Orongo Marae
Orongo
The island's most important ancient ceremonial site, where stone-ringed open-air ritual grounds lie hidden in the jungle.
A marae is an open-air ceremonial and assembly place in Polynesian tradition. Orongo is regarded as the most sacred marae on Atiu, and legend links it to the inaugurations of the island's paramount chiefs over the generations. The site is marked by standing stones and slabs, now covered by tropical vegetation, and you need a local guide to find it and understand its meaning. It can be combined with other marae and historic sites on the island as part of a cultural tour. Visitors should stay quiet and show respect when entering.
Opening hours
Guided visits only
Nearby sights
- Taunganui Harbour
- Oravaru Beach
- Taungaroro Beach
- Tumunu Bush Beer Club
- Atiu Coffee Factory
- Lake Tiroto
- Rimarau Burial Cave
- Anatakitaki Cave