Parking on site. Aim for a budget of NZ$90 (US$63) per day upwards for a backpacker stay on the islands, staying in dorms, taking local buses and cooking meals at your hostel. Arorangi – The Best Resorts for Whale Watching on Rarotonga. My dilemma is. Day 2 - Cycling around Rarotonga. . Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. 1. For budget travelers, Rarotonga offers a couple of hostels, but camping is not possible on any of the Cook Islands. 41 helpful votes. Amazing hotel, staff was really nice and helpful. Which hotels are the best ones to stay at in Rarotonga? Ocean Escape Resort & Spa , The Passage Villas , and Muri Beach Hideaway - Adults Only are some of the popular hotels. The 4-bedroom villa features a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave. Rarotonga. I have read that on the east coast the temp. The Rarotonga sits on the famed Aroa marine reserve well suited to snorkelling, kayaking, swimming and SUP. Though just be aware that even 5-star resorts in Rarotonga don’t actually look too great so adjust your expectations accordingly. This is one of the most booked hotels in Rarotonga over the last 60. . 8. Sunset Resort is a larger sized resort situated in the NW corner of the island, with nicely presented grounds and accommodation. Rarotonga Daydreamer Escape: Best place to stay - See 183 traveler reviews, 143 candid photos, and great deals for Rarotonga Daydreamer Escape at Tripadvisor. We are sure to have something to suit you. The same rules above apply to staying at a budget place as they do for a luxury stay anywhere on the island. 8. Mouring Fish Cafe. In this area, check out Motu Art Villas - simply stunning, and also Little Polynesian Resort, which has one of the best restaurants on Rarotonga. Aroa Beach is a 15-minute walk, and Rarotonga International Airport is a 10-minute drive away. Rarotonga Honeymoon Resorts. gather one side of island has good/nice beaches and other side doesn't? Got good flights CHC/Raro return. Answer 11 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. 7. ThanksAnswer 11 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. Captain Tama’s and Koka are the two main ones. I have read that on the east coast the temp. This is only one of two backpacker hostels I know on the island, and it’s the better one. Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands . Or go with an organised hiking tour with Bruce, for transport and guidance. Villa. 9. If you do decide to come in July, your best bet would be to stay on the western side of the island rather than the east side, it's more sheltered from the winds. Check out this interactive map of Raro, you can see the various beaches & properties, it may give you some idea of where things are located and where the various properties are. Answer 21 of 33: We, (couple late 40's) are planning a trip to Rarotonga for 7-10 nights. Perched on the hillside of Black Rock, the Mediterranean-inspired villa with three levels of dining area basks in wonderful views and sunsets. While there are numerous beach bars and waterfront restaurants in Rarotonga - Maire Nui Gardens offers something different. The Waikiki/Honolulu area is home to many Hawaiian points of interest, including the famous Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater, Honolulu Zoo, Chinatown, King Kamehameha Statue, and Iolani Palace. . Hotels near the sights. Arorangi beach is a beautiful spot to relax and offers some of the best sunsets on the island. 8. We are undecided where to stay. 702 Reviews . Best place to stay in Rarotonga 5 replies; There IS a Rainy Season 29 replies; Car or scooter hire on Rarotonga 20 replies;Where to stay on Rarotonga. Re: Rarontonga in November - Where to stay. . This is actually the place we decided to stay when we visited Rarotonga. . Castaway Resort. 7 mi from Avarua in Rarotonga. View on Booking. After a few hours of checking out the wharf-side Punanga Nui Market, hit the beaches of this reef-protected volcanic island. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. We also have deals for flights, and Rarotonga car. We realize this is the winter season. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. . The sun sets on the west side of the island, making Arorangi the place to be during golden hour. