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Island rhythms and Māori legends: a 10-day cultural journey through Rarotonga and New Zealand

Island rhythms and Māori legends: a 10-day cultural journey through Rarotonga and New Zealand

"Island Rhythms and Māori Legends" is a 10-day cultural journey that takes you through Rarotonga in the Cook Islands and the North Island of New Zealand. Here's a detailed overview of the example itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Rarotonga, Cook Islands
  • Check-in to your chosen luxury beachfront resort: Rarotonga welcomes you with its pristine beaches and lush tropical surroundings. Your chosen luxury beachfront resort provides a serene setting for your stay.

  • Enjoy a private beachfront dining experience: As you settle in, relish the opportunity to dine privately on the beach, where you'll witness the gentle waves and the beauty of Rarotonga's coastline.

Day 2: Explore Rarotongan Culture
  • Tapuae Day Tour at Highland Paradise Cook Islands Cultural Centre: Immerse yourself in Cook Islands culture with the Tapuae Day Tour. Discover the traditional dance, music, and arts of the islands. Gain insights into Polynesian history and heritage.

  • Punanga Nui Market: Explore the vibrant Punanga Nui Market, a bustling hub where you can shop for local crafts and fresh produce and engage with friendly locals. It's a cultural experience in itself.

  • Progressive Dinner - Through Local Homes: This unique dining experience lets you savour Cook Islands cuisine while dining with locals in their homes. It's an opportunity to build connections and learn about the islanders' way of life.

Day 3: Aitutaki - The Gem of the Cook Islands
  • Private Lagoon Tour of Aitutaki Lagoon: Aitutaki is renowned for having one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Your private lagoon tour includes island tours, snorkelling in clear waters, and sightseeing on stunning islets.

  • Unwind with a beachfront lunch on Aitutaki: Relish the beauty of Aitutaki Island with another beachfront dining experience. Enjoy locally-inspired cuisine while soaking in the breathtaking surroundings.

Day 4: Day trip to Atiu Island - Rarotonga
  • Short Flight to Atiu Island: Atiu Island, known as 'Bird Island,' offers a unique adventure. A short flight takes you there, where lush forests and limestone caves await.

  • Atiu Eco-Tour: Discover the island's biodiversity with a local guide. Atiu is a haven for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts. Learn about the native flora and fauna in this eco-tour.

  • Explore Ātiu Island: Dive into an eco-adventure as you explore Ātiu Island, a world-famous destination with intriguing geological formations.

Day 5: Rarotonga and Departure
  • Visit Te Ara Cook Islands Museum: Dive deeper into Cook Islands' culture at the Te Ara Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprises. Gain a profound understanding of the island's traditions, arts, and history.

  • Reefman Tour: Explore the thriving reef ecosystems surrounding Rarotonga with the Reefman Tour. Learn about the coral reefs, marine life, and the importance of conservation efforts.

  • Departure to New Zealand: Bid farewell to the Cook Islands as you head to the next leg of your journey, New Zealand.

Day 6: Arrival in Auckland, New Zealand
  • Travel up to the Bay of Islands: Explore cultural hotspots for the day!

  • Dinner at a five-star Eatery: After your explorations, indulge in New Zealand's culinary delights with dinner at a renowned restaurant.
Day 7: Auckland to Bay of Islands
  • Travel to the Bay of Islands and explore the area.

  • Experience local cuisine and relax

Day 8: Explore the Bay of Islands
  • Full-day Cultural Experience: Delve into New Zealand's cultural heritage with a full-day experience. Visit Māori cultural sites to gain insight into Māori traditions and history.
  • Travel to Waitomo - Rotorua

Day 9: Rotorua - Māori Culture and Geothermal Wonders
  • Whakarewarewa - The Living Māori Village: Rotorua is a hub of Māori culture. Explore Whakarewarewa, The Living Māori Village, with an exclusive private guided tour. Witness traditional Māori customs, the Pohutu Geyser, and a cultural performance.

  • Te Puia Pohutu Geyser Spring: Te Puia is a geothermal wonderland featuring the Pohutu Geyser. During a private guided tour, you'll gain insights into the significance of geothermal activity in Māori culture.

Day 10: Hidden Gems in Rotorua and Relaxation
  • Ancestral Tour: Delve into Māori culture with an ancestral tour, uncovering hidden gems in Rotorua and Tarawera. Learn about the region's history and significance.

  • Geothermal Hot Springs & Spa: Rotorua is known for its therapeutic geothermal hot springs. Relax in these natural waters, allowing their healing properties to rejuvenate your body and soul.

  • Fine Dining Experience: Conclude your journey with a gourmet dining experience at a top local eatery, savouring the flavours of New Zealand's cuisine.

This comprehensive 10-day cultural journey offers a diverse blend of cultural immersion, natural wonders, and culinary delights in both Rarotonga, Cook Islands, and New Zealand. It's a journey filled with enriching experiences and lasting memories, showcasing the best of the South Pacific and the captivating North Island of New Zealand, with Māori culture at its heart.

Plan Your Tour

Highlights

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