Avarua Attractions

The Beachcomber Gallery maintains a collection of local arts, crafts, jewelry and pearls.

This 1853 church is made of coral. The graveyard outside the church contains the graves of some of the islands most famous people, including the first prime minister of the Cook Islands.

The Cook Islands Library and Museum Society houses a collection of rare books on the Pacific. The museum offers a variety of historical art and artifacts which offer a glimpse of the cultural history of the islands.

The National Cultural Centre is home to the National Museum, the National Library, and the National Auditorium.

The National Library, located in the National Culture Centre, offers a varied collection. Borrowing privileges are available to everyone but requires a large deposit.

The National Museum, in the National Culture Centre, maintains a collection of Cook Islands and South Pacific art and artifacts.

Para O Tane Palace was the residence of Makea Takau, the 1888 chief of the region, prior to the British taking control of the Cook Islands. The original structure was destroyed in a 1942 hurricane. It was rebuilt in the 1990s and is now the residence of Makea Takau's descendents. It is not open to the public but can be seen from the road on the east side of Avarua near the CICC church.

Just south of Avarua is the Perfume Factory which sells perfumes and colognes scented with local flowers.

The Punanga Nui Outdoor Market, located along the waterfront, has stands and stalls selling fruits and vegetables, clothes, crafts, and food. Most of the action takes place on Saturday mornings.