Te Rua Rere Cave

Te Rua Rere — sometimes anglicised as Teuruaa — is the largest known cave on Mangaia and one of the most extensive in the South Pacific. The entrance is a slit in the makatea cliff inland from Oneroa; from there the cave opens into a series of chambers with stalactites, an underground pool, and pre-Christian burial sites tucked into ledges above the floor.

Access is by guided tour only — bookings are made through one of the guesthouses, usually a day in advance. The walk in crosses sharp coral and the chambers are dim and slippery; closed shoes and a head torch help even with a guide's lamps. Allow three hours.

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One of the largest cave systems in the South Pacific, hidden under the makatea on the north side of the island. The guides bring kerosene lamps and torches; deeper chambers hold pre-Christian burials and a single freshwater pool you can swim across.

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