ‘Romantic from an exclusive menu as our team is fully equipped to Couples in particular enjoy the lagoon-side location and it’s intimacy at the Crown Beach Resort
Dinner on the Beach’ designed especially for the help you plan surprise dinners,
is one of the more occasion. or even proposals, to make a Bring home Rito
exceptional indulgences offered lasting memory. The package
on Rarotonga. A beachfront With the magnificent sunset as includes a delicious 3-course Visitors to the Cook
gazebo is the setting for a the backdrop, this distinctive dinner from a special menu, a Islands enjoy
perfect dinner in the tropics, Rarotonga dining experience is bottle of bubbles, special setup taking home gifts
never to be forgotten. Set up extraordinarily memorable for with chosen theme colour, and for friends and relatives,
with white linen, silverware, guests and for dining visitors to your own personal headwaiter.
glassware, flowers, candles, the Crown Beach Resort. but struggle with what to
fairy lights and flaming tiki “Due to the success of the
torches, the three-course General Manager of the ‘Romantic Dinner on the
gourmet dinner is selected Crown Beach Resort, Sierra Beach’, we now offer a
Glade, said: ‘Romantic Breakfast on the
Beach’ including a bottle
of bubbles, which many buy that is authentically
honeymoon couples are raving
over! Newlyweds are some Rarotongan. The
of those who experience
this beautiful and intimate skincare products made
breakfast on their first
morning as husband and with cold-pressed virgin
wife!”
coconut oils by Rito Cook

Islands are ideal. Visit

Rito at their workshop in

Tikioki near Muri, or pop

in to their retail hut at

Punanga Nui Market on Left: Rito Coffee & Sugar Body Scrub, coconut, macadamia oils and scented with vanilla.
any Saturday. Right: Rito Tangerine, Coffee, Coconut & Peppermint Soaps with a flower Ei Katu.

‘ROMANCE ON THE BEACH’ arotonga
Naturally ac
Spa MORNINGS 7.30am - 10.00am tive skincare made on the island of R
EVENINGS 5.30pm - 9.00pm

For bookings or enquiries
T: +682 23 953

E: [email protected]
W: www.crownbeach.com
Fb: Crown Beach Resort & Spa

Ariki

Relax, Refresh, Renew...

MASSAGE | FACIAL | MANICURE | PEDICURE Visit us 150m on the Muri side of the Fruits of Raro
EXFOLIATION | WAXING | HAIRST YLING & MORE Phone +682 20 134 or email [email protected]

Open Monday – Saturday 10am - 6pm
Phone 23953 Email [email protected]

100% Tik-e tours
Electric

pampering in paradise ...  Cocktail happy hour
relaxing massages, therapies hopping

& beauty treatments  Personalised island tours
Open Mon to Sun  Wedding limo service
8.30am to 5.30pm  Airport transfers
 The most fun you’ll have
Late night Thursday to 9.00pm
ph: 25435 ext 7031 on 3 wheels
 Show your support and be
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
Edgewater Resort & Spa environmentally friendly

14 D I N I N G & E N T E R TA I N M E N T CoOK ISLANDS SuN

ISLAND NIGHT SHOWS ON RAROTONGA Kikau Hut is a charmer

They are colourful, energetic and entertaining and, combined with a buffet-style feast, they THE CIRCULAR SPACE OF KIKAU
are good value for money. Enquire about the different Island Nights on offer; some are HUT’S INTERIOR DINING AREA IS
smaller, intimate shows, others larger, spectacular shows with bigger audiences. Always COMPLIMENTED BY ALFRESCO
book to avoid disappointment. Note: details are correct at time of publication, but may OPTIONS IN THIS AUTHENTIC
change seasonally. Always check with venue. RAROTONGA-STYLE RESTAURANT. ITS
CHARM EMANATES FROM ITS RELAXED
VENUE & SHOW DETAILS ATMOSPHERE, GENUINE SERVICE, AND
YUMMY FOOD.
* Family & group rates available; enquire with venue

DAY DINNER / SHOW BOOKINGS COST Husband and wife were looking
Gordon Brown and to sell,” said
MONDAY 7.00pm/8.00pm 21 924 $110 adult / $65 child (6-11 yrs). Rebecca Churchill Rebecca.
Highland Paradise Cultural Centre 7.30pm/8.30pm Includes transfers. bought the business in 2015.
TUESDAY English-born New Zealander
Te Vara Nui Village Gordon is a civil engineer “We knew
by profession; Rebecca is a
24 006 $109 adult ($119 with transfer) / $49 kiwi accountant who owns the restaurant
21 003 child (6-11) a consulting and marketing
25 435 $49 adult / $20 child (5-12). Show only agency in New Zealand. and decided to
$15pp Rebecca said when she first
The Islander Hotel 7.00pm/8.30pm $65 adult / $25 child (7-12). Includes visited Rarotonga in 2001 buy the place,
transfers. Show only $15pp. she fell in love with the place
and vowed to live here one even though Head chef Mata Marsters with Kikau Hut co-owner
day. When she met Gordon,
The Edgewater Resort & Spa 7.00pm/8.30pm 21 924 $110 adult / $65 child (6-11 yrs). they visited together and I had just set Rebecca Churchill like Nina and Lou, others have
WEDNESDAY 23 000 Includes transfers. soon shared the same vision, up my new business. Gordon come in since. We knew how
Highland Paradise Cultural Centre 7.00pm/8.00pm $59 adult/$35 child (5-11) returning every year, always was really passionate about the fantastic Mata Marsters was in
Muri Beach Club Hotel 7.00pm/8.00pm keeping a watch out for a business, and it was agreed I charge of the kitchen.”
THURSDAY 7.30pm/8.30pm business to buy. would come up regularly.
Te Vara Nui Village “Whilst on holiday, my aunty
24 006 $109 adult ($119 with transfer) / $49 and uncle dined at Kikau “We were getting close to Mata recently created a new
23 953 child (6-11) Hut. They chatted with the Raro; we had got married menu with emphasis on local
$55 adult / $30 child (3-12). Show only owners who mentioned they here. We started to build a real produce, including fresh ocean
$15pp connection and an extended fish daily fulfilling Kikau’s
Kikau Hut Restaurant family within Rarotonga, ‘Catch to Plate’ promise.

Crown Beach Resort 6.30pm/8.30pm so buying Kikau Hut really We asked Mata what his
FRIDAY 7.00pm/8.00pm
Highland Paradise Cultural Centre 7.30pm/8.30pm changed our lives!” favorite dish was to cook,
SATURDAY
Te Vara Nui Village 21 924 $110 adult / $65 child (6-11 yrs). Rebecca said they also have a and he gently murmured
Includes transfers. close connection to the Kikau ‘Mata’s Scollops’. According to
Hut staff: “some we inherited Kikau’s entrée menu the dish
is made with ‘scallops, rukau

24 006 $109 adult ($119 with transfer) / $49 and tomatoes poached in
25 435 child (6-11)
21 003 $65 adult / $25 child (7-12). Includes Chef ’s own masala sauce,
transfers. Show only $15pp.
The Edgewater Resort & Spa 7.00pm/8.30pm $49 adult / $20 child (5-12). Show only dusted with parmesan
$15pp
cheese, lightly grilled and

The Islander Hotel 7.00pm/8.30pm served with sliced melba

toast.’

PERFORMERS Kikau Hut Restaurant
features a menu of
Crown Beach Resort: Muri Beach Club Hotel: European food with island
Akirata Dance Troupe & Fire Dance Akirata Dance Troupe flavours, home made
The Islander Hotel: desserts, and live music
The Edgewater Resort & Spa: Akirata Dance Troupe every Monday. T: 26860;
Ta’akoka Dance Troupe Te Vara Nui Village: E: [email protected];
Spectacular Overwater Extravaganza. www.kikauhut.com.
Highland Paradise Cultural Centre: The Legend of Tongaiti.
Home of the Tinomona Tribe;
E Matike Dance Troupe

Matutu – the taste of the Cook Islands.

Started in 2006 Made using No added Amazing beers
100% locally sustainable preservatives All natural
owned practices ingredients

Handcrafted by No sugar
E. Newnham added
& J. Puati

Tours Daily at 12pm and 1pm. Tours only $15. Pick up/drop off fee is $5 per person.
Free beer tasting on tour.

Visit us in Tikioki, Titikaveka. Telephone: 26288. Email: [email protected]

CoOK ISLANDS SuN DINING & E NTE RTAIN M E NT 15

GETTING MARRIED IN Hotel have tried to help
make things a little more
OUR ‘LITTLE PARADISE’ economical by providing
an ‘All Inclusive Package’,
WE ASKED TERINA TEIRI-KARAI THE WEDDING which is for 30 friends and
& EVENTS MANAGER FOR MURI BEACH CLUB family for $6999 (NZD)
HOTEL A FEW QUESTIONS ABOUT GETTING that includes the ceremony
MARRIED IN RAROTONGA. and paperwork taken care
of, reception venue, lead
“C hoosing a ‘Destination What are the legal in buffet for 30 guests,
Wedding’ means no formalities for getting standard drinks package
stress, just having married in Rarotonga? for 3 hours, single tier cake,
to show up, and enjoy the best and of course for you - a 30
moment of your life. Embrace As long as we have a copy minutes couples massage.
the culture of the Cook Islands, of your passports, birth As an extra incentive we
immerse yourself in the beauty of certificates (in English), and can top this off with 5
the land and lagoon, engage the if necessary divorce papers or nights in a beachfront room
hospitality of the people, and let death certificates, we can apply if you have friends and
this be the backdrop of your ideal for the marriage licence. The family stay with us for a
wedding, your dream wedding, Registrar requires at least 3 full total of 15 nights.
here in Rarotonga!” working days prior to the date
set for the wedding for us to Describe MBCH and ‘Just Married’ scooter
What are the advantages apply for the marriage licence;
of getting married in it can be done within that time its packages offered Married Muri Magic Package’,
Rarotonga? but we need to pay a waiver for weddings groups and whereby if you stay with us
fee, which is an additional honeymoons for 7 nights you can take
For New Zealanders it’s $75. The couple also both
perfect! We are only a few need to be present, as they are Teiri-Karai from the Muri Beach Club Hotel We are an adults only boutique advantage of this awesome
hours away and we operate in required to sign the paperwork hotel set on the white sandy deal which includes, a picnic
New Zealand Dollars. For in front of the registry staff. detail with the arrangements day it your dream come true. beach of the Muri lagoon. On lunch day, breakfast in bed
others from around the world Unfortunately, at the moment, of the local flowers that The best thing is that wedding the shoreline of the lagoon, day, and of course a pampering
Raro is still the perfect place we are legally not allowed to suit the occasion, and the organisers like me are here with the ocean and little islet for 30 minutes in our spa with
for a Destination Wedding: it’s marry same sex couples on budget. There are excellent to support you, help you, and providing the backdrop for the a blissful ‘couples massage’.
a tropical paradise where you, the island. Other things that photographers to capture the organise everything for you. perfect wedding ceremony, We have a comprehensive
your family and friends can need to be considered are the moment; and the hair and you can get married with the wedding booklet that has
combine a memorable wedding celebrant and location of the makeup artists that find the What factors determine sand between your toes. With more information about our
with either a tranquil holiday, wedding, as these details are natural beauty of a person the overall cost of a a choice of your reception services that I’m happy to mail
or an action packed one! Also, vital for the marriage licence. without making you look, or wedding in Rarotonga? venue we set up with your to you. Nothing is too big or
filing for the paperwork is feel overwhelmed. There are vision in mind. From two too small, we can control just
so much easier as you only What wedding support an abundance of transport Airfares and accommodation guests to 120 guests we are about anything except for the
need to be on the island at services are available? providers if you wanted a are the main factors, however here to make memories for weather!
least 3 working days prior to scooter for two, a tuk-tuk for once you add into the equation
your set date, and you only There are so many service six, a van for 12, or a bus for the wedding package, any your wedding day. The ‘Club How to contact Terina?
need a couple of documents; providers on the island who 30. This is the great benefit of additional services not Classic Package’, which is
once the ceremony is over you offer the most professional of such a small island community already provided for such as
are legally married, which is services including florists that that they truly care and you photography, hair and makeup, your ceremony covered for If you would like to know
internationally recognised. have such a beautiful eye for feel the warmth and embrace a little entertainment, then
the spirit of everyone trying these add to the cost. For $1199 you can have this for more about getting married
to make sure your wedding example, Muri Beach Club
an intimate ceremony for two in Rarotonga, or especially

or add on to this package at Muri Beach Club Hotel,

additional services for a larger contact Terina either via

group. If you want a no fuss email on operations@

wedding and have up to 30 muribeachclubhotel.com,

friends and family, we offer or call +682 23000 or +682

the ‘All Inclusive Package’, 76293. More information at

which as the name suggests. www.muribeachclubhotel.com

If by chance you are already or Facebook pages: Weddings

married and have been within at Muri Beach Club Hotel and

six months we offer our ‘Just Muri Beach Club Hotel.

