Honouring land, culture, and connection in Rarotonga
At the heart of every Pacific Resort Hotel Group property is a deep respect for the land on which we stand, and a lasting partnership with the families who have cared for that land across generations.
One such partner is William (Willie) Kauvai, one of the traditional landowners of the site now home to Te Manava Luxury Villas in Ngatangiia, Rarotonga. Willie’s connection to the area runs deep, woven through memory, family, and identity.
“This land is a historical landmark to our family,” he shares.
“It marks the boundary where our land in Ngatangiia ends and the next village begins.”
Once a stretch of undeveloped shoreline marked by black boulders and dense vegetation, the area was not suited to planting, but it carried deep meaning. It was once a valuable fishing area for Willie’s family.
“It used to be a great fishing spot for our family,” Willie recalls.
“I also remember horse races along Muri Beach that would end here, because the black rocks made it impossible to go further.”
A connection to ancestors and identity
To Willie and the Kauvai family, the land is far more than a physical space. It holds the presence of Ui Tupuna, the ancestors who came before.
“Being a landowner connects us deeply with our ancestors and those who have gone on before us,” he says.
The partnership between the Kauvai family and Eden Hall reflects shared values of care, respect, and legacy.
“Partnering with Eden Hall to develop this land in some ways gives honour back to them. No doubt they’re looking on with pride, knowing that something positive has been done with the land that not only benefits the family, but also the wider Cook Islands community.”
Over time, this relationship has grown into something built on trust and understanding.
“We often feel like it’s a friendship rather than a business relationship,” Willie explains. “There’s a lot of mutual understanding.”
Te Manava today
Guests arriving at Te Manava Luxury Villas today experience peace, beauty, and quiet reflection. While the past landscape is no longer visible, the spirit of the land remains strong. “We hope guests experience the peaceful, quiet, and tranquil environment of this place,” Willie says. “We want them to feel relaxed and rejuvenated, and to take home good memories of this special place.”
Looking ahead
Willie hopes future generations continue to respect and care for the land and the relationships built around it.
“It’s important that our children continue to respect the land and understand the value of working together. There’s a long-standing relationship here, and it’s something to be preserved.”
At Pacific Resort Hotel Group, this partnership reflects stewardship and shared purpose.
“We hope that when you stay at Te Manava, you experience a piece of our identity, heritage, history, aroa (love), blessings, and the family values that are embedded in this land.”
Te Manava Luxury Villas stands as a lasting tribute to land, legacy, and connection.
This article forms part of the broader 60 Stories collection, which celebrates the people, heritage, and experiences behind Pacific Resort Hotel Group. You can explore the full series HERE.