Mangaia Island Travel Guide
Serene and Beautiful Island
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Mangaia is an island of incredible, serene beauty – from its rugged coastline to the lush green interior. It is peaceful beyond belief, for those accustomed to the constant rush and haste of the world beyond the reef. This is a place where one can trek for miles along the coast, or in the interior and not meet another soul or hear a vehicle. Nor see any dwellings, just lots of well-tended plantations of pineapples, vegetables, taro, kumara and a variety of other crops.
The topography of Mangaia is similar to that of Atiu, but on a much larger scale, for Mangaia is the second largest of the Cook Islands. From a shallow lagoon inside the surrounding reef, makatea (fossilised coral) rises in steep bluffs and cliffs and drops just as dramatically into the interior, giving an impression that the island is encircled with a giant wall. Between the interior hills and the makatea are fertile fields of rich volcanic soils and swampy taro fields. A few tiny, sandy coves can be found tucked in the coastal makatea providing secluded places for swimming and sunbathing.
Geologically, Mangaia is the oldest island in the Cooks Group. Teruarere Cave is a seemingly endless series of interconnected chambers adorned with huge stalactites and impressive stalagmites rising from its wet floors. Here amongst the labyrinths is the last resting place for previous generations whose remains can still be seen by torchlight.
Before missionary settlement Mangaia was ruled by fierce warriors, in a constant struggle for land and crops.The first recorded European to arrive to Mangaia was Captain Cook in 1777.
The capital of Mangaia is the village of Oneroa, in the west. There are two more villages, Tamarua (south) and Ivirua (east/northeast). Mangaia is renowned for its coconuts, the people of the island have long considered them a staple plant of survival and they remain an important crop even today.
Attractions in Mangaia Island
Market day in the ‘town’ centre on Friday mornings provides an excellent opportunity to buy fresh local produce and to check out the ornate craftwork made by skilled Mangaian women. The ‘ei pupu shell necklaces (yellow and white strands of tiny snail shells) are a specialty of the island. Together with woven pandanus bags they are labour intensive, but sold for reasonable prices.
The Mangaia Kingfisher is round only on Mangaia and is officially classified as "vulnerable". A colourful bird, it lives high in the trees and preys on skinks, insects and spiders.
Lake Tiriara in the south of the Island has abundant plant and wildlife, the lake opens into a cave in the makatea, and viewing platforms and boardwalks have been built around the lake to ensure protection of the fragile environment.
Activities in Mangaia Island
Guided tours are available that include caving, reef/lagoon walks, bush walks and deep-sea fishing. All guides have an intimate knowledge of the island’s geography and history. Mangaia is a destination for those who want to get off the ‘beaten track’, who love the outdoors, appreciate warm hospitality and tranquillity.
Relaxing
Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the Mangaians.
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