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. 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 mostly farmed for coffee and pineapples. Atiu has a warm and sunny climate all year round with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Atiu is famous for its cave dwelling kopeka (Atiu swiftlet) bird and has a variety of interesting birds, most of which reside in the Makatea Forest Enjoy a visit to the Takutea bird sanctuary, 16 kilometres northwest of the island, for more wildlife. There are a number of cave tours such as visiting ancient burial caves, sunken water caves, and the popular Ana Takitaki cave, the nesting place of the Kopeka bird. All of the accommodation on Atiu is self-contained 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. To get here, visitors must first fly to Rarotonga international airport. Air New Zealand is the main carrier to Rarotonga, while Air Rarotonga conducts inter island flights. Atiu Villas Situated on Atiu Island, Atiu Villas provide a quiet and relaxing environment for guests to enjoy. Surrounded by wild tropical gardens and just a short walk from the beaches, these chalet-style villas are charming. Made almost entirely from local timbers, the roomy villas all have a veranda and solar hot water supply. Each villa also has cooking facilities with seasonal fresh fruit available 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. Island comfort Your hosts Kura and Roger Malcolm ensure every visit is as active, or as peaceful, as you want. They can arrange eco, island and historical tours to places such as the spectacular caves or one of the 26 secluded beaches, and special bird watching tours are available. Guests can hire bicycles, motorbikes and jeeps to explore the island and snorkelling equipment is available to enjoy the marine life. Atiu Villas also features a swimming pool, tennis courts, barbecue facilities, a tour desk and offers guests free Wi-Fi. 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. Honeymoon in paradise This private island setting is a perfect location for wedding couples or honeymooners as well as those after some well-deserved relaxation. Bookings online at www.atiuvillas.com Tel: +682 33777 Fax: +682 33775 Email: roger@atiuvillas.com www.atiuvillas.com PO Box 7, Atiu COOK ISLANDS www.paradisesonline.com 29

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