September 4th, 2009 by Terry Youens

HOTEL KIA ORA RANGIROA

Kia Ora Rangiroa Aerial View

Kia Ora Rangiroa Aerial View

Contemplate the lagoon that stretches all the way to the horizon:

Largest of the Tuamotu Island atolls, Rangiroa is an hour’s flight from Tahiti, with a lagoon 50 miles long by 22 miles wide famed worldwide for its diving.  Here, amid the brilliant white beaches and turquoise lagoon waters, is the setting for Hotel Kia Ora – an island retreat offering scuba, snorkelling and fishing in idyllic conditions.  Canoe to other islands, look for dolphins or simply relax in your hammock!  Recently renovated, this gem of a hotel has an infinity pool, charming restaurant and serene gardens for a true Crusoe experience.

Hotel Kia Ora features a cluster of sixty-three traditionally-styled bungalows positioned along the coral ring of the atoll, a sight of rare beauty.  The walkways end on the radiant white sandy beach where the turquoise lagoon seems to play a soft melody.  You can enjoy tranquil moments of peace from the private terraces of each bungalow – Garden, Beach (with private whirlpool or swimming pool on the terrace) and Overwater Bungalows – all air-conditioned and fan-cooled, with shower and mini-fridge.

Kia Ora Rangiroa Beach Bungalow

Kia Ora Rangiroa Beach Bungalow

A slice of paradise, Polynesian-style:

Aspiring to be as refined and exotic as the chef’s menu, the decoration of Te Rairoa Restaurant must be noted.  The chef has managed to subtly marry the traditional Polynesian dishes, which are appreciated for their tropical tastes with menus that give French cuisine its reputation.  Te Rairoa Restaurant features a wide variety of flavours to cater for everyone.  Amongst these suggested delicacies to savour – the seafood and grilled fish specialities.  Spread across a large table, an enormous variety of desserts are prepared by the Pastry Chef.  Connoisseurs of fine wine will be seduced by the ‘Carte des Vins’.  Polynesian nights are held every Wednesday and Sunday with singing and dancing shows along with the traditional Polynesian feast.

The originality of the Miki Miki Bar constructed above the water is a suitable excuse to meet up with friends for an exotic cocktail as well as to admire the extraordinary sun setting over the Rangiroa lagoon.  The terrace of the bar, with its glass floorboards, allows you to gaze at the marine life during the day and even at night.

Kia Ora Rangiroa Swimming Pool

Kia Ora Rangiroa Swimming Pool

One of the most beautiful diving sites in the world:

Rangiroa is one of the most beautiful diving sites in the world.  Scuba diving at the Hotel Kia Ora is adapted to suit everyone.  There are three excursions per day for three different levels.

The Initiation Dive near Nohi Nohi lagoon is five minutes from the Tiputa Pass.  About three metres deep, this is a calm diving spot full of live coral and colourful fish – clown, butterfly, angel and ballista fish.  The Readjustment Dive features diving at a depth of 15 metres where you will be able to feed the fish underwater as well as see the live coral formations.  You’re also welcome to take underwater photography.  Deep Sea Diving is for advanced divers!  A 25-metre deep dive led by an instructor and fully equipped with all the safety gear.  Night diving is also available on request.

On the white sandy beach, the Beauty Salon is truly a little paradise of exquisiteness – a place to relax and unwind with a facial or an essential oils massage.

Kia Ora Rangiroa Aerial View

Kia Ora Rangiroa Aerial View

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