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in all price points. The Pacific Resort Hotel group own some of our favourite Rarotonga resorts including Te Manava Luxury Villas and Pacific Resort Rarotonga. See 231 traveler reviews, 322 candid photos, and great deals for Aro'a Beachside Resort, ranked #1 of 4 hotels in Arorangi and rated 4. Kia Orana, Rarotonga is a popular island holiday destination for Kiwis and has an impressive tourism infrastructure for an island of its size. I guess I could be accused of promoting certain establishments because we know the owners - but such is life in the Cooks. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. We realize this is the winter season. Muri beach seems to be the consensus, but wondering if there are some other good (potentially less expensive) alternatives. For some of the best resorts along with amazing sunsets and whale watching, the west coast, Arorangi , is the best side of Rarotonga. Enter dates to see prices. Mouring Fish Cafe. 2. "This is one of the best spots in Rarotonga. The studios and suites at Resort Sunset are nestled among tropical gardens. Answer 11 of 14: Just booked our first trip to Rarotonga (12 nights end of October next year) and pretty confused about where to try and stay. What is the best side of Rarotonga to stay on? Rarotonga’s north coast is closest to the airport and the capital, Avarua, where you’ll find shops, museums and outdoor markets. It does have a line of hotels down one side with plenty of. This is only one of two backpacker hostels I know on the island, and it’s the better one. What side of the island is best for low-key rental properties (less than $250 a night) . Paia, the coolest place to stay in Maui. This is not the case with the west coast. Accommodations Photos. Special RateTripadvisor Exclusive - 25% Off Book Now Stay from 1Oct2023- 30Apr2024! Visit. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. The latter is a working harbor with a charming Colonial-era ambiance. Most all the beaches a great for. . #5 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. Share. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. The north coast of Rarotonga is the best part of the island for proximity to the airport and the capital, Avarua. We heard that the east side can be cool and windy, and the west side more protected. Let’s start with the two most affordable and family-friendly villas with a private pool on Rarotonga. We realize this is the winter season. Book Makayla Palms Villas, Titikaveka on Tripadvisor: See 440 traveler reviews, 360 candid photos, and great deals for Makayla Palms Villas, ranked #2 of 12 specialty lodging in Titikaveka and rated 5 of 5 at Tripadvisor. Rarotonga’s Beaches. Sunset Quay Rarotonga is located in Arorangi Village, 15 minutes’ drive from Avarua. Upgrade your flight to include a meal, drinks and in-flight entertainment. Enter dates to see prices. Aro'a Beachside Inn: Relaxation in Rarotonga - See 218 traveler reviews, 256 candid photos, and great deals for Aro'a Beachside Inn at Tripadvisor. The average daily high temperature only varies about three degrees - the difference between 28°C in January and 25°C in. 1/10 ⭐. Though just be aware that even 5-star resorts in Rarotonga don’t actually look too great so adjust your expectations accordingly. I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Castaway Resort Rarotonga. 7. Which restaurants are open over Christmas and NYE, and the festive season? Mosquitoes and vector-borne diseases in the Cook Islands. The hotels that I liked on the West (Sunset, Sunhaven. . Mid-Range to Budget Accommodation in. Pacific Resort Rarotonga -. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. We visited twice during our trip, once with our whole extended family (8 adults and 6 kids ranging from 3 - 13 years old) and the second time a smaller group of four - both times a wonderful experience. 20. . Hi jamzey49. Rarotonga Hotel Deals: Find great deals from hundreds of websites, and book the right hotel using Tripadvisor's 78,583 reviews of Rarotonga hotels. This is not the case with the west coast. . Reading more about the Cook Islands has led me to believe that a side trip to Aitutaki would well be worth our. We scuba dive most days so don’t do much lagoon swimming but many people do swim and snorkel on the west side. The Top Adults-Only Accommodations in the Cook Islands. Children under 2 years old are free. Some approximate prices are as follows (but are subject to change): Rarotonga to one island in the Southern Group – NZ$250 per person return. 