Polynesians first settled Aitutaki around AD 1225–1430. They maintained voyaging contact over a wide area, for the geochemical source of basalt adze heads found in this island can be traced back to quarries on Samoa to the west and the Society Islands to the east.
Is Rarotonga or Aitutaki better?
Rarotonga has nice beaches, but they’re nothing on Aitutaki. Whilst most are white sand, most are a little pebbly and you need to wear flip flops / sea shoes as there are lots of rocks and coral around. Lovely, but not paradisiacal. Aitutaki on the other hand, is immense.
Are the Cook Islands dangerous?
The Cook Islands’ crime rate is low. Thieves sometimes target tourists, especially at the beach. Earthquakes and tsunamis occur in the Cook Islands.
How do I get to One Foot Island from Aitutaki?
Any licenced Aitutakian with a boat can take you to One Foot Island. Some Aitutaki accommodation properties have their own boat to take tourists to One Foot Island while some have a tour desk which is an agent for an Aitutaki lagoon cruise to One Foot Island.
What language is Aitutaki?
eastern Polynesian language
Aitutaki is an eastern Polynesian language that is closely related to the languages of the other islands of the southern Cook Islands.
What language is spoken in the Cook Islands?
Rarotongan
English
Cook Islands/Official languages
Which is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on?
The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. Visitors staying here will be close to all the amenities, including banks, supermarkets and museums.
Is Aitutaki worth visiting?
Yes, it really is that beautiful and yes, it really is worth the extra effort. The most common way to reach Aitutaki is by air and the only airline to fly the route is Air Rarotonga. Aitutaki can easily be visited as a day trip.
Are there snakes on Cook Islands?
7. There are no snakes or spiders on the islands. The Cook Islands are home to a variety of marine life, tropical flowers and plants. However, there’s not a snake or poisonous spider in sight.
Can you get a boat from Rarotonga to Aitutaki?
There is no ferry between Rarotonga and Aitutaki, so this won’t be an option during your visit.
How did the Aitutaki people get their name?
The name Aitutaki comes from utauta, to load, and taki, to lead, and so it refers to Ru leading his precious human cargo in search for land. Now, all local Aitutakians trace their ancestors to one of those 20 women that came along with Ru. A true Polynesian dynasty commenced around 8 centuries before the arrival…
What’s the most important part of the Aitutaki culture?
One of the most important parts of Aitutaki culture is to never bring your footwear inside the house. Of course, this is a part of a lot of cultures around the world. But it’s worth mentioning to many people in the west who simply wear their shoes everywhere – even in the house.
Where to stay on the island of Aitutaki?
Ginas Aitutaki offers two different aitutaki accommodation locations – Ginas Garden Lodges in the beautiful lush setting of Tautu Village on the main island of Aitutaki, and Ginas Beach Lodge on the uninhabited island of Akaiami in stunning Aitutaki Lagoon. Gina’s Garden Lodges and Akaiami Beach Lodge – Aitutaki Island – Cook Islands
How to get a drivers license in Aitutaki?
A very normal part of Aitutaki culture while driving is to wave or nod to anybody who passes you. They will do that to you, and you are expected to do the same. If you plan on getting a Cook Islands drivers license, you may notice that you can get it cheaper in Aitutaki. Just go to the main government building in the town center.
