Rarotonga Island Escape

Home (Monday 27th)

Today we simply make our way to Palmerston North for our leisurely lunchtime flight through to Auckland.

Monday 27th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today we acclimatise ourselves to our tropical paradise with an Island Discovery Tour. This is a perfect way to begin your holiday. We will jump on board the coach as the friendly guides introduce us to the stunning scenery and rich history of this picturesque South Pacific Island. Sample a coconut, learn the myths and legends of the island and visit one of their most beautiful white stone churches. We’ll take in the most notable spots and learn about life on ‘Raro’, followed by our first beachside lunch at Charlies.

Dinner: Will start the tour off with a fabulous dinner in house and enjoy an Island Night Feast & Drum and dance show

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

Tuesday 28th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today we head out and be entertained with Captain Tamas and his crew on this once in a lifetime, most unforgettable experience. Watch the magical ocean from the glass bottom boat, listen to island stories with typical cook island humour. Leap off the boat, snorkel and meet the reef fish up close and personal. Or chill out and float above the tropical paradise. After snorkeling the crew will entertain you with hilarious coconut husking demo’s as well as how to shimmy up a coconut tree. Their demonstration of 100 ways to tie a sarong will have you in stitches. Bring your towels, swim gear, sunscreen and cameras. They will take care of everything else. 

After your snorkel we will head to a small island in the lagoon and enjoy a delicious fresh fish bbq with all the island trimmings. 

Dinner: This evening we will head out to the famous Muri Night Markets. This is a great way to curate your own dinner from the various food trucks, stalls and stands all while mixing and mingling with locals and tourists alike. 

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

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Wednesday 29th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

You have a free day  today. There’ll be an optional shopping expedition around some of our favourite spots in town.  We’ll have plenty of suggestions and tips to help you do as much or as little as you want. 

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

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Thursday 30th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today we visit the remarkable Maire Nui Gardens, a 7-acre sanctuary created in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, who was gifted the land by her mother and grandmother – both of chiefly rank. The garden is a testament to organic sustainability and a tonic for the senses. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds before stopping off at the on-site cafe where we will enjoy a lovely group lunch. 

Next up we will visit the Creative Centre. The Creative Centre is a special initiative that offers more than just support for those with disabilities or require full time care. It provides a safe and supportive environment where they can work on their creativity, design skills and feel a sense of accomplishment. A lot of these creations are sold on at the local markets.  Materials and donations are welcome, please let us know if you would like to do this so we can get it arranged. 

Dinner: We head to Te Vara Nui Village and experience the spectacular Village Tour and Over-Water Night Show & Buffet Dinner. 

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

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Friday 31st (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

You have a free day  today. We’ll have plenty of suggestions and tips to help you do as much or as little as you want. Some may include the Rarotonga Brewery, a visit out to Black Rock to enjoy some lunch with a stunning view or simply just relax at our accommodations gorgeous Lagoon, that is known to be one of the best snorkeling and ‘sunset’ spots on the island. The Resort also has plenty of daily cultural and adventure activities that are all part of their free daily programme. 

Dinner: Tonight will be a relaxed group dinner in-house at our resort

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

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Saturday 1st (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast available.

Today we are off to Aitutaki, an astonishing atoll surrounded by coral reefs 45 minutes’ flight from Rarotonga. You’ll be lost for words as you view the most perfect turquoise lagoon you’ve ever seen. After a wee tour of the island we’ll join the Vaka, a double-hulled cruiser, and slowly sail across the vast lagoon and around the various tiny islands amidst crystal-clear waters, following the green turtles that live in the lagoon. Bring your togs for one of the most memorable swimming experiences of your life. It’s so beautiful here you’ll wonder if you’re dreaming. 

After a BBQ lunch onboard we’ll stop at One Foot Island, site of the worlds’ smallest registered post office. These views are the stuff of dreams. 

‍Dinner: Tonight will be a relaxed group dinner in-house at our resort.

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

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Sunday 2nd (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast

Today it’s Sunday, and most places on the island close and the locals head to church. You’re invited to join in this cornerstone of island life (optional, of course). See the ladies all dressed in their Sunday best, with their beautiful straw hats and fans and all the chaps, collar and tie. Sit back and listen to the magical sounds of their singing voices. 

Please note: As this is the first Sunday of the month, please wear all white for the church service. 

As this is our last day, you will have the afternoon to yourself to relax and soak in the last hours of island life. 

Dinner: The Waterline Restaurant and Outrigger Beach Bar

Accommodation: The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium

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Monday 3rd (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

We have one last relaxed morning before we catch our 3:45pm flight back home to Auckland. 

We will enjoy one last lovely group lunch together at the legendary ‘Trader ‘Jacks before we make our way to the airport.

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