Wedding - Cook Islands

Transcription

Wedding - Cook Islands
Wedding
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
1
Fly
DIRECT
Flight schedule
Departs Sydney
NZ60 SYD - RAR Sat night
- Arrives Rarotonga Sat morning
Departs Rarotonga
NZ61 RAR - SYD Fri afternoon
- Arrives Sydney Sat night
Daily Flights
Air New Zealand flies from all
major Australian cities via
Auckland to the Cook Islands daily.
Visit airnewzealand.com.au
Virgin Australia flies from all major
Australian cities via Auckland.
4 flights per week to the
Cook Islands.
Visit virginaustralia.com
Is the national airline of the
Cook Islands. Air Rarotonga offers
daily flights that will take you from
Rarotonga to Aitutaki, Atiu and our
other sister islands.
www.cookislands.travel
Welcome to
COOK
ISLANDS
Kia Orana,
(means hello, may you live long)
Congratulations! You are looking
in the best possible place for
your dream wedding or sublime
honeymoon by considering the
idyllic Cook Islands.
The Cook Islands is known for its
romance, rejuvenation and endless
adventures – not forgetting the
picture postcard beauty and the
engaging locals with their modern
Polynesian culture.
The Cook Islands are just far
enough away to be exotic, yet just
Weddings & Honeymoons
close enough to be attainable.
They also represent great value for
money. Choose between spectacular
Rarotonga, the main island
offering over 50 café’s, restaurants,
a seductive nightlife, endless
adventures and resort choices to
suit your style, taste and budget or
venture further into the deep blue
yonder to achingly beautiful Aitutaki,
a magnet for wedding parties,
honeymooners and those seeking a
private escape.
This planner is just a teaser to
provide inspiration, we hope you’ll
visit us online and download our
free full weddings and honeymoon
planner to find out more about your
wedding style, check out the resorts
on offer, view the beautiful real
weddings image gallery and so much
more.
Visit weddings.cookislands.travel
and soon you’ll be planning the
happiest moments of your life.
The Cook Islands Tourism
‘love and happiness’ team.
Airport
Aitutaki Escape
Tamanu Beach Resort Aitutaki
Aitutaki
Lagoon Resort
& Spa
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Etu Moana Beach Villas
AITUTAKI
Golf Course
BLACK ROCK
AVARUA
Airport
Punanga Nui
Markets
N
PUE
Nightclubs
Cook Islands Tourism
Information Centre
The Sunset Resort
SUNSET
BEACH
Club Raro
The Edgewater Resort & Spa
Crown Beach Resort & Spa
Manuia Beach Resort
MATAVERA
Magic Reef Bungalows
RAROTONGA
Highland Paradise Cultural Centre
Puaikura Reef Lodges
Te Vakaroa Villas
Lagoon Breeze Villas
AROA
Sanctuary Rarotonga
Raina Lagoon Villas
The Rarotongan
Beach Resort & Spa
Palm Grove
Muri Beach Club Hotel
Pacific Resort Rarotonga
Te Vara Nui Cultural Centre
VAIMAANGA
MURI
Sea Change Villas
Muri Beachcomber
Muri Beach Resort
Rumours of Romance
Te Manava Luxury Spa & Villas
LAGOON CRUISES
TITIKAVEKA
Royale Takitumu
Pacific Resort, Aitutaki
4
MURI BEACH
Little Polynesian Resort
Moana Sands Beachfront
Hotel & Villas
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
5
CONTENTS
Weddings
04 Welcome
An introduction
08 Your Day
18 Wedding style
28 Destination Aitutaki
Tips for your big day
Elopement
All you need to know
10 The Guide
20 Wedding style
30 What & Where
Our top ten reasons to have
your destination wedding in the Cooks
First Class
Guide to food, accommodation &
entertainment
12 Wedding Style
22 Accommodation
34 Grooms Guide
What’s your style?
Accommodation Listings
Here you go guys... get it sorted
14 Wedding style
24 Accommodation
36 Real Wedding
Traditional
Accommodation Listings
An Aitutaki bride
16 Wedding style
26 Destination Raro
37 Ina & the shark
The young ones
All you need to know
Romantic Cook Islands legend
6
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
7
YOUR DAY
IT’S YOUR BIG DAY, MAKE IT ONE NEVER TO FORGET!
HERE ARE SOME FUN & EASY WAYS TO HELP MAKE
YOUR DAY ONE YOU’LL CHERISH FOREVER.
taki
Pacific Resort Aitu
Cultural Dancers
Getting around
Ei’s
In the Cook Islands
a flower lei is spelt
ei. A beautiful way
to have your guests
welcomed on arrival
to your wedding or
reception.
Air Rarotonga operates scenic flights over the island of Rarotonga daily
and the airline offers a number of tours to the sister islands including
the very popular Aitutaki Day Tour, Aitutaki and Atiu Combo and the
Northern Atolls Adventure. Such a great way to discover as many of
our beautiful Islands as possible. www.airraro.com
Top that!
Bring the Island vibe to
your wedding. We love
these cute wooden
cake toppers which
you can customise
to look just like you!
peanutbutterbandit.etsy.com
Making it legal
8
Dance off
© Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa
Have a fear of endless speeches and a boring
wedding reception? Then a Cook Islands cultural
dance show is just what you need to liven things
up! Everyone knows that Cook Islanders are the
entertainers of the Pacific so you can be sure if its
nightlife you and your partner are after – your feet
will find the call of the island band irresistible. Here
dancing is second nature and what better way for
newlyweds to celebrate than swinging to a drumbeat
- bodies entwined? Based on the legends that relate
stories of love, desire, hurt and passion the swaying
hip movements and entrancing arm actions of
performing dancers are the essence of the Cook
Islands cultural heritage.