TShpe a w . muribeach cl ubho t e l . c o
Phone 23000 to book
w w m

25 9

ARA T APU 12 4 16
56
17 TUPAPA 11 CoOK ISLANDS SuN G U I D E T O
10 32 2
Eating&Drinki
1 NIKAO AVARUA IN RAROTON
21 20
ARORANGI MATAVERA There is a eclectic variety of dining and drinking experiences on Rarotonga
22 waterfront, beachfront, and in other picturesque settings.
13 14 29 RD You’ll find a wonderful selection of cafés, restaurants, eateries and bars to
AKAOA N RD all around the island.
3

8

7

24 NGATAnGIIA

19 18

RUTAKI MURI 15

VAIMAANGA TITIKAVEKA 16
31
23 26ARA TAPU

27
28
30

Alberto’s Restaurant 1 Antipodes Restaurant 17 Aqua Café 15 Bond Liquor Store 32 Ca

Located between the Edgewater and Sunset resorts Enjoy breath-taking clifftop panoramic views out over Located at Muri Beach Resort, the Aqua restaurant The No.1 cellars in Rarotonga; check out our huge Op
on the main road in Arorangi. Alberto’s is well known the lagoon and ocean, while sampling Mediterranean and cocktail bar is alfresco poolside dining range. Over 600 wines, all popular spirits, liqueurs, cof
for their steak dishes but also offer seafood, chicken, Inspired Cuisine. Located in a romantic quintessential ‘Polynesian style’ bounded by tropical gardens. Daily beers, RTD’s, mixers, ice, etc. Open Monday to pre
pork, pasta and a fresh salad bar. Small private Mediterranean Villa - with huge outside dinning specials use fresh local ingredients, with fish of the Thursday 9.00am-5.00pm, Friday and Saturday pie
functions catered for. Open Monday to Saturday. terraces. day straight off the boat. Open from 3pm daily for 9.00am-7.00pm. Located on the main road Avarua, fro
The bar opens at 5.30pm with dining between 6.00 cocktails and dinner. opposite the Punanga Nui Market. pa
– 9.00pm. T: 28 873 or 73 900 (pi
E: [email protected] T: 22 779 T: 21 007 Sa
T: 23 597 or 55 725 www.antipodesrarotonga.com E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
E: [email protected] www.muribeachresort.com Fb: The Bond Store T: 2
Fb

Flambé Restaurant 13 Kikau Hut Restaurant 10 Laguna Restaurant & Bar 27 Mal’s Bar at Edgewater Resort 21 M

Flambé offers unique cuisine combining the legends A fusion of European and Pacific flavours, the Kikau Innovative Pacific Cuisine with vistas of the pool Named after Mal Meninga, legendary rugby league Pa
of the Cook Islands with contemporary style. The Hut, located in Arorangi, offers a top-rated friendly and blue lagoon at Muri. Cocktails. Wine. Cold Beer. player and old friend of the Resort, Mal’s Bar is open Ro
exclusive fine dining restaurant offers customers full and casual dining experience. Open from 6pm seven Located at the Moana Sands Lagoon Resort. Adults 10am to midnight. A nice place to be any time of day, dai
air-conditioning or outside tropical courtyard bar & days a week with live music on Mondays and a free only. Open daily from 8am to close. or just waiting for the sunset. Enjoy the wide variety pla
dining area. Open 6pm Friday and Saturday. 16+ years. transfer service available by prior arrangement. of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including
Live Fire Show on Friday. T: 29 926 a fine collection of international wines, local and T: 2
T: 26 860 www.facebook.com/LagunaRarotonga/ imported beers and spirits, as well as a range of ma
T: 23 953 E: [email protected] juices and exotic tropical cocktails. fac
E: [email protected] www.kikauhut.com
www.crownbeach.com Fb: Kikau.Hut T: 25 475 • E: [email protected]
www.edgewater.co.ck

Ocean’s Restaurant & Bar 14 OTB Restaurant & Sunset Bar 3 Progressive Dinner Shipwreck Hut Beach Bar 19 Si

Relaxed private dining on the waterfront with vistas Beachfront dining at award-winning OTB is enhanced The Progressive Dinner Tour takes you to the homes The Shipwreck Hut is an authentic beach bar situated Op
of the beach, lagoon and sunsets, Oceans Restaurant by the restaurant’s sandy floor, kikau thatched roof, of Cook Islands families to share their tasty local right on the sand at Aro’a Beachside Inn. Perfectly Mo
& Bar offers all-day dining including breakfast, and contemporary Polynesian inspired menu. Open: food, and their stories. This is a relaxed wine and dine positioned to enjoy the sunset sipping a famous ‘jam- the
lunch and dinner seven days a week. Breakfast from breakfast, lunch & dinner, OTB also features Happy experience visiting three homes for entrée, mains, jar cocktail’ or cold beer. Open daily from 5.00pm, the on
8.00am-10.30am, lunch from 11.30am - 2.30pm, and Hour from 3-6 pm, and live music from Wed-Sun, and dessert. When enjoying your meals at each Shipwreck Hut offers a range of drinks and bar meals, Nig
dinner from 6.30pm - 9.00pm. Happy hour is daily from and a BBQ & Dessert Buffet with Island Strings on home, you will be delighted by the sounds of local with live music on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. is e
4.30pm - 6.30pm. Sun. Free pick ups for guests who choose the min. ukuleles, guitar and voices of the small string band
3-course table d’hôte menu at $49.50 & BBQ Sunday. that will accompany you throughout your local dining T: 22 166 • E: [email protected] T: 2
T: 23 953 experience. Monday and Thursday from 5.30pm. www.aroabeach.com E:
E: [email protected] ww
www.crownbeachresort.com T: 22 461 • E: [email protected] T: 20 639 • www.cookislandstours.co.ck
Fb: OTB • www.manuia.co.ck E: [email protected]

The Lucky Rooster Eatery 5

The Lazy Trout Café 2 The Lucky Rooster Eatery (formerly Café Salsa) is The Palms Restaurant & Rumba 11 8 Th
a popular bistro & meeting place serving all day
Located in Avarua, The Lazy Trout offers stylish breakfast & lunch. Relaxed atmosphere & family Located at Club Raro in Tupapa, dine in our popular The Waterline Restaurant & Beach Bar Th
alfresco all-day breakfast and lunch, surrounded friendly. Freshly cooked food & chilled drinks Palms Restaurant or have lunch or evening nibbles ove
by our beautiful tropical garden, clear blue pool, including barista coffee, smoothies, beers, wines & along our waterfront and poolside areas. We offer à la The ultimate for sunset, romantic beachside, or bre
and the stunning views of the mountain. Waffles, cocktails. Variety of catering platters available on carte menu with a wonderful combination of local and ocean view dining; offering a fusion of European, 8.0
espresso coffees, loose leaf teas, freshly baked request. Located downtown Avarua, next to CITC international food. Asian & Pacific cuisine. Wide range wines, beers & car
goods, smoothies, and full beverage list. Open daily Shopping Centre & Pharmacy. Mon – Fri 7.30am– cocktails. Open: lunch & dinner from Mon-Sat; live live
from 8 am, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy 3pm, Sat 7.30am–2pm T: 22 415 entertainment with Garth Young on Tue, and Bryan is a
outstanding cuisine and excellent hospitality. E: [email protected] Rodelas Wed & Fri. Waterline is also a popular ‘one-
T: 22 215 www.clubraro.co.ck stop’ venue for beach weddings & receptions. T: 2
T: 22 025 • E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E:
www.facebook.com/TheLazyTroutRarotonga Fb & Instagram: theluckyroostereatery T: 22 161/53 167 ww
Orders & Bookings: theluckyroostereatery.com E: [email protected]
www.waterline-restaurant.com

CoOK ISLANDS SuN DINING & E NTE RTAIN M E NT 17

king

ONGA

otonga, many on the
ars to consider dotted

32 Café Jireh 25 Charlie’s Rarotonga 30 Coconut Crab Café 24 Deli-Licious Café 31

Opposite the Airport, we’re world famous for our Located on Akapuao Beach, Titikaveka, Charlie’s is Located at the Discover Marine & Wildlife Eco Centre, Located on the main road in Muri, check out our ‘all-
coffee and custard squares. Everything is freshly open Monday to Friday from 11.00am to 8.30pm, Arorangi, the Coconut Crab Café offers tasty food day’ breakfast menu and join us for awesome coffee,
prepared including a huge variety of cakes, slices, and on Saturdays from 11.00am to 3.30pm. Live & drinks to eat-in or takeaway including toasted friendly service and great home-style cooking. Try our
pies, sausage rolls & sandwiches; plus cooked meals music Monday to Friday at 6.30pm, and on Saturdays ‘sammies’, Roti, Sliders, Lasagne, cakes, smoothies, custard square and cheesecake- local favourites. Open
from bacon & eggs and eggs benedict, to island at 1.30pm. Dinner bookings are essential. Friendly teas, & terrific coffee! Open Monday (9.30am) to Sunday-Friday 7.30am-3.00pm. Wi-Fi available.
pancakes, ‘Caveman’ and ‘Mega Angus’ burgers casual eatery with a laidback vibe! Saturday (10.30am on Saturday) until 4.00pm. T: 20 858
(pictured). Open Monday-Friday from 7am-3pm; T: 28 055 T: 23 344 Check us out on Facebook
Saturday from 8.30am - 1.30pm. E: [email protected] www.discoverecocentre.com
T: 24 776 www.charliesraro.com
Fb: CafeJirehRarotonga

12

21 Margaritas Bistro & Bar 6 Matutu Brewery 28 Nautilus Restaurant 16 Nonno Emilio – Ristorante Italiano

Pacific Café style, Margaritas is located on the Main ‘The Taste the Cook Islands’: Daily tours of this tiny Located at Nautilus Resort in Muri, Nautilus Just 150m from the Airport, Nonno Emilio Ristorante
n Road in Avarua. Espresso, cocktails, cold beer. Open brewery just off the main road at Tikioki, Titikaveka, Restaurant is a stylish Polynesian beachfront Italiano (Italian owned & run) offers a variety of
y, daily (except Saturday). All-day breakfast, sharing at 12.00pm & 1.00pm (check roadside board restaurant & chic beach bar that can be enjoyed in authentic Italian specialties, including homemade
y platters, tapas and famous cocktails on happy hour. for changes). Cost $15.00 (+ $5.00 transport, if a fine dining a la carte setting inside, or casually pastas, Neapolitan pizzas, lasagne and gnocchi.
required). Free tastings during the one-hour tour; alfresco on the patio overlooking the lagoon & infinity Italian premium wines, Prosecco, ice-cold beers and
T: 29 924 merchandise for sale onsite. pool. Lavazza coffee will make you relax in the shade of
margaritas-rarotonga.business.site T: 26 288 T: 25 125 our Alfresco terrace. Open for breakfast, brunch,
facebook.com/MagaritasRarotonga/ E: [email protected] E: [email protected] lunch & dinner.
www.matutubeer.com www.nautilusresortrarotonga.com T. 51 262 or 21 121 • www.nonnoemiliorarotonga
E: [email protected]

19 Silver Sands Restaurant & Bar 18 Spaghetti House Pizzeria & Grill 20 The Café 4 The Islander Hotel & Hula Bar 9

ed Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. On The Spaghetti House Pizzeria and Grill at The Located in the courtyard of the historic Beachcomber The Islander Restaurant & Hula Bar overlook the
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings, Edgewater Resort & Spa is conveniently located at Pearl Market and Art Gallery in Avarua, The Café pool and the ocean offering cuisine made from fresh
m- the Silver Sands Restaurant & Bar offers à la carte, the Resort’s entrance on the main road. Open seven is known for its locally-roasted espresso coffee, ingredients supplied locally, as well as imports from
he on Wednesday - Island Night, on Friday - Pig & Prawn nights from 5.00pm to 9.30pm, the air-conditioned homemade cakes, and all day menu featuring New Zealand. Open for breakfast from 8.00am, with
als, Night, and on Sunday - Reef & Beef Night. Happy hour Spaghetti House Pizzeria and Grill offers authentic organic breads, bagels and croissants. Home to the an all-day lunch, and dinner featuring light meals to
. is everyday between 4.00pm-6.00pm. Italian cuisine with a selection of pizzas, pastas and Rarotonga Vinyl Revival Club, relax and choose your hearty options.
other signature Italian dishes. Whether you are out own music from the extensive record collection.
T: 23 000 for an intimate dinner for two, a family gathering or Open Monday – Friday 9am – 3pm and Saturday T: 21 003
E: [email protected] 9am – 1pm. E: [email protected]
www.muribeachclubhotel.com hosting a group of 20 to 60, the Spaghetti House can www.islanderhotel.co.ck
take care of your special requests.
T: 21 283 • E: [email protected]
T: 25 441 • www.edgewater.co.ck

8 26

ar The Yellow Hibiscus Restaurant & Bar Tumunu Restaurant & Bar 22 Vaima on the Beach 23 Wilson’s Restaurant & Beach Bar 7

The Yellow Hibiscus is an open-air restaurant The longest established restaurant in Rarotonga, Located in Vaimaanga, Vaima on the Beach offers Located at Castaway Resort. Breakfast/Lunch 8am-
overlooking the garden at Palm Grove. Open daily for Tumunu offers garden surroundings featuring local indoor & outdoor dining options in an island setting, 2pm. Bar open from 12pm. Happy Hour 3pm - 6pm.
breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast is served artifacts and memorabilia. With its tropical garden with the cuisine that has a touch of tropical flavours. Yakitori Skewers, Japanese Menu and Bar Snacks
8.00-10.00am, light lunch 12.00-2.00pm, and a la and unique dining room, the Tumunu menu offers Open for brunch/lunch 11am-2pm, and dinner 5-9pm, from 12pm. Dinner from 6pm. Mon - Sun. Themed
carte dining from 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, with seafood, vegetarian, steaks, chicken and a children’s seven days a week, Vaima provide transfers to/from Menus each night include: Pasta-A la carte - Mexican
- live music on Tuesdays and Fridays. On Sunday there menu. The seafood platter for two is a specialty. Open accommodation on request. - Pizza/Burgers - Seafood - Curry - BBQ. Live Music:
is a BBQ with live entertainment. seven nights from 6.00pm. Live music Mon, Wed, Sat, Sun. Wed, Fri, Sat and Sun 6pm-8pm. Cuban Cigars sold
exclusively at Wilson’s.
T: 20 002 T: 20 501 T: 26 123
E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: 21 546 • E: [email protected]
www.palmgrove.net www.tumunurarotonga.com www.vaimarestaurant.com www.castawayvillas.com

18 D I N I N G & E N T E R TA I N M E N T CoOK ISLANDS SuN

Edgewater Resort offers delightful Meet the folks at Vaima
dining options for visitors to
SITUATED ON
Rarotonga, seven days a week. RAROTONGA’S SOUTH
COAST, VAIMA ON
LOCATED ON THE THE BEACH IS ONE OF
SUNSET COAST AT RAROTONGA’S ‘MUST
ARORANGI, THE TRY’ EATERIES.
EDGEWATER RESORT
& SPA PRIDES ITSELF The smart interior
ON WARM HOSPITALITY dining room features
AND AFFORDABLE local artworks; outside
DINING FOR ALL. there's a marquee and genuine

beachside dining. Pacific

T he food and beverage cuisine Raro island-style is on
manager Austrian-born
Roland Neururer has the menu seven days for lunch
been with Edgewater Resort
for twenty-five years. Starting and dinner, and takeaway pizza. Under the marquee at Vaima
as head chef, he soon took over
the F&B role he loves today. Vaima is owned and operated Aquarius, a property near Cameron said they were lucky

