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Maori Stonehenge: Rarotonga's Celestial Connection

Discover Rarotonga's Maori Stonehenge: A celestial landmark revealing ancient astronomical knowledge and cultural heritage.

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The Maori Stonehenge, or Te Puke, is a historical landmark in Avarua, Rarotonga, mirroring England's Stonehenge but reflecting Maori astronomical knowledge. It showcases the Maori civilization's understanding of celestial bodies and their impact on agriculture and rituals.

A brief summary to Maori Stonehenge

  • Q6MH+84V, Avarua, CK

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the site's history and significance.
  • Respect the cultural significance of the stones; do not climb or alter the site.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited near the site.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Maori Stonehenge by public transport, take the local bus service that operates around Rarotonga. Board a bus heading to Avarua and inform the driver you wish to get off at the Maori Stonehenge stop. The fare is around NZ$5. The bus ride from central Rarotonga takes approximately 30 minutes. After getting off, walk towards the site; it's a short distance from the bus stop.

  • Taxi

    For a direct route, take a taxi to Maori Stonehenge. Taxis are readily available throughout Rarotonga. Simply tell the driver you want to go to Maori Stonehenge, located at Q6MH+84V, Avarua. The fare varies depending on your starting location, but expect to pay around NZ$20-30 from central Rarotonga. The ride should take approximately 15 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Walking

    From Avarua town center, Maori Stonehenge is accessible by foot. Head east along the main road (Ara Tapu). The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the town center. There are no specific costs involved in walking.

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Discover more about Maori Stonehenge

Nestled in Avarua, the Maori Stonehenge, also known as Te Puke, stands as a testament to the Cook Islands' rich cultural history. This unique site, reminiscent of the famous Stonehenge in England, served as a celestial observatory for the ancient Maori. The carefully crafted stone pillars align with celestial events, revealing the Maori's advanced astronomical knowledge. Constructed with local materials, the site embodies the Maori people's deep connection to the cosmos and its influence on their practices. Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and explore the geometric layout of the stones, set against a backdrop of lush tropical vegetation. The Maori Stonehenge offers a journey into the past, inviting reflection on the relationship between humanity and the universe. While the exact origins of the structure remain mysterious, much like its English counterpart, the Maori Stonehenge continues to inspire awe and reverence. It stands as a celebration of culture, history, and the enduring bond between the Maori people and the cosmos.

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