Rarotonga Island Escape

Home (Tuesday 28th)

Today we simply fly from Palmerston North to  Auckland and check in to the Novotel Airport Hotel ready for our morning flight tomorrow.

Departing from another destination

For those departing from another destination we will arrange for you to meet the group in Auckland depending on your location.

Accommodation: Novotel Auckland Airport

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Wednesday 29th (New Zealand Time)

We depart New Zealand on Wednesday 29th of July and, thanks to the International Dateline, arrive in Rarotonga the day before – Thursday 28th. 

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Wednesday 29th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today we acclimatise ourselves to our tropical paradise with an Island Discovery Tour. We’ll take in the most notable spots and learn about life on ‘Raro’, followed by our first beachside lunch at Charlies. 

We return to our resort for an afternoon of relaxation before dinner at the elegant Tamarind House on the other side of the main town of Avarua. 

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

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Thursday 30th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

After being on the go these last few mornings you can enjoy a relaxed start to the day with time at leisure. 

Lunch is a unique event where we meet renowned chef Phillip Nordt at On The Beach restaurant as he, and his team, treat us to an interactive cooking masterclass followed by their ‘Chef’s Table Experience’ lunch. 

After all this, the rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to choose. 

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

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Friday 31st (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today we’re 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 this 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.

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

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Saturday 1st (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today is market day and after breakfast we’re off to the best on the island, Punanga Nui Market right in the middle of Avarua. Here you’ll find stalls from all of the outlying islands as well as Rarotonga itself. Handicrafts, clothing, black pearls, jewellery, island food, fresh fruit, artworks, and second-hand books to read over the week. There’s something for everyone here. Relaxation time in the afternoon. Perhaps by the pool, on the beach or just on the balcony of your room taking in the beach views. 

Tonight we enjoy the Edgewater’s Island Umukai Dinner Feast & Cultural Show.

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

Sunday 2nd (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast available.

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 in collar and tie. 

Another option is to come along to the beach at Black Rock for lunch from one of the many food trucks that gather there. It’s a fun family atmosphere and the swimming and snorkelling is great. This afternoon is free for you to explore or chill out. Tonight, we enjoy dinner at the Kikau Hut at Aorangi.

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

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Monday 3rd (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. Maybe lunch at legendary Trader Jack’s. We’ll have plenty of suggestions and tips to help you do as much or as little as you want. 

This evening, one of the highlights of the tour as we experience a Progressive Dinner at various local Rarotongan people’s homes. A wonderful chance to try some fantastic food and get a more in-depth insight into life here.

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

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Tuesday 4th  (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

We’re fully in the swing of ‘island time’ by now and your first scheduled activity isn’t until after lunch. 

This afternoon 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. 

Tonight we’ll enjoy the unique maritime surroundings of The Waterline with a lovely dinner. Be ready to kick your shoes off and get your toes in the sand.

Accommodation: The Edgewater Spa & Resort

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Wednesday 5th (Raro Time)

Enjoy a tropical breakfast.

Today we say farewell to our hosts and their island paradise. Remember, as we head home, we lose the day we gained on Day 2. There’s a metaphor about a simpler time in there somewhere. 

There really isn’t anything quite like a break on a tropical island for lifting the spirits and enriching the soul, particularly through winter. 

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We arrive back in Auckland at 6.15pm transfer to Domestic Terminal together and fly home.

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