Atiu Bird Sanctuary

The Atiu Bird Sanctuary, located on the island traditionally known as 'Enuamanu' (Island of Birds), is a premier destination for biodiversity in the Cook Islands. The sanctuary's most famous inhabitant is the Atiu Swiftlet, locally known as the Kopeka, a remarkable bird endemic to the island. The Kopeka is one of the few bird species in the world that uses echolocation, emitting distinct clicking sounds to navigate through the pitch-black limestone caves where it nests. The island's terrain is dominated by 'Makatea', a jagged ring of ancient uplifted coral fossils covered in dense rainforest, providing a fortress-like habitat for numerous avian species. Community-led conservation efforts have been instrumental in protecting this delicate environment, including the successful reintroduction of the rare Rarotonga Flycatcher. Visitors can embark on guided expeditions to the Anatakitaki Cave, where they can witness the unique behavior of the Kopeka amidst dramatic stalactites, experiencing a world where ancient Polynesian traditions and modern ecology work together to preserve a unique natural heritage.

Nearby cities

Nikao

Nikao is a busy village located west of the capital, Avarua.

Avarua

Avarua is the capital of the Cook Islands, situated on the northern coast of Rarotonga.

Matavera

Matavera is a quiet village on the eastern coast of Rarotonga.

Ngatangiia

Ngatangiia is a historic village in the east of Rarotonga.

Takaue

Takaue is the only inhabited village on the island of Mitiaro.

Areora

Areora is one of the five main villages on the island of Atiu.

Oiretumu

Oiretumu is the central administrative settlement of Mauke island.

Vaipae

Vaipae is a large village on the island of Aitutaki, often referred to as 'Hollywood'.

Arutanga

Arutanga is the main settlement and primary port of Aitutaki island.

History & landmarks

Mitiaro

This low island has two large brackish water lakes in its center, surrounded by fossilized coral limestone walls.

Anatakitaki Cave

Anatakitaki Cave served as a historic refuge for the people of Atiu.

Atiu

Atiu is a 'makatea' island with a volcanic rock core surrounded by a ring of uplifted fossilized coral limestone.

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Mauke

Mauke, also known as the garden island, captivates with fertile soils and dense flora.

Nature

Manuae Marine Park

The uninhabited Manuae atoll is a critical sanctuary for sea turtles and sharks.

Manuae

An uninhabited twin atoll that represents a significant marine protected area.

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Takutea Wildlife Sanctuary

Takutea is a small, uninhabited island dedicated to the protection of seabirds.

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Takutea

This small, uninhabited island is an important nature reserve and a significant nesting site for tropical seabirds, especially the red-ta…

Aitutaki Giant Clam Reserve

In the Aitutaki lagoon, endangered giant clams are farmed and protected.

Aitutaki Lagoon

This vast, shallow lagoon is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and numerous small sand islands.

Maungapu

Maungapu is the highest point on the otherwise low-lying Aitutaki atoll, reaching 124 meters in elevation.

More places

Atiu Coffee Factory

On the island of Atiu, this factory processes high-quality Arabica coffee grown in the island's fertile volcanic soil.

Mauke Biodiversity Forest

On the garden island of Mauke, rare pandanus trees and endemic orchids grow.

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Ziona Church Mauke

Ziona Church on Mauke is known for its architectural division into two sides.

Aitutaki Airport

This airport, built during World War II, is the logistical lifeline for the tourism sector on Aitutaki.

Arutanga Church

The Arutanga Church on Aitutaki was completed in 1828.

Arutanga CICC Church

The oldest Christian church in the Cook Islands is located on Aitutaki.

Wreck of the SS Maitai

The wreck of the steamship SS Maitai has rested on the Avarua reef since 1916.

Rarotonga Brewery

The brewery in Matavera produces locally brewed beer and is a significant player in the local beverage industry.