9 Fabulous 326 reviews. Off hand it sounds like you will like the West side bestAccommodation. Photographers, this is a great place for you. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Rarotonga Packages Flights to. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Rarotonga Attractions. This means you can get the most of your vacation while creating lasting memories. You will not find one place that fits all your requirements. There are several hotels with great reviews; we were tempted by Sanctuary Rarotonga (£205), Magic Reef Bungalows (£181) and Sunset Resort (£165). Best place to stay in Rarotonga 5 replies; There IS a Rainy Season 29 replies; Car or scooter hire on Rarotonga 20 replies; Taking food. The back-packer hostels are decent places for single travellers to Rarotonga. It can be a bit murky in the shadows unless it is a super calm day. Rarotonga. It has a separate living room with a flat-screen TV and a DVD player. Located on western sunset side of Rarotonga, on a stunning white sandy beach with great swimming and snorkeling. I've mainly been looking at booking. The Cooks Oasis Holiday Villas are located in Arorangi, Rarotonga. Below are the best hotels, resorts, and places to stay in Poipu based on guest reviews: Best Luxury Resort: Koloa Landing Resort – 9. I've mainly been looking at booking. I have read that on the east coast the temp. Location. This part of the beach is well away from the main action, but you can easily walk along the beach to activities on the water and inland. But the east around Muri has the beautiful motus. The west side of Rarotonga is generally the best place to go for whale sightings. Hotel in Muri, Rarotonga. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked at Muri Beach and are wondering where to. . Rarotonga. We realize this is the winter season. A bed in a 4-6 bed dorm costs around 18-28 NZD per night, with rates generally getting cheaper the longer you stay. Ride Rarotonga in nearby Panama (close to the harbour) rents out cycles. Black Rock Beach. Lots of wonderful fish to see - make sure you take snorkel gear. Which side of Rarotonga has the best beaches? The south and west coast of Rarotonga have the most beautiful beaches, with many secluded and less-visited beach areas. Whatever your ideal South Pacific holiday consists of, it becomes reality in our islands, with. 25% Off Book Now Stay from 1Oct2023- 30Apr2024! Visit hotel website . Hi, Does anyone know the best resort on the west coast (sunset side) of Rarotonga. It has been said that the water, snorkeling, and fish watching are better on the Western side of the island, and I suppose the sunsets are better too. Kia Orana Belinda, welcome to the Rarotonga forum. Best Rarotonga, Southern Cook Islands Hotel Specials & Deals. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. Arorangi is a small village on the island’s western coast with a few shops and restaurants. The Rarotongan Resort has the nicest beach for snorkelling (in the marine reserve), kayaking and swimming but the food outlets are limited to onsite dining or driving to another village. 49 reviews. On sunset side of the island and only. There are plenty of picturesque lagoons that allow peaceful. However. Beachfront rooms have stunning views over the lagoon and off-shore islands. Start your first day in Rarotonga in the island’s main town. Raro Tours provides island tours, and the taxis and Tuku-tuks pick up fares at the wharf. Snorkeling at Black Rock. Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Rarotonga. By Alexia Santamaria. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Accommodation Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Rarotonga. We are in Rarotonga for 4 days then off to mooch around in Aitutaki. THE 5 BEST Cheap Hotels in Rarotonga 2023 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor. All styles of accommodation can be found at the main beachfront complex on the western side of Rarotonga. #1 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. This is not the case with the west coast. Casa Muri. What side of the island is best for low-key rental properties (less than $250 a night) . Walking Tour Of Avarua. Pacific Resort Aitutaki undeniably claims to be a ‘calm and tranquil oasis’ and we think it sums up their Aitutaki resort perfectly. My wife and I (60s) wish to visit Rarotonga for the first time in July for 5 nights. Answer 1 of 10: First time travellers to Rarotonga. Answer 21 of 40: Hello, My husband and I will be visiting Rarotonga for 12 nights in October. Located in Rarotonga, a few steps from Turangi Beach, Ocean Escape Resort & Spa provides accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a private beach area and barbecue facilities. