Getting to & Around Mangaia

Pristine and uncrowded, Mangaia is the ideal retreat for those looking to escape to a more tranquil destination. Peaceful and quiet, this island is the perfect place to spend a few days by yourself or with a few friends or loved ones. The accommodations here are good and with quite a few things to do such as caving on Mangaia is a nice relaxing getaway.

The best way to get to Mangaia is to fly here by airplane. Air Rarotonga offers four flights a week between Mangaia and Rarotonga, with a return ticket costing approximately NZ $ 250. If you purchase your tickets in Rarotonga yourself, you can pay a slightly less amount. Most travel agents and tour companies in Rarotonga organize package tours to Mangaia with airfare and accommodation prices all rolled into one. You can also fly here on a ‘Discovery’ air pass from Air Rarotonga or get here via an inter-island tour. The airstrip on Mangaia lies in the north of the island and is closer to he town of Ivirua.

If you prefer you can also get to Mangaia by boat via an inter-island cargo ship, most of which operate from Rarotonga. Mataroa Shipping and Taio Shipping, both carry passengers to Mangaia from Avatiu Harbor. There are two types of tickets you can purchase aboard these ships; deck or cabin tickets. Deck tickets mean sleeping on the deck, while cabin tickets give you your own cabin or a shared one to sleep in.

Once you land Mangaia, the best way to get around is by motorbike. Moana Rentals lies in Tavaenga and rents motorbikes per day. Aramoana Bungalows also rents bikes to get around Mangaia as well. Gas is available at Moana Rentals, Kirikiri and Akeke Trading. Walking is a wonderful way to see Mangaia as well, with a number of lovely walking trails on the island. However, be sure to notify someone before you go for a walk in case you get lost or need to be found.