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In this special episode we head to a tropical PARADISE in the Pacific known as Rarotonga, in the Cook Islands. Here we explore the underwater treasures the island holds scuba diving reefs and wrecks. We surprise my brother and his wife hijacking their honeymoon with their daughter and our parents.
Disaster strikes whilst Kayaking on the reef. I recover well enough to undertake a cross island hike over mountainous rainforest. We learn the Polynesian history and culture of the island with some spectacular performances at a local Marae. So much adventure and beauty in one package on this episode!
Chapters:
Introduction 0:00
Arrival & Advanced Scuba Course 1:45
We arrive in Rarotonga and stay at the Rarotongan Beach Resort and Lagoonarium. The following day Miranda undertakes her PADI Advanced Scuba diving course with Dive Rarotonga. I observe underwater as we spot Green Sea Turtles and numerous marine species.
Scuba Day 2 & the Matai Ship Wreck 6:03
We enter into deeper waters this time around diving to advanced scuba depths and spotting many more marine species including a large Moray Eel. Afterwards we explore the century old wreck of the Matai and witness how nature has reclaimed the ship into the reef.
Honeymoon Surprise 10:38
We surprise my brother Dean and his wife Grace as we join their family honeymoon vacation with our parents.
Rarotonga & Markets 14:45
We check out some sights throughout Rarotonga and visit the night markets where we get to sample some delicious local cuisine.
Snorkelling the Lagoonarium 19:12
From our resort we head out and snorkel on the lagoon, encountering a large school of striped large eyed bream. The snorkelling here is AMAZING! Afterwards we head out for dinner at our favourite restaurant on the island.
Kayaking + accident 23:29
I head out onto the lagoon with the kayak, this pristine paradise turns dangerous when I run into a problem out on the reef!
Cross Island Hike (via the needle) 28:36
We set out to hike across the island via the Cross Island Trail. This takes us through thick rainforest and high rocky peaks. We spot plenty of birdlife and waterfalls on this trail. A real highlight of our trip!
Highland Paradise Polynesian Dinner 35:14
We head to a small Polynesian settlement and Marae where we are taught about the traditional history, customs and culture. Afterwards we have a traditional dinner and cultural performance. The perfect way to end our time in Paradise.
Join us in the next episode as we return back to New Zealand for an epic Winter and Spring!