Roland develops all aspects of by Cameron and Dorothy the airport: “It was a joint to still have the Nu Bar at this
the dining and entertainment
to the taste of hotel guests, Robertson: Cameron is a venture with the owner, but we time.
visitors and locals, including
planning and catering for Food and beverage manager, Roland Neururer Scotsman with a Liverpool eventually pulled out.” “That was a kind of blessing,
weddings and special events.
“Open for breakfast, lunch garden area. They love to sit accent; his father left Arran In 2010 they bought Vaima as we moved our restaurant
“Our food and beverage and dinner seven days a and eat in the open-air and
philosophy is simple: a week, The Brasserie offers a watch the world go by! for England at 15 looking for Restaurant in Vaimaanga and there virtually the next day”.
relaxed dining experience for relaxed dining atmosphere. work, settling in Liverpool
breakfast, lunch, dinner, or for We are in the middle price “We do a lot of takeaways too, when Cameron was two. the Nu Bar near the airport. The landowners rebuilt the
any occasion! range so there's nothing really not just pizzas, but from the
expensive,” said Roland. whole menu!” Dorothy is born and bred in “Vaima had been around since Vaima structure, and Dorothy
“We also have live
entertainment seven days a “Breakfast is from 7.00am to Another feature of Edgewater Scotland. 1975, but sadly it burned to and Cameron furnished the
week. I don’t think any other 10.30am, then from 11.30 Resort is their island night and
resort has that.” onwards we have our all day buffet feast every Tuesday and Living in Merseyside until the ground in 2014. We were new restaurant’s interior and
menu that goes through to Saturday. They are popular so
A central point for Edgewater 9.30pm. Three nights a week it always best to book! 21 Cameron moved to the devastated!” kitchen: “We’ve continued to
Resort is Mal’s Bar. we offer a buffet dinner. We
Overlooking the pool and always have lots of fresh fish, The legendary buffet features Highlands to work in the oil grow since re-opening in
lagoon the bar is named after which is supplied daily.” iconic Cook Islands cuisine,
Australian rugby league legend and an amazing dessert buffet yards at Nigg Bay as a weld 2015.”
Mal Meninga, who opened the Another eatery at Edgewater is that includes Bomb Alaska
eponymous bar at the height of the Spaghetti House Pizzeria ice cream cake: “We are very inspector. There he played Cameron said his best
his career. & Grill located on the main famous for our Island Night
road at the resort’s entrance. food.” semi-pro soccer for Ross friend is his wife Dorothy:
“There are pictures of Mal
around the bar, which is open “Edgewater is big so we The Islands Night also features County FC for many years. “We are good sounding
from 10am to midnight. Often needed a different outlet one of Rarotonga’s most
visitors come to Mal’s Bar just with a different style of menu entertaining cultural shows. In the early 90s he worked boards, we’re good mates,
to watch the brilliant sunsets.” especially for guests staying
for many days, so we have the “Edgewater Resort is big on offshore on the Brent Bravo and we like doing things
The main restaurant is The Spaghetti House Pizzeria & food and beverage. One menu
Brasserie, which also enjoys Grill open daily from 5.30pm- we run seven days a week, in the North Sea where he together.”
epic views of the lagoon and 9.00pm. We offer home-style but then we also have other
ocean. pizzas, pastas and other different menus available every met his wife and business In addition to working
signature Italian dishes - all in day.
air-conditioned comfort! partner, Dorothy, who was with menus and other
“And, our pool is available to
“Many people like the air visitors who dine in the resort working in administration. Vaima matters, Dorothy
conditioning but others prefer for breakfast, lunch or dinner.”
to eat outside in the beautiful Now that’s that's pretty cool! Life partners: they married runs an island fashion

in Scotland; they remarried retail outlet across the

in Las Vegas, and married road called ‘Inspirations

again in Rarotonga! of Rarotonga’.

Dorothy had a house and Cameron Roberston at Vaima on the Beach, with Always immaculately
shop in Ballater, near entertainer Rudy Aquino in the background
garbed island-style
Balmoral, from where she Dorothy is the

commuted to the rigs: “That’s embodiment of her retail
when we got together before
They married fashion shop, which also offers
custom-made dressmaking.
moving to Arran where we
ended up having a restaurant in Scotland; they ‘Inspirations of Rarotonga’ also

and a hotel,” said Cameron. remarried in Las has lots of parking, ideal for
Vaima on the Beach diners.
“We sold up and came to
Rarotonga in 2001. There was Vegas, and married “Dorothy is the main

again in Rarotonga!a wedding in New Zealand inspiration for Vaima’s menu
and what goes on in the
and we visited Raro on the way
kitchen. She in the restaurant
back, deciding over a glass of
every morning, then
wine at Trader Jacks
back again around
that this was the place
5pm; tastes all the
for us! Six months
sauces and generally
later we were living
checks everything is
here. We bought
clean and in place.”
and developed what

is today known as “I’m more the PR
Castaway Resort. guy!”

“We sold it in 2007 We asked Cameron
then took a year about the future:
off renovating our “Well, we are getting
house.” close to the end of our

Sunset dining poolside In 2008 Dorothy and Dorothy & Cameron Robertson, New Year at Castaways 2001 working careers and
Cameron became would like to retire, so
involved with the Vaima is now up
for sale!”

discover
paradise

EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
Edgewater Resort & Spa

CoOK ISLANDS SuN DINING & E NTE RTAIN M E NT 19

A stylish town eatery Antipodes,
with hangout appeal
THERE IS NO SHORTAGE OF INTERESTING PLACES hospitality course, similar to an Epic Name for
an Epic Restaurant
TO EAT AND DRINK ON RAROTONGA, BUT THERE the one Martina completed.
Once qualified he was
IS ONE POPULAR EATERY THAT JUST ABOUT
EVERYONE ON THE ISLAND WILL HAPPEN UPON! headhunted and moved to
South Africa ‘to join a circus’

Located next to the as side-kick to the owner.
CITC Pharmacy in
downtown Avarua, Armin described it as an
The Lucky Rooster Eatery ambitious project similar to
(formerly Café Salsa) has Cirque du Soleil. “The world
what all food and beverage tour started in Montreal, but
businesses crave: location, soon the eccentric owner went
location, location. And it is a bankrupt!”

great place to hang out! On return to Switzerland he

The eatery’s owners Martina Another skill Martina worked for a communications Dining views over the South Pacific Ocean
Uhlig and Armin Schwander acquired was the teaching of and event company managing
are from Switzerland. yoga. “I also registered for a converted cinema in Zurich, JOCELYN BALLANTYNE IS THE UNPRETENTIOUS
Arriving in Rarotonga three a Chinese medicine school, where he met Martina, who CHEF AT ANTIPODES, A CLASSY, ‘IN-DEMAND’
years ago the longtime but wanted to travel before was working for a company RESTAURANT IN RAROTONGA WELL KNOWN FOR
friends and business partners committing to the course”. that held events in the venue. IT’S DELECTABLE MEDITERRANEAN-INSPIRED
have developed the original Armin and Martina have CUISINE.
café into a stylish eatery It was at this time Martina been close friends and fellow
and popular meeting place, planned to meet up with travellers since!
Armin in Fiji. Armin was
Jocelyn is one of the most was a magnificent private
recently Both had appealing and original home.
voices in recent years to
including separate business enter the Rarotonga restaurant At the time, we thought it
scene, the kind of chef who can would be the perfect place to
an outside interests that tempt the palate of ordinary set up a business specialising
people who just like to eat well in weddings, events, with
catering often kept them and enjoy their food. a restaurant and boutique
accommodation.
component apart, until Antipodes is not the cheapest
eatery in town, but with In 2017 the property came
for events and they met up in Trip Advisor’s number one on the market, we purchased
restaurant rating in Rarotonga it and over the next seven
weddings. Rarotonga in for value, service and food, one months, carried out extensive
patron recently described it as a renovations of the building to
According February 2016. ‘top spot for top-end dining.’ convert it in such a way that
it could accommodate our
the Martina “We had such Located within a cliff-top commercial plans. Everything
Mediterranean-style villa we imagined we would do
and Armin a great time at Black Rock near Avarua, with the property, we finally
Antipodes offers matchless achieved in reality.
The Lucky in Raro we views over the sparkling Jocelyn Ballantyne: executive chef
South Pacific Ocean. and co-owner of Antipodes
Rooster Eatery wondered if
Antarctica each year to spend
staff have we could buy a time in the tropical paradise
of Rarotonga between the
given them business or work months of July through to the
end of October. From our
an insight here.” three spacious outside dining
terraces patrons can observe
into the local A few days
culture and magnificent whale
communities: Armin and Martina, fun owners of The Lucky Rooster Eatery before they were breaching and tail-
“We have slapping displays.
learned a lot from them, and arriving from Mexico, due to fly out
they have learned from us. Martina from Bali. Three Antipodes,
It is a beautiful exchange in days before the reunion they heard Café Salsa was the specialty
cultural knowledge,” both Cyclone Winston happened caterer and
partners agree. around Fiji. Travel plans for sale, looked it over and accommodation
quickly changed and they provider
decided to buy.
The renovations we
“Something felt special, Occupying one of the carried out converted
beautiful and magical here loveliest, airy spaces the building and site to
of any restaurant on accommodate weddings
Armin and Martina’s met in Rarotonga instead, a in the Cook Islands!” said the island, Antipodes and events. A luxurious
professional backgrounds are place they had never heard Martina. “We were at the is open for dinner six 115 sq.metre bridal
the similar, but different. of before, but was to change right time, at the right place, nights a week (except suite was created on the
their life plans forever! making the right decision.” Tuesdays), and for eastern side of the property,
lunch on Wednesdays, which can accommodate up
Martina is from Zurich, “When I was doing the big “We saw the potential of Thursdays and Fridays. to four adults in two en-suite
Armin from Lucerne. Both events, Armin was an event the place and we knew the bedrooms that lead out to the
have travelled extensively, manager in one of the venues. lifestyle that comes with it! Not only is Jocelyn suites' private 200 sq.metre
individually and together, and That's how we met”. Being business partners made courtyard - complete with a
both have worked in events it possible for one of us to Ballantyne the executive pool on the cliff edge looking
and hospitality. be here, while the other one out to the ocean.
chef, she owns the
Entertainment at
As a teenager at language travelled!” added Armin. joint! So, we asked her Superb accommodation at Antipodes Antipodes

college Martina recalls “Café Salsa was a strong to tell us a little about On Sunday evenings
wanting: “to experience life, brand on the island, but Antipodes has its ' Sunday
have money, and travel!” She we don’t serve Central or herself and the concept behind The Antipodes menu Sunset Session', which features
speaks Swiss German, High South American food, so Antipodes. live local entertainment. Each
German, English, French, we decided on a new name No other restaurant in Sunday of the month has a
Italian and Spanish. more connected to the area. different entertainer.
Professional Rarotonga specialises in
Included in the varied places Fresh and healthy homemade food One animal that everyone background Mediterranean-inspired Antipodes, the future
Martina has worked are sees and hears in Rarotonga cuisine. We provide
Trained in New Zealand. patrons with a menu that is To continue with our treasured
Cape Verde, the Maldives, Armin is from Lucerne. He are the roosters. They are Worked on Waiheke Island exceptionally varied, with Antipodes team, to each
the Galapagos Islands, and speaks German, French and everywhere; we have made at a number of well-known dishes from a number of day try our best to provide
Thailand. English. When at school he our peace with ours,” said restaurants. Prior to acquiring countries situated in the outstanding dining experiences
started a commercial business Martina. the Antipodes site, spent last Mediterranean region. for our guests. And, to build
around eight years working at Antipodes up to be the premier
venue to enjoy a romantic
apprenticeship and became the four most exclusive resorts meal, celebrate weddings and
a textile tradesman for huge anniversaries, and other special
Something felt corporate company, but he “We made them part of our on Rarotonga and, in last two Top spot for top-end events.
special, beautiful yearned to see the world so new brand name: The Lucky as Executive Chef. dining.
and magical here in he moved to Guernsey to Rooster Eatery. We changed Above all, to remain respectful
the Cook Islands! work in a five star resort as the ‘café’ part of our name The creation of and hospitable to all our
a bartender, which gained too, because we are not just patrons!
him valuable expertise from a place for coffee and cake. Antipodes Antipodes ambience
bartending professionals. We are an eatery that proudly Antipodes Restaurant
prepares fresh and healthy Twelve years ago whilst on Antipodes has a unique
homemade foods daily for our a holiday in Rarotonga, my location perched on top of the T: 28 873 or 73 900
partner and I came across this Blackrock Cliff that affords it E: events@
Martina completed a After returning to Switzerland customers”. Mediterranean style villa at commanding views out over antipodesrarotonga.com
Blackrock, which at the time www.antipodesrarotonga.com
the lagoon and the South
three-year course with the working for a promotion “Rarotonga is the greatest
Swiss School of Tourism & company, he got a job bar place on Earth; the vibe and Pacific Ocean.
Hospitality, which led her keeping on a German cruise the energy of this place is
to be employed by a catering ship, “The German version outstanding. It just makes me The ‘romantic’ Mediterranean
and events company that of the Love Boat – they were happy!” beamed Martina. villa is very photogenic. The
specialised in “super big shooting a TV series”. position and way Antipodes
Armin added: “The beauty has been built, provides
events”. “When I came off the ship of the environment, of the maximum protection
I worked for the mother people, the smell of the from the elements. And,
At one time Martina was company of the same ocean, … and I want to Antipodes is perfectly
employed by one of the company as Martina worked become a good kite surfer.” situated to take in the
country’s best-known in. I was doing ‘bar concepts’, magnificent sunsets.
companies that published and ended up assistant Fb & Instagram:
cookbooks and consulted general manager”. theluckyroostereatery Antipodes is also arguably
for supermarket chains. She the best spot on the island to
easily view the Humpback
scouted different countries to After more travel Armin Homepage: Whales that migrate from
check out product trends. theluckyroostereatery.com
did a three-year tourism and
The sign says it all

20 D I N I N G & E N T E R TA I N M E N T CoOK ISLANDS SuN

Simply The Café All roads lead to Raro

ONE OF THE MOST PHILLIP NORDT IS AN EXTRAORDINARY
UNDERSTATED CAFÉS ON ENTREPRENEUR WHO HAS BEEN MOVING TOWARDS
RAROTONGA RESIDES HIS DESTINY IN RAROTONGA SINCE THE 1980S. HE
WITHIN THE HISTORIC CAN THANK HIS MOTHER FOR HAVING THE VISION
BEACHCOMBER BUILDING TO VISIT NEW ZEALAND WITH HER TWO SONS ON A
JUST OUTSIDE AVARUA, CAMPERVAN TRIP SEEKING OUT OPPORTUNITIES.
WHICH ALSO HOUSES AN
ART GALLERY AND AN T oday Phillip is a Self confessed Culinary entrepreneur, Phillip Nordt
UPMARKET GIFT SHOP. Rarotonga resident, gourmet
IT IS SIMPLY CALLED THE master chef , master La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’s
CAFÉ. baker and restaurateur, whose Christchurch chapter, now
energy is boundless. he heads up the Cook Islands
chapter, which he started.
The Café is home to the Owner Claire shows off the latest addition to the vinyl record collection Born in Landau, after two for Phillip who met the right
Vinyl Revival Club years national service in people to help him build on, Married to Frances (the Cook
with its astonishing for breakfast, brunch and Germany, Phillip became a and invested in, a range of Islands connection), they have
collection of 60s, 70s, and 80s, lunch Monday to Saturday, management trainee with the cafés, restaurants, clubs, and a two children Hanny (21) and
and Polynesian, vinyl records The Café serves up first-rate Vier Jahreszeiten Munich hotel marketing & an inbound Harry (20).
ranging from Bobby Darin, espresso coffee, homemade (hotel), studied hospitality and tourism operation. Phillip
The Monkees and Diana Ross, cakes and tasty fresh food, tourism in Vienna, and was a also became passionately Chef Phillip Nordt, self-
to Elvis Presley, The Troggs, including vegetarian and commercial sales manager with involved with the international confessed gourmet, has worked
and Aretha Franklin. vegan options. Try some of the Grand Metropolitan Hotel gastronomic society, for Pacific Resorts and CITTI
the all time favourites such as Group in Frankfurt. in Rarotonga, but is now the
About as laid back smoked marlin salad and feta
as it comes on the olive focaccia, or toasted bagel, Coffee and cake at The Café Years later he earned owner of OTB On the
island. salmon and cream cheese! a Bachelor of Arts in Beach Restaurant &
‘mobile disco’ operated by DJ Culinary Arts in Dunedin Bar at Manuia Beach
Customers can personally Lots of character with a lovely Wheelie (Ian Wheeldon) also and became a culinary Resort. At the 2018
select and play their own music shaded courtyard, this unique makes regular appearances arts tutor, most recently Cook Islands Tourism
to accompany their coffee, little treasure of Rarotonga is at clubs and pubs around the at the Cook Islands Awards, OTB won the
cake, or light meal. Open about as laid back as it comes island, including Trader Jacks Tertiary Training Institute ‘Emerging Tourism
on the island. and the Cook Islands Game (CITTI) in Rarotonga. Leader Award’. It’s
Fishing Club. been a long journey from
P.S. The Vinyl Revival Club New Zealand was a Landau to Rarotonga,
goldmine of opportunities OTB On the Beach Restaurant & Bar but Phillip knows it has
been worth it!

