Weaving and handicraft on the outer islands

Where

Mauke and the other outer islands

Opening hours

Ask locally

Typical cost

Considerably less than in Avarua

Much of the weaving sold in Rarotonga's markets is made on the outer islands. Pandanus hats, baskets, fans and mats are made by women in the villages, often in groups.

Buying well

Ask at your accommodation who is weaving. There is rarely a shop.
Pay the asking price. Haggling over work that took days is not received the way it might be elsewhere.
Bring cash in small notes.

Why it is worth doing

Because it is the same object you would buy in Avarua, at a lower price, with the whole amount going to the person who made it — and because you will remember who that was.

💡 Local tip

A good pandanus hat takes days to make. If the price seems low for that, it is because you are buying it from the weaver rather than through three intermediaries — pay it without haggling.

Listed as a local guide entry — not bookable through CI Booking. Details can change; it is worth confirming before you go.