Cross-Island Track (Te Rua Manga)
Also known as: The Needle
Rarotonga’s Cross-Island Track past Te Rua Manga (The Needle) - jungle, the spire and a waterfall finish
The route
The line through Rarotonga, Cook Islands - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Year-round (drier May-Oct)
Tropical heat, humidity and rain; very slick when wet
Walkable year-round; slippery and leech-prone when wet; a guide is advised southbound. Confirm.
On the trail
Jungle trail across the island past a volcanic spire, with stream and rock sections
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Out-and-back to The Needle; the full cross-island to Wigmore’s Waterfall
Getting there & staying
Avatiu Valley (north) to Papua/Wigmore’s Waterfall (south)
Point-to-point may need transport between ends - confirm
Day route - none needed
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Avarua; limited or none on the trail
Guide advised (route-finding and the slippery descent)
Permits & safety
No permit; a guide is recommended for the steep southbound descent
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Slippery mud/rock, stream crossings, heat
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.