You need to apply for your
licence in person to the
Registrar of Marriages in the
Cook Islands at least 3 days
prior to the marriage. You will
need your passport and birth
certificate when filing the Notice
of Intended Marriage at the
Registrars Office in Avarua, Cook
Islands. For further details visit
justice.gov.ck/index.php/registry/
marriage - Oh and you have to
be 21 years of age, otherwise
written approval by your parents
is required. Cook Island marriages
are legally binding worldwide.
Snappy
Give your guests hours of fun with a
photo booth. The essential ingredients are
a BYO props bag! www.islandbooth.com
Tree of life
In the Islands the coconut is known as the ‘Tree of life’ for
the many different ways it sustains life. Couples can plant a baby
coconut palm, or uto, to seal their vows. It’s said the health of
the growing tree mirrors that of your relationship.
Hair &
makeup
Flowers
Whether you are looking for a romantic updo or want to
replicate a red carpet or runway look, the Cook Islands has
experienced stylists to help you enjoy beautiful hassle free
hair and makeup. TIP bring pictures of the look you are
trying to achieve and also your own lipstick so you will have
it on hand for touch-ups. Hair by www.pacificbride.com
Bouquets, buttonholes,
wristbands and everything you
need at www.islandcraft.com
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
9
THE GUIDE
Top 10 Reasons to have a Destination Wedding in the Cooks
01
< One big resort, all in
one island – easy access
to get around the island
by scooter, the island
bus service, or rent a
convertible
THE COOK ISLANDS SPECIALISES IN WEDDINGS. SO IT’S EASY TO FIND A
WEDDING PLANNER, CELEBRANT, FLORIST, HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST,
ACCOMMODATION AND VENUE TO SUIT YOUR STYLE, TASTE AND BUDGET. WE HAVE EVEN DESIGNED SOME GORGEOUS WEDDING INVITATIONS AND
COMMENT CARDS/THANK YOU NOTES THAT ARE FREE TO DOWNLOAD AT
www.cookislands.travel
Wedding Planners
Cook Islands
Weddin g Specialists
Leave it all to us…
WEDDING CO-ORDINATORS
phonefax
website
email
contact
weddings.com
gs.comwww.cookislands
info@cookislandsweddin
ummings
27023 21222SarinaC
oments.com
ts.comwww.polynesianm
karla@polynesianmomen
gelton
22130 22136KarlaEg
www.tribal-weddings.com
PolynesianMoments
@tribal-weddings.com
MacLennanwedding
Christina
onga.com
26225
www.weddedblissrarot
TribalWeddings
eddedblissrarotonga.com
Rongokeaenquiries@w
tonga.com
50287or28982Andrea
nner-raro
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rotonga
rotonga.comw
WeddedBlissRa
info@weddingplanner-ra
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nga 24414
.ckwww.bishopscruis
WeddingPlannerRaroto
bishopcruz@aitutaki.net
hop
31009 31493AnnieBis
A BishopsCruises
CookIslandsWeddings
Cook Islands
ng co-ordinator…
With your own on-site weddi
WHERE TO STAY
Visitor Information
phonefax
RESORTS&HOTELS
contact
www.crownbeach.com
m
weddings@crownbeach.co
aBryson
23953 23951Mariann
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22415 24415Charlee
Peyroux
Jeannine
24280 21585
CrownBeachResort
website
email
www.clubraro.co.ck
gm@clubraro.co.ck
www.littlepolynesian.com
ClubRaro
littlepoly@beach.co.ck
www.manuia.co.ck
LittlePolynesianResort
rooms@manuia.co.ck
derson
anasands.co.ck
22461 22464VikkiHen
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< Endless adventures by day, both on
the land and in the water to keep you
and your wedding party entertained
02
> Over 50 café’s, restaurants and even
open air bars and a vibrant nightlife –
everything from seaside fish & chips to
fine dining, Polynesian style
05
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WEDDINGMOON
TravEl aGENT
Travel Insurance
Travel Agent
From
> Warm, friendly locals to engage with,
and a rich, modern polynesian culture
© Aitutaki Lagoon Resort and Spa
03
< Accommodation to suit every style,
taste and budget - even rent your
own island resort from a boutique
wedding to a full scale affair, we can
cater to all size wedding parties
06
Mobile
Phone
TOTAL PRICE
Deposit
Fax
Balance
Email
Cancellation fee
Date due
Date due
Website
Design
We have designed two gorgeous wedding
invitations with matching comments cards for
your friends to give their shout outs or you
can use these thank you cards. We have even
designed matching envelopes! Download free
at www.weddings.cookislands.travel
10
See www.weddings.cookislands.travel to download
the free Honeymoons magazine and get a list
of our favourite wedding planners, locations
and more.
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
08
09
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
Myriad choices for
wedding locales – every
event is special and
customised just for you
and your vision, nothing
is cookie-cutter here. We’ll
tailor-make your special
day, we’re flexible and we
want you to be indulged
and delighted with your
wedding in every way
07
Price
Contact
Address
04
< Aitutaki, arguably the most beautiful
lagoon in the world also boasting the
Cooks very own Overwater bungalows
< Completely
safe, and
excellent value
for money with
the NZ$ being
Cook Islands
currency
Direct flights from
Auckland, Sydney
and Los Angeles
10
> Year-round
glorious
weather and
warm sparkling
lagoons
11
IN THE COOK ISLANDS COUPLES CAN MARRY BAREFOOT ON
THE BEACH, IN A VILLAGE CHURCH, IN THE JUNGLE, ON A
YACHT... OR HOW ABOUT ON A PRIVATE SANDSPIT ACCESSIBLE
ONLY BY BOAT? WHATEVER YOUR STYLE, THE COOK ISLANDS
CATERS FOR IT. READ ON FOR A SAMPLE...
