From giant trevally to reef fish, Rarotonga’ s underwater odyssey is replete with curiosities.

Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve( Rarotonga’ s premier snorkelling location), offers safe snorkelling and zero coral. Even at low tide, the water is deep enough to explore; simply pick up a snorkelling map from the Activities Centre. Beginners can learn to snorkel in a fresh water pool before enjoying the marine’ s abundance of protected( often fearless) creatures. Then there’ s Tikioki-‘ Fruits of Rarotonga’, which is one of the island’ s permanent marine parks, with a nearby café for post-snorkelling refreshments.

Blackrock, which is considered one of the calmest places to snorkel in Rarotonga is great for families with kids, it also has a BBQ area. For the avid snorkeller you may want to pack your own snorkelling gear before you leave.

It’ s a small island, but Raro delivers a big feast of flavours. With so many restaurants in walking distance, take advantage of beachside shacks, burger joints and water-fringing bistros.

We recommend The Mooring’ s Fish Café off Main Road in Avana, near Muri. With a reputation that precedes itself, believe the hype, because the food here is unrivalled. From the freshest shellfish to crumbed Mahi and thick milkshakes, you’ ll want to return time and time again.

For an authentic Rarotongan experience,‘ island nights’ feature on various nights at different resorts. Enjoy local customs and an island feast known as an Umukai. Try the Ika Mata: White fish marinated in lime juice and served with tomatoes, onion, cucumber and coconut cream.

Don’ t get caught in a Raro downpour – hire a car and follow the coastal road come rain or shine. With only 32 kilometres of road circumnavigating the island, it only takes about an hour to get around.

Alternatively, head inland along the Ara Metua coral road to see some of the islands lush plantations. Discover deserted white sand beaches and local villages, stopping for lunch at sandy cafés and dinner at one of the island’ s many restaurants.

Drivers will need to go to the Police Station in town( closed Sundays) to get a Cook Island’ s driver’ s license for $ 20. Take your passport with you. Scooters are also available. You will need to provide proof of your current NZ drivers licence, then take a test that involves riding up and down the street without falling off! Helmets are compulsory.

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