SHOPPING

Handcrafted ‘Back Yard’ Tours of Rarotonga

LOCAL PERSONALITY AND BLOSSOMING ENTREPRENEUR
MEREANI TALBOT IS ACTIVE IN MANY SECTORS OF THE
RAROTONGA COMMUNITY, BUT THE ENDEAVOR SHE IS MOST
PASSIONATE ABOUT IS HER BACK YARD ‘ARTS & CRAFTS’ TOURS.

Born in Manihiki, Ani
(as she is best known),
spent most of her
childhood in Auckland, and
most of her working life in
New Zealand and Australia
in the IT industry, but that’s
another story. She returned
to the Cook Islands a few
years ago with her family,
particularly wanting her two
boys to connect with their
Cook Islands heritage.

Ani is now the perfect host

and tour guide, personable experience in Rarotonga,” the opportunity to meet our
said Ani. talented locals and see how they
and knowledgeable about make their products right here in
“Cook Islands arts and Rarotonga.
the forgotten and often crafts are so beautiful and
this unique experience Back Yard Tours travel in an air-
rarely seen local artists and gives our guests a sense of conditioned van in small groups,
appreciation for what these with a minimum of two guests,
craftsmen, including wood artists and vendors do”. and a maximum of eight.

carvers, weavers, ukulele Ani Talbot of Back Yard Tours Ani added: “Nearly everyone The tour generally takes between
who visits the Cooks wants 3 and 4 hours, including pick up
makers, shell-carvers and to purchase a special gift for and drop off.
others, or a keepsake to remind
jewellery designers. Back interesting and fun ‘shopping them of the wonderful time they T: 26 457 or 81 899
Yard Tours also visit makers of experience’ for both the shopper, had in Rarotonga. Many want E: [email protected]
coconut oil skin care products, and the non-shopper! to buy locally made; Backyard Fb: www.facebook.com/
pareu (sarongs), and black pearl Tours offers overseas visitors backyardtoursrarotonga/

jewellery. The list goes on! Most The tour travels around the island

tours will visit eight or nine visiting the skilled artisans in

places, depending on what people villages, workshops, and literally

are open on the day of the tour. some backyards!

A three-hour+ Rarotonga Back “This is the only combined
Yard ‘Arts & Crafts’ Tour is an cultural and shopping tour

Treasure Chest Rarotonga's largest
'A SHOPPING TREAT' selection range of island
clothing and footwear,

together with an
extensive range
of souvenirs, craft
and gift ideas.

FOUR GREAT SHOPS:

Mana Court in Avarua
(Tel. 22325)

The Edgewater Resort
(Tel. 28325)

Pacific Village Muri
(Tel. 21325)

and, The Rarotonga
Beach Resort
(Tel. 27325)

[email protected]

CoOK ISLANDS SuN SHOPPING 21

Tropical fashion vibes
Cook Islands style

Id.CK (Identity 1. id.CK’s SUNNY GIRL range 2. AMELIUS brand
Cook Islands)
is a popular speaks for itself – tropical prints, great collection is all about tropical
fashion store fabrics, stylish and contemporary. colours and prints; pictured
located in Pictured is a SUNNY GIRL is an off shoulder number –
Banana Court, dress for $85, accessorised with perfect for hot days, priced at
Avarua - chandelier earrings and a clutch from $99. The outfit is accessorised
Rarotonga’s ADORNE – Australian accessories from id.CK’s ‘funky’
fashion house. sunglasses and jewellery range.
main township.
3. White is a great colour to wear on
T he store stocks
a broad range a Cook Islands holiday. The attractive
of resort wear men shirt with palm tree embroidery in
for men and fine cotton fabric is only $29.90.
women from swimsuits The lady is wearing a stylish playsuit
and hats, to evening from AMELIUS priced at $120.
wear and tops, jewellery
and accessories, to beach
footwear and sunglasses.

“If you want to
look great and feel
comfortable on your
tropical getaway - id.CK
is the place to shop! We
stock a wide variety of
brands, including from
NZ, Australia and the
USA, with a focus on
natural fabrics with lots
of vibrant colours – just
the way we dress here in
the Cook Islands,”
said shop manager
Rachel Harris Best.

5. Kaftan is the 4. Look great on the

versatile friend for beach in this vibrant
all your vacations. tropical bikini – priced at
id.CK’s beautiful $39.90, and a fine cotton
kaftans are from pure white maxi skirt
LULA SOUL, priced at $29.90. And, of
priced from $99.90. course, not forgetting a
wide brimmed hat from
id.CK’s sunhat range.

6. id.CK’s stylish Men’s

Hawaiian shirt collection will
make you want to own one.
Excellent quality, priced at $59.90.
Select from a huge range of
colours. Sunglasses from CARVE,
an Australian surf brand.

Looking for a unique Pacific Weave The Perfumes of Rarotonga Coconut Oil Soaps
cultural experience? factory outlet located next
Then take a look at Pacific door to Pacific Weave has been
Weave in Panama (next to making pure virgin coconut
the airport) and learn about oil soaps for years; produced
the art of weaving. Try your by hand in small batches
hand weaving, and leave from traditional recipes, with
with your own hand-made scents capturing local flowers
souvenir. Traditional weaver including gardenia, frangipani,
Nanave Taime will show you and jasmine. Some of their
how, and share stories about soaps are unscented and some
life in the Cook Islands. have healing qualities with the
Pacific Weave is a unique addition of Noni health tonic.
store in Rarotonga with The soap is wrapped in the leaf
a window to the arts and of the pandanus tree, which
culture of the South Pacific. is a trademark look of the
Call Nanave on 27 535 to Perfumes of Rarotonga Pure
book a weaving class; they Coconut Oil soap. Perfumes of
are suitable for adults and Rarotonga offer daily factory
children. tours.

22 I S L A N D L I F E CoOK ISLANDS SuN

Charlie’s, a great
'chilled-out' local eatery

EVER WONDER WHERE
TO FIND THE MOST
RELAXED, CHILLED OUT
PLACE FOR CASUAL
EATING AND LIVE
MUSIC WHEN YOU ARE
ON VACATION? WELL
WHEN ON RAROTONGA
YOU NEED TO CHECK
OUT CHARLIE’S IN
TITIKAVEKA.

Ahandful of years Charlie Tapurau Hosking with Charlie’s Rarotonga’s Charlie’s offers live music from Monday - Friday
ago Charlie’s began A1 Meitaki Award from 5pm
modestly in a
beachside container with mother: “But, I also did odd Fridays and Dad was playing He and the Hosking family
kayaks, paddleboards, snorkels
and flippers at Titikaveka. jobs in supermarkets and in Tuesdays and Thursdays, and are also avid supporters of
Today, it is one of Rarotonga’s
most enjoyed venues for casual telemarketing,” said Mary. we had Tok Haurua coming in the Ngatangiia - Matavera
all day dining, which also
features live evening music “I came back in 2005 because on Wednesdays”. Sea Eagles rugby league club
from Monday to Friday. my dad passed away and my where Charlie Snr played in
mum was alone, so I came Charlie Jnr played guitar and the B Grade as a teenager.
The container has been added back first. Charlie returned piano, Charlie Snr guitar and Charlie’s Rarotonga is one of
to but the first thing you’ll later after he sold our house.” ukulele. the club’s sponsors.
notice is the expansive back
deck and alfresco dining Back in Rarotonga, Charlie “Today, Anania Brown plays “The Sea Eagles Club won
options with an affordable worked for four years at on Monday, Tupous Fynest on the 2019 competition in June
menu that includes a variety Tereora College as a PE Tuesday, Tok on Wednesday, completing the season without
of crowd-pleasing gastronomy teacher before starting the Kahiki and Mo on Thursday, any loss!” said Mary.
from burgers, fish and chips and Dad’s band PVC on
and toasted sandwiches, to
sashimi, fresh salads, beer Hosking’s first tourism Friday: Pania, Varani and Charlie’s Rarotonga also
on tap and cocktails. There’s
added seating near the bar. venture in 2010, which was Charlie Snr. Koti Teina also sponsor the Titikaveka

The owners, Charlie and accommodation on family performs on Friday.” Bulldogs Rugby Club, the
Mary Tapurau Hoskings are
two of the happiest people land, Te Akapuao Studio “On Saturday afternoon from Turangi Cricket Club and
on Rarotonga. They love life, Villas. Then came beachside 1pm we’ve added Mo, Ronnie, others groups and events.
they love their family, and Charlie’s Rarotonga, also Jimmy and Mii to the line-up
they love their businesses, on family land, where they of musicians.” “We sponsor sports all the
Charlie’s Rarotonga and rented out paddleboards time!” said Mary. “But we’re
the new Charlie’s Villas at and snorkelling equipment, The Charlie’s Rarotonga also a sponsor for other
Matavera. and started a basic café open menu is wide-ranging, and things like the Maori Speech
during the day. includes local fresh fish, Competition, which is for
Charlie’s began chicken and steak. local schools.”
Charlie Jnr, who now manages
modestly in a Charlie’s Rarotonga, “Another event we
said he was just happy have been involved
beachside container. to help out when his with has been
parents started the the Cook Islands
Whilst Charlie and Mary first business. He began Sevens!”
met at Rarotonga’s Tereora
College, they got together the Charlie’s Facebook The Hosking family
later when they both started
dancing with the Ta’akoka page and Instagram is sporty, and they
Dance Troupe: “It’s named
after motu Ta’akoka out there account for the café are community
in the Muri lagoon,” said
Maryy. and beach rentals: minded, but they are

“We were married in “That was in 2014.” also one of the top
Rarotonga and have six
children: Anthony, Vivian, “I was born and raised Jnr represented Cook Islands in basketball visitor-orientated
Tamatoa, Charlie Jnr, in Clayton south east businesses in
Christian, and one daughter, of Melbourne, then “Our sashimi is always fresh Rarotonga, having
Elsie. The oldest is 38 and the moved to the city off the boat,” said Charlie been presented in
youngest 20. Anthony was later. I came to Raro Jnr. “We have also started to 2019 with an A1
born in Rarotonga, the others in 2005 with mum Meitaki Award
in Australia.” and dad. I lasted a by the Cook
year then went back Islands Tourism
Initially Charlie studied to working mainly in Corporation. To
be a pastor in Melbourne at retail and management Charlie receive an A1
the Harvest Bible College, where I learned a lot Meitaki Award
which specialised in training about advertising and a business, or
for Christian ministry. marketing, graphic design and individual, must be nominated
Graduating with a BA, he and web design at that time.” multi-times by visitors to the
Mary lived in Australia for 21 Cook Islands. Nomination
years.
Charlie Jnr added: “This is incorporate some Indonesian forms are only available from
Mary was a homemaker and
a really a family business, cuisine.” the Cook Islands Tourism

although we also have a few Charlie Jnr is a basket baller Information office in Avarua
Indonesians working for us!” who has represented Cook (or Aitutaki), and in the
Islands, most recently in the Rarotonga International
“When we got our bar licence Polynesian Basketball Cup in Airport departure lounge.
about two years ago, Mum Samoa. Businesses are nominated
decided we should start for ‘excellence in service to
serving dinner, so we did that. In his leisure time, Charlie visitors’.

“Then we added live music. Snr is the vice president of the On weekdays and Saturday
I was playing Mondays and Cook Islands Rugby Union. from 11am Charlie’s serves

up hearty light meals, teas,

coffee, smoothies and cold

drinks. Licensed, Charlie’s

also opens for dinner Monday

to Friday until 8pm, each

evening accompanied by

live music from some of

Rarotonga’s finest musicians!

Saturdays 11am-3pm, closed

Sunday.