12
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
13
Feature - What’s your wedding style
TRADITIONAL
14
HAVING AN ISLAND WEDDING DOESN’T MEAN RENOUNCING TRADITION. THE COOKS HAS A STRONG CHRISTIAN TRADITION, FOR THOSE SEEKING
CHURCH SERVICES. OR PERHAPS TRADITIONAL TO YOU MEANS
BORROWING FROM LOCAL CUSTOM.
Many couples marrying in the Cook
Islands like to include some local
touches in their ceremony and this is
easy to arrange.
This might be as simple, yet
sensuous as wearing a garland of
delightful local flowers, an ei, around
your necks. Or as elaborate as a
traditional ‘eco-wedding’ where the
bride and grooms’ costumes are
made from ceremonial rauti leaves
and the wedding banquet is cooked
in an earth oven, called an umu, and
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
served on woven palm-frond plates.
On the islands reputed to have the
best entertainers in the Pacific – make
the most of their talents and let
them serenade you with strumming
strings and songs. Watch a specially
choreographed wedding dance
performed against a breathtaking
orange sunset.
Why not walk down the aisle of
a whitewashed stone church to a
melodic choir of Polynesian voices?
You can be rowed with your loved
one in your own vaka, a traditional
canoe, towards a flower filled bower
on a sandy spit. Or wed on the
beach under a canopy of jasmine and
frangipani.
Serve your guests a succulent feast
of fish straight from the sea, produce
picked fresh from the garden or a
perfectly roasted piglet on a spit.
Then dance the night away under
a starry, starry sky to the seductive
rhythms of the islands’ sensational
drummers and phenomenal dancers.
15
Feature - What’s your wedding style
THE
YOUNG
ONES
IF KEEPING THINGS RELAXED, CAREFREE AND PERSONALISED IS MORE
YOUR STYLE, THE COOK ISLANDS’ EASY GOING VIBE WILL DELIGHT YOU.
Write your own vows and choose
a place that best expresses your
personality to exchange them. There
are endless amazing locations to
select from… barefoot on the beach
standing hand-in-hand within a
heart made of shells; sprinkled by
the mist of a waterfall; or pledge
your love high on a jungly mountain
- overlooking the reef encircled
lagoon far below.
Say ‘I do’ with Polynesian wedding
bands carved with motifs for love,
happiness or loyalty, or have one of
the islands’ fabulous black pearls
fashioned into your own unique
engagement ring.
Looking for something that will
capture your hearts and those of
the locals? Escape to a secret motu
(island) on a cruise across the
lagoon with flower petals scattered
across a deck festooned with palm
fronds – where you take your vows.
Alight onto a remote sandy shore to
an island umu with a Cook Islands
band greeting you and your friends
and family.
How about arranging a party on the
beach – complete with fire jugglers
and dance lessons for all to learn the
trademark Cook Islands moves.
Have a tropical wedding dress
designed by one of the talented local
designers and invite your guests to
dress in their best beachwear.
And who needs a limo when you
can ride off into the sunset on a
scooter plated ‘just married’. You
could even lead your guests on a
scooter procession to your reception.
Pacific Resort Rarotonga – Rarotonga
16
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
17
Feature - What’s your wedding style
ELOPEMENT
18
FOR SOME THE PEACE AND SECLUSION OF TAKING THEIR VOWS ON
A TINY DESERT ISLAND WITH ONLY THE BIRDS AS WITNESS IS THE
WEDDING THEY SEEK.
If personal, romantic and no fuss is
your style – visit the registry office
(or we can arrange for the registrar
to come to you after hours) then
take your own speedboat to zip away
to a solitary island armed with chilled
champagne and a celebratory picnic
feast. Honeymoon Island in the Aitutaki Lagoon is a favourite escape.
Scooter to a private beach or sail
to a private dock. Swim in secluded
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
bliss amongst brilliantly coloured
fish, trek to secret spots where you
and your sweetie can take a champagne picnic. Then hold hands and
watch the sunset – startling in its
shades of crimson and gold as it
sinks beyond the lagoon.
Choose an intimate restaurant to
celebrate, or go barefoot and chic
for a candlelit dinner on your balcony or table for two on the water’s
edge. Recline in a beautiful flower
filled Bedouin-tent billowing in the
breeze while you sip champagne
and indulge in a specially selected
menu a deux.
We do though suggest you might
arrange a photographer to capture
your special day – just in case you
want to share it with loved ones
later!
19
Feature - What’s your wedding style
FIRST
CLASS
JUST BECAUSE YOU’RE HEADING TO A SOUTH PACIFIC ISLAND
TO MARRY, DOESN’T MEAN FORSAKING THE REFINEMENTS OF A
MARRIAGE AT HOME FOR COUPLES CHOOSING THE COOK ISLANDS.
This modern Polynesian nation has
a high standard of living and many
sophisticated venues delivering the
highest of wedding standards as
professionally as anywhere.
Weddings are a specialty of the
Cooks and there is an abundance of
wedding planners, celebrants, stylists,
photographers, hairdressers and
makeup artists well versed in keeping
even the most discerning of brides
and grooms from all corners of the
world happy.
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
To look your best for the big day
or to unwind after all the attention
you can indulge in spa treatments
at leading hotels around Rarotonga
and Aitutaki.
Have your reception in elegant
luxury hotels with breathtaking
lagoon views or in style on the sands
seated along the shoreline at long
tables set with candles and fragrant
jasmine. Heighten the drama by
dining under the stars as flickering
light from flame torches dances on
your silverware.
