Ngatangiia, Cook Islands
Museums
If you are in Ngatangiia, Cook Islands and want to visit museums, a great option is the Cook Islands Cultural Village. It's located in nearby Arorangi and offers an immersive experience in Cook Islands culture, including traditional dance, music, crafts, and artifacts.
If you're interested in visiting similar places, you could check out the National Museum of the Cook Islands in Avarua or the Te Vara Nui Village also in Arorangi. Both offer insights into the culture and history of the Cook Islands.
Food
Some of the most recommended and popular dishes in Ngatangiia, Cook Islands according to locals are:
1. Ika Mata: a traditional dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, coconut cream, and diced vegetables.
2. Rukau: taro leaves cooked in coconut cream, often served as a side dish.
3. Kai’eka: a type of pudding made with mashed bananas, coconut cream, and sugar, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
4. Eke: octopus cooked in coconut milk with onion, garlic, and other seasonings.
5. Po’e: a dessert made with mashed bananas or taro, mixed with flour, sugar, and coconut milk, then baked or steamed.
6. Rori: a sweet bread made with coconut cream and mashed ripe bananas.
These dishes showcase the flavors and ingredients that are locally available and commonly used in traditional Cook Islands cuisine.
Activities
Sure, here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Ngatangiia and the Cook Islands:
1. Beach hopping: With so many beautiful beaches around the island, locals love to spend their time exploring different beaches and enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.
2. Snorkeling and diving: The Cook Islands have a rich marine life, and locals love to explore it through snorkeling and diving. Some of the popular spots for these activities include the Aroa Marine Reserve and the Muri Lagoon.
3. Attending cultural shows: Cook Islands culture is vibrant and colorful, and locals love to showcase it through dance, music, and traditional costumes. Attending a cultural show is a great way to experience this unique culture.
4. Hiking: The Cook Islands have several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island. The Raemaru Track and Te Rua Manga (The Needle) are two popular hiking spots among locals.
5. Trying local cuisine: Cook Islands cuisine is a fusion of Polynesian and European flavors, and locals love to indulge in their favorite dishes such as ika mata (raw fish salad) and rukau (taro leaves cooked in coconut cream).
6. Visiting markets: The Punanga Nui Market in Avarua is a popular spot among locals to shop for fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It's open every Saturday and offers a lively atmosphere with music and food vendors.
