The garden island, where the sun rises first

Stepping onto Mauke is like uncovering a quiet, well-kept secret at the edge of the world. Located a 45-minute flight east of Rarotonga, Mauke (Akatokamanava, meaning "where my heart rests") is traditionally celebrated as the easternmost island where the sun rises first in the Cook Islands. Known as the "Garden Island" for its lush greenery and wild floral beauty, Mauke offers an atmosphere of gentle rhythms, deep-rooted traditions, and an intensely peaceful community spirit.

What to expect on Mauke

  • The First Sunrise in Paradise: Wake up early to witness dawn break over the island’s eastern coast, embracing the unique magic of being the very first in the Cook Islands to greet the new day.

  • The Ring of Makatea & Fertile Gardens: Mauke is encircled by a raised fossilised coral limestone ring (makatea) framing a fertile, red-soil interior where lush taro plantations, wild orchids, and tropical fruit trees flourish.

  • The Divided Church of Ziona Tapu: Visit one of the Pacific’s most extraordinary historic churches in Oiratumu. Built in 1882, the interior is famously split down the middle with two distinct architectural styles, reflecting the creative union of the island’s two main historic villages.

  • Subterranean Freshwater Pools: Discover hidden cave pools tucked into the limestone wilderness, including Kopupooki (The Stomach Cave), offering crystal-clear, cool freshwater swimming under natural rock arches.

  • Traditional Scented Oils & Island Crafts: Mauke is renowned across the archipelago for its production of pi'i maoro—traditional, highly prized scented coconut oil infused with local botanicals and herbal leaves.

A warm island welcome

Mauke’s tight-knit community lives across three main village areas: Taunganui, Oiratumu, and Kimiangatau. Linked by quiet, flower-lined coastal roads with virtually no traffic, the island invites you to slow down, explore by bicycle, and experience traditional island hospitality untouched by modern acceleration.

Where to stay & local services

  • Ri’s Retreat & Guesthouse: Taunganui | W: islandhoppervacations.com

  • Are Manuiri Guesthouse: Kimiangatau | T: +682 35010 | FB: Are Manuiri

  • Tiare Holiday Cottages: Oiratumu | T: +682 35270 | E: te4ta.ateriano@gmail.com