Exchange vows beside the infinity
pool of an intimate luxury resort,
high on a mountain overlooking
the mesmerising lagoon below, or
walk up the aisle of a traditional
limestone church.
And for the ultimate in exclusivity,
entertain your wedding guests at one
of several very luxuriously appointed
private villas found in enviable
beachside locales, complete with your
own private chef and musicians.
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
LEGALLY BONDED
Edgewater Resort – Rarotonga
20
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
Weddings in the Cooks are legally binding and simple
to orchestrate. However you choose to marry, your
Application for a Marriage Licence must be made
in person to the Registrar of Marriages in the Cook
Islands. Application for this licence cannot be made
outside the Cook Islands. You need to apply a
minimum of three days ahead of the wedding, though
this can be waived by paying an additional urgent
processing fee. Your passport and birth certificates
are required documents.
21
Royale Takitumu, Titikaveka, Rarotonga
The Edgewater Resort & Spa, Arorangi, Rarotonga
For the perfect wedding in paradise look no further than The
Edgewater Resort & Spa in the beautiful Cook Islands. With
glowing amber sunsets, a white sand beach, swaying palm
trees and the crystal clear water of the lagoon all on your
doorstep, what better backdrop for your special day. Your
personal wedding co-ordinator will look after all your needs
and with a range of accommodation options and a wealth
of activities The Edgewater Resort & Spa is the ideal choice
for your magical island wedding. Select from The Tipani
Wedding package which offers simplicity and intimacy, the
comprehensive Jasmine Wedding which caters for all your
needs or tailor make your own ceremony with the help of
our professional wedding planners.
“ Thank you, thank you, thank you; we will never forget - and we
will be back!”
Contact Details:
P: +682 25435 E: weddings@edgewater.co.ck
W: www.edgewater.co.ck
Contact Details:
P: +682 24682 E: comfort@takitumu.co.ck
W: www.royaletakitumu.com
Moana Sands Beachfront Hotel & Villas
That’s how one delighted couple from Auckland, New
Zealand, described their experience of a Royale Takitumu
wedding. They’re one of many couples who choose to
combine this idyllic location and our wedding expertise
to create an incredible never-to-be-forgotten wedding
experience. A Royale Takitumu marriage takes a wonderful
tropical holiday and elevates it to a life-long treasured
memory. We will ensure that your special day is one of
complete pampering, relaxation and enjoyment – for the
happy couple and all their guests.
The Sunset Resort, Rarotonga
Weddings can be very difficult to plan and organise
remotely. The staff at Sunset Resort have experience
in organising special events and will take care of all
your
arrangements from the wedding ceremony to
accommodation and reception. With our local knowledge
we can help you make all other necessary arrangements.
Our resort wedding packages are designed to fit with any
budget and if you cannot find the right package for you, we
can customise the package to suit your
requirements. The
staff at Sunset Resort will work with you to create a
wedding you are happy and comfortable with.
Exclusive wedding management with the island’s leading
wedding planners, Wedded Bliss Rarotonga. Rarotonga’s
most idyllic and unspoilt white sand beach. All inclusive
beachfront wedding venue. Friendly and approachable
staff. Tailored options to create your dream wedding.
Create memories of a lifetime. Bring your friends & family
and take advantage of our competitive group rates. Family
friendly property with child minding services available.
BONUS: Book 7 nights’ accommodation with us directly,
or through your local travel agent, and receive the Romance
wedding ABSOLUTELY FREE.
Contact Details:
P: +682 28028 E: weddings@thesunsetresort.com
W: www.thesunsetresort.com
Contact Details:
P: +682 26189 E: weddings@moanasands.co.ck
W: www.moanasands.co.ck www.weddedblissrarotonga.com
Palm Grove, Rarotonga
Little Polynesian Resort, Titikaveka, Rarotonga
What could be more romantic than saying “I do” in a
mesmerizing garden or beach setting at the Little
Polynesian? Nestled on the southern tip of Rarotonga,
Little Polynesian Resort is a sophisticated playground for
grown-ups. Here, serenity is certain, seclusion is guaranteed,
and romance is everywhere. Our spectacular sunsets and
twilight evenings will make your wedding or renewal of
vows, in the heart of the South Pacific, a very intimate
and unique experience. Entrust your special day to our
professional wedding co-ordinator who will take care of all
the details — giving you more time to enjoy your wedding
journey and explore our beautiful islands.
Rarotonga is an idyllic wedding destination with year-round
warm weather, white sand beaches, a clear blue lagoon, lush
mountain heights and an abundance of tropical flowers.
Palm Grove’s secluded beach and peaceful garden are a
perfect location for the wedding of your dreams.
Palm Grove offers several wedding packages which can be
customised to suit any size and style of wedding. Whether
it’s just the two of you or you’re bringing friends and family
with you, Palm Grove works closely with multiple island
vendors to supply all of your wedding essentials.
Wedding Packages starting from AU$1100.
*prices are subject to currency fluctuations
Contact Details:
P: +682 20002 E: beach@palmgrove.co.ck
W: www.palmgrove.net
22
Contact Details:
P: +682 24280 E: sales@littlepolynesian.com
W: www.littlepolynesian.com
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
23
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa, Motu Akitua
Muri Beach Club Hotel, Muri Beach, Rarotonga
A white sandy beach, the tropical lagoon waters lapping
at your feet, the sun setting over the mountains and your
honeymoon hotel just meters away. Muri Beach Club Hotel
Wedding Bliss!
This intimate 5-star private island resort is the only one
set directly on breathtaking Aitutaki Lagoon, offering the
best views on Earth of the World’s Most Beautiful Lagoon.