Charlie’s Rarotonga logo and lagoon image Charlie’s Rarotonga &
Charlie’s Villas
W: charliesraro.com;
E: [email protected];
T: 28 055

CoOK ISLANDS SuN ADVENTURES IN PARADISE 23

TEN MUST DO’S Q+A With Corinna Tucker, the new owner of “Storytellers” Eco Cycle Tours
WHEN VISITING
RAROTONGA Tell us a little about guide) and Jimmy wanting Long-time Storyteller tour guide Jimmy on the job
your personal and to stay on and become more
1. Ask for taro with your meal. professional background involved, was another great than it is about the cycling: artists; on two occasions this Does Storytellers
It is a staple root vegetable used incentive for me as well. bicycles are just a great way year guests have been fortunate have Mana Tiaki Eco
in the Cook Islands as a side to Iam from New Zealand, to explore parts of Rarotonga to come across investitures in Certification?
other dishes. Most island night originally from Hawkes How do you feel about that visitors otherwise may not progress.
feasts include it, as do many Bay. In 1999 I moved to living and working in encounter, while at the same I am in the process of
restaurants. Palmerston North to complete Rarotonga? time learning more about this With your background completing the certification
my tertiary education and beautiful place. in environmental application. For me it is a
2. Rent an electric bicycle and ended up staying there for 18 I love living here. I loved sociology, do you huge priority to become more
tour the island. You can peddle years. I gained my PhD in the place from the moment I Typically, what do your intend to use that in environmentally friendly,
normally, or pedal-assisted, or Sociology in 2011, and from stepped of the plane here for customers experience Rarotonga? and to do this to the best of
ride fully electric. No vehicle 2010 worked full time at a visit 10 years ago, and I’ve on a Storyteller Tour? our ability and in every way
emissions, so it can’t be bad for Massey University. I spent the been coming back regularly I hope to bring that into the that we can. We are already
the Rarotonga environment! last six years there employed as ever since. In early 2018 whilst Customers largely dictate business – it’s a really neat limiting fossil fuel use; we no
an Environmental Sociology I was based in Rarotonga for what it is that they will see fit having a background in longer sell bottled water, and
3. Visit the Punanga Nui Lecturer. my research sabbatical, I knew and experience: each person is teaching and researching, are switching to biodegradable
Market in Avarua on Saturday that this was where I wanted to asked what they are interested primarily in the area of equipment and cleaners for
morning to soak up the What inspired you to be! I enjoy the work that I do in learning about, or seeing, environment and people. example.
cultural atmosphere, buy local buy Storytellers? here now at Storytellers. and our Storytellers will do Overseeing Storytellers
fruit, veggies, handicraft, and their best to incorporate as provides the opportunity to What is your opinion of
jewellery. Enjoy a coffee, pastry When I discovered Storytellers What is the philosophy much of that into the tour. share my passion directly with the growing emphasis
or smoothie. was for sale, I knew it was behind Storytellers, the Common experiences include people, and through how the on eco tourism in the
something I should follow up business? learning about marae and business is operated. I hope Cooks?
4. Stroll down historic, on, as the timing of it coming the Ariki system, local fruits that opportunities will arise
picturesque Makea Tinirau up for sale was perfect in terms For me it is really about and vegetables, medicinal where I can use my skills and I think eco tourism should
Rd (opposite Beachcomber), of my own circumstances, providing a better plants, legends and stories experience in a positive way to be a priority here. The
past the Cook Islands and it seemed a good match understanding of the Cook from the past, the impacts help with the environmental environment is such a huge
Christian Church and some of for my own background, Islands, and in particular of missionaries, fishing, the protection and integrity of the draw card for visitors and
Rarotonga’s oldest and most interests and experience. The of Rarotonga in relation to weather. Sometimes visitors are Islands in particular. hence integral to the economy
interesting buildings (and chance to operate a business history, the people, and the lucky to encounter some local of the Islands. It would be
graves). that focuses on disseminating land. If visitors can better such a huge shame to see the
a better understanding for appreciate the importance of environment compromised
5. Enjoy a walk along the visitors about local culture and the relationship between the for the sake of bringing in
waterfront from the Avarua environment here in Rarotonga people and culture, and the more tourism dollars without
Harbour to Avatiu Harbour or is something that I really value, land and environment, then thinking long term about the
vv, stopping to view the and the Storytellers business this will inspire visitors’ caring environmental, social and
SS Maitai shipwreck (1916) was a great way to be able to and respect for the people and cultural impact.
just past the reef, whose engine do that. Having Jimmy (Jim place while holidaying here.
block is clearly visible. Mare) already involved in the How do you see
business as a Storyteller (tour Can anyone join a Storytellers role in the
6. Black Rock is a lovely beach Storytellers tour, future of tourism in
just past the airport opposite regardless of age and Rarotonga?
the golf club. It’s a good fitness level?
snorkelling and body boarding I would like to see Storytellers
spot. Be startled occasionally Just about anyone can enjoy stick around for a long time,
by low flying, wide-bodied a Storytellers tour! The and only get better over time.
aircraft approaching Rarotonga youngest participant was a five It would be great to think that
Airport. month old (before my time), we can become an exemplary
and we had an 80-year old model for eco tourism in the
7. Muri Beach with its wide lady not long ago. We offer coming years.
lagoon and quaint little islands three different length tours
is a watery wonderland with so visitors can choose which
snorkelling, paddle boarding, tour best suits them, whether
kite surfing, and lagoon cruises; it is the shorter 3-hour one, or
and, a lovely village for lunch the longest at 5 hours. The
or coffee. important thing to keep in
mind is that Storytellers is
8. At the entrance to Muri more about people enjoying
lagoon is Avana Point; nearby and learning about Rarotonga,
is a peaceful park with the
circle of seven stones, which
commemorates the fleet canoes
that left for New Zealand from
there seven hundred years ago.

9. A visit to Rarotonga is not
complete without an evening
out at one of the many island
night shows that can match
almost any budget. The cultural
dancing, music, and buffet
feasts are not to be missed.

10. Rarotonga has mountainous
volcanic terrain covered with
beautiful dense jungle. There
are various poorly marked
tracks, but the cross-island trek
is the ‘must do’: better with a
guide than not!

$79Tours all tours include a We give
delicious lunch or
starting sunset cocktail. 10%
from
of our profit
23450 or 53450 [email protected] www.storytellers.co.ck
back to the
community.

It was such a relaxing ride filled with so many interesting things
about the people, land and culture.

Explore the ancient back road ‘Ara Metua’ and learn about
Rarotonga’s history and culture from a passionate local storyteller.
No two tours are the same!

Three tours are available, ranging in length from three to five hours.
Ride at your pace and to your ability.

24 S E E & D O CoOK ISLANDS SuN

E-cycle around the island ADVENTURES IN
PARADISE
Agreat way to explore
Rarotonga at your ADVENTURE COOK KOKA LAGOON STORYTELLERS ECO
own pace is to rent an ISLANDS CRUISES CYCLE TOURS
e-bike, getting some exercise
on the way! They are easy to Want to visit some of For an amazing excursion on Storytellers are the only
operate, and suitable for all Rarotonga’s best diving Muri Lagoon filled with tour guides on Rarotonga
fitness levels. spots; Adventure Cook Islands laughs, music and snorkeling, to lead these unique cycling
is a good place to start. They experience Koka Lagoon experiences, offering a variety
Tik-e Bikes recommend three also rent scooters, kayaks, Cruises. Included is a fish of bike riding to suit all
cycling options: cycle as you would & bikes, do the Raemaru BBQ on a small island (motu), fitness levels. Enjoy learning
on a normal bicycle, peddle assist up Mountain trek, and teach a display of coconut tree about the island’s history,
to 35kph, or go fully electric. You Cook Islands dancing and climbing and coconut husking. flora and fauna from locals.
can circumnavigate the island twice drumming. T: 22 2212 T: 27 769 T: 53 450
on a single charge (a charger comes
with a Tik-e Bikes rental).

The first to offer this novel
environmentally friendly way to
enjoy the island, Tik-e Bikes are
located opposite the Crown Beach
Resort in Arorangi. T: 28 687.

No Tik-e bikes
Licence

Fees

Electric bike hire DISCOVER MARINE KITESUP RARO REEF SUB
AND WILDLIFE ECO WATERSPORTS MARINE LIFE ECO
CENTRE CENTRE TOURS

This is a great place to learn Based in Muri, Rarotonga’s The Cook Islands’ only
about the creatures that original watersports semi-submersible tour
inhabit the Cook Islands, both centre offers the lot: kiteboard leaves several times daily
on land and in the sea. It’s an lessons, stand up paddle boards from Avatiu Wharf, weather
interactive centre for all ages, (SUP) rental, sea scooter permitting. A great photo
with live fish and coconut snorkel tours, night and day opportunities for sea life,
crabs, birds, a theatrette, café, paddling tours, yoga on a and for picturesque views of
and marine exhibits. paddle board, and a surf shop. Rarotonga and the SS Maitai
T: 23 344 T: 27 877 shipwreck. T: 55 901

THE BEST ECO WALKS CAPTAIN TAMA’S THE PERFECT WAY
IN RAROTONGA LAGOON CRUIZES TO SPEND SATURDAY
MORNING
Pa Teuruaa has trekked Established in 1992,
Rarotonga for three Captain Tama’s Lagoon Next to Avarua, Punanga Nui
decades, most famous for his Cruizes continue to provide Market is a lovely glimpse
cross-island trek. Whilst Pa a memorable Muri lagoon into Cook Islands culture every
still leads a Medicinal Herbal glass-bottom boat tour and Saturday morning with locals
Walk twice a week, his nephew snorkeling experience, packed selling their fruit, veggies, fish,
Bruce now escorts the cross- with Cook Islands humour, recorded music, handicrafts,
island trek three times a week. fun and a BBQ on the motu. pearls, jewellery, coffee and
T: 21 079 T: 27 350 pastries, just about everything!

THE DIVE CENTRE TIK-E TOURS RARO QUAD TOURS

Also known as the ‘Big They’re 100% electric and Brother to the cool Raro
Fish’, The Dive Centre 100% fun. Experience Buggy Tour is the
opposite the pristine Aro’a the open air and the silence Raro Quad Tour. If it’s true
Marine Reserve has everything of an electric ‘tuk-tuk’ vehicle adventure you’re after then you
a snorkeler or scuba diver that allows you to enjoy your won’t be disappointed with the
needs, including equipment personal tour of Rarotonga, 90% off road Raro Quad Tour
rental, dive trips, and dive and maybe their famous ‘sunset through Rarotonga’s rugged
courses for individuals & cocktail hop’, or whatever! inland jungle and hidden
groups. T: 20 238 or 55 238. T: 28 687 valleys. T: 23 000

CoOK ISLANDS SuN SEE & DO 25

Kura Happ is the real deal!
Amazing live entertainer
and now reef tour guide

KURA HAPP IS A
GIFTED AND ARTISTIC
RAROTONGA-
BORN VOCALIST,
GUITARIST AND
SONGWRITER WHOSE
PERFORMANCES
AROUND THE ISLAND’S
MUSIC SCENE
ARE SOULFULLY
ENTERTAINING AND
SPIRITED.

She is one of those unique Kura Happ, queen of the Rarotonga music scene (Photographer: Jaiah Arai)
restaurant entertainers
who performs in an Kura later joined a group called all the good concerts and my
unpretentious yet eye-catching Indigo: “It was a really good favourite musicians I love to
manner at a sound level where band, but I was also in other listen to, are often on the same
you can both appreciated her groups.” nights as me."
sweet music and enjoy your
meal. But, Kura wasn’t always When Kura’s mum and dad Recently Kura has expanded PT RAE' SK SEco tourism at it’s best!
this way! retired they returned to her horizons starting a unique Across Island Trek with Bruce
Rarotonga; Kura moved back ‘eco’ venture called Ariimoana THE TRUE STORY OF
Kura Happ has been on a and forward until eventually (King of the Ocean). • About 3.5 hours PA & THE DOLPHINS
musical journey since she settling back in her homeland • Reasonable fitness needed Written and
was a young child when her when she was 23. "I’m an outdoor nature 'water- illustrated by his
grandparents brought her baby', big kid at heart! I love (not suited for those with heart, ankle, wife Jillian Sobieska,
along to church to sing with “I learned to play the guitar in being in the ocean: snorkeling, knee or hip problems) this story will delight
the choir. Raro by watching and listening spear fishing, scuba diving, and inspire children
to local musicians.” free diving and reef walking. • Transport & light lunch provided everywhere.
Born in Rarotonga, raised I love to scuba dive but I prefer • Monday to Friday - weather Available from Bounty
in Sydney, Kura began her I Love it! If I could to free dive with friends." Bookshop or directly
musical pathway learning the live down there, I’d permitting from Pa and Jillian
piano, but she got disinterested leave this place and I Love it! If I could live down
with it and didn’t continue. go live in the ocean there, I’d leave this place and Medicinal Nature Walk with Pa
forever. go live in the ocean forever.
As a teenager still at school • A gentle walk through the noni
Kura and her sister Leilani For the past fifteen years Working for Captain Tama’s plantation and taro fields to
practiced their musical skills Kura Happ has become well Lagoon Cruizes at one stage the mountain. Enter pristine
busking during the holidays in known locally as an individual as ‘Captain Happy’ exposed rainforest, visit the sacred Marae.
Sydney’s busy shopping district performer around the music Kura to visitors, contributing
around Pitt Street, the Town scene presenting her own to her confidence speaking as a • Hear stories of Pa’s ancestors and
Hall and Central Station, distinctive style. She has also tour guide, and supporting her learn about local herbal remedies.
and also nearer to home at performed internationally. believe that she could create a
Hurstville and Cronulla. business focussing on her love • Tuesday & Thursday
Kura is also half of one of of the ocean. “Also, working
“My best friend is my sister. Rarotonga’s most popular with Ariki Adventures, I learnt Bookings 21079 or email [email protected] | www.pastreks.com
We’re both singers. I would and accomplished acoustic so much there, which gave me
play guitar and she had the percussion duos known as the confidence and courage
ukulele.” Trigger Fish, with Maurice to start my Ariimoana reef
Newport (Mo). They perform walkabouts.”
“We’d carry those little fold a mix of soul, reggae and jazz
out stools with our instruments in both small and large venues, In 2019, Kura began
on our backs and a little including heading off to Tahiti Ariimoana walkabouts.
Djembe drum. We’d walk often to play at the Hinano The Ariimoana reef walks
around and set up at the best Live concert. “I love Tahiti!”. are designed to explore the
place; no sound system just Kura is on guitar and vocals, lagoon’s marine life close up.
acoustic.” and Mo on the Cajón (a box The walkabouts last around
shaped percussion instrument three hours during low tides.
Kura said they played different originally from Peru): “It’s
styles of music from the R&B really cool!” “We go on the reef at low tide,
music of Destiny’s Child which is the best and safest
and TLC, to Dr. Hook, The "I love the music scene in time to go. We find sea life
Eagles, Cat Stevens and Bob Rarotonga. The only thing is including moray eels, starfish,
Dylan (influenced by their sea urchins, octopus, reef fish,
parents taste in music): “I love and sea cucumbers, and talk
Dr. Hook!” about their roles in the ocean
world. I tell stories about how
“My mum was the one that the locals use to live fishing
really got us into our music. the reefs. All those stories my
She can play. And, she took us grandparents would share with
to musicals like Miss Saigon, me. I was raised on the beach.”
The Lion King and Ipi Tombi.
There was so many I can’t For more information about
remember them all!” Ariimoana reef walks call
70 070. Facebook - Ariimoana;
Kura and Leilani ultimately Instagram - ariimoana_
became a duo R&B group walkabouts.
called Brown Sugar for a
period with some success (Photographer: Alisha Street) Kura Happ is the real deal!
around the club circuit. Amazing entertainer and now
‘eco’ tour guide. It’s going to
“We did a few big gigs like be difficult not to come across
Waitangi Day.” Kura if you love the best things
Rarotonga has to offer – local
Ariimoana, king of the ocean live music and the pristine
lagoons!

