An eco-lovers little paradise … Atiu, the land of birds

Atiu is the third largest island in the Cook Islands, 187kms from Rarotonga, yet it is a world apart from the big island.

Atiu appeals to the intrepid traveller who enjoys peace and quiet, and who can live with minimum of fancy trimmings required by today’s society.

Aitu’s population of around 400 live in five villages spread out from the centre of the island on a flat plateau. Surrounding the plateau is a ring of taro water gardens, then the jungle-clad makatea (fossil coral reef) down to the beaches and lagoon.

Located at the edge of the plateau are chaletstyle lodges known as Atiu Villas. They are made almost entirely of local native timbers and materials, featuring the polished woods of mango, coconut, red peanut, acacia, cedar, Java plum and other tropical trees.

Atiu Villas provides a quiet and relaxing environment surrounded by an extensive tropical garden, pineapple fields, and a view down a jungle-clad valley to the ocean. It is only a short walk to the pristine, white sandy beaches, that are inevitably deserted.

Air Rarotonga offer a two-night Atiu Getaway at Atiu Villas from NZ$848.00 single traveller, or $1216.00 per couple.