Fares are from $750 or so return each, then I understand it's $270 return for the Mangaia flight. The accommodation we have booked is $NZ70 per night double room, and that is, at today's exchange rate, $AUD59. Hope the rate is our way in 2010.
Below are some notes I made that I posted at SEML (Solar Eclipse Mailing List).
I have purchased the Lonely Planet guide to the Cook Islands(pub 1996) and thought I would post some snippets which might be useful to prospective travellers.
General notes on Cook Islands.
No visas are necessary for stays of less than 30 days, you get issued with it on arrival by showing your accommodation booking and return ticket. You must have booked accommodation prior to travel. NO camping is allowed on the islands and there are no campsites.
Mangaia specific Accommodation
There are 4 ‘organised’ places to stay on Mangaia. In addition, groups of 4 or more can stay in one of Oenaroa’s community halls. These each have a fully equipped kitchen, showers and foam mattresses. Cost about $NZ50 per night whatever the size of the group. Contatc Tupuna Tours at the Tourist Centre ph 37365 www.tupuna.com - tevack1@hotmail.com
All the places to stay on Mangaia make provision for guests’ food, wither cooking meals for you or allowing you to prepare your own. Not much in the way of food stuffs westerners are used to so bring provisions if you so desire. Fresh fruits etc readily available.
Babe’s Place Ph 34092 www.babesplace.co.ck - mangaia@babesplace.co.ck
Babe owns the island’s main store and liveliest bar, and runs a comfortable motel just south of Oneroa near Tuaati Beach. 4 motel style units with mosquito nets, colourful bedspreads and small patio areas. There are also a few bedrooms in the main single story house, which also has a large kitchen and shared lounge. Can be noisy when y=the bar is open.
Aramoa Bungalows Ph 34278 http://www.aramoana.com/ - holiday@aramoana.com
On the opposite side of the island. Small rura;l free standing bungalows set around a small tropical garden. Meals available, picnic area on the clifftop nearby.
Mangaia Lodge which I have already discussed and where I will be staying. Hostel style accommodation with 3 plain bedrooms, kitchen and sunny enclosed terrace overlooking a grassy garden. Separate shared shower/toilet block. Cook your own or meals by request. No website but these 2 give some details http://www.paradisecook.com/Mangaia_Lodge.htm and http://www.jetsave.co.ck/mangaia.htm and the email is mangaia_lodge@yahoo.com
Private home – Liz and Tuaine Papatua Ph 34164 rent a large bedroom in their home ay oeneroa for $NZ35 p/night or $50 with meals.
