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Cook Islands Travel Guide

Sights of Atiu

Lake Tiroto

According to legend, the eel Rauou dug Lake Tiroto and, when he was finished, traveled to Mitiaro to dig the lakes there. Eels still inhabit all these lakes! A tunnel runs under the makatea from Lake Tiroto right through to the seashore.

Rima Rau Burial Cave

The Rima Rau burial cave near Lake Tiroto is said to contain the bones of those who died in a battle involving 1,000 Atiu warriors. Ask someone to tell you the legend of this cave's dead. Kiikii Tatuava of Areora village can guide you to the cave, with side trips to the lake, taro fields, Katara Marae, and Vaitapoto Sinkhole.

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