Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, a nation of 15 islands in the central South Pacific. Volcanic peaks, ridges and rainforest dominate its interior. A 32km, round-the-island road links the beaches, coastal lagoon and reefs that make scuba diving and snorkelling popular. The Cross-Island Track is a rugged hiking trail that passes 650m Te Rua Manga peak, or “The Needle.”

Such a laid back destination and people, where everything is easy and there is a sense of freedom everywhere you go.

The beating heart of this little paradise will capture yours. Rarotonga, the hub of the Cook Islands, has so much to see and do, yet remains unspoilt. No traffic lights, no McDonald’s and no building taller than a coconut tree.

The warmth of the tropical sun envelops you, the scent of their tropical frangipani flower washes over you, the most pressing decision that you face, should you climb the summit of the islands majestic volcanic peak or explore the crystal clear turquoise waters and swim with schools of tropical fish. Either way you know you’ll enjoy your day in this tropical paradise they call Rarotonga.

While English is the official language, Cook Island Māori is widely spoken in the community. All the land is owned by the people and assigned to families for their use. The bond of family is vital and everyone is part of a clan that is connected to the tribal chiefs (ariki).

The free association means the Cook Islands government, which is a parliamentary democracy, has executive powers and can make its own laws. But Cook Islanders carry New Zealand passports. Cook Islanders use both the New Zealand dollar and their own coins and notes, which are equal to the New Zealand dollar.

So it is little wonder that they love our precious Paua Shell just as much as we do – and our product fits in perfectly on this little island paradise.