Imagine 15 tiny islands spreading over 2.5 million square kilometres in the Pacific Ocean. All together represent the Cook Islands.
One of them, and decidedly the most beautiful island, is Aitutaki.
Picturing the centre of the Polynesian Triangle, Aitutaki is located approximately 3’200 kilometres east of New Zealand, 1’100 kilometres west of Tahiti, and 4’600 kilometres south of Hawaii.
And on Aitutaki, right on the beach where sunsets are breathtaking, is Etu Moana, a luxury Cook Island Boutique Hotel.
Aitutaki is a little paradise, affectionately known as “small slice of heaven”. It is home to approximately 1800 people and arguably the world’s most wonderful lagoon of approximately 52 square kilometres (18.8580° S, 159.7853° W).
To see this turquoise, crystal clear lagoon with white sand bars and 15 green motus (islets) that fringe the surf-topped coral reef is truly a lifetime experience. Secluded and romantic, it holds a compelling allure for honeymooners. Protected and blessed by nature, the lagoon is a paradise for water sports and fishing, and host of international competitions.
The volcanic lush green island is tiny, approximately 18 square kilometres, and only 16 kilometres to circumnavigate. Quiet, palm-fringed roads connect eight little villages. The highest point of the Island is Maunga Pu (124 meter), from where you have a breath-taking bird’s eye view over the island and the turquoise lagoon. Walking on the beach at night is safe, and the starry sky with the Milky Way is overwhelming.
Life in Aitutaki moves at a wonderful relaxed tempo. Women still wear flowers in their hair, and you will sense that happiness is still alive.
There are no international direct flights to Aitutaki. We are far too remote.
However, it’s only a 45-minute flight from Rarotonga, where all international flights to the Cook Islands arrive. Air Rarotonga provides several flights per day between Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
Most international flights depart from Auckland, however there are interesting alternative routes you might not know.
In 2023, international air traffic is starting to recover...
Hawaiin Airlines will start flying Honolulu-Rarotonga on May 20, 2023.The flight time averages just under 6 hours.
Hawaiian Airlines is no stranger to the Cook Islands having serviced this very same route from 1987 to 1995.
Departing on Saturdays from Honolulu, and on Sundays from Rarotonga visitors will enjoy 8 nights in the Cook Islands.
Jetstar will service Sydney-Rarotonga direct two times a week starting from June 29th, 2023.
Departure days from Sydney are Thursdays and Sundays.
Air Rarotonga has resumed a weekly flight between Papete/Tahiti and Rarotonga since August 28, 2022, departing on Sundays and returning on Saturdays.
The commencement dates for direct flights from Los Angeles are still to be announced.
For any further enquiries contact Cook Island Tourism on info@cookislands.travel
Use either Auckland or Los Angeles as gate to the Cook Islands. For details see above.