Rarotonga residents enjoyed a frightfully good night on Saturday at this year’s Halloween Grave Rave.

Crown Beach Resort and Spa Manager Mindy Berrett, who organised and hosted the event, said she did so after the Covid-19 lockdown inspired her to celebrate the annual holiday which is popular throughout the world.

Berrett was also inspired to hold the event in an effort to promote local music and talent on the island.

‘Times are tough being in lockdown, so I wanted to give everyone an opportunity to have some fun”, she said.

“I have a strong bond with music, so wanted to set the stage for talent here on the island.”

Berrett, who has been living on Rarotonga for two and a half years, grew up in the United States.  

She was an event coordinator and DJ for six years before deciding to move to the Cook Islands.

She estimated around 200 to 300 people showed up throughout the evening to share in the event.

“It was a great day with lots of people, drinks, music and prizes, “she said.

The Grave Rave began at 2pm and finished at 8pm.

Kaia Dearlove and Mario Robati won best dressed on the night, with Jane Ben Mitchell winning the online Facebook contest held by Crown Beach to name the event.

Eight DJs performed throughout the day including The HallowQueens, Meri-Ana Ellison, Gillian Francis, Apa Temata, Scott Arlander, Eddie Chambers, Kane Samuela and Reikorangi Ellison.

Halloween is a holiday and tradition celebrated across the world each year and observed on October 31.