Following its $2million makeover the resort is Adults-Only
from 01 April 2014. At this idyllic romantic retreat feel free
to laze in a hammock swaying above the champagne sand
beach, slip into the luminous lagoon, ease into a soothing
massage and dine under a tropical moon. A 2-minute ride
by private ferry from the main island of Aitutaki, the resort
offers the Cook Islands’ only Overwater Bungalows. The
stunning Oneroa Beach Chapel completes the scene for
incurable romantics, and there’s a Personal Wedding Planner
to create your dream wedding. Heaven sent. Sister resort to
stylish adults-only boutique resort, Sanctuary Rarotonga-on
the beach.
Say “I DO” in an intimate wedding set up along with up
to 30 guests for *AU$5300. The All Inclusive wedding
package Includes: Beachside Ceremony under a floral
archway in tropical paradise with 30 of your close family &
friends, a Polynesian buffet feast, 3 hour beverage package,
choice of three amazing venues for your reception, 1 tier
wedding cake, brides floral head ei & grooms neck ei and 5
nights’ accommodation in a Deluxe Beachfront Hotel room
for the bride & groom.
*Further Conditions apply. Prices subject to change due to currency fluctuations.
Contact Details:
P: +682 31200 E: info@aitutakilagoonresort.com
W: www.aitutakilagoonresort.com
Contact Details:
P: +682 23000 E: info@muribeachclubhotel.com
W: www.muribeachclubhotel.com
The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa , Aroa Beach
Crown Beach Resort & Spa, Sunset Beach
Imagine standing together on the sugar sands beside
luminous Aro’a Lagoon (the Lagoon of Love) at the Cook
Islands’ iconic Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Bathed in
the golden glow of the setting tropical sun, your hearts
beating as one, you are enveloped by the strumming of an
island serenade, the sweet aroma of frangipani and the
warm wishes of those you love. This is a dream ‘Lagoon of
Love’ Wedding at The Rarotongan, on Rarotonga’s best
wedding location. For a complete one-stop wedding servicesecluded sunset beach, beautiful reception venues, function
catering, wedding planner to personalize your wedding,
photographer, private nightclub (celebrate into the
wee hours with no curfew!), luxury spa, adults-only
accommodation at neighbouring sister resort, Sanctuary
Rarotonga-on the beach, and heavenly honeymoon options
at sister resort, Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa – nowhere
compares to The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa
If you seek a private boutique beachfront resort in a idyllic
location with stunning views, Crown Beach Resort is
perfect. With 5 acres of tropical gardens, 36 private villas
with one & two king bedrooms, 3 world-class restaurants
& bars, gym, spa & beauty clinic, concierge, gift shop, dive
centre, conference centre for 375 delegates, wifi, laundry,
daily sunsets, perfect snorkelling turquoise lagoon and
3-wedding planners who specialize in bespoke beachfront
weddings for discerning brides who expect absolute
perfection… we warmly welcome you to Crown Beach
Resort & Spa in the Cook Islands.
Contact Details:
P: +682 23953 E: info@crownbeach.com
W: www.crownbeach.com
Contact Details: P: +682 25800 E: weddings@rarotongan.co.ck
W: www.therarotongan.com
Sanctuary Rarotonga, Aroa Beach
Aitutaki Day Tour
Enjoy one more special day cruising on one of the most
beautiful lagoons in the world. Take a deep breath and
rest your eyes on the cleanest crystal waters that can only
be described as magical. Relax for six hours onboard our
fully equipped 21-metre Polynesian style catamaran Titi-aitonga (Wind from the South). Visit uninhabited islands with
secluded white sand beaches, snorkel with an abundance of
colourful fish or simply soak up the sun on our comfortable
sun loungers with a glass of French champagne. Lastly, enjoy
fresh barbequed fish and island inspired dishes onboard in the
middle of the lagoon as the boat makes its way slowly to your
final stop of the day One Foot Island.
People say, “Aitutaki is Heaven on Earth.” We just call it home.
Your Aitutaki Day Tour includes: Return airfares, Hotel
transfers, Aitutaki island tour, Lagoon cruise, Islet visits,
Snorkeling, Delicious island cuisine.
Indulge in this adults-only, absolute beachfront boutique
resort with a distinctive South Pacific ambience, secluded
white sands, crystal-clear blue lagoon… and even a unique
swim-up bar. Imagine stepping from your stylish Beachfront
Suite directly onto Aroa Beach and then straight into the
sparkling waters of renowned Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve
to swim and snorkel among the jewel-coloured tropical fish,
at any tide. Enjoy a long cool cocktail at the unique swim
up pool bar, be pampered at SpaPolynesia LUXE @ Lime
Blossom Villa, dine on fine Pacific cuisine with your toes
in the sand at Bluewater Grill. Sanctuary Rarotonga offers
a Personal Wedding Planner to create your dream South
Seas wedding-pure bliss. Guests are also welcome to use all
facilities next door at sister resort, The Rarotongan Beach
Resort & Spa.
Contact Details: P: +682 25900 E: info@sanctuaryrarotonga.com
W: www.sanctuaryrarotonga.com
24
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
Contact Details:
P: +682 22888 E: bookings@airraro.co.ck W: www.airraro.com
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
25
Destination
The island of Rarotonga is
the vibrant hub of the Cook
Islands. It is spectacular looking,
dominated by a once mighty
volcanic pyramid, jagged peaks
and razorback ridges carpeted in
lush green vegetation that fall into
a turquoise lagoon.
Most of the 15,000 resident Cook
Islanders live on Rarotonga making
this the ‘big smoke’, though you
won’t find any traffic lights or any
buildings higher than a coconut tree.
Only 32 kilometres in circumference,
it takes less than an hour to drive,
scooter or bus right around - you’ll
feel like you are in one big resort!
