Maire Nui Gardens: A Rarotongan Oasis
Discover Rarotonga's lush heart at Maire Nui Gardens: a tropical sanctuary blending botanical beauty with sustainable, family-run charm.
Maire Nui Gardens, a 7-acre botanical sanctuary in Rarotonga's Takitumu District, offers a tranquil escape into a world of lush tropical flora. Established in 1996, the gardens showcase a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, interwoven with family heritage and a commitment to organic sustainability. Visitors can also enjoy the on-site café, known for its fresh, garden-to-table cuisine.
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 early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Don't miss the chance to dine at the cafe, known for its fresh, garden-to-table cuisine.
- Bring your camera to capture the vibrant colors and unique flora throughout the gardens.
- Take your time exploring the gardens; each section offers its own unique charm and beauty.
Getting There
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Public Transport
Local buses circle Rarotonga along the main road (Ara Tapu). Catch either the clockwise or anti-clockwise bus heading towards the Takitumu District. Inform the driver you wish to stop at Maire Nui Gardens. The bus fare is approximately NZ$5 per ride.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Rarotonga. A taxi from Muri to Maire Nui Gardens, which is a short distance, will cost approximately NZ$15-20. From other locations, the fare will be calculated at a rate of NZ$3 per kilometer, with a minimum day fare of NZ$10.
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Walking
From Titikaveka Beach, head west along the main road (Ara Tapu). Walk for approximately 5-10 minutes. Maire Nui Gardens will be signposted on your right. There are no sidewalks, so exercise caution and be aware of traffic.
Discover more about Maire Nui Gardens and Cafe
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Titikaveka Beach
0.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Titikaveka Beach, a tropical paradise in the Cook Islands, known for its stunning waters and vibrant marine life.
Little Polynesian Resort
0.2 km
Experience luxury and seclusion at Rarotonga's Little Polynesian Resort, an adults-only beachfront paradise in beautiful Titikaveka.
Rarotonga Beach Bungalows
0.4 km
Experience a romantic Polynesian escape at Rarotonga Beach Bungalows on Titikaveka Beach, offering stunning ocean views and self-catering accommodations.
Fruits of Rarotonga
0.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of local tropical fruits at Fruits of Rarotonga, a vibrant destination in the Cook Islands for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Titikaveka CICC Church
0.8 km
Discover the historical Titikaveka CICC Church, a symbol of faith and community in the heart of Rarotonga.
Motu Beachfront Art Villas
0.9 km
Experience Rarotonga's beauty at Motu Beachfront Art Villas: Adults-only luxury, Polynesian art, sustainable practices, and Titikaveka Lagoon.
Anchors Sand
0.9 km
Beachfront villas on Rarotonga's Tikioki beach, offering spacious accommodations, stunning lagoon views, and water activities for an unforgettable island escape.
Hawaiki Villas Rarotonga
1.1 km
Beachfront villas in Rarotonga offering a tranquil escape with stunning sea views and easy access to local attractions.
Tikioki Beach
1.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Tikioki Beach, a must-visit tropical haven in the Takitumu District of the Cook Islands.
Raela Villas
1.2 km
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Rendezvous Villas
1.5 km
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Laguna on Muri Restaurant and Bar
1.5 km
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Vibe Cafe - Muri
1.6 km
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Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa
1.6 km
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Muri Garden Lodge
1.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tie Dye Rarotonga
1.3 km
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Takitumu Conservation Area
1.9 km
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Te Ara Cook Islands Museum of Cultural Enterprise
2.2 km
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KiteSUP Watersports Cook Islands
2.4 km
Experience the thrill of kite surfing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in Rarotonga's stunning Muri Lagoon with expert instruction and guided tours.
Muri Night Markets
2.4 km
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Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes
2.6 km
Muri Beach in Rarotonga: A tropical paradise for lagoon adventures, stunning sunsets, and unforgettable memories on the soft sands of the Cook Islands.
Turoa Eco Lodge
2.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Turoa Eco Lodge, a sustainable retreat in the stunning Takitumu District of the Cook Islands, offering nature and comfort.
Muri Beach
2.7 km
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Manea on Muri
3.0 km
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Avaavaroa Passage
3.1 km
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Ocean Toa Cook Islands
3.2 km
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Ariki Adventures
3.3 km
Experience the ultimate adventure at Ariki Adventures in the breathtaking Cook Islands, where thrilling water sports and stunning scenery await every visitor.
Muri Lagoon
3.4 km
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Snorkel Cook Islands
3.4 km
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Victoria's Garden
3.6 km
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Essential places to dine
Charlie's Raro
0.2 km
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Saigon Shack
1.6 km
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Nautilus Resort Rarotonga
2.1 km
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Rima's Bakery Cafe
2.1 km
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Takitumu Tapas
2.4 km
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Papa Pizza
2.4 km
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Rarotonga Sailing Club
2.5 km
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The Rickshaw Rarotonga
2.8 km
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La Casita Rarotonga Mexican Cafe
2.8 km
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Deli
3.5 km
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Yellow Hibiscus Resturant
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Circles Cafe
4.3 km
Experience the best breakfast in Rarotonga at Circles Cafe - where local flavors meet tropical charm for an unforgettable start to your day.
Wigmore's Takeaway
4.3 km
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Southside Pizza
4.5 km
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Vaima Restaurant and Bar
4.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
WOO AKAPUAO
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Rito Cook Islands
0.9 km
Experience the essence of beauty and wellness at Rito Cook Islands in the serene Takitumu District, where tropical charm meets natural healing.
Kano Store
1.0 km
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Prey.co
1.1 km
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Mai'i Hub
1.6 km
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TEM Liquor Store
1.6 km
Explore the unique offerings of TEM Liquor Store in Takitumu District, your gateway to local and international beverages.
Tem Parengaru Convenience Store
1.6 km
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Vouvous Akari Pi
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TEM Store and Takeaways
2.5 km
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Treasure Chest Ltd
2.6 km
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On the Juice Bar
2.9 km
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Paradise Bakeshop Ltd
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Packed Rite Store Ltd
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KMD Ukuleles
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Wigmore's Superstore
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hidden Spirit Cafe
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Mai’i Cafe & Bar
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The Fix Espresso Bar
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Vili's Burger Joint
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Terua Git Cooking
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Captain Andy's Beach Bar & Grill
7.0 km
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Chillis Sport Bar
7.5 km
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Cafe Ariki
7.6 km
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Tamarind House Restaurant & Ukulele Bar
7.7 km
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Trio's Garden Bar
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Margaritas Bistro & Bar
7.7 km
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Trader Jacks
7.7 km
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Rehab
7.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Rehab in Avarua, a premier bar and disco club with lively music, delicious drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
On the Rocks (OTR) Bar
7.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and stunning ocean views at On the Rocks (OTR) Bar in Avarua, Rarotonga – a must-visit for all travelers.
