“This 600 year old village site was home to the famous Tinomana Tribe but was abandoned in the early 1800s with the introduction

of Christianity””

Highland Paradise Cultural Centre is situated on the only remaining historical tribal site of its scale. Occupying 205 acres of Maungaroa mountain it contains the original maraes and the old village settlement of the Tinomana tribe. It is truly hallowed and sacred ground. Of equal importance is our conscious effort to minimize disturbance to important rock structures hence only two of the nine mapped marae sites have been uncovered.

This is a family and village project, to rejuvenate, maintain and manage this site by the Pirangi Family who are the descendants of the first High Chief Tinomana.

They have ensured the survival of this 205 acre mountain refuge by re-discovering and re-opening it to Cook Islanders and visitors alike and your patronage, and respect for this sacred ground is appreciated.

During your visit at Highland Paradise, you will discover significant ancient places and examples of worship, chiefly council, warfare, sacrifice, tribal justice, home making, agriculture, medicines, fishing, education and canoe voyaging. We have reproduced buildings, re-installed artefacts and uncovered sites of great importance to our people. 

The developed 25 acres are but a tiny part of this site, but within this area you will relive the village as it was for more than 500 years. Native, introduced and medical plants are abundant and the gardens a delight to behold.

Bring your camera, for the flowers and the views are unique.