Top Things to do in Avarua
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Top 5 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Avarua, Southern Cook Islands
At the base of the rugged, dramatic mountains of Rarotonga lies Avarua, a modest capital boasting a number of bustling outdoor markets, several restaurants and bars, boutiques and the National Museum of the Cook Islands. Along the Main Street you will find fine handicrafts and perfumes, as well as the black pearls for which the area is known. Although conditions are rarely reliable for swimming, there are dive sites in the area, including the famous Wreck of the Matai.
Restaurants in Avarua
1. Rongohiva Watersports
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Join us for an exhilarating 1-hr ride aboard our speed boat, Eturere! This 8.5-meter Gemini V-hull rigid inflatable boat meets NZ survey requirements for safety purposes, and you will be riding in comfort as its twin 250-horsepower engines shoot you across the ocean. Experience the breathtaking view of Rarotonga’s mountains from the ocean! During whale season, we slow it down for whale watching!
2. Punanga Nui
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 462 reviews
Saturday is the best time to visit this outdoor market where you can purchase fruits, vegetables, bedding and clothing.
Reviewed By 341neilm - New Zealand, null
Keep in mind this market happens TWICE a week. Saturday morning is much bigger, has all kinds of food and cultural performances. Thursday night is much smaller, but great food to tie you over till Saturday. Support local produce, donate to SPCA (the have an op shop there) and participate in local show which gives away a free tour (you will need to demonstrate your dancing abilities;-))
3. Cook Island Christian Church (CICC)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 353 reviews
Sunday services are filled with hymns sung in the Maori language at this island church which dates back to 1853. The local graveyard is noted for some famous inhabitants including American author Robert Dean Frisbie.
Reviewed By 670kates - Byron Bay, Australia
What a wonderful experience to sit among a congregation of warm loving people sharing their faith with everyone so joyously. Very proud of their identity and faith, the service is presented in the local language with occasional references to the many visitors. Church is not a tourist attraction as far as I am concerned and all should be respectful of this tradition. Make sure you donate to the collection generously.
4. Rehab Nightclub
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
5. Cook’s Island Bus Passenger Transport Ltd
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 467 reviews
Cook's Island Bus Passenger Transport Ltd is the Cook Islands only Public Bus Service catering to Visitors and Locals. We provide a Friendly Service to all and will ensure you get to your destination safely on Rarotonga. Catch a Bus and enjoy Rarotonga. Saturday - A Day to Catch a Bus. Catch the bus from your Hotel, Motel or Accommodation to our Local Markets on a Saturday Morning. Parking is limited at the Markets making the bus the most ideal way to get there and back without getting stuck in Traffic. See our website for Fare Details and Schedules. On Rarotonga there are no designated Bus Stops although there are Bus Shelters situated around the Island. If you wish to catch the bus simply wave the bus down. We are a Fully Licensed Passenger Service and Accredited by the Cook Islands Tourism Accreditation Scheme ensuring Safe and Trustworthy Service. Please note that we are a family owned business that is not subsidised by government or receives any funding from any organisations.
Reviewed By fishinglawyer
Rarotonga has one main road that circles the whole island. There are two busses make the trip, with one going clockwise and one counter-clockwise. You should never have to wait more than 30 minutes to catch a bus that will get you almost anywhere on the island. The fare is very reasonable and you can buy a concession for multiple rides for the day. The drivers are friendly and you meet some really nice people on the bus. It is not a luxury coach but it beats walking and may save you from having to rent a car or risk your life riding a tiny scooter around.
