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Seven Canoe Stone Altar
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monument
The Seven Canoe Stone Altar is a significant archaeological site on Rarotonga, embodying the foundational myth of the island's settlement. It consists of seven upright stones, said to represent the seven canoes (vaka) that brought the first Polynesian ancestors to Rarotonga. The altar is located in the Matavera district, near the airport. It was used for offerings and ceremonies to honor the gods and ancestors. The site dates from pre-European times, estimated to be several hundred years old. Rediscovered in the 1960s, it was restored and is now a protected cultural landmark. It serves as a powerful symbol of the island's heritage and is often visited by those interested in Polynesian history.
- Location: Cook Islands
- Top sights: Arore · Te Vara Nui Village · Ngatangiia CICC Church
- Nearby: Avarua (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 197 | 203 | 192 | 166 | 140 | 59 | 82 | 67 | 84 | 98 | 154 | 190 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Seven Canoe Stone Altar in Avana Harbour is a historic outdoor monument, visitable at any time. It commemorates the departure of vaka canoes to New Zealand.
Typical hours
The altar is accessible 24/7, as it is located in a public park. Best visited early morning or late afternoon.
Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions. The altar is often surrounded by greenery, allowing nice nature shots.
Time needed
Visiting the altar is brief, taking about 10 to 20 minutes. Combine it with a walk along the harbour basin.
Combine with
Combine the altar with a visit to nearby Avana Harbour and Pa Ariki's Palace. The Avarua beachfront promenade is also not far.
Getting there
The altar is located at Avana Harbour, about 10 minutes' walk from Avarua centre. Parking is limited at the harbour but available in the area.
Insider tip
Read the info board about the seven canoes - it explains the settlement of New Zealand. Visit at high tide to see the altar in full glory by the water.
Geography
Facts
- The altar consists of seven upright stones.
- It symbolizes the seven canoes of the first settlers.
- The stones are about 1.5 meters tall.
- The altar is located in Matavera on Rarotonga.
- It was restored in the 1960s.
- The altar is a protected historic monument.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Seven Canoe Stone Altar (10)
Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes
Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes gives boat tours on Muri Lagoon.
Muri Lagoon
Muri Lagoon is a shallow lagoon with white sand beaches on Rarotonga.
Te Ara Museum🏛 museum
Te Ara Museum displays exhibits on the history and culture of the Cook Islands.
Marae No Pa Ariki
Marae No Pa Ariki is an archaeological site with ceremonial stone structures.
Te Tanga
Te Tanga is a mountain in New Zealand, noted for its natural setting.
Toroume
Toroume is a mountain in New Zealand, known for its distinctive shape.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Seven Canoe Altar symbolize?
It commemorates the seven canoes that set out from here for the great migration to New Zealand.
Where exactly is the monument located?
It is located at Avana Harbour on the east coast of Rarotonga.
Is the site accessible at any time?
Yes, the outdoor site is open to the public at any time.
Are there information plaques on-site?
Yes, there are plaques explaining the history of the Vaka (canoes) and navigation.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there are small parking spots right by the harbour area.
Seven Canoe Stone Altar: where is it located?
Seven Canoe Stone Altar is located in Cook Islands.
Seven Canoe Stone Altar: what is there to see?
Highlights include Arore, Te Vara Nui Village, Ngatangiia CICC Church.
Seven Canoe Stone Altar: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Seven Canoe Stone Altar: why is it worth visiting?
The Seven Canoe Stone Altar is a significant archaeological site on Rarotonga, embodying the foundational myth of the island's settlement.
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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.
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Te Vara Nui Village
A cultural landmark that showcases traditional Polynesian life and legends through architecture and staged performances.
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Punanga Nui Market
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More places
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.
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The current seat of Pa Ariki, one of the paramount chiefs of Rarotonga.
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Rarotonga Brewery
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Maire Nui Botanical Gardens
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