Kikau Hut, an island gem!

Kikau Hut Restaurant in Arorangi is owned by husband/ wife Rebecca Churchill and Gordon Brown and operated by their local staff. Both are now somewhat fly in, fly out from NZ particularly since the pandemic. Rebecca is an accountant, with a consultancy and marketing company, Gordon is a civil engineer.

Born in England and brought up there and in South Africa, Gordon eventually settled in New Zealand where he has worked in building construction and roads. Before settling in NZ Gordon had a stint in the US working in soccer coaching; he had been a semi-professional in the UK.

In the aftermath of COVID Gordon spends his time between Auckland and Rarotonga. In Auckland he manages a multi million dollar long term construction contract for a Joint Venture company: "I can then escape to the idyllic Cooks to see how the staff at Kikau Hut are managing," said Gordon.

Not a bad choice of career! His dream was always to own a restaurant in the Cook Islands.

“We didn't come here just to own a restaurant. We wanted to develop our restaurant people as well,” said Gordon.

“There are times when we leave them for long periods, and they run the business. As I say to

What is Raro Pass?

It’s new and it’s unique on Rarotonga. Chantal of former Chantal’s Concierge fame has created a digital pass that lives on your phone, that can save purchasers money on various dining, shopping, and other services around Rarotonga. Purchase from $10 for 7days, with longer options available. After purchasing Raro Pass online, you download it to your them, this restaurant isn't about me and Rebecca, it is about you. What the people see is you!”.

We asked Gordon what he enjoys most outside the civil engineering/development business and Kikau Restaurant.

“I love all sport! In particular I love football, horse racing and tennis - playing not watching.” said Gordon.

“And I love the theatre and cinema.”

Gordon said he also loved Kikau Hut Restaurant and it's staff.

“Our menu reflects the expected Pacific rim infusion, but we recognise that visitors also have an expectation of what they might eat back home.” phone's digital wallet (Google or Apple). Then simply show Raro Pass to a participating business. If you don't have the Wallet, you can download one for iPhone or Android. The Raro Pass is activated once purchased. For more Raro Pass information visit raropass.com, FB or IG.

A Trip Advisor reviewer in July wrote: We just had a lovely family meal at the Kikau Hut. This place is a firm favourite every time we visit the island. Amazing fresh tuna sashimi and their signature Ika Mata to start, followed by superb mains for all of us. The service is always perfect and the dessert tasting platter is not to be missed.

There is nothing left for Gordon to say!