COOK ISLANDS
AITUTAKI
Aitutaki, the second
most visited island in the
Cook Islands group, is
geologically part volcanic
and part atoll.
Local legend claims that its highest
hill, Maungapu, is said to be the top of
Rarotonga's Raemaru mountain that
was chopped off and brought back by
victorious Aitutaki warriors.
Polynesian myth holds that beautiful
Aitutaki is a giant fish tethered to the
seabed by a vine from the air. The light
turquoise lagoon looks like a huge pale
oyster against the vivid blue ocean.
Captain Bligh discovered Aitutaki in 1789,
only 17 days before the notorious mutiny
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on the Bounty. Christian missionaries
followed which meant it was the first island
in the Cook Islands to receive Christianity.
Today the people live in villages along the
coastline and island interior. Most roads
are tar sealed and transport is mainly by
motor scooter, although bicycles and cars
are also used to get people around. The
low rolling hills of the island are flanked by
banana plantations and coconut groves.
A triangular barrier reef seems to catch
the exquisite turquoise Aitutaki lagoon like
a giant fishhook. The crystal clear water in
the lagoon is ideal for sailing, swimming
and snorkelling and beneath the blue
surface is a world of sea creatures and
plants that will leave you fascinated.
There's also the elusive fighting bonefish
which is favoured by anglers.
To reach the summit of Maungapu, take
a leisurely half-hour walk to the west side
of the island. At its peak you'll discover
a breathtaking view of Aitutaki. The
shopping and business district is between
Amuri and Ureia and also clustered near
the wharf at Arutanga.
Aitutaki offers a range of accommodation
for any budget and there are a few
restaurants and cafés on the island for
your dining pleasure. Live entertainment
can be found at hotels or local
watering holes.
Be sure to book a full day lagoon cruise.
There will be plenty of snorkelling
opportunities and you can even hand
feed schools of tropical fish and see giant
clams up close. Some operators offer
snorkelling gear and towels and serve