26 I S L A N D L I F E CoOK ISLANDS SuN

The custard squares
are Deli Licious!

MOST CAFÉS IN
RAROTONGA HAVE
SOME CLAIM TO
MAKING THE BEST
COFFEE, OTHERS CLAIM
TO MAKE THE BEST
CUSTARD SQUARES,
BUT JUST ONE CAN
CLAIM TO BE THE MOST
DELI LICIOUS CAFÉ ON
THE ISLAND!

Muri’s cool looking Peter Heays and Carey Winterflood, partners in Cook Islands Real Estate Ltd.
Deli-Licious
Café is located Get advise from the experts!
on the village’s main road,
conspicuous for it’s shady Kris Higgins with a Deli Lious custard square COOK ISLANDS REAL ESTATE LTD PARTNERS According to Peter and Carey
outdoor seating and umbrellas. CAREY WINTERFLOOD AND PETER HEAYS HAVE most of their enquiries for
Open Sunday to Friday 8am- The hibiscus, the sun, the now in our fifth year,” said YEARS OF EXPERIENCE SELLING AND LISTING lifestyle businesses come
3pm for breakfast, brunch and beaches; just reminded me of Kris. PROPERTIES AND BUSINESSES IN RAROTONGA from their website www.
lunch, owner-manager Kris that! AND AITUTAKI, PREDOMINANTLY RELATED TO cookislands-realestate.
Higgins said Sunday is their “We revamped the menu a THE COOK ISLANDS TOURISM SECTOR AND com. “Our website has a
busiest day. “In New Zealand I worked in little bit, but didn’t make TRAVEL INDUSTRY. monumental click-on rate,”
As with many expat business corporate finance: I worked huge changes as the café was said Carey.
owners, Kris and husband Neil in banking then went into running so well”. We asked them what of the country. That's our
came to Rarotonga on holiday investments, but I just didn’t their advice was for biggest advantage over other “But we also get calls from
and dreamt of making a living feel I had any quality of life.” Focusing on quality coffee, people interested in Pacific island nations.” visitors here on holiday.
on the island one day. cakes and light meals, Deli- buying a business in the Cook They’ve fallen in love with
“The place reminded me of the Neil, who worked for the Licious Café is not only Islands: Is it easy or difficult? According to Cook Islands the place, seen how easy it
Whangaparaoa Peninsula on Department of Corrections vegetarian and vegan friendly; Real Estate, people are appears to be to do business
the outskirts of of Auckland. as a Corrections Officer, felt it is also dog friendly! “It's certainly not difficult, primarily looking for lifestyle here, and that's the clincher!
the same way, so they started but it is a process that has businesses mostly in tourism: They're about to go back
Kris and Neil came looking and soon found Deli- “We have a real love of to get approval from the hotels, motels, bed and to a 9-5 grind, and think:
to Rarotonga on Licious Café online, and it was animals. So visitors to the café BTIB, the Business Trade breakfast type properties, maybe we could settle
holiday and dreamt for sale. must love dogs, because they Investment Board,” said cafés, restaurants, and tourist here in the Cook Islands.
of making a living on are always around. They just Carey. attractions. Others get back home, get
the island one day “We bought Deli Licous as it hang about being friendly. We onto our website and start a
was; we saw it on Trade Me feed them around the back!” “You need to get past the conversation by email.”
The Deli-Licious Café at Muri about four years ago. We are BTIB criteria to buy a
But getting back to custard business, which includes Cook Islands Real Estate
squares, Kris is very proud of health checks, police checks Cook Islands is handle hundreds of ‘lifestyle’
the Deli Licous variety. from back home, and a small actually quite a enquiries each year.
business plan. Providing the sophisticated island
“We have the best custard criteria is met, you'll find that nation, so we have Peter said: “We pride
square on the island because you're most welcome, and ‘the niceties’ to ourselves in personally
ours are made with eggs, milk work and residency permits conduct business. guiding people through
and all things natural!” are renewed easily.” the entire process from the
inspection, through the
When asked if their custard So why choose the Cook BTIB process, immigration,
squares are fattening, Kris Islands for a lifestyle change, the banks, the loans, right
replied lightheartedly: “When and not another South Pacific through to the day they take
you are on holiday, nothing is island? over, and even beyond!”
fattening!”
“We both first came here
Kris concluded: “We didn’t “The Cook Islands is actually “One of the factors to be individually years ago as
come to Rarotonga to make quite a sophisticated island taken into consideration when tourists, and we know what
millions, we came here for nation, so we have ‘the buying a lifestyle property it's like to be a purchaser,”
quality of life. We enjoy what niceties’ to conduct business. in the Cook Islands is that said Carey. “Not just that,
we do. We love working with We also have the ease of property cannot be bought we’ve brought our children
the girls in the café; they are travel to and from Australia freehold, only leased, albeit up here, so we know about
awesome – and local!” and New Zealand, where long term leases lasting schooling, sports and
most of our buyers come decades. And, it certainly recreation and so on. We’ve
Polynesian Rentals expand from. English is widely makes the unaffordable, more collectively got years of those
spoken here, and the laws are attainable, said Carey. sorts of experiences to share”.
100% locally owned New location at Titikaveka similar to Australia and New
Polynesian Rental Zealand, but particularly “The entry level for The Cook Islands Real Estate
Cars & Bikes is now New Zealand. So it’s fairly accommodation property office is next to Cook Islands
positioned at seven locations easy to do business here,” said is dramatically different News on the main road just
around Rarotonga, plus Carey. in Australia and New out of Avarua, but mostly
Rarotonga Airport. In 2019, Zealand. Here, a million Peter and Carey are with
Polynesian added its seventh Peter added: “We also have a dollars could buy you a small clients and vendors.
location, which is situated on stable government, we have accommodation property
the main road at Titikaveka, laws that are recognisable, close to the water front; back “The best way to contact us is
next to Royale Takitumu. and policies that are not in Australia or New Zealand by mobile telephone 24/7 or
The others locations include: continually changing. It's it would be three, four, maybe by email,” said Carey. “We’ll
two in Avarua, Muri Beach, consistent, and there is five times that amount.” come to you, or meet you for
Aroa Beach, Club Raro and confidence in the future a coffee!”
Edgewater Resort.

With over 30 years experience serving the Cook Islands and investors.

Full and complete knowledge of local land laws, rules and Government regulations.
We are with you right from the from start and all the way to settlement.
Local company, sensitive and discreet —buying and selling—Your No.1 choice.

CAREY WINTERFLOOD +(682) 55678 PETER HEAYS +(682) 55289

www.cookislands-realestate.com [email protected]

CoOK ISLANDS SuN ISLAND LIFE 27

Cook Islands, the perfect sea change

It’s not a dream. Lifestyle is real!

FIFTEEN ISLANDS model, but we rely a lot on the of Commerce share the same But a core part of BTIB’s
SPREAD OVER 2 practices within the countries building as BTIB. mission is foreign investment
MILLION SQ.KM MAKE that supply most of our foreign in the Cook Islands, which
UP ONE THE MOST investment funds, primarily “The Chamber subleases off is articulated on BTIB’s
EXCEPTIONAL AND Australia and New Zealand. us, so we share in resources comprehensive website btib.
ACCESSIBLE COUNTRIES But, the Cook Islands is in that sense. Notably, both gov.ck.
IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC, foreign investment friendly!” organisations serve the
THE COOK ISLANDS. business community. They “We also dedicate a part of
The BTIB office is located on serve their members, and their our website for opportunities
Exceptional because of Teariki Vakalalabure BTIB’s chief executive officer Avarua’s main road, opposite members are businesses on the to invest in the Cook
its engaging Polynesian the Punanga Nui Market, Island”. Islands. That's investment
culture and pristine the promotion and monitoring seems to take the bulk of our in the same building as the opportunities and businesses
environment, accessible of foreign investments, and to investment. But the need Cook Islands Chamber of Teariki said BTIB don’t have for sale”.
because there are direct flights encourage the participation increases for foreign direct Commerce. a big promotional budget but
from New Zealand, Australia, of Cook Islanders in trade investment to be happening in they are represented in some Teariki emphasised: “The tax
French Polynesia and the investment and business. other sectors too,” said Teariki. “We are on this stretch of trade shows, particularly in system is very simple. Two
United States, and English is road for a reason. That is to Australia and New Zealand. kinds of tax, either income tax
widely spoken. Heading up the BTIB is the “But, we do understand our be as accessible as possible or value added tax. You pay in
affable chief executive officer reliance on tourism, and it's to visitors, and to the public. You don't just invest the Cook Islands. No death
The most visited islands are Teariki Vakalalabure. importance to the economy.” We'd like them to come in to to make money in benefits tax, capital gains
the main holiday island of discuss opportunities. the Cook Islands, tax, all the other tax regimes
Rarotonga and its close by According to Teariki there Teariki said that BTIB develop you invest in your that you could experience
neighbour, Aitutaki, which has is a clear need for foreign its criteria around Cook “We want visitors to see our lifestyle” elsewhere. So it's very simple
what many consider the most direct investment to continue Islands foreign investment sign board or see a business tax.”
beautiful lagoon in the world. in specific areas including policy constantly aware of what opportunity and think: ‘I “We have also attended
tourism, agriculture, transport, other countries are doing in could invest here.’ Visitors trade activities in Honolulu. Teariki said that BTIB work
And, it is possible to live and marine resources. the region. don't necessarily come to the When we attend these closely with Immigration for
and work in these islands Cook Islands for investment events, usually it's a two all our investors.
subject to the approval of “At the moment, tourism “We don't follow any specific purposes; they come here for or three way government
the BTIB (Business Trade a good time and a holiday, but agency collaborative effort to “BTIB always try and make
and Investment Board), who they may see opportunities, promote local, export ready sure that our investors get their
provide information on what and then come to us for advice commodities. That way we can permits on time and regularly.
is required to start a business, and direction on investing in a compete in a lot of markets. At the moment it is an annual
or for those looking to invest business. renewal, we are hoping that
in an existing business, in “Last year we went to China can be extended soon to a two
the Cook Islands. They also “BTIB answer any sort of taking five or six different or three years renewal cycle.
manage the approval process. question in relation to: Can products. A lot of it was
I invest in the Cook Islands? around crafts, hand-woven “We believe the Cook
The BTIB is a government said Teariki. hats, jewellery and pearls. Islands allows you a life
funded agency that is We promote niche products experience when you invest
responsible for the promotion “We give people time with our overseas”. here that's different from
of trade, investment and officers; we take them through other destinations,” concluded
business in the Cook Islands, the process. And we provide Teariki
them them with brochures and
literature.” “You don't just invest to make
money in the Cook Islands,
Is it not by coincidence that you invest in your lifestyle”.
the Cook Islands Chamber
FOR SALE*

A selection of businesses currently for sale in the Cook Islands Business Trade Investment Board

BUSINESS LOCATION PRICE CONTACT Cook Islands

Aitutaki Escape Aitutaki POA Cook Islands Real Estate INVEST IN THE
Blue Water Tours Rarotonga $250,000 Jeff Tikitau Real Estate COOK ISLANDS
Commercial building & home Atiu $260,000 Cook Islands Real Estate
Cook Islands Sun Publications Rarotonga POA [email protected]
Coral Sands Apartments Rarotonga $1,385,000 Cook Islands Real Estate
Iconic Gourmet Bakery & Café Rarotonga POA Jeff Tikitau Real Estate
Jasons Maps & Guidebooks Rarotonga $1,850,000 Jeff Tikitau Real Estate
Muri Garden Lodge Rarotonga $1,040,000 Cook Islands Real Estate
The Dive Centre (The Big Fish) Rarotonga POA [email protected]
Vaima on the Beach Restaurant Rarotonga POA [email protected]

* The above businesses were for sale at the time of printing. Prices quoted are in NZD+VAT.
Details are sourced from real estate websites mentioned, the BTIB website, or the individual business.

Aitutaki Escape Coral Sands Apartments

Business Trade Investment Board, Private Bag, Cook Islands
Telephone: (682) 24 296 Facsimile: (682) 24298