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. Bright abode with tropical gardens; Tapere of Titikaveka (from USD 190) Show all photos. Little Polynesian. 00 to $130. Aim for a budget of NZ$90 (US$63) per day upwards for a backpacker stay on the islands, staying in dorms, taking local buses and cooking meals at your hostel. My dilemma is. My dilemma is. Best Family Hotels in Rarotonga on Tripadvisor: Find traveler reviews, candid photos, and prices for 36 family hotels in Rarotonga, Cook Islands. What areas are best to stay? We have a bungalow booked. The best day trip from London for: blasting the cobwebs away by the sea. Cook Islands Church. These may not be clearly signposted so the best way to avoid these is to only snorkel in the recommended locations. this portion of titikaveka beach is located outside the popular charlies cafe and is another great swimming spot. About. Unfortunate that the Sanctuary adults only resort can't deliver what you require for accommodation. My dilemma is. Nice, appointed rooms right on the beach front with a peaceful atmosphere. Castaway Resort. 2. 5/10 ⭐. 2 kms east of Sunhaven and the Aroa Beachside is the Aroa marine reserve which has excellent swimming and snorkelling. With the potential for limited shade in the mornings in Muri and afternoon in Arorangi / Black Rock areas, you must protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Which side of the plane to sit on when flying. Most all the beaches a great for something or another. BTW Lagoon Lodges isn't beachfront being situated on the inland side of the main road. 9. Three dwellings each housing 4 people. 82 helpful votes. Approximately 1. We realize this is the winter season. Just park up opposite fruits of Rarotonga and take the plunge into the waters. . Everywhere around Rarotonga is tidal. Table of Content hide. If you are looking for deeper water when the tide is low, look at the Tikioki- Titikaveka area foremost. Will be travelling in Dec/Jan. Taupo camping grounds. 1. Little Polynesian Resort. Our List of the Best Things to Do in Rarotonga. We are very active and want to hike, bike, swim, and explore the island. Experience a Rarotonga “Island Night”. Relax by the pool with a cocktail, soak up the sun, rejuvenate your soul and indulge in romantic evenings under the stars, with delicious food and fine wine. . Answer 1 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. #7 of 24 hotels in Rarotonga. . Aorangi District is also on the west side of Rarotonga, so it’s also where to stay in Rarotonga for an amazing sunset. 4. Based on 40 reviews. Rarotonga, Cook. When I say best I mean nicest swimming beaches, least windy, most sheltered, best sunsets. Castaway Resort is the perfect accommodation choice for travellers wanting independence with a self…. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Vacation Rentals Flights to Rarotonga Rarotonga Restaurants Things to Do in Rarotonga Rarotonga Travel Forum Rarotonga Photos Rarotonga Map Rarotonga Travel Guide All Rarotonga Hotels; Rarotonga Hotel Deals; Last Minute Hotels in RarotongaMy friends and I are planning what we should do while in rarotonga in June. Nature & Wildlife Areas. Where to Stay. Rarotonga. Now $149 (Was $̶1̶7̶3̶) on Tripadvisor: Aro'a Beachside Resort, Arorangi. Can someone explain the differences. drops 4-5 degrees after 5pm and it gets windy. This is during the dry season, when the weather is hot (but tolerable) and not too wet. 011 682 28 213. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a family break you'll experience the perfect holiday in a setting that simply is breathtaking. The east side and Muri Lagoon is a hub for watersports, the west side offers the best sunsets and places to eat, the north side is close to Rarotonga’s main shops and services, while th e south side is the most. Answer 1 of 19: My family is planning on visiting Rarotonga from May 28-June 4, 2005. Day 5 - Swimming with turtles. This is a beautiful experience, especially in the spring when the island is bursting with cherry blossoms. Our Cafe currently operates from Monday - Friday 10am - 3pm. staff is so friendly and helpful and assisted with all of our reservations as well as renting e-bikes for our weeklong stay. View Hotel. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. Answer 1 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. By Jeremytung. Two of the days the water was like glass. Only 50 minutes from Rarotonga by plane, it is popular with day trippers, but we think it deserves a longer stay. . Black Rock Beach. There's no such thing as a right or wrong time to visit Rarotonga. Free parking . I've read a lot. 6. How Much Is The Aitutaki Day Tour. We want to be on a. and Marine Reserve, (Rarotongan) and Marine Reserve, (Rarotongan) Here is a teaser of some of Rarotonga’s best beaches. It's set down in the very centre of Muri, alongside the Muri night-market site. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Accommodation Rarotonga Bed and Breakfast Rarotonga Holiday Rentals Rarotonga Holiday Packages Rarotonga Flights Rarotonga. Answer 1 of 10: Hello, I am planning a trip to Rarotonga for late July this year. Manea Beach Villas. We realize this is the winter season. Banks Peninsula, Akaroa camping grounds. Matavera, Rarotonga. Best place to stay in Rarotonga " Great room with everything you need and we were lucky enough to get a lovely ocean view. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants. The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. Drinking a cocktail at Nautilus Resort. Rarotonga. For some of the best resorts along with amazing sunsets and whale watching, the west coast, Arorangi , is the best side of Rarotonga. 3. We love the space the facilities and the safety of the pool for kids. PERFECT FOR FAMILIES. Will be traveling with a friend- we are in our 30's and will be planning to snorkel, sight seeing and tours etc to try something new each day. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Guest House Rarotonga Holiday Homes Rarotonga Flights Rarotonga. Love sunsets but also love snorkelling and swimming. Answer 1 of 5: Am looking at staying at Crown beach which is on the west side and apparently has fantastic sunsets, that sounds nice and all. 1. From £318 per night. Re: Sheltered Vs Windy. Answer 1 of 11: Hi there, we're planning to visit Rarotonga for a few days in early June. 10. . And don’t worry, wherever you stay in Rarotonga or Aitutaki, your. Get started finding Rarotonga hotels and vacation homes that best suit your stay. Best place to stay in Rarotonga " Great room with everything you need and we were lucky enough to get a lovely ocean view. For entry to the Cook Islands, visitors need a valid passport with at least six months remaining on it and an exit ticket. My dilemma is that there are many beautiful resorts on the east side such as Sea change villas and Reflections on rarotonga. I have doubts that you will enjoy staying at the Muri Beachcomber due to its very busy location. Cleanliness. and Marine Reserve, (Rarotongan) and Marine Reserve, (Rarotongan) Here is a teaser of some of Rarotonga’s best beaches. com and holiday homes and I'm trying to narrow it down. Show more. Rarotonga. Rarotonga's main island and Aitutaki's smaller island offer a multitude of enchanting locations. "Had the best stay with Kia Orana Villas! The. Whether you prefer to exchange vows barefoot on a secluded beach at sunset, surrounded by a heart-shaped arrangement of shells, inside a serene whitewashed coral church accompanied by a soul-stirring gospel choir, on a private islet adorned with. Check out accommodation that appeals to you in Vaimaanga or. Captain Tamas runs tours of the lagoon ($89) and is the highest rated tour company on the island. Muri Beach Club Hotel, an adults only oasis from 18years and over is ideally located on the beachfront at Muri Lagoon. NORTH: The most developed and touristy part of Sardinia, with Olbia and the uber-pricey Costa Smeralda on one side and the city of Alghero on the other. The secluded beachfront location provides guests with an unspoilt view of Rarotonga's crystal clear aqua blue lagoon and. 1. Rarotonga is only small so if you hire a car you can have the best of both worlds and travel to other beaches depending on the weather. We are travelling to Rarotonga in August for the first time for our honeymoon with our 18month old daughter. We did the package staying at the Rarotonga Beach Bungalows and had a