Events Calender
Rarotonga and the Cook Islands has a vibrant culture - select from the list below for information and dates of events and celebrations happening around the Cook Islands.
Diving
Situated east of Fiji and west of Tahiti, Rarotonga, is the largest of the 15 islands that make-up the Cook Islands in the South Pacific.
The island is surrounded by a coral reef that encloses a lagoon of calm turquoise water that contrasts with the deep blue of the Pacific ocean.
Captain Tama's Lagoon Cruises
Glass Bottom Lagoon Cruiser
Take a memorable trip on our glass bottom lagoon cruiser upon the crystal waters of the Muri Lagoon to Motu Koromiri Island.
Snorkle through a miniature black pearl farm amongst vibrantly coloured tropical fish and coral gardens. Discover how black pearls, our most treasured resource, are cultured.
Raro Reef Sub
Cook Island's Only Semi-Sub
Enjoy the view of the island from the top deck or go down below to observe the sea life.
Pa's Discovery Nature Walk
Stage 1: A gentle walk through the noni plantation and taro fields to the mountain.
Stage 2: Enter the pristine rain forest, see magnificent 1200 chestnut trees, shampoo plants, ferns and a variety of other Flora and fauna.
Stage 3: Visit the sacred Marae. Hear stories of his ancestors. Swim in the warriors pool where they rejuvenated their energy. Pa's ancestral knowledge of herbal medicines will amaze you.
Not suited for those with knee problems. Bring mosquito repellent. Lunch and transport provided.
Pa's Mountain Walk
For those who like a challenge: This is a strenuous hike which requires a certain standard of fitness. Moves at a fairly brisk pace. Pa reserves the right to refuse those who he thinks unfit. This is for safety reasons. Not suited for those with heart or knee problems.
Raro Tours
Island Discovery Tours
Start your holiday in the Cook Islands with an oriented cultural tour of scenic Rarotonga in one of our modern air-conditioned coaches.
Coconut Tours & Rentals
Jungle Quad Adventure!
If you are a true adventurer, you will love the Jungle Quad Adventure offering thrills and challenges... Wild and exciting!
The wetter the better! Follow our experienced tour guide on a wild and exciting adventure through muddy and rocky terrain, crossing streams to remote areas of our island "jungle". At the end of the quad adventure, have a swim up the mountain in a fresh water creek and enjoy the scenery
Tangaroa 4x4 Tours
See the breathtaking panoramic views!
Travel our ancient road (Ara Metua) built by our ancestor toi; see the acient Maraes and palaces. Find out about our culture and traditions...
Highland Paradise Cultural Show
The mountain village that time forgot!
In the mid 1980s, the late Raymond Pirangi Senior , a Rangatira (subchief) from the prominent Rarotongan Tinomana Tribe , took it upon himself to set out to reclaim his heritage from the daunting dense bush and steep hillsides of Maungaroa. His dream and determination to share all this with the rest of the world has resulted in the resurrection of one of the Cook Islands' most important historic sites.
Beachcomber Black Pearl Market
Beachcomber... an unforgetable Island destination
Contemporary Art
Take home your own true piece of paradise... See the very best of Cook Islands contemporary art. For over seven years Beachcomber has been home to a remarkable art collection, representing international artists from throughout the Pacific region. The gallery proudly supports art development projects that have given rise to a vibrant new contemporary art movement. Witness the very best original work and limited edition prints.
Punanga Nui Market
Date: Every Saturday morning
Cook Island market day is every Saturday down at the Punanga Nui Markets (located in Avarua, which the locals call Town) for locals and visitors alike.
Miss Tiare Festival & the Young Warrior Competition
Date: 11 October
The crowning of the new Miss Tiare is the finale of the annual Tiare festival,
Which this year begins in October. And as if to prove there is equality in the islands, a new feature of the event was introduced last year for the young men.
They'll compete in the Young Warrior (Tama Aito) event. The young women also have to choose a flower that best represents them, while the young men pick a plant or tree. And all have to recite a speech and showcase their own personal talent.
Vaka Eiva (Canoeing Festival)
Date: 16-23 November 2012
Vaka Eiva has come from small beginnings in 2004 to become the largest international annual event in the Cook Islands and is now an established event on the international paddling calendar. We combine the spectacle of competitive paddling with more laid back "fun in the sun" events served up with the inimitable Cook Islands hospitality – a weeklong paddling festival with something for everyone!
Pacific Mini Games
Date: 2-12 September 2013
Eight sports are confirmed on the program for the 9th Pacific Mini Games to be held in Wallis & Futuna from 2-12 September 2013. The sports chosen are: Athletics, Beach Volleyball, Rugby 7s, Sailing, Taekwondo, Va'a Canoeing, Volleyball, and Weightlifting.