Email: [email protected] Internet: http://www.btib.gov.ck

The Dive Centre Vaima on the Beach

28 I S L A N D L I F E CoOK ISLANDS SuN

Cook Islands’ hard working
commercial traveller

THE TURAMA PACIFIC TRAVEL GROUP IS ONE they became an integral part
OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL INBOUND TOURISM of the Rarotonga community,
OPERATORS IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC. WE’RE especially Robert’s beloved
CHATTING HERE WITH ROBERT SKEWS, THE wife ‘Mama Mousie’. Sadly, in
COMPANY’S MANAGING DIRECTOR. May 2018, Mousie died after a
battle with cancer: “One of the
Turama means
‘light and many enduring things
vision.’ The I learned from Mousie
group consists of was the value of family!"
DMCK - Destination Robert is the front man
Management Cook for the Turama Pacific
Islands; Island Hopper Travel Group, travelling
Vacations; Tipani the world to promote
Tours; Raro Tours; Turama’s services, and
and Weddings Cook the Cook Islands.
Islands. Robert appeared
destined to live in, and
It all started in 1990 work on behalf of, the Four generations of family, 2004 Robert Skews is (sarong) as his business and
through a partnership Cook Islands. entrepreneurial, and for leisurewear: “Since living on
with Air Rarotonga “I was with Air New But Robert actually craved to over twenty years the Cook Rarotonga I’ve worn it; it’s so
and some Papa’a (a Zealand until 1982. work for himself. Islands Tourism Corporation comfortable”.
Maori term for people I went to Papua New benefited from his inclusion
of European descent), Guinea with Air “Smithy (Air Rarotonga’s on their board. Robert cites We asked Robert his thoughts
including Robert Skews Nuigini from 1982- founder, Ewan Smith) needed Chris Wong, former CEO of on the future of Cook Islands
and Brian Baudinet. 1986, ending up as sales someone to handle inbound in the Corporation, as one of his inbound market.
and marketing manager. Rarotonga, so Island Hopper greatest influencers; he also
Whilst the business I returned to NZ to Vacations was formed with paid tribute to the influence “My concern is that we lose our
work with Ansett 1986- me and two staff in Brian of the late Dorice Reid, who uniqueness. We are ‘boutique’
developed, management 88 as airport manager Baudinet’s Budget Travel Mana served as a fellow board - we don’t have the Sheratons
in Auckland.” Court office, in May 1990. member. and the Hiltons, and we don’t
and partnerships came Robert Skews at Turama House Robert then ran the Hawaiian need them. This is our point
and went, including the Airlines operation in NZ: “Air “We soon moved near the “Chris was an amazing leader. of difference. But, we really
Airlines in Samoa for two Rarotonga chartered Hawaiian airport as we kept running out His skill was to get out there are struggling on Rarotonga
departure of Air Rarotonga to fly to Rarotonga, so I of space.” and do the marketing! I used to with infrastructure and there
and half years as reservations then set up and managed Air follow ‘Tourism’ around; that needs to be brakes put on
as a shareholder in the early Rarotonga in NZ”. “16 years ago we built Turama is how we grew the business. accommodation development.
and sales manager. That House in Nikao.” I have attended ITB Berlin
2000s. Today Robert Skews On the road again, Copenhagen 2018 (travel trade show) 25 times." “Also, we need to find ways to
secondment had enduring develop the outer islands. The
and Brian Baudinet are dual Robert’s strategy has been great thing is we don’t need
consequences for his personal if Cook Islands Tourism is to manufacture tourism in the
shareholders. overseas on a promotion then Cook Islands!”
and professional life. Turama should be there too:
“And, it’s worked!” Robert said he would like to
The great thing is “Air New Zealand provided see better Los Angeles and
we don’t need to a general manager, traffic In Europe and Asia for the Sydney services with at least
manufacture tourism manager and sales manager to past five years Turama, Rosie two flights a week: “Another
in the Cook Islands! support Polynesian Airlines Holidays, and the South option is maybe to have
until 1978,” said Robert. Pacific Tourism Organisation Fiji Airways link Australia
We caught up with Turama’s have worked in partnership through Fiji to Rarotonga;
managing director, Robert Whilst in Samoa, Robert met to run ‘Meet the Pacific’, an I think that could work!
Skews, (aka Poppa Hopper, or Polynesian Airlines flight event bringing together South
simply Papa to his staff) who attendant and his future Pacific resort partners, tourism “You know, I love this industry
in 2013 was presented with wife Elisapeta, known as boards, and airline partners, and the Cook Islands. We
the prestigious Cook Islands affectionately as Mousie. with European tour operators. just need to be more careful
‘Lifetime Achievement in One of her aunties named her about the bringing in plastics,
Tourism Award’. Mousie, as she was so small as One thing that distinguishes noisy bikes and cars, and jet
a baby. Robert Skews from his peers skis in the lagoon! Let’s keep
Robert’s journey to Turama in in Rarotonga and overseas is our pristine image; it’s our
Rarotonga really began at Air “We married in Samoa in 1977 his choice of Samoan lava-lava advantage!”
New Zealand in Auckland as and were together over 40
a management cadet. During years. We have five children:
thirteen years with the airline Mousie had three children,
he once visited Rarotonga on and we added another two in
a relieving position, before New Zealand, Nathan and
being seconded to Polynesian Shannon, before coming to
Rarotonga. We now have ten
grandchildren and seven great
grandchildren.”

The Skews made Rarotonga
their home in 1990. Soon

Yakitori and Cuban cigars in a beach bar
eatery named after a volleyball

THERE ARE MANY SMALL RESORTS IN THE “We got married in Rarotonga located right on the beach
COOK ISLANDS; NONE QUITE LIKE THE QUIRKY in October 2011,” said Paul next to the newly renovated
CASTAWAY RESORT ON THE SUNSET COAST OF restaurant. The open sided,
RAROTONGA. “Then I was still doing work elevated, undercover section of
in Christchurch. Michelle had restaurant seats seventy, whilst
Bought from the bank Michelle’s sister Frances about moved to Raro so we made sixty can be seated in the open Wilson’s Bar and the new restaurant, beachside on the Sunset Coast at
in 2012, the resort twenty years ago. Michelle is a a conscious effort to buy a on the beach. Arorangi
has developed its former Miss Cook Islands. business and settle here.
infrastructure and built its “We have live music on two or “I enjoy the occasional cigar it was time to seek out new
reputation over the past Whilst Paul was doing his thing, “We bought Castaway in May three evenings, Friday being but when I came here years investors to help renovate and
seven years through the Michelle was a senior executive 2012. It was completely run the most popular with Anania ago you couldn’t buy a cigar. extend the accommodation
determination of its co-owners for 18 years at the Ministry for down. It came with 12 rooms, Brown.” There’s only one type of cigar from twelve units to eighteen.
Paul Ash and Michelle Oberg- the Pacific Islands Affairs in one part time cleaner and a guy to smoke and that’s Cuban!
Ash. Wellington. doing a bit of gardening. The Wilson’s bar and the restaurant I import them now for sale at “All existing rooms are now
bar and restaurant were closed (breakfast, lunch and dinner) Wilson’s”. being upgraded and additional
Managing director of units being built. All 18 will
Castaway Resort 2012 Ltd down”. Cool style, warm Another innovation introduced be fully self contained and air
is New Zealander Paul service is now the by Paul is Yakitori skewers: conditioned.”
Ash who comes from a Michelle took over the order of the day. “There is a selection of beef,
maverick-style business accommodation side, and lamb, chicken, tuna, scallops, Today Castaway Resort is
upbringing. According to Paul focussed on getting are open seven days a week, prawn, vegetarian and cherry a successful local business
Paul his previous vocation the bar and restaurant except on Sunday when the tomatoes, all marinated in our to be enjoyed by all, with a
was ‘a contract chief going. The old restaurant bar opens at 6 o’clock. The secret Yakitori sauce!” harmonious and cooperative
executive troubleshooter’ was called Crusoe’s so it restaurant menu offers a relationship between its
working for various occurred to Paul that a good different theme every night With the food and beverage accommodation, food and
banks, corporations and name for a beach bar and including pasta, Mexican, fairly well looking after itself, beverage.
organisations. eatery was Wilson’s after curry, and seafood.
Tom Hanks ‘friend’ in the
Paul met Michelle Oberg Paul Ash, Castaway’s managing director movie Castaway.
in Christchurch during
a blind date set up by Cool style, warm service
is now the order of the
day at Wilson’s, which is

CoOK ISLANDS SuN AT U TA K I 29

Voyager, sail forth, sunset side of Aitutaki. With
to seek and find 23 bungalows and all the
amenities anyone needs for a
GENERAL MANAGER OF TAMANU BEACH IN documentary during their tropical holiday, including a
spa and massage, a beachfront
AITUTAKI, NICK HENRY, HAS ACCOMPLISHED forthcoming trip to American restaurant and bar, and two
fresh water pools, Nick
SOMETHING MOST OF US ONLY DREAM ABOUT, AND Samoa. describes the resort as ‘Casual
Luxury.’
THAT IS CAPTAINING A POLYNESIAN VAKA FOR “He told me they had no room
TWO YEARS AROUND THE PACIFIC OCEAN ON A for a cameraman on the vaka, After five years Nick believes
MISSION TO SAVE THE OCEANS, AND GETTING PAID but had room for a crew! in ‘Aitutaki for Aitutaki’,
meaning that when Aitutaki
FOR IT! “This was a voyage to the Tamanu bungalows facing the lagoon people are ready to develop
more tourism, then that’s when
Grandson of the Cook returning to the Cook Islands South Pacific Festival of Arts Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti and Cook of Independence Committee, it should happen. Not before!
Islands’ first premier, in the mid 1960s. “He wanted in American Samoa. There Islands. which took place in July and
Albert Royle Henry, to help change the way the were sixteen crewmembers, August 2014. In 2015, Nick “My sentiment is I want
Nick could not be more proud Cook Islanders were living. As and after lots of preparation The voyage demonstrated headed off to Aitutaki to take Cook Islanders to own Cook
of his family and his family’s independence was in the air, he we sailed off encountering the genius of Pacific vaka over the family business as Island tourism. I think that
history. got into politics,” said Nick. some massive storms, which design and the power of the general manager of Tamanu Aitutakians should decide
damaged our sails, so we almost lost culture of celestial Beach. what they want. Right
Built on family land, Tamanu Albert son, and Nick’s father, limped into Pago Pago seven navigation. now, there is not enough
Beach has been in existence for Hugh was brought up in New days later. We were the heroes Tamanu Beach is a friendly, Aitutakians on this island to
eighteen years. Nick said the Zealand, as was Nick’s mother of the South Pacific Festival of Nick then headed off to Tahiti adults-only (12+), air- grow the industry. So until
for a couple of years. On his conditioned, roomy bungalow- they come home, or until the
resort was his father Hugh’s Helen. Nick said that Albert Arts - these unshaven warriors, return, he was asked by the style resort overlooking Aitutakians here are equipped
Prime Minister, Henry Puna the beach, lagoon, ocean, and ready to take tourism to
vision: “Dad always wanted a Henry had told Hugh in the the only Pacific Islanders to to chair the 50th Anniversary or tropical gardens on the another level, only then am I
happy for us to go to that next
beachfront resort. He made a late 1960s: “It's time to come come by sea. Everybody had level”.

sketch of it years ago, which we home”. flown in!”

still have,” said Nick. “It was an unforgettable

Nick’s father sadly arrival with a big crowd

died a few years before at the harbor, and the

the definitive Tamanu Governor there to greet

Beach opened in 2006, us. I remember hearing

but two of Nick’s older the Cook Islands drums;

brothers Michael just an incredible feeling!”

(from the original Are Even though Nick Ph. [682] 31 810 Fax. [682] 31 816
Tamanu 2000) and wasn’t supposed to shoot [email protected]
Stuart (who developed video: “I became a crew AITUTAKI • COOK ISL ANDS
the neighbouring Manea with a camera. I made
Resort 2004) partnered a documentary called www.tamanubeach.com
up choosing to name the ‘Seven Days to Pago
amalgamated property Pago,’ which aired on
Tamanu Beach in honour Cook Islands Television,
of their father. and we showed it at the

“As the youngest Festival of Arts. I edited

brother, it’s now my it there on my laptop!”

turn to contribute Nick Henry and son Harry at Tamanu’s island night Nick became an active
to the operation and
member of the Cook
development of our family Hugh returned in 1969 with Islands Voyaging Society,
resort,” said Nick, who arrived his wife and boys: Michael, ultimately as a captain: “I went
at the Aitutaki resort in 2015 Paul, Stuart, and Nick. Sister to New Zealand to get the
with wife Diane and newly Katherine was born in 1972: qualifications. So that really
born son Harry. “Dad became Secretary of was my next career move - to

“This year we have had Public Works working in the move from the media into
Government.”
another son Arapati, named this ‘cultural revival’. Then I

after his great-grandfather After a stint at uni in just sailed for two years. I got
Albert Royle Henry.” Auckland, Nick returned paid as a captain of one of the
to Rarotonga to work for vakas by an organisation called
Nick said the family name the Cook Islands Tourism Okeanos (Foundation of the
Henry originated from Corporation in sales and Sea).”
Reverend Henry Royle: ‘He
marketing. By1996 Nick was
was in Aitutaki preaching
with Edgewater Resort’s sister
the gospel with the London
…when AitutakiMissionary Society in the mid- property Club Raro as general
1800s. Our ancestor Tetaura manager. Soon he left Club
Raru sought permission from Raro to help set up the Bond people are ready

the Reverend to "borrow" his Liquor Store. to develop more
name and then placed the tourism, then that’s
name "Henry" on his Son”. After seven years with Bond,
Nick left and created a video

The name Henry ended up production company, The when it should Our well-maintained and modern eet includes
later in the century being Digital Factory, with two • small 4 door hatchback cars • 8 seater MPV's • 15 seater vans • automatic scooters
Phone: (682) 31379 Email: [email protected] www.popoaraoceanbreeze.com
used as a surname: “So by the partners making commercials,
[email protected]
happentime my grandfather was born documentaries and videos on
sporting and cultural events:
on 1907, he was Christened
“I also helped start 88 FM in
Albert Royle Henry. My Rarotonga around that time”. In 2010, Okeanos began
full name is Nicholas Royle working with voyaging
Henry!” With his video experience societies across the Pacific to

“Grandpa died when I was Nick became involved with develop and build a fleet of

12 in 1981, so we knew our the Cook Islands Voyaging seven traditionally designed,

grandparents well. He insisted Society, through its president, fossil fuel free double masted
Ian Karika.
on having his children and Vaka Moanas, representing 26

grandchildren around him “In 2008, I was at Trader island nations.
every week”. Jack's having a drink with Nick was involved in the

Albert Henry spent many Ian and I asked him if I could famous voyage Te Mana O
years in New Zealand before go on the vaka and make a
Te Moana (The Spirit of

the Ocean), which began in

April 2011 and launched a

renaissance in traditional vaka

culture, ocean stewardship

and engagement. Over the

course of two years, hundreds

of sailors navigated from

Aotearoa to Hawai’i to the US

with a historic arrival at San

Francisco Golden Gate Bridge

and back, making stops at 15

Pacific nations along the way.

Island Night dancers performing beachside After the voyage, Dieter
Paulmann of Okeanos gifted
four Vaka Moana from the Te
Mana O Te Moana fleet to

30 A I T U TA K I CoOK ISLANDS SuN

YES, we do it all. Let my husband BLACK PEARL
and I take you out on one

A great day out!of our Personalised
Charters.

CHARTERS

1.DEEP SEA FISHING - Fish the FADs and drop
offs for Tuna,Wahoo and Mahi Mahi. Other fishing available,
jigging, live baiting, bottom fishing and casting for GTs.
Experience not required.

2. PRIVATE LAGOON / SNORKELLING
TOURS - Enjoy a day exploring our lagoon without the
crowds. More snorkeling than any other operator, including

All Charters include, transfers, the outer reef. Visit as many islands as time allows and enjoy
breakfast or lunch, hot and a BBQ on One Foot Island. Timings are flexible and families
welcome. Half days also available.
cold drinks, towels, snorkelling
equipment, etc. 3. SPEARFISHING - Spearfish your own

lunch or dinner, experience not required. Phone

Certificate of Excellence Give us a call for details. 31125 home

www.blackpearlaitutaki.com 52 125 mobile
EEmmaial:ibl:latcekkpeoatrilaai@[email protected]

Blue Lagoon Restaurant & Bar

+682 31 852

[email protected]
www.aitutakivillage.com

AT I U

ATIU, A WORLD APART

Atiu is only 187 1
kilometres from
Rarotonga, yet it
is a world apart! With a
population of around 400,
this rugged island is one of
the eco centres of the Cook
Islands attracting bird lovers
and the more adventurous
traveller.

Only a forty-five minute flight
from Rarotonga, a two or
three-day visit to Atiu opens
up a tranquil, charming, an
unforgettable no frills Cook
Islands’ eco-travel experience.

