Pa Ariki's Palace

Pa Ariki's Palace, located in the historic district of Ngatangiia on Rarotonga's eastern coast, is the official seat of one of the paramount chiefs of the Takitumu tribe. The current building represents the ongoing significance of the Ariki (chiefly) system in the Cook Islands, which remains a fundamental part of the nation's social and cultural identity. Ngatangiia itself holds immense historical value as the departure point for the legendary great vaka (canoes) that sailed to settle New Zealand. The palace serves as both a private residence and a ceremonial hub for tribal activities, land court matters, and traditional investitures. Its architecture and presence underscore the continuity of the Pa Ariki lineage, which can be traced back through many generations. While the building is a private residence, it is a prominent landmark that reminds residents and visitors alike of the deep-seated Polynesian traditions and the respect still accorded to the islands' hereditary nobility.

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.

Ngatangiia

Ngatangiia is a historic village in the east of Rarotonga.

Matavera

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

Titikaveka

Titikaveka is located on the southern coast of Rarotonga and is known for its clear lagoons.

History & landmarks

Te Vara Nui Village

A cultural landmark that showcases traditional Polynesian life and legends through architecture and staged performances.

Rarotonga

The most populous island of the Cook Islands is of volcanic origin and surrounded by a coral reef.

Punanga Nui Market

The Punanga Nui Market in Avarua is the commercial heart of Rarotonga, where local farmers and artisans sell their goods.

Nature

Muri Lagoon Reserve

Muri is a key habitat for sea cucumbers and tropical fish in Rarotonga.

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Takitumu Conservation Area

This protected area on Rarotonga was established to save the endemic Rarotonga Monarch.

Muri Lagoon

This shallow section of the Rarotonga lagoon houses four small islands.

Te Manga

Te Manga is the highest peak on the island of Rarotonga and the entire Cook Islands.

Te Kou

Te Kou is the second highest elevation on Rarotonga, featuring a broad summit plateau with unique high-altitude flora.

Te Atukura

Te Atukura is a significant peak in the rugged interior of Rarotonga, forming part of the Te Manga mountain massif.

Te Rua Manga (The Needle)

A prominent rock spire in the center of Rarotonga that towers above the surrounding rainforest.

Ikurangi

Ikurangi towers over the capital Avarua and is one of Rarotonga's most prominent landmarks due to its rugged profile.

More places

Maire Nui Botanical Gardens

A 7-acre garden in Titikaveka showcasing the tropical flora of the Cook Islands.

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Ngatangiia Mangroves

This wetland protects Rarotonga's coast and provides habitat for many crustaceans.

Pa Ariki's Palace

The historic Pa Ariki's Palace in Ngatangiia dates back to 1913.

Seven Canoes Monument

This monument at Avana Harbour commemorates the start of the Vaka migration to New Zealand.

Ngatangiia CICC Church

Located near the historic Avana Harbour, this church is a central monument of Christian missions in the Ngatangiia district.

Seven Canoe Stone Altar

This altar in Avana Harbour commemorates the settlement of New Zealand.

Te Manga Cloud Forest

On the slopes of the Cook Islands' highest peak, a rare cloud forest thrives.

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Avana Valley

A deeply cut valley on Rarotonga through which the Avana River flows.