Avanui means vast passage or big passage - a naturally occurring break in Rarotonga’s Southern coastal reef and home to an abundance of marine species including the Pacific green sea turtle, the rare hawksbill turtle, and spotted eagle rays. This passage is locally known as ‘Avaavaora’.

AVANUI is a locally formed and family owned business, operating guided water tours within Avaavaroa Passage for both visitors and residents of the Cook Islands. Our team members are passionate about our moana - our ocean - and treasure the gift it is for us as Pacific people. The ocean enables us to connect to the world below the surface, where one can submerge and feel at peace within the big blue.  

Our tour offers the opportunity to observe and swim alongside some of Rarotonga's exceptional marine wildlife, operating safely and respectfully according the natural conditions of Avaavaroa Passage. Environmental awareness is an integral part of the tours to educate visitors, as well as locals, the importance of maintaining the quality of Rarotonga's unique marine eco system.