Penrhyn - Clearance Agents

Where is Penrhyn/Tongareva?

Reputed to be the largest island atoll of the Cooks, Penrhyn is also the northernmost island and probably the most remote and most difficult to access. However, the immense spectacular lagoon of 233 square kilometres, much of which is surrounded by a coral ring, make the challenge of visiting this island well worth it.

Also recognised as Tongareva, Mangarongaro, Hararanga and Te Pitaka, Penrhyn's population of about 200 lives in two settlements at opposite ends of the lagoon – Omoka which sits on Moananui Islet and is the seat of the council and Tetautua on Pokere Islet on the eastern rim.

The main source of income here used to be black pearls, but that has collapsed and now the majority of locals work for the government. They also derive income from selling exquisitely made handicrafts (woven hats, fans, earrings, purses, necklaces (sei poreho), mats and bags) made from young coconut tree leaves called 'rito' and the pandanus leaves 'rauhara'.

Entrance Notes and Cautions for Penhryn:

Takuua and Taruia passes are not difficult to navigate unless passage is attempted during extreme weather conditions. The entrance through the Taruia passage on the NW side is reported to be the most straightforward and recently well charted.  Pick your way through the bommies in good light to Omoka village.  There is a recommended route on the electronic charts to follow to Gudgeon Bay, Omoka if the light is bad.

The remainder of the lagoon is not well charted with numerous coral patches, so navigation in good light is recommended as they are easy to see and many are marked with poles.

Take great care anchoring off the village at Omoka as there is a lot of coral that can snag your anchor and it can be very windy.

Cruiser Highlights for Penhryn:

The lagoon is reported to be vibrant with plenty of marine life, particularly around the NW passage, including lots of sharks.  Few boats visit here (15 in a busy year) so the people are very open and enthusiastically welcoming.

Local rules:

There are some local rules, which if not observed by cruisers, will cause problems. Ask about any other rules, but these are the major ones.

• Sundays are for church only - this is a very strict rule. There is absolutely no work, business or play allowed. No check-in or out on a Sunday. The dinghy cannot be used except to go ashore for church. There is no work allowed on boats, no swimming, snorkeling or other activities not related to the church. No boats are allowed to leave on a Sunday.
• Anchoring is only allowed in front of either of the two villages.
• No moving the boat without permission or visiting another motu before obtaining an agreement from the village councils.
• No dogs allowed anywhere on the atoll.

If you are uncertain about any issues, please contact the Tongareva Island Government Executive Officer, Mr. Puna John Vano:
Office: (682) 56 760 or (682) 42 085
Home: (682) 42 100
E-mail: puna.vano@cookislands.gov.ck

Position:

08° 57'34"S, 158° 03'43"W

Last updated:  June 2025