MEET THE CREW
The Crew
At the heart of Ariimoana is a small crew united by passion.
We are a mix of local roots, adopted island dreams, and four eager paws always ready to roam. More than just a team of Cook Islands experts, we are a family walking every day between tradition and the present to bring you authentic, small-group experiences in Rarotonga.
Meet Our Crew
Ariimoana
Who We Are
The people behind every trail, every story, every tour.
Kura Jacopo & Laura
We are not just a team — we are a family walking every day between tradition and the present, sharing what we love in the simplest way: step by step, story by story, across the moana and enua of Rarotonga. Every tour we run is guided by deep local knowledge, genuine care for the environment, and a shared belief that the best way to love a place is to truly understand it.
“We don’t just show you Rarotonga.
We share it with you.”
THE GUIDES
THE HUMANS
The people behind every trail, every story, every tour.
Co-Founder · Local Guide · Singer · Eco-Warrior
KURA HAPP
Kura Happ is a singer, eco-tour guide, and environmental activist from Rarotonga, in the Cook Islands. Raised in a family deeply rooted in local culture, she began singing in church choirs as a child and developed a passion for music that led her to become a beloved local performer and songwriter.
Together with her partner Jacopo, she founded Ariimoana Walkabouts — born from a deep desire to protect the moana (ocean) and enua (land), inspired by teachings passed down through generations in her family.
Kura has supported sea turtle rehabilitation and has sailed aboard the traditional Polynesian canoe Marumaru Atua, sharing ancient open-ocean navigation techniques. Her collaboration with Lindblad Expeditions – National Geographic, where she serves as a Cultural Specialist, brought her to guide international guests through the living history of her island.
Described by National Geographic as a true “eco-warrior”, Kura is a bridge between tradition and the future — her mission is clear: to protect what she loves by sharing it with the world.
Co-Founder · Local Guide · Marine Biology · Blogger
JACOPO DOZZO
Originally from Italy, Jacopo grew up between the Niguarda district in Milan and Pezzolo, a small mountain village in the Bergamo valleys. Always curious and adventurous, in 2012 he moved to New Zealand to study tourism — and visited the Cook Islands for the first time.
He was immediately captivated. After completing his studies, he returned to Rarotonga with a one-way ticket. His years at Turama Pacific Travel Group gave him deep insight into the local tourism industry and sparked a passion for marine biology and tropical vegetation.
Today, Jacopo is an active member of the local community, proudly serving as a volunteer firefighter. Through his blog, Jacopo’s Island Way, he shares personal reflections, travel stories, and cultural insights — an authentic glimpse into life on this remote corner of the world.
The Quiet Force
Operations · Accounting
LAURA BROVELLI
Originally from Milan, Laura spent many years working as an accountant in the music industry — fully immersed in the fast-paced rhythm of city life. After a long career among offices, concerts, and deadlines, she felt the need for a deep change.
Drawn by the idea of a slower, more meaningful lifestyle and a stronger connection with nature, she made the decision to relocate to the Cook Islands, joining her son Jacopo.
In Rarotonga, Laura found a new rhythm — simpler, yet richer in purpose. At Ariimoana’s small shop, she welcomes visitors and ensures smooth day-to-day operations: managing inventory, handling logistics, and keeping the financial side well-organized. Her presence brings balance and focus to a project that blends nature, culture, and exploration.
THE REAL LEADERS
THE FAB FOUR
Four lively, loyal dogs full of adventure, energy, and a nose for beauty.
They join every hike, every sunset, and every new discovery with wagging tails and boundless joy. Our inseparable companions — and if we’re being honest, the real stars of every tour.
Queen · Leader of the Pack
MAHI
Mahi, queen of the reef, is the true leader of Ariimoana Walkabouts. With her free spirit and contagious energy, she leads every excursion by land and sea — always at the front. She knows every trail, every rock, and every scent of the island.
DEPUTY LEADER · Fishing Expert
TAMA
Tama may be grumpy and a bit aloof, but she’s always watchful and deeply caring. With a sharp eye and quiet steps, she keeps everything under control. Together with Mahi, she forms an incredible fishing duo — in sync and perfectly attuned to the rhythm of the island.
The Dreamer · Chief of Joy
Michè
Michele — known as Michè — is the dreamer of the group. The goofiest and most light-hearted, always with his head in the clouds and a heart full of joy. Throw him a stick and be ready to keep going — for him, every game is a celebration.
Guardian · Minivan Defender
VINCÈ
Vincenzo, called Vincè, is the newest member. With his short little legs and little interest in walking, he has self-appointed himself the official guardian of the Ariimoana minivan. You’ll find him sleeping soundly underneath it — one eye open, one closed.
Walk with us
Ready to meet the
THE CREW IN PERSON?
Join us on one of our eco tours and experience Rarotonga the way it deserves to be experienced — guided by people who truly love this island, step by step, story by story.