Leaving my footprints in the sand

Think of a totally secluded island, with white sand beaches, flat warm water to ride in, sand bars to jump over, turtles to swim with, it could all sound too good to be true but I have been there and believe me its true and waiting for you in the Cook Islands.

Rarotonga is in the outer sector of the Cook Islands and comprises of 15 islands spread over 850,000 miles of ocean smack in the middle of the south pacific between Tonga and the Society Islands, not too far from Hawaii.

Flights from Aucklandgo out to Rarotonga the capital of the Cook Islands regularly several times a day with then a short flight on to the island of Aitutaki. These flights depart Rarotonga 3-4 times a day taking 40 minutes and putting you right in to the heart of the Cook Islands. Aitutaki is a truly breath-taking paradise consisting of 3 volcanic and 12 coral islets.

Life on Aitutaki moves at a very tranquil pace which is why it is such a well-liked destination for visitors who fly in for day trips as well as extended stays and it is well known for being called the “vacation island” of the Cook Islands.

Among some of the many islets in the Aitutaki perimeter are the famous one-foot and honey moon islands which should not be missed.

This breath-taking island and its many surrounding islets have a lot to offer every kind of traveller, from romantic couples to groups of friends looking for an adventure. Take in the local cusine while exploring the island on a boat trip. Hire a kayak or traditional outrigger and paddle the lagoon in search of the turtles, or for something more extreme try your hand at kiteboarding at the newly opened Laurel Eastman Kiteboarding School.

Through all my travels Aitutaki has to be one of the best locations I have ever been to and the island is just bursting with life and enthusiasm to encourage more of you to get over there and experience it for yourselves. It has so much to offer and is a destination that is definitely going to put itself on the map.

Getting there- use Air Rarotonga, Air New Zealand or Pacific Blue (Virgin) airlines departing from New Zealand daily.

Staying there- amongst the many beautiful places to stay in Aitutaki you would not want to miss out on the beauty that is the Tamanu beach resort. The stunning beach front resort features 22 bungalows, gift shop, conference facilities, 2 fresh water swimming pools and a beach front bar and restaurant. There are several different accommodation options to suit every travels needs and the bungalows are nestled amongst the lush tropical gardens only a few steps from the waters edge. Staying at Tamanu includes return airport transfers, daily tropical breakfast and all snorkeling and kayak equipment available.

Language- everyone speaks English with the local language being Cook Islands Maori

Entry- no visas are required to enter the Cook Islands provided you possess an onward passage ticket and do not intend to stay longer than 31 days. However if you catch the bug and want to stay longer you can apply at the immigration department and pay the fee.

Departing- there is a departure tax of $30 NZ for adults

Public Transport- there are bicycle, scooter and car hire on the island, highly recommend is the scooters as they are a great way to explore and discover the beauty of the tiny island that is Aitutaki. Driving is on the left hand-side and hire for the day starts from $10nz. Walking is also a great option with most things being 3km or less away from most resorts.

Currency- is the New Zealand dollar, but you will be given Cook Islands coins and notes when given change.

Dress code- topless sunbathing is a strict no-no and it is considered inappropriate to wear no top/shirt whilst in the town areas.

Places to eat- Go to the Koru Café and The Boat Shed Bar and Grill for some pure island eating, an awesome range of sea food choices. Both situated on the east side of Aitutaki.

Communication-  Aitutaki maybe small but has access to all the modern day communication facilities. There are phones, fax and wifi services from most hotels and several outlets that are internet cafes.

Banking- Credit cards are widely accepted and there are several cash machines and bank exchanges with Aitutaki hosting their very own solar powered bank.

Activities- festivals and themed events through out the year, along with hiking trails, diving- scuba and snorkeling, sports and game fishing, tours, bird-watching, golf, tennis, swimming as well as kayaking and the use of the traditional outriggers.

Arts and crafts- the major industry in the island are the famous black pearls.

Climate- Aitutaki gets better weather then Rarotonga, more sun and less rain, Rarotongawith its large mountains traps the clouds and produces considerably more precipitation and cloudiness. Aitutaki rarely drops below 18 degrees with the windy months being September right through to March.

Medical services- There is a small hospital on Aitutaki should the need arise and there is an ambulance service as well.
Rarotonga has a larger facility with New Zealand trained doctors.
Mosquito repellent is essential and we recommend reef shoes to all our visitors.
Public Transport-
Aitutaki has no bus system in place. There is a local taxi- Pacifica Taxi 31220
most visitors rent a scooter to see the island and go shopping etc, most resorts rent bicycles.
Most resorts will meet you at the airport and provide transport to your accommodations.
There is also a passenger bus that meets all flights and will deliver you to your resort for a fee.