Atiu

Atiu is part of the Ngaputoru (three roots) group. The three roots consisting of Atiu, Mauke and Mitiaro. The fertile interior is farmed for coffee and pineapple. Atiu is famous for its cave dwelling Kopeka (Atiu swiftlet) bird and Tumunu bush beer parties

Atiu enjoys a pleasantly warm and sunny climate all year round. The average temperature is 25o Celsius with the main winds being the southeast trade winds. Atiu has a varied and interesting bird population. Most of the bird population are resident in the Makatea Forest found on the costal area of Atiu. The Kopeka birds live inside limestone caves and are never seen anywhere outside the caves. Located 16 kilometres northwest of Atiu is Takutea a Bird Sanctuary.

The island supports one of the largest colonies of red-tailed tropic birds (Tavake) in the Cook Islands. Takutea also supports four seabird species (White Capped Noddy, the Red Footed Bobby, The Great Frigate and the brown Bobby), which do not breed anywhere else in the southern group. There are many cave tours to choose from such as ancient burial caves, sunken water caves, and the more popular Anatakitaki cave: the nesting place of the endemic Kopeka bird. Activity options include a Coffee tour through plantations and the factory, the Atiu Fibre Art Studio Tour of Tivaevae (bedspreads, a traditional craft of the Cook Islands), wall hanging and many more creations are on display and for sale. There is an Atiu Womens Arts and Craft Market located in the village centre where locally made pandanus baskets, Hats, fans and other items are sold.

There is currently only one restaurant in Atiu - Kura's Kitchen which is found on location at Atiu Motel. Kura's Kitchen and bar is open every day of the week except Sunday. There are Westpac and ANZ banking agents available in Atiu, who offer limited banking services. It is advisable for visitors to change money in Rarotonga before travel to Atiu. Shopping is limited but there are a few small dairy stores, and locals sell crafts from home.