Avarua is the main town where a
range of shops and galleries and
the unmissable Saturday morning
Punanga Nui Market purvey quality
artworks, highly regarded Cook
Islands’ black pearls, and brightly
Little Polynesian Resort Rarotonga
coloured clothing and homewares,
including the Cooks’ unique ‘tivaevae’
or embroidered quilts.
The South Pacific’s best and
freshest food is served in more
than 50 inexpensive café’s and
restaurants found right around the
island, many in glorious waterfront
locations. Locally grown tropical
fruits and vegetables and plentiful
seafood abound.
There are endless ways for the whole
wedding party to explore Rarotonga’s
exhilarating environment.
Laze, swim or snorkel on some
of the world’s best beaches like
Arorangi, Titikaveka or Muri,
enjoying the whitest of sand and
bluest of water, which rarely drops
below 25˚C year round. There are no
nasty stingers in the water at any time
of year either.
Climb 400 metres to Rarotonga’s
highest point, The Needle, before
descending to Wigmore’s Waterfall
for a swim on the cross-island trek
(best undertaken with professional
guide Pa).
Check out the fun and relaxed
nightlife scene, with outdoor
nightclubs, open air bars and even a
special nightlife bus taking you to all
the favourite spots around the island.
Experience the Cooks’ invigorating
drumming and dancing at cultural
shows or island nights or join a dance
lesson at your resort or the cultural
centre in town.
Tour the craggy interior on a 4WD
tour, complete with humorous
commentary or a quad bike tour.
See
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
for more info on all the
islands and accommodation
options.
Pacific Resort Rarotonga
26
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
27
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Destination
AITUTAKI
HEARD OF THIS PLACE? IT’S NOT
SURPRISING WHEN AITUTAKI’S
SPECTACULAR TRIANGULAR
LAGOON IS OFTEN RATED AS THE
MOST BEAUTIFUL IN THE WORLD.
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
After Rarotonga, Aitutaki is the
second most visited island in the
Cook Islands. Just a 45 minute flight
north of Rarotonga, many visitors
make sure they see this amazingly
beautiful island on at least a day trip.
Air Rarotonga offers a One Day
Excursion from Rarotonga that
includes transfers, airfares, a lagoon
cruise, snorkelling and lunch.
Secluded and romantic, it has
compelling allure for honeymooners,
many of whom choose this haven
for the duration of their stay.
You can look forward to languid,
28
leisurely days simply revelling in
each other’s company and the jawdropping surroundings. Work on
your suntan lazing under a coconut
palm, relax with a massage at the
Aitutaki Lagoon Resort’s Spa or ask
for directions to the secret garden.
Sip champagne in the sophisticated
Pacific Resort or cocktails before a
swim at the lovely Tamanu Beach
Resort. Share a delicious meal
of mud crab at Tupuna’s famed
restaurant or a delightful brunch at
Koru Café.
There are countless ways to explore
the crystal clear, warm turquoise
waters and 20 uninhabited islands,
called motu, which fringe the lagoon.
How about kayaking to a fine white
sandy beach that you can have all to
yourselves? Or hiring your own boat
and setting a course for Honeymoon
Island or to One Foot Island where visitors can get their passport
stamped at the world’s smallest post
office.
Several tour operators cruise
daily to these and other sand islets
and to favourite snorkelling spots
abundant with colourful fish,
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
turtles and coral clusters.
Check out the kiteboarders
zooming across acres of sandy
shallows on the South East trade
winds then get a lesson and have
a go yourself. Going fly fishing
for the mighty bonefish is another
popular and memorable lagoon
pursuit.
And just beyond the reef
Aitutaki offers outstanding and
readily accessible scuba diving for
beginners to experts and fantastic
deep sea fishing.
Learn the history and culture
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
of the warm and gentle Aitutaki
people on day tours or hire a
scooter or bicycles to explore at
your own pace, meeting the locals at
church or the market.
The main island, dwarfed by the
vast lagoon, offers gorgeous places
to stay for all budgets, including
the Cook Islands’ only overwater
bungalows, and many boutique
properties catering exceptionally
well for honeymooners.
For more splendid isolation you
can even stay out in the lagoon on
otherwise uninhabited Akaiami
Island, once the refuelling spot
for the TEAL flying boats on the
legendary Coral Route across the
Pacific. How romantic.
Visit
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
to get a list of our favourite
wedding planners, locations
and more.
29
WHAT TO DO
EVERY DAY IN THE COOK ISLANDS PRESENTS SCORES OF ROMANTIC
POSSIBILITIES. WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR LANGUID DAYS OR AN
ACTION PACKED ITINERARY, WE HAVE IT COVERED. WHAT’S YOUR STYLE?
Te Manava Luxury Villas, Rarotonga
Adventures together
Have a go at scuba diving in the incredibly clear lagoons
and see giant turtles, colourful fish and diverse corals.
Diving here is sheltered, gentle and affordable and you’ll
soon be heading beyond the reef to deeper and even
more spectacular waters. Try the fast growing sport of
kite surfing, which is massive in the Cooks. See how in
sync the two of you really are by trying paddle boarding
together at Muri Lagoon. Hire a scooter or convertible to
Te Vakaroa Villas Raratonga
WHAT&
WHERE
WHEN IT COMES TO FOOD, ENTERTAINMENT AND
ACCOMMODATION, THE COOK ISLANDS HAS YOU COVERED.
OVER THE NEXT FEW PAGES WE GIVE YOU A BRIEF RUN DOWN
OF THINGS TO KEEP YOU ENTERTAINED, PLACES TO SATISFY
YOUR APPETITE, AND WHERE TO LAY YOUR HEAD.
