Pacific Resort Hotel Group – Our story

Posted on 29/03/2023

PACIFIC RESORT HOTEL GROUP – OUR STORY

Over its rich 36 year history Pacific Resort Hotel Group (PRHG) has become one of the South Pacific’s leading independent luxury and boutique beachfront resorts collections on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. All properties operated by the Group are multi award-winning resorts, offering world class standards, integrated with an authentic Cook Island experience. Today, PRHG welcomes many guests from across the globe to its four signature properties, Pacific Resort Rarotonga, Pacific Resort Aitutaki, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa and Little Polynesian Resort.

“Pacific Resort Hotel Group was created to provide a unique boutique beach resort experience that highlights our Polynesian culture, architecture, landscaping, and accommodation. The strength and spirit of our brand over the years has become a promise in delivering an exceptional experience that is underpinned by authentic and heartfelt Cook Islands hospitality. With many developments and accolades throughout our 36 years, one thing remains the same…our guests and our people are still at the heart of everything we do.”

Marcus Niszow CEO, Pacific Resort Hotel Group

 

ORIGINS OF OUR PROPERTIES

Inspired by the alluring natural beauty and layout of Muri’s Beachfront, the first ever Pacific Resort building was framed and constructed in 1986 to highlight this desirable location, becoming Pacific Resort Rarotonga. The original build comprised of 34 units, a swimming pool, the Barefoot Bar and a small office. The original configuration of the resort presented as two, two-story hotel style blocks. Both blocks incorporated eight units (four up, four down) plus 18 duplex units located near the beachfront and surrounding the Barefoot Bar. To meet the growing demands, the resort was extended between 1988-1998 with the addition of Lagoon and Beachfront Villas, Garden Suites and Garden Villas. Further developments of the pool, lobby and Sandals Restaurant were also included. The iconic Beachfront Suites were constructed a few years later and joined the existing collection of rooms on property, strategically showcasing beautiful Muri Lagoon.

2002 brought on a new venture and opportunity for Pacific Resort Hotel Group to expand its resorts with the birth of its first sister property, based on the stunning Island of Aitutaki, surrounded by turquoise waters; where the luxurious 5-star Pacific Resort Aitutaki was born. Taking influence from traditional Cook Island designs, all rooms were designed to each have their own private sundecks so that guests can enjoy with a cocktail in hand, the intimate uninterrupted views of the striking lagoon and scenery.

In 2007, five years after Pacific Resort Aitutaki opens its doors, Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa joined the Pacific Resort Hotel Group family. The property opened with 5 luxurious villas situated on the white sands of Muri Lagoon and has since grown to 13 Villas plus the award-winning, onsite luxury Spa.  Te Manava is the ultimate place for those who value independence and privacy whilst relaxing in the luxurious surroundings.

In 2016 Little Polynesian joined Pacific Resort Hotel Group, complimenting the existing portfolio of properties and bringing together the best-known names in the Cook Islands tourism industry. Rich in cultural significance and history, its traditional Cook Islands architecture and grounds were designed with one purpose: to integrate harmoniously with nature’s beauty and charm…read more on the story of Little Polynesian Resort.

 

DEVELOPMENTS & ACCOLADES

Exceeding guest expectations and providing quality accommodation requires constant improvements, Pacific Resort Hotel Group continues to invest in enhancements, ensuring expectations are met to the highest of standards. With recent remedial work, refurbishments and restoration projects completed, the group’s properties are committed to delivering on its promise of absolute guest satisfaction.

From the very first award received back in 2008, Pacific Resort Hotel Group has since acquired more than 80 distinctive and highly regarded accolades over the years.  These include awards presented by the prestigious World Travel Awards, Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Awards, Condé Nast Traveller Awards, HM Awards, Cook Island Tourism Awards, Air New Zealand Awards, Global Luxury Hotel Awards and many more. These awards signify as a testament to the Groups exceptionally high quality standards and attention to detail through its humbled customer service and amenities.

Ready to book?  Visit our offers page for some great value deals.

Want more information on the Cook Islands? Visit Cook Island Tourism