Celebrate Our Rich Cook Islands Heritage
Te Maeva Nui Festival – 30th July – 4 August
Singing, dancing, and festivals are very much at the heart of our culture.
You will understand why if you come to the Cook Islands as the music is magnificent, with a variety of styles including string bands, drumming on wooden slit drums, rousing church singing and action songs. No trip is complete without experiencing the magic of Cook Island entertainment.
Our resorts strive to create an authentic Cook Island experience for every guest that ventures to our shores. If you were to ask any of our staff what is the cultural highlight of the year, they will no doubt say “Te Maeva Nui!”
The Te Maeva Nui is a week-long national festival that commemorates our rich cultural heritage and celebrates Cook Islands becoming an independent nation. The festival ran from 30th July – 4th August this year. This national event has grown over the years drawing international visitors from across the globe to Rarotonga for a week of cultural festivities through the arts, crafts, music, song, dance and local food. Check out the agenda for the week here
Of course, there are many opportunities to experience our rich culture when you come to stay…
- As our staff members are mostly local, it is easy for our guests to become fully immersed within our Polynesian culture as soon as they arrive. We believe in the power of our cultural identity, and wish to share both our heritage and loving, laid-back approach to life amongst our guests. Don’t be shy and ask for their favourite spots and things to do while on island!
- While staying in our luxurious accommodation you will be surrounded by our rich culture – the rooms are carefully designed in Polynesian style and adorned by local art works. Once you step out of your rooms you will be surrounded by beautifully manicured tropical gardens with fragrant flowers with the white sandy beaches only steps away.
- Ask our staff to arrange for you to attend one of the spectacular Cook Island shows not far from our resorts.
- If you are staying at Pacific Resort Rarotonga or Pacific Resort Aitutaki we have activities daily to learn about our culture including Intro to Ukulele, Cook Island Maori lessons, Ei (Flower crown) making and of course dance lessons.
- Dine at one of our restaurants to experience the best in local cuisine – favorites are the Ika Mata (raw fish), sumptuous seafood platters with locally caught fish such as Tuna, Crayfish and Marlin…. or crispy island fries made with arrowroot and taro – best enjoyed with a cold fresh nu (drinking coconut)or a delicious tropical cocktail.