Pacific Island Paradises

COOK ISLANDS Atiu Island Located 215 kilometres northeast of Rarotonga, Atiu Island is part of the Southern Group in the Cook Islands. Captain Cook reached Atiu in 1777 and was approached by the islanders in outrigger canoes bringing welcome gifts of food. In the late 1800s Atiu sought protection by Britain in fear of a takeover by the French from neighbouring Tahiti. Atiu and Tahiti have remained closely connected and an Atiuan community was even established in Tahiti by those who went to work there on sugar plantations. mostly farmed for coffee and pineapples. Atiu has a warm and sunny climate all year round with an average temperature of 25° Celsius. Atiu is famous for its cave dwelling (Atiu swiftlet) bird and has a variety of interesting birds, most of which reside in the Makatea Forest. Atiu has become a bird sanctuary for the endangered Rimatara lorikeet and Rarotonga Flycatcher. For more wildlife visit Takutea bird sanctuary 16 kilometres northwest of the island. There are a number of cave tours such as visiting ancient burial caves, sunken water caves and the popular Anatakitaki Kopeka Bird Caves, the nesting place of the bird. All of the accommodation on Atiu is selfcontained with well-equipped cooking facilities. There are only two restaurants on Atiu—Kura's Kitchen at Atiu Villas and Teranginui Café in Areora. Both are open every day except Sundays. Visitors are advised to change money in Rarotonga before travelling to Atiu. Visitors must first fly to Rarotonga international airport. Air New Zealand is the main carrier to Rarotonga, while Air Rarotonga conducts inter island flights. In 1891 the Cook Islands became a New Zealand colony and was eventually granted self-governing status in 1965, however the people still hold New Zealand citizenship. This small volcanic island has a population of less than 600 people with a landmass of just 26.9 square kilometres and is surrounded by a coral limestone reef called Makatea. There are limestone caves all over the Makatea. The fertile interior is Atiu Villas Situated on Atiu Island, Atiu Villas provide a quiet and relaxing environment for guests to enjoy. Surrounded by wild tropical gardens, these charming chalet-style villas are just a short walk from the white sandy beaches of the southern coastline. Island comfort Made almost entirely from local timbers, all the roomy villas have a veranda and solar hot water supply. Each villa also has cooking facilities with seasonal fresh fruit provided and a fully stocked larder. Atiu Villas is the island's most developed and stylish holiday destination with varying room configurations for two to six people. tennis courts, barbecue facilities, a tour desk and offers guests free Wi-Fi. Your hosts Kura and Roger Malcolm ensure every visit is as active, or as peaceful, as you want. They can arrange historical, eco and island tours to places such as the spectacular caves or one of the 26 secluded beaches with special bird watching tours also available. Guests can hire bicycles, motorbikes and jeeps to explore the island and snorkelling equipment is available to enjoy the vibrant marine life. A must for every visitor is to attend the local tumunu one evening for a unique night of entertainment. Kura's Kitchen is conveniently located on-site and regularly hosts intimate island nights for guests' entertainment. Atiu Villas also features a swimming pool, Honeymoon in paradise This private island setting is a perfect location for weddings, couples or honeymooners as well as those after some well-deserved relaxation. Bookings online at www.atiuvillas.com. PO Box 7, Atiu COOK ISLANDS Tel: +682 33777  Email: roger@atiuvillas.com  www.atiuvillas.com www.paradisesonline.com  31

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