30
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
explore the inland roads, find secluded waterfalls, fragrant
forest trails or amazing snorkelling spots you’ll have
all to yourselves. Island hop for your own blue lagoon
adventure on Aitutaki or to the 32 secluded beaches, caves
and caverns of Atiu. Both islands about a 45 minute flight
from Rarotonga. Or, if that all sounds like too much hard
work, just snuggle up in a hammock slung between two
palm trees. Just the two of you.
Punanga Nui Markets
Coco Putt
Diversions for the bride
…and groom
• Indulge in a spa treatment or massage
• Zumba class
• Canoe or snorkel the lagoons
• Shop at Island Living or the Punanga Nui Markets
• A latte and scrumptious cake at Beachcomber Gallery
• Horse riding
• Round of golf, putt putt or bowls
• Sailing, deep sea fishing, diving, Kite Surfing
• Rock climbing, quad biking
• Book those romantic dinners (and bachelor party)
• Mountain biking
• Visit Matutu brewery
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
31
WHERE TO EAT
THE COOK ISLANDS IS HOME TO SOME OF THE
FINEST CUISINE ON THE PLANET.
You will be delighted by the dining experience in the Cooks.
Everything is available - from the best burgers you have ever
had in your life at Gourmet Burgers, to the local favourite
of ika mata by the seaside at Trader Jack’s to fine dining
with a Polynesian twist at Tamarind House. A highlight
of your visit will be a Polynesian cultural tour, dinner and
performance. We always eat at the Punanga Nui Markets on
a Saturday, so much variety, and the smell of organic coffee
from Atiu just kick starts your morning. And everybody,
locals and tourists alike, come to the markets, so it’s a real
social occasion. You can’t go wrong wherever you choose
to dine. Half the fun is scooting around the island and
stopping where the day takes you! And there’s a restaurant
bus at night time, and don’t forget the nightlife tour to get
you around to all the hotspots.
Visit www.weddings.cookislands.travel to get a list of
our favourite restaurants.
WHERE TO STAY
WHEN IT COMES TO WHERE YOU’LL REST YOUR HEAD AT NIGHT, THE
COOKS IS ALL ABOUT SERVICE AND GENUINELY WARM HOSPITALITY.
You really are spoilt for choice in the Cook Islands. We like
to say Rarotonga is one big resort, all on one island, so it
really doesn’t matter where you stay, because it’s so easy to get
around (it takes 45 minutes to drive around the whole island,
so you can’t get lost either).
Aitutaki is considered the most beautiful lagoon in the
world, and here you’ll base yourself at your resort and
spend time in the beautiful lagoon. Most visitors stay from
2-7 nights, although day trips can easily be arranged too.
Accommodation on both Rarotonga and Aitutaki ranges
from the ultimate in five star indulgence to full service
resorts, affordable holiday homes on the beach, private villas
Aitutaki Escape Aitutaki
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
32
Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa Raratonga
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
complete with jacuzzi’s and private chefs to a multiplicity of
mid range and budget places in between.
More intrepid travellers shouldn’t miss combining Aitutaki
with a visit to the quite different coral island of Atiu, or
further afield to the islands of Mitiaro or Mangaia.
Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa Raratonga
Visit www.weddings.cookislands.travel for
more info on all the islands and
accommodation options we have to offer.
Te Vakaroa Villas Rarotonga
Te Vakaroa Villas Rarotonga
33
GROOMS
GUIDE
WHAT ROLE DOES THE GROOM PLAY IN ALL THIS? OUR GROOMS GUIDE
WILL GIVE YOUR MAN THE HEADS UP ON WHAT TO DO AND WHAT TO
TAKE CHARGE OF…AFTER ALL NOT EVERYONE HAS A GROOMZILLA!
Groom’s responsibilities:
Best man’s responsibilities:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Organise the honeymoon
Pay for the engagement and wedding ring/s
Arrange wedding cars/transport for the entire
wedding party
Choose gifts for the best man, groomsmen and ushers
Pay the celebrant or make a church donation
Make a speech at the reception
Choose the music for the first dance
Organise music and MC for the reception
A special touch would be to have flowers or a gift sent
to your Bride before the wedding starts
Bring the marriage licence to the wedding ceremony
Groomsmen’s responsibilities:
•
•
•
•
34
Assist in planning and financing the Bucks Night
Arrive one hour prior to ceremony and hand out
Order of Service cards
Help with seating and greeting guests
The groom’s parent’s responsibility is usually to
pay for the alcohol at the wedding reception.
However, these days many groom’s parents will
match the contribution of the bride’s parents
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Organise the buck’s night
Help dress the groom
Keep the wedding ring safe in the lead-up to
the ceremony
Act as official witness if required
Make a speech at the reception
Get the Groom to the wedding at least one
hour prior
Make the first toast at the wedding reception
and read congratulations telegrams
Transport the bride and groom to their hotel
after the reception
Return all hire suits after the wedding
Make sure you don’t get the groom drunk
before the ceremony!
Going Troppo Night Life Tour operates
every Friday night, they only take a
maximum 35 pax so best to book in
early. They will pick you up from your
hotel between 7-8pm and have you home
by 3am. Bookings can be made through
bookings@rarotours.co.ck
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
35
A LOVE STORY
Ina & The Snake
A ROMANTIC COOK ISLANDS’ LEGEND IS COMMEMMORATED ON THE
COUNTRY’S THREE DOLLAR NOTE. HERE IS THE TALE OF LOVESICK MAIDEN INA
AND HER DISTANT LOVE TINIRAU AND THE SHARK THAT TAKES HER TO HIM.
HER
STORY
Some people spend years planning their wedding. CITC’s Australian
PR Manager Gaynor Stanley is not one of those people. We thought
the impulsive romantics among you might like her story.
