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Apr 7, 2024 · Mangaia, the southernmost gem of the Cook Islands, stands as a testament to the rich geological history and cultural heritage of the Pacific. Known as ‘The Oldest Island,’ its ancient landscapes whisper tales of Polynesian settlers, unique ecosystems, and a community that thrives amidst the vast ocean. This article delves into the marvels of Mangaia, […]
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Mangaia, southernmost of the southern group of the Cook Islands, a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. It is the second largest of the Cook Islands, after Rarotonga, and at an estimated 18 million years old is believed to be the oldest island in the Pacific.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
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- Explore Tuatini, Te Rua Rere or Toru a Poru Caves. Mangaia is home to some of the largest and most impressive caves in the Cook Islands, adorned with limestone stalactites, stalagmites and, most noteworthy of all, crystalline floors that sparkle like glitter in the torchlight.
- Take an Island Tour. It’s worth mentioning island tours of Mangaia early in this list of the best things to do on Mangaia, as they take you to many of the sights that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to get to, such as caves and ancient marae (Maori gathering places), as well as some of the sights mentioned on this list.
- Discover Breathtaking Ara’oa Beach. Mangaia hides many tranquil stretches of sand, most of which slope into the reef and are backed with dramatic makatea.
- Paddle or Snorkel at the Tua’ati Rock Pools. Visit this stunning little corner of Mangaia at low tide and discover all sorts of marine life clinging onto the jagged rocks!
- The Best Bars and Places to Eat on Mangaia
- Things to Do on Mangaia For Foodies
- Self-Catering on Mangaia
- Drinking Water
Friday Morning Market(Southern end of the sports field, Oneroa)Mangaia Fishing Club(Opposite Avarua Landing, Orongo)Your accommodation meals (Babe’s Place and Mangaia Villas).Try local treats at the Friday Morning MarketSample an oversized “Mangaian doughnut” fromAkeke TradingLearn about local fruit and plantations on an island tourIndulge in local meals through your accommodation’sdinners.Making your own meals on Mangaia is an easy alternative thanks to all of the island’s accommodations having kitchen facilities. There are two convenience stores selling staple foods in either tinned or frozen form – there’s rarely any fresh food. There’s not always the variety of foods that you might expect, so it’s best to approach grocery shoppin...
Your accommodation provides safe drinking water. Additionally, there are filtered water stations around Mangaia providing drinking water to refill your water bottle. The easiest one to find is at the southern end of the sports field, Oneroa. Learn more about having access to drinking water in Is the Water Safe to Drink in Rarotonga & the Cook Islan...
Mangaia (traditionally known as A'ua'u Enua, which means terraced) is the most southerly of the Cook Islands and the second largest, after Rarotonga. It is a roughly circular island, with an area of 51.8 square kilometres (20.0 sq mi), 203 kilometres (126 mi) from Rarotonga. Originally heavily populated, Mangaia's population has dropped by 75% ...
- 51.8 km² (20.0 sq mi)
- Cook Islands
- 499 (2016)
- Central-Southern Pacific Ocean
Legend and Mystique. Mangaia is steeped in legend and mystique. Estimated at 18 million years old, it is one of the oldest islands in the Pacific. Mangaia is the most southerly of the Cook Islands and the second largest. It has to be as far from the maddening crowd as any island could possibly be.
3. Explore one or two of Mangaia's numerous fascinating caves. Mangaia's caves have intriguing legends and can be explored with a local guide. Mangaia's cave systems are believed to be the most complex in the Cook Islands. Toru A Puru cave is a sacred site, as it is known for its burial remains and is largely unexplored.
