Hi, I've just started kiting, and wondering whether its wise to take my gear to Rarotonga. I've only just waterstarted a few times, and won't have anyone experienced there to tell me I'm about to get in the shit! Is Raro learner friendly, or should I leave my gear at home?

Cheers

raro is ok if you know what you are doing.
the best spot is at Muri beach or just down the coast from Muri- this coast faces the predominant wind (E) and is a shallow lagoon (knee to chest deep for most of it). But there are a couple of islands inside the lagoon that can cause the wind to swing around and gust or block the wind completely.
There are also coral growths scattered around in the lagoon that would not be nice to be dragged over.
overall its not that good for a learner.
Most of the times that i have been there it didn't get any stronger than 10kts.
Check out the link below over the next couple of weeks and decide if its what you need.

weather.noaa.gov/weather/current/NCRG.html

Cheers for the advice, will leave the gear at home, instead of stressing all holiday about the wind!

if you are considering travelling to a tropical destination with no kit yo are a tweaker beyond all imagination!!! one kite and a light weight setup can virtually fit into your hand luggage and you might just score perfect conditions for learning - ie steady 15-18knots in flat water. Sure you have to be careful of coral heads but it is all worth it if you score the goods!!!!

PS if you are going to Raro spend the extra coins and get your ass to Atutaki - one of the most perfect lagoons on this planet!!!! leaves the mainland for dead!