April 13 – Chris and I excitedly
prepare to fly next day to Rarotonga,
our first visit together since our very
first holiday as a couple 25 years, four
countries, two kids and one dog ago.
“Maybe we should get married while we’re
there? If we can get a celebrant and a dress,
let’s do it!”
April 14 – All day training course
doesn’t leave alot of time for dress
hunting. Arrive bridal store 40 minutes
before closing. “Are you getting married
soon?” “Um, maybe next week. If you
have a dress that fits.” The first gown
I try is meant to be. Check emails
and all go with the celebrant. We’re
getting married! Chris frantically irons
best white shirt. Leave for airport at
6.30pm. With children. And our birth
certificates.
April 16 – The lovely Ani at the
Pacific Resort Rarotonga takes charge,
in the nicest possible way. She makes
sure our documents pass muster and
arranges for the licence to catch us up
at the sublime Pacific Resort Aitutaki,
36
where we’ve long been planning a
child-free sojourn (thanks Aunty
Kim!).
April 19 – Hello Aitutaki and
Misepa, my friend from Cook Islands
Tourism. “Would you like to come to a
wedding tomorrow afternoon? Be great if
you could be our witness.” Then we head
straight out on the spectacular lagoon
for an amazing day snorkelling with
Teking’s Cruises. Late afternoon we
arrive back at the Pacific, where the
delightful Tekura finesses the final
touches for tomorrow’s ceremony.
The champagne starts to flow as we
watch the sunset from our hammock
then head out to feast on mud crab at
the legendary Tupuna’s Restaurant.
April 20 – Shrug off slight hangover
with a delicious breakfast, mesmerised
by the infinity pool and glistening
turquoise lagoon beyond. Everything
is so calm. Oops, never got round
to buying rings on Raro did we?
Scooter round island looking for rings
but only score black pearl cufflinks.
Chris reirons his shirt, not so much
frantically as concentratedly this time.
I don my mother’s pearl earrings,
a new brooch – gift from the dress
designer – and borrow Tekura’s hairclip
to secure a rogue gardenia. Something
blue? That dazzling lagoon. Red and
purple petals scatter the pristine sands
to where Chris awaits within a heart of
red hibiscus. Minister Pumati Pumati
guides us with trademark Cook Islands
gentle humour through beautiful vows.
We plant a coconut tree following
Cook Islands tradition (see page 9).
Then sink into a bed of cushions
within a Bedouin-style tent to feast on
sushi and sashimi, decadent desserts
and, naturally, more champagne as the
lagoon shimmers ever so gently to
the tune of a setting sun and distant
ukulele.
And then we fly back to Rarotonga to
let the world know ‘we eloped’.
PS: April 20-something – buy
Polynesian wedding band and black
pearl and diamond ring.
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS
Ina was an attractive young woman,
with long braided hair: she wore
beautiful white shells on her arms
and a rich breast ornament around
her neck. Ina was from the land of
Nukutere and was hopelessly in love
with Tinarau, the god of the ocean
and lord of all fishes.
Tinarau lived far away on a floating
island and one day, after a disagreement
with her family, Ina decided to go in
search of her loved one. She went to
the sea and encouraged some fish to
help her swim, but the fish were too
small to bear her weight and so they left
her gasping in the breakers on the reef.
Eventually a friendly shark appeared
and to her great delight agreed to carry
Ina on his back. She quickly gathered
two coconuts to take on the journey.
Halfway through her dangerous quest
Ina become thirsty, so the helpful
shark raised his dorsal fin on which
Ina pierced the eye of one of the coconuts and refreshed herself. Further
on she again asked the shark for help
and he raised his head, upon which she
cracked the second hard coconut shell.
Smarting from the blow he dived to
the depths of the ocean, leaving Ina to
float as best she could. From that day
there has been a marked protuberance
on the sharks head which is now called
‘Ina’s Bump’.
Fearing she would drown, she called
on her unbridled love for Tinarau.
Her plea was answered by Tekea the
Great, the king of all sharks, who rose
from the bottom of the sea to rescue
the tenacious and beautiful girl and
transport her to Tinarau’s Island.
Eventually the brave girl was delivered from the perils of the sea as they
reached the sacred isle. She soon
found a house in which she beat a
great wooden drum to attract her
lover, but when Tinarau entered the
coy girl hid herself. Tinarau, unable to
find who had beaten the drum, left the
house, but Ina - fearing she would lose
so noble a man - again beat the drum.
When Tinarau came back and discovered the beautiful, blushing girl who
had endured so much to be by his side,
his heart swelled with love and admiration for Ina. He asked her to be his
bride and they became man and wife.
© Mahiriki Tangaroa
www.weddings.cookislands.travel
37
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COOK ISLANDS
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Northern Group
COOK ISLANDS
Southern Group
Be Inspired…
We hope this planner inspires you to learn more about a wedding or honeymoon in
the Cook Islands. Please visit us online for resort options, package deals, amazing real
weddings, photo galleries, and our favourite reasons why we know you’ll love the Cook
Islands, visit weddings.cookislands.travel and look for these brochure downloads.
Produced by
thepackageagency.com
For more information contact Cook Islands
Tourism or your local travel professional:
Words by
Gaynor Stanley at PEPR Publicity
and Michal McKay.
Cook Islands Tourism Corporation
Shop 38, Niecon Plaza,
17-19 Victoria Avenue
Broadbeach, QLD 4218
PO Box 99, Broadbeach, QLD 4218
Photography by
Craig Owen, Kieran Scott and
David Kirkland.
© CITC
Honeymoon
38
Ph: + 61 7 5504 5488
Email: info@cookislandstourism.travel
Web: cookislands.travel
COOK
ISLANDS
Fast facts guide for families
COOK ISLANDS WEDDINGS