marvelous time on the prettiest stretch of beach (Titikaveka) on the island. Snorkel At Titikaveka Beach. Answer 11 of 12: Hi, I have been doing some research about where to stay in rarotonga and I am a bit confused. A neat little spot to stay on the western side of Raro. We visited in the 1990s multiple times. Aroa Beach Marine Reserve, Arorangi, Ara Tapu Rd, Rarotonga. Show prices. i'll be staying a week on both raro and aitutaki on east side and want to spend last three days on raro on. Pacific Resort Aitutaki undeniably claims to be a ‘calm and tranquil oasis’ and we think it sums up their Aitutaki resort perfectly. Cleanliness. Rumours Luxury Villa and Spa (Best Adults-Only Rarotonga Resort) Photo Credit: Rumours. com and holiday homes and I'm. This is not the case with the west coast. Rarotonga Tourism Rarotonga Hotels Rarotonga Guest House Rarotonga Holiday Homes Rarotonga Holiday Packages. into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. . Harnessing a sustainably repurposed piece of coral, Ocean Escape’s reef is the highlight of a pool refreshed tidally by water from the South. Answer 1 of 14: We are a family with a 20 yr old and 17 yr old, who would like to meet other teens. . The majority of budget accommodations are located on Rarotonga. 3 nights from $1180 per person/twin share. Rarotonga. The western side provides the best sunsets, and is generally more sheltered compared with the east and south sides of the island. Hawke's Bay camping grounds. Choose your preferred destination airport. Manuia Beach Resort. 75) and the views of NYC from the tram are some of the best in the city. What advice can you. Bask in views from the beachfront suites or save a little by choosing a suite among the tropical gardens. Location. Have an Awesome Night at the Highland Paradise Cultural Show. 1/10 ⭐. Aroa Beach. Also we have young kids so keen to stay near a beach that is safe for them. What advice can you. The south of Rarotonga is home to the best beaches on the island, with deep lagoons perfect for snorkelling and non-motorised watersports. Started in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, Maire Nui Gardens has evolved from what was originally swampland, into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. The South Pacific tropics are recreated at this Deluxe resort, with two- and three-story Hawaiian longhouses set among some of Disney's best landscaping. Located near The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium on the South-Western part of the island, this beach is great for snorkelling as well as sunbathing. Distance from. 5. 5 years ago. Save. 3. You'll find award-winning beaches like the jaw-dropping One Foot Beach, as well as heaps of water. Located near The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium on the South-Western part of the island, this beach is great for snorkelling as well as sunbathing. An awesome sheltered pool for when windy was magic and bar and dining. Located the Western side of Rarotonga, Black Rock is a local favourite for relaxing, swimming, snorkelling and. Vaima’s & Wigmores. Rarotonga is the kind of place I would happily travel to time and time again. Rutaki, Papua and Avaavaroa Passages between Aro’a Beach and Tikioki Marine Reserve. Re: Best time & nicest part of island for snorkeling. Alternatively, you can visit the motu on. Rarotonga International Airport is just a 10-minute drive away. Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium. Specialty coffee for breakfast NZ$ 5, better take your beach towels and umbrellas to the reception upon checkout, otherwise you will be charged. ; SOUTH: Capital Cagliari with the pretty and unspoiled Costa Rei to its east and some of Sardinia’s nicest beach resorts to its west. Maire Nui Gardens is located on the South side of the island, and encompasses 7 acres of colourful and unique plants, walkways, rock formations, bridges, water features, lily ponds, compost stations. Could anyone be more specific as to where the BEST of the foregoing (other than sunsets) are to. Sunset Resort is a larger sized resort situated in the NW corner of the island, with nicely presented grounds and accommodation. See moreStay at Rarotonga Backpackers. Started in 1996 by Hinano Macquarie, Maire Nui Gardens has evolved from what was originally swampland, into a tropical oasis loved by both visitors and locals alike. 4 places sorted by traveler favorites.