Raemaru Trailhead: A Hike into Rarotongan Legend
Hike to the summit of Raemaru for panoramic views and a taste of Rarotongan legend. A rewarding trek in the heart of the Arorangi District.
The Raemaru Trailhead, located in the Arorangi District, offers access to a moderately challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views. The trail leads to the flat-topped peak of Raemaru, a mountain steeped in local legend, with a final assisted rock climb for adventurous hikers.
A brief summary to Raemaru trailhead
- Q58H+254, Arorangi District, Akaoa Tapere, CK
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Hike during the cooler hours of the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the track can be slippery in parts.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no shops or facilities on the trail.
- Take insect repellent, especially after rain.
- Use a Vodafone visitor SIM card to access the QR code self-guided tour.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main road (Ara Tapu) in Arorangi, take Akaoa Road or Akaoa No. 2 Road inland between the Castaway Resort and Discover Marine Wildlife & Eco Centre. Follow the Raemaru Track signpost inland up Raemaru Heights Road to the end , where you'll find a grassy clearing serving as the car park. The trailhead is located at the end of this road. There is no cost to access the trailhead or hike the trail.
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Public Transport
Catch a local bus from Avarua that heads towards Arorangi. Ask the driver to drop you off at the intersection of the main road (Ara Tapu) and Akaoa Road or Akaoa No. 2 Road. From there, follow the walking directions to the trailhead. Bus fare is approximately $3-$12 NZD.
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Taxi
Take a taxi from anywhere on Rarotonga to the Raemaru Trailhead. The taxi fare from Rarotonga Airport to Arorangi is approximately $9-$12 NZD. From Muri Beach, the taxi fare is approximately $40 NZD. Be sure to book a green taxi.
Discover more about Raemaru trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beluga
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Sunset Palms Rarotonga
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Sunset Quay
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Arcadia Retreat
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Iro Luxury Retreat
0.9 km
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Betela Beach House
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The Waterline Restaurant and Outrigger Beach Bar
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Raemaru
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Anchor's Rest
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The Black Pearl Beach Side Apartments
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Pacific Time Holiday House
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Crown Beach & Spa Resort Rarotonga
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Flying Turtle Cafe
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Moana Oasis Villa
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Arorangi Prison
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Unmissable attractions to see
Discover Marine Wildlife and Eco Centre
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Raemaru Park
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Arorangi CICC Church
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Highland Paradise
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Shipwreck Hut Bar & Restaurant & Accomodation
1.3 km
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Tumutoa Tours
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Dive Rarotonga
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Hospital Lookout
2.2 km
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Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve
2.7 km
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Black Rock
3.0 km
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Te Rua Manga (The Needle)
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Ridge Junction - Cross Island Hike
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Marae Moana Mural
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Raro Beach Bach - Group accommodation
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Wigmore's Waterfall
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Essential places to dine
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The Falafel Shack
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The Pacific Fish & Chip Shop
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On the Beach Bar and Restaurant
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Mama T's Takeaways
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Tumunu Bar and Restaurant
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Spaghetti House Restaurant
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Restaurant & Mal's Bar
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Roadhouse Bar & Restaurant
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Alberto's Steakhouse and Bar
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Anchorage
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Pot shop
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Gus and Sophies' Pearl Lounge
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Joyce Peyroux Garments
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Woo Store Arorangi
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Vonnias The Yard Stop
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Aukki Limited
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Blackrock Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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COCOCKTAIL
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Coral Club Bar & Grille
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Coco Transit Lounge
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Tiki Bar
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Hula Bar
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