Te Vara Nui Village

We opted for the whole tour and show at the end. Our guides Eli and Olivia did a great job taking us around and sharing about the chain of islands. At the end they invite you to learn some of their traditional dance techniques. From the tour you are brought in to the dining area, where you are assigned a table. After a short time they make a few announcements and then begin dismissing tables by number to head through the buffet line. There is plenty of food. Everything had good flavor and there is a large variety of dishes. They have a bar to get drinks with servers that bring the drinks to you. They do charge for your drinks separately from the meal tour and show.

The real reason they even get 3 stars is because of the two guides who took us through the history of Cook Islands via their three huts. These two young ladies did a great job. The show was mediocre although the Fire dance was nicely done. The food was actually below par. Let’s start from the desert —- it was as if they were feeding a group of teenage school kids —- jello and soggy Trifle and other tasteless stuff. Even the cake they served was so on the dry side. The mains were equally disappointing. Nothing really tasted good or even Polynesian except the puréed spinach which was just OK. Now here is what really disappointed me. As we sat for dinner I ordered water. The waiter said they do not have small bottles only the big ones. Although I wanted a small one , I had no choice but to order the large bottle. I left to use the restroom and returned to find out that water would only be delivered if I paid upfront. I waited for the waiter to show up but he was too busy. I walked to the bar and gave my money and asked if they had a small bottle. The Barman right away gave me a small bottle! In fact they had cases of small bottles lined up. On the whole while the show was average the meals below average the “game” of the waiter left a real bad taste.

What an amazing evening! The Spectacular Overwater Show and Buffet Dinner were a great experience to dive into the culture of the Cook Islands. It is very well organized, plenty of yummy food (lots of veggie options as well) and mesmerizing dance/music show. The staff was very attentive as well. Tables can fit ca 6-8 people, so you might sit with strangers, but that can also be fun!

I’m at odds with many reviews here but for the high price the show and buffet are not that great. We found the food plentiful and varied but very much a buffet experience of mediocre quality. Likewise the show was OK but after witnessing the real deal with a concert performance for Te Maeve Nui festival, where the large groups from different islands and villages performed to an incredible standard with exuberance from performers and audience, this show seemed touristy and manufactured. Also, having booked early, we found “free seating” at our allocated table meant we were at the back. Sadly, not recommended and not good value.

Absolutely Spectacular all around Exceptional organisation, amazing performance Food was delicious and plentiful! Part of a large travel group worldwide and I would highly recommend to others! Everyone had a great time!!!!

I really don't understand the bad reviews, drinks are not included in the ticket and that is mentionned very clearly when purchasing. Amazing show, great food (and plenty, there is no way you can be hungry after that!). We really enjoy it all, staff is also very friendly, thank you for the great experience!

I had an awesome evening. The show was excellent and interactive.The food was great, many varieties local and from different cultures, service was good and friendly. And the duration was just enough to keep everyone enjoying and taking everything in.

Great afternoon/evening at Te Vara Nui Village, learning about the history of the Cook Islands and enjoying a delicious buffet dinner with an overwater night show. My 2nd time experiencing this and it was still as amazing as it was 8 years ago!