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Maire Nui Gardens: A Rarotongan Oasis

Discover Rarotonga's hidden gem: a lush botanical garden with vibrant flora, tranquil lily ponds, and a delightful garden-to-table café experience.

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Maire Nui Gardens is a seven-acre botanical sanctuary in Rarotonga's Takitumu District, established in 1996. Featuring vibrant flora, lily ponds, and a charming café, it offers a tranquil escape and a taste of local flavors.

A brief summary to Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe

  • Ara Tapu Rarotonga, Takitumu District, Akapuao Tapere, CK
  • Monday 10 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-3 pm
  • Friday 10 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning for a quieter experience and cooler temperatures.
  • Don't miss the cafe's local dishes, made with fresh ingredients straight from the garden.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning floral displays and picturesque scenery.
  • Check for special events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Cook's Corner in Avarua, take either the Clockwise or Anticlockwise bus. The bus travels along the main road (Ara Tapu). Inform the driver you wish to get off at Maire Nui Gardens in the Takitumu District. The gardens will be a short walk from the bus stop. Bus fare is NZ$5 per adult one way.

  • Taxi

    From Muri, a taxi to Maire Nui Gardens will cost approximately NZ$10-NZ$20. Taxis are readily available, and it's advisable to confirm the fare before starting your journey. The Cook Islands Taxi Association (CITA) operates with bright green vehicles. Rates are approximately NZ$3 per kilometer, with a minimum day fare of NZ$10.

  • Walking

    From Titikaveka, head west along Ara Tapu (main road). Maire Nui Gardens is signposted along the main road. The gardens are located a short walk from the road. There are no costs involved if walking.

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Discover more about Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe

Maire Nui Gardens, a seven-acre haven in Rarotonga's Takitumu District, offers a serene escape into the island's lush beauty. Established in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, the gardens have blossomed from swampland into a vibrant showcase of organic sustainability, reflecting a deep family heritage. Entrusted to Hinano by her mother, Makea Nui Meremaraea Ariki, and her grandmother, Makea Nui Teremoana Ariki (CBE), it serves as a special space where tradition and innovation harmonize. Wander through winding pathways, across charming footbridges, and past picturesque lily ponds, immersing yourself in the intoxicating scents and vibrant colors of exotic plants. The on-site café provides a delightful culinary experience, serving fresh, locally sourced dishes infused with homegrown herbs and spices. Children will especially enjoy exploring the gardens, spotting fish and aquatic life in the ponds. Maire Nui Gardens is more than just a botanical garden; it's a place to connect with the local culture and community. As a 100% family-run and funded endeavor, Maire Nui Gardens relies on the support of visitors to fuel further growth and development. Your entry fee not only grants access to this lush botanical haven but also contributes to the ongoing enhancement of facilities and programs.

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