Traditional 'Untouched' Island
Northern Cook Islands, Cook Islands
Its remote location has kept the traditions and culture of Pukapuka largely unchanged for centuries and they are perhaps more similar to those of Samoa due to its relatively close proximity.
Pukapuka is shaped like a three bladed fan. There are three islets on the roughly triangular reef. Motu Ko, the biggest island is to the southeast, Motu Kotawa (Frigate Bird Island) is to the southwest and the main island Wale, to the north. Ko and Kotawa are un inhabited and are used for growing food. You will find the airport on Ko. On the crescent-shaped bay of Wale, you will find the three villages: Ngake (meaning Windward), Loto (Central) and Yato (Leeward).
Background
The entire population is said to be descended from just 14 or so people who survived a catastrophic storm and tsunami over 400 years ago. Pukapuka was previously known as 'Danger Island' when, back in 1765, two English vessels could not land due to the heavy seas and reef surrounding the island.