At iu
Enua Manu
Re-discovering nature and solitude on ‘the island of birds’
There are few places left in the world like Atiu, an island
with just over 500 people and acres and acres of untouched
rainforest and coastal bush. There are no western bars
(apart from the small one at Atiu Villas), bright neon
lights or busy roads. For travellers searching for an island
paradise, Atiu is it.
Most overseas visitors to Atiu lament on departure that they
wish they’d organised a longer stay on this unspoiled island
gem, full of captivating history, scenery and friendly people.
The Anatakitaki Cave walk is the perfect offering for visitors
who want an unforgettable nature experience. On the day we
went, we were guided by Marshall Humphreys. Married to
Atiuan Jeanne, Marshall is proud of Atiu conservation and how
the locals “always leave a bit for the next day, like when they go
fishing and catch just enough to eat.” He’s
also impressed with the way the island
works as a community.
Reasonable fitness and covered shoes are
needed for the trek through tropical forest
that resembles a fantastically overgrown
garden. Regarded by environmentalists
as a national treasure, Anatakitaki Cave
is home to the Kopeka bird, a swallow
unique to Atiu, which like a bat, navigates
its way in the pitch black caverns using
sonar. The towering limestone caverns
contain cauliflower coral, proving that the
caves were once beneath the sea, as these
coral formations only occur underwater.
There are huge stalactites reaching to the
86 • Escape Magazine
cavern floor and massive stalagmites sparkling as though they
are embedded with millions of diamonds. The magnificence of
the caverns is breathtaking.
Another tour takes you to Rimarau Burial Cave that includes
visits to age old marae and “walking the dramatic route taken
by hundreds as they went to meet their death in ancient times.”
If beaches, historic sights and panoramic scenery also appeal,
opt for an island tour. It offers contrasting scenery, drives
through shady roads and forest thick with ancient trees to
The Anatakitaki Cave walk is the
perfect offering for visitors who want an
unforgettable nature experience.