See Jetsave Travel in Avarua or
Air Rarotonga at Rarotonga
Airport for accommodation
and flight options.

Here are just a few of the
attractions of Atiu.

Photo captions: 2

1. Taungaroro Beach. Enjoy your
own secluded beach.

2. ‘Land of the birds.’ Take a tour
with Birdman George.

3. A natakitaki Cave. Inhabited by
the Atiu swiftlet (aka kopeka).

4. C ook Islands Christian Church.
Visit Atiu’s first church building.

Your hosts Roger and Kura will make your stay an exciting adventure
Phone: (682) 33 777 | Email: [email protected]
On-line bookings at www.atiuvillas.com - Free email & internet
For more information on Atiu Island visit www.atiu.info
34

CoOK ISLANDS SuN LOCAL HISTORY 31

Rare investiture of an ariki (chief) on Rarotonga
By Jean T. Mason, curator, Museum Cook Islands at Taputapuatea (Library & Museum Society Inc).

There are six ariki (chief) titles on Rarotonga but three of
them have a similar source: Makea Nui, Makea Karika and
Makea Vakatini. They are said to have all arisen from the chief
Karika for it is from this man that the Ngati-Makea (ngati:
clan/tribe) are descended.

K arika is said to have Makea George Karika Ariki (right) the occasion. Makea Karika’s The arrival of the tama ariki by sea When all ceremonial rites were As is the custom for this title,
arrived from Manuka va’a tuatua (spokesman) over, the new Karika Ariki the 100 or so invited guests
(reputedly in Samoa) was prepared and cooked on Anautoa Rangatira (Teariki a bite from its ear, a ritual George Taripo spoke. He enjoyed a sit down feast inside
and together with another site at the paepae, Ngarurutu, Rauru) welcomed them with vital for the completion of promised to always listen and while the public were given
great ancestor figure, Tangiia (official residence of the ariki) a traditional chant at the gate. the investiture. The men who support his tribespeople as well raurau kikau (platters of woven
Nui (from Tahiti), battled in a giant umu (ground oven). Immediately the tama ariki held the carcass aloft had to as to try to rule with peace and coconut leaf) of food to take
the original inhabitants of was given a nu (green coconut) make sure no one would try understanding. home (or eat on site if they so
Rarotonga to gain supremacy. The investiture began with to drink (in former times to get in between them and desired).
As is the case in many parts of the arrival of the tama ariki by it would have been poi – a try to bite the ear for custom Unusually the new Ariki
the world the titles obtained by sea on a vaka taurua (double coconut cream based drink of says an usurper could become did not follow the custom of The whole ceremony was
succession have a long history hulled canoe) paddled by a 12 pounded fruit or cooked root chief by biting the ear before being carried aloft on a pa’ata conducted expeditiously but
mixed in with a healthy dose of member mixed crew. People vegetable). the intended candidate gets (litter) at the completion of respectfully. A spectacle many
myth and legend. filled every vantage point at to bite it. The women folk the ceremony as by his own may not see again was over
Avarua wharf, traditionally The tama ariki and his surrounded the men to further choice he wanted to signify within a couple hours. But
Although ariki power has known as Tuituikamoana. entourage were resplendent in offer protection of the puaka his closeness to his people the memories of it for those of
declined significantly over the George Taripo was carried their traditional ceremonial tuika’a. Biting, chewing and his humility by keeping us who bore witness to it will
past century the investiture of ashore and placed on his feet regalia of red or green rau ti and swallowing the pig’s ear his feet on the ground. The endure in our hearts for the
the new ariki entails special as the main chanter welcomed leaves (cordyline), headdresses symbolises the completion of local Cook Islands Christian rest of our lives.
traditional ceremonies and him with a turou (formal and tatua (sashes) and tiputa the investiture ceremony and Church minister offered words
the investiture of the Makea welcome chant). The tama (overshirts) of tapa (barkcloth) the promise the chief will listen of support and blessed the Acknowledgments: Makiuti
Karika Ariki title carried out ariki and his crew then passed and rauara (pandanus leaves) as to the pleas of his people; that occasion as well as wishing the Tongia and Helen Tatuava.
on 12 December 2018, called through the smoke of the two they sat in front of the paepae. thereafter he will rule them chief a long and peaceful reign.
akauruuruanga, was completed fairly, justly and peacefully.
with suitable aplomb fitting A spectacle many The youthful dancers of
for the position. For whatever Nukutere College entertained There’s a whole lot of history going
power may have been lost, may not see again in green rauti. The dancing on at Museum Cook Islands (MCI):
much respect and pride over, one by one rangatira • a plethora of ancient gods, canoes,
remains. was over within a and mataiapo (sub-chiefs)
of the Ngati-Karika clan stone adzes, wooden spears;
When the previous holder couple hours. handed to the tama ariki the • Cook Islands and Pacific art;
of the title, Dame Makea symbols of his office: first, a • textile crafts;
Margaret Karika Ariki was large bonfires, in the rarely white tapa (barkcloth) tiputa • a multitude of pictures and
invested in 1949 following the seen custom of ‘patai’ or ‘kiriti (overshirt), was presented,
death of her father, the WWI ma’u tai’, an old custom used to followed by a marokura, the photographs;
hero, Pa George Karika, the ‘cleanse’ voyagers and ‘remove sacred girdle (in past times • 40,000 books.
investiture was modest, and the dampness of the sea’. The would have been woven with
occurred in a church, possibly smoke is said to wipe away kura feathers, breast feathers Check us out at
reflective of the austerity of any bad spirits that may have of the Vini kuhlii, now extinct http://cook-islands-library-museum.org
the post-war period and the travelled with the voyagers. on Rarotonga); then his rei
sadness that her father died (sacred talisman necklace, Communicate with us at
from wounds inflicted in the The crowd of about 700 then signifying his warrior status); a phone: 26468
Great War. The much admired followed the soon- to-be- tokotoko (staff/spear) a symbol email: [email protected]
war hero had only held the ariki with his entourage as he of his promise to protect his
title for 7 years. Dame Makea walked to his paepae, for the tribe; followed by a large fan, a Hours: Mon-Sat, 9am-1pm; Tues, 4pm-7pm
Margaret Karika Ariki died on formal part of the ceremony symbol of the peace by which Located on Makea Tinirau Rd, opposite University of the South Pacific, Avarua
12 December, 2017 at the age with local cultural expert, it is hoped he will rule his Postal: PO Box 71, Rarotonga, Cook Islands
of 98 having held the title for Vaitoti Tupa, in the lead, subjects. Lastly, a parekura
68 years. beating a lone pate (log drum) (crown) was placed on his
to signify the solemnity of head. Kura feathers in the
George Taripo, tama ariki, crown and girdle signify high
the son of the late titleholder, status, the red colour standing
succeeded his mother in for mana/power and nobility.
the emotional investiture
ceremony, which took Paniania Taunga (George
place one year to the day Paniani) chanted more than 10
following his mother’s death. different karakia (traditional
Preparations for the investiture special chants) some of which
began almost immediately comprised a warning to the
after the death of Dame new chief on how he should
Makea Margaret Karika Ariki. conduct himself; to care for his
At her funeral service the pare people, that he should conduct
(crown) and tokotoko (spear/ himself always with honour and
staff) were handed to her son wisdom; then his genealogy and
George in the church. As the history of the Karika title
was always the custom pigs were also recited.
were raised and root crops
planted. In addition much A large partially roasted tusked
of the food for the feast that boar (puaka tuika’a; nio piki)
followed the investiture was was set before the new chief
donated by community and – from which he was to take
family members. The food

Avarua Beachcomber Ara Tapu
Harbour Gallery

Trader Jacks Makea Tinirau Rd CICC Church Co nstitution Ave
Bar & Grill Taputapuatea Rd National
USP Cook Auditorium
MCI preserving our nation’s heritage Islands Centre
since 1964.
We are here

A tusked boar was set before the new chief

32 C O M M U N I T Y CoOK ISLANDS SuN

What Mana Tiaki means to
the Cook Islands and to you!

“TIAKI MEANS KEEPER OR GUARDIAN AND MANA However, the MTEC moves
TRANSLATES AS INFLUENCE OR POWER. IT an important step closer to
MEANS GUARDIANSHIP WITH SACRED PURPOSE, supporting the Te Ipukarea
TO PRESERVE IT FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS. Society mission to “Protect a
THE KEEPER HAS THE POWER OR ABILITY TO Little Paradise”.
KEEP OUR CULTURE AND HERITAGE ALIVE. MANA
TIAKI ALSO REFERS TO OUR RESPONSIBILITY The steady growth of tourism
AS GUARDIANS OF THESE ISLANDS AND in the Cook Islands has
ENVIRONMENT”. made the protection of the
country’s natural environment
(Source: www.kiaorana.cookislands.travel) more critical to the long-term
sustainability of the tourism
During 2019 the Cook is vital that these issues are industry. And, the tourism Nature guru Pa Teuruaa is spiritually connected to the ecosystems of Rarotonga.
Islands, as a nation, carefully managed and that industry is aware of the
moved further responsibility lies within our contribution they can make international visitors come to
towards protecting its ‘Little communities, government, through MTEC, whereby an the island.
Paradise’ with the launch and and our private sector,” said eco accredited business follows
introduction of Mana Tiaki Prof. Milne. a set of standards established to “It is absolutely our
Eco Certification designed embedbiodiversityconsiderations responsibility to ensure that
for businesses, particularly Also in attendance was and basic conservation efforts whilst enjoying the financial
tourism-related, to contribute Kelvin Passfield, the technical into its day-to-day operations. benefits of tourism that we
to a sustainable future for the director of the eco-active do it in such a way that we
Cook Islands. NGO environmental Business operations that are protecting our beautiful
achieve Mana Tiaki Eco- ‘little paradise’ for future
Attending the organisation, Certification are rewarded generations.”
official launch Te Ipukarea with the recognition that this
of Mana Tiaki Society, who run type of ‘green accreditation’ The CEO of the Cook Islands
Eco Certification the certification can bring, particularly the Tourism Corporation, Halatoa
(MTEC) at the program: “Mana long-term sustainability of the Fua, said at the launch:
Discover Marine Tiaki Eco tourism industry.
& Wildlife Eco Certification comes “We are here today to mark
Centre in Arorangi as the country Mana Tiaki Eco-Certification a great milestone in our
was Prof. Simon notches up record (aka ‘eco accreditation’ or tourism industry, which is the
Milne of Auckland University numbers of visitors, ‘green accreditation’) is introduction of Mana Tiaki
of Technology, whose but there is a genuine desire to jointly undertaken between Eco-Certification.
highly regarded ongoing curb the impact visitors have the National Environment
Cook Islands Visitor Survey on the natural environment”. Service through the ‘Ridge to “Our natural environment, NOMINATE
provided background on why Reef ’ project, the Te Ipukarea together with culture and SOMEONE FOR
this certification scheme is For some time now, the Society, the Cook Islands traditions, are the most AN A1 MEITAKI
important to the sustainability original Mana Tiaki program Tourism Corporation, and important assets of any
of the islands. has enabled visitors to engage the Cook Islands Tourism tourism industry. This AWARD
with local conservation efforts Industry Council. certification is a ‘step up’
“The Cook Islands by supporting the work of Te strategy to protect the essence
International Visitor Survey Ipukarea Society financially. Sue Fletcher-Vea, president of our growing tourism
highlights the number one Donations to the Mana of the Cook Islands Tourism industry.”
reason for visitor interest Tiaki program are primarily Industry Council, said at
in the Cook Islands as our made through Mana Tiaki the launch: “I would like Since the launch dozens of
pristine natural environment. collection boxes at various to encourage everyone in tourism operators have already
With increased numbers of tourism outlets, including tourism to step up and become earned their MTEC. Look for
visitors, comes a strain on our accommodation, attractions, certified. I can't emphasis the MTEC logo around the
biodiversity, infrastructure and food and beverage outlets. enough how important it is Cook Islands, and support and
and local communities. It Monies collected go to various that we in the private sector recognise its membership.
Te Ipukarea Society projects. protect the very reason our

Mana Tiaki Week Simply complete an A1 Meitaki Award
form at any Cook Islands Tourism
The Mana Tiaki Eco-Certification of Tourism, not
launch and Green Expo at the only as Kia Orana Information Centre, or at Rarotonga
Discover Marine & Wildlife Eco Centre Ambassadors, International Airport, and nominate
in Arorangi, coincided with the annual but also featuring
Mana Tiaki Week in Maire Nui Park in together in Cook an individual or a business in
Avarua, where Cook Islands Tourism ‘Kia Islands Tourism the Cook Islands for excellence
Orana Ambassador’ legends Aunty Nane promotional
Papa and Aunty Lydia Nga presided. videos, print ads, in service to a visitor.
posters, and TV
Nane and Lydia are great friends who commercials. When an A1 Award is given,
have known each other from school days the recipient receives nothing more
at Titikaveka College; one year apart in Nane said: “As Kia than grateful acknowledgement and
age, Lydia admits to being the eldest.
They have worked together for over ten Orana Ambassadors, a certificate.
years at Cook Islands Tourism; now
both are the most recognised public faces we are pretty much YOUR CHANCE TO SAY
MEITAKI!
the ears and eyes of Aunty Lydia and Aunty Nane are not just great friends, they are the
Tourism out in the embodiment of Kia Orana Values Reward excellent service in the Cook
Islands by nominating an individual or
community.
a business for an A1 Meitaki Award.
We visit schools, businesses to how we are feeling if we are feeling

and community groups making good. And, Mana Tiaki that refers to

presentations about the Kia Orana our responsibility as guardians of these

Values. There is three core values islands and the environment”.

of Kia Orana: Kia Orana, Meitaki Lydia added: “We both love what we do!
and Mana Tiaki. We don’t count the minutes, and that

“Kia Orana is both a blessing and includes the ‘meet & greet’ at the airport

a wish for good fortune, and Kia all hours of the day and night; and we

Orana communicates the essence happily attend openings of businesses,

of our people and islands. Meitaki, buildings and events representing Cook

which means thank you, also refers Islands Tourism.

Alana Smith shows off one of Help reduce the amount of plastic
Te Ipukarea Society’s more bottles entering the waste stream;
recent initiatives: 800ml insulated say ‘no’ to single use plastic bottles,
thermo-flask bottles, which keep and refill a reusable bottles instead!
their contents hot or cold for up to They cost around $30.00 and can
24 hours. There are five colours to be purchased from the Te Ipukarea
choose from: red, silver, black, blue Society’s office, next door to Bamboo
and gold. A great souvenir from Jacks, on the main road at Tupapa,
Rarotonga too! near Avarua. All profits go into Te
Ipukarea Society projects.


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