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Arai-Te-Tonga: Ancient Polynesian Gathering Place

Explore Arai-Te-Tonga, a Cook Islands historical landmark: a window into ancient Polynesian culture and traditions in a serene setting near Avarua.

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Arai-Te-Tonga is a significant historical landmark in Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Dating back to 1350 AD, this well-preserved marae (temple) and koutu (royal court) was a vital center for chiefly ceremonies, spiritual practices, and leadership gatherings in early Polynesian society, offering a glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Arai-Te-Tonga

  • Q7P2+GX2, Avarua, Tupapa Tapere, CK

Local tips

  • Visit Arai-Te-Tonga on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and experience a peaceful atmosphere.
  • Take your time to read the informative plaques to fully appreciate the historical significance of the site.
  • Remember to be respectful of the site as it is considered sacred (tapu) by the local community.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're staying in Avarua, Arai-Te-Tonga is accessible by foot. From the main road (Ara Tapu) in Avarua, head inland on Maotangi Road. The site is located at the corner of Maotangi Road and the Inland Road (Ara Metua) in Tupapa. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes from the center of Avarua.

  • Public Transport

    The Clockwise and Anti-Clockwise buses that circle Rarotonga stop along the main road (Ara Tapu). From the bus stop on the main road in Avarua, walk inland on Maotangi Road to Arai-Te-Tonga. A single bus fare is NZ$5. Buses operate frequently, but check the timetable for the most up-to-date schedule.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available on Rarotonga. Pre-booking is recommended. A taxi from Avarua to Arai-Te-Tonga will cost approximately NZ$15-20. Ensure the driver knows the location, as it's slightly off the main road.

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Discover more about Arai-Te-Tonga

Arai-Te-Tonga, nestled in Tupapa Tapere, Avarua, is a captivating historical site that offers a window into the ancient heart of Polynesian culture in the Cook Islands. This sacred site, dating back to around 1350 AD, functioned as both a marae (a temple or gathering place for religious purposes) and a koutu (a royal court), holding immense significance for the Makea Tribe of Te-au-o-Tonga. Established by Tangiia Nui, a revered ancestor of the Rarotongans, Arai-Te-Tonga became the principal koutu of Makea Nui Ariki, the paramount chief of the Te-au-o-Tonga district. It is considered one of the first three koutu built when Tangiia Nui first settled on Rarotonga. Here, chiefs were invested with their titles, and the ariki (chief) and his family resided. Tribal feasts, the presentation of first fruits, ceremonial feasting, and traditional dances all took place on the koutu. The koutu held greater tribal importance than the marae. Visitors to Arai-Te-Tonga can explore the carefully arranged stones in a grassy clearing that mark the koutu. An interpretation panel provides valuable insights into the site's historical and cultural role. A well-preserved rectangular platform, known as Taumakeva, features a central pillar and was used for the investiture of the ariki. Visiting Arai-Te-Tonga offers a serene and reflective experience, allowing visitors to connect with the deep-rooted culture and traditions of the Cook Islands. Please remember that marae are considered tapu (sacred) by the families who own them, so it's important to be respectful, avoid disturbing the rock formations, and refrain from taking anything from the land.

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