Discover Marine Wildlife and Eco Centre — Attraction in Arorangi

What a wonderful educational visit! They happened to have rescued one just the other day, which came up in the beach (not a good sign). Stephanie told us all about her care of the turtle while at her ice cream and coffee shop duties as well! It was just $39 for a family pass.

We got to see a coconut crab as well. There was a touch pool with sea stars, and sea cucumbers, there were tanks with sea life such as a stone fish, and baby puffer fish.

We also saw skeletons and jaw bones of many creatures, including sharks and turtles, museum objects of the past such as old diving and whaling gear, info boards on how islands are formed and the nearby island group.

I also really enjoyed their artwork by locals - and their coffees and...

We absolutely loved our visit to the Discovery Marine Wildlife and Eco Centre in Rarontonga. So much to learn about the history, geology and ecosystem of the Cook Islands through images and genuinely fascinating information boards. It was so well written I found myself wanting to read every word - which took a while! Gorgeous collection of shells, maritime antiques and other treasures. And of course we loved the sealife and bird life in the centre. There were several newly rescued birds the day we were there. The coconut crab and “Dwayne” (the Rock) stonefish were another highlight. Had a very tasty toasted sandwich, smoothies and iced coffee at the cafe afterwards. Highly...

The eco centre is an excellent place to learn about the natural and maritime history of the Cook Islands, with lots of interesting artefacts and stacks to learn about. We saw some white tern nestlings and a young wood pigeon being nursed back to health before re-release into the wild, and the coconut crab and stonefish are also fascinating. My kids (14 and 10) particularly enjoyed learning about shipping and ship wrecks including the RMS Maitai, which is visible from Avatiu Harbour. Great little centre that is clearly...