Aitutaki

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Stewdate: 25-07-18

After checking out of the Rarotonga Pacific Resort, I was transferred by mini-coach to the Rarotonga Domestic Airport and connected with Air Rarotonga GZ614 (on a Saab 340 turbo-prop) for a mid-morning 40-minute flight to the second largest Cook Island of Aitutaki. On arrival, I had a short 10-minute transfer to the Henry-family owned "Tamanu Beach Resort " on the west coast of the island for a 5-night stay in a 1-bedroom bungalow. The hospitality at the resort was evident with being greeted on arrival at reception with a fruit juice and being shown to the bungalow before noon!. This is a lovely place for just relaxing / walking on the beach / snorkelling on the reef. Enjoyed a relaxing evening meal (lamb rack) and Lion Red beer at the Tamanu Restaurant & Bar.

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Stewdate: 26-07-18

This was the day I joined "The Vaka Cruise"!! This 6-hour cruise of the Aitutaki lagoon with Captain Puna onboard the Vaka Tiki-a-Tonga provided breathtaking views and a relaxing atmosphere while visiting three sun-soaked islets (motus), swimming and snorkelling in spots teeming with an array of colourful tropical fish and majestic giant trevallies and being treated to a delicious on-board fish BBQ buffet lunch. The three islets visited were Akaiami (famous for the Flying Boats of the Coral Route), Tekopua, and Tapuaetai (One Foot Island) with the opportunity for a beach walk on each islet. On return to the resort, I joined the "Takurua" Tamanu Beach Island Night where the Henry family (Nicolas Henry is the current General Manager) share their Aitutaki culture, food, song and dance with visitors and locals alike. The 'Te Aito' dance team & fire show is a display of Aitutaki & Polynesian heritage performed by the young people of Araura. Prior to the show, enjoyed the excellent "Kai Maanga" buffet.

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Stewdate: 27-07-18

Today, I went on the first orientation walk of Aituataki (west coast / south of Tamanu Beach) including a look around the Pacific Resort Aituatki before continuing through the villages of Amuri and Ureia to the main village of Arutanga. Visited the Maina Superstore & MVA's Tunu2nu Takeaway and explored Arutanga Harbour, before returning back along the same road to the resort. I spent a relaxing afternoon on Tamanu Beach / swimming in sea, before enjoying a steak evening meal and Ice beers in the Tamanu Restaurant.

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Stewdate: 28-07-18

Today, I went on the second orientation walk of Aituataki (inland / countryside) and embarked on a hike to the Piraki Lookout and onwards to the summit (Aitutaki's highest point of Maunga-pu at a modest 124m!). The summit provided superb 360 degree views including the islets of the Aitutaki Lagoon and the reef off the west coast. After descending to the coastal road, I had a brief refreshment stop at Puffy's Beach Bar (which is also open in the evening for meals) before returning to the resort. I can highly recommend the Tamanu Beach Resort Day Spa for a "Back & Foot Massage"! Enjoyed a tuna evening meal and Ice beer at the Tamanu Restaurant.

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Stewdate: 29-07-18

Today, I went on the third orientation walk of Aitutaki (west coast / north of Tamanu Beach) past the Aitutaki Escape Resort and Crusher Sports Bar Hut, and as far as the airport runway before returning to the resort. Spent my final afternoon here relaxing by the pool / beach / swimming in sea / and a lovely beach walk to the Pacific Resort & return. In the evening, I joined the Henry family BBQ buffet (of local delicacies) accompanied by local musical entertainment including a couple of songs by Nick Henry himself!

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Stewdate: 30-07-18

After a final tropical breakfast in the Tamanu Restaurant, I checked-out of my bungalow and arranged a personal transfer (courtesy of Nick Henry) to Aitutaki Airport and connected with Air Rarotonga GZ613 flight for the return 40-minute flight to Rarotonga. Although my Aitutaki experience was over, I still had 6 hours "to kill" in Rarotonga awaiting my connection flight back to New Zealand. Just outside of Rarotonga Airport is the recommended Islander Hotel (where for $5 you can drop off your bags). I just spent the time there with a couple of beers & snacks (while writing a retirement speech!) overlooking the ocean and contemplating retirement life! A perfect way to end a delightful Cook Islands escapade!

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