Suggested Length of Stay
Recommended lengths of stay in the Cook Islands stay anywhere from 4-5 days to a week or two if visiting multiple islands.
Modes transport
Roads
Cooks Islanders drive on the left-hand side of the road, and generally, roads aren’t jam-packed. Most roads around the perimeter of the island are sealed; however, depending on where you go, you may find the quality of some roads to be a little poor.
Buses
It is very easy to get around the island using public transport. There are two buses which circle the island of Rarotonga; Clockwise and Anti-clockwise. The buses will stop anywhere along the main road. All you have to do it smile and wave them down.
Bicycling
Cycling around the islands is easy as the main roads are flat. Many hotels will have bicycles available to borrow at first come, first served basis, but if you would like a guaranteed bicycle or electric bike, we suggest hiring one.
Health Precautions
There are no snakes and most of the insects are harmless – but look out for centipedes, which can sting. The coral reefs and passages to the open ocean should be treated with caution. Visitors must meet their medical costs during their time in the Cook Islands, including medical evacuation to New Zealand if specialist care is required. We recommend visitors take out health insurance to cover unexpected costs.
Food and Drink
The more you explore the Cook Islands, the more local authentic cuisine you’ll discover, ranging from simple, fresh fish enjoyed with your feet in the sand to high-class restaurants and everything in between. You could eat every meal in a different place. Superb game fish like tuna, mahi-mahi or broadbill is typical.
Money
The Cook Islands unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, supplemented by local notes and coins. The unique local coins and notes are not negotiable outside of the Cook Islands but are keenly sought by collectors worldwide.
ATMs are conveniently located around Rarotonga and Aitutaki and EFTPOS are available at most hotels and stores. Western Union has an office in Avarua offering money exchange and transfers.
Time Zone
Cook Islands’ time is GMT-10 hours.
Visas
Visitors to the Cook Islands will be granted a stay up to 31 days provided they have a valid passport and a return or onward ticket.
Embassy & Consulate contacts for the Cook Islands
Australia doesn’t have a consulate in the Cook Islands, please visit the New Zealand High Commission who will be able to assist you.
New Zealand High Commission
1st floor, Philatelic Bureau Building, Takuvaine Rd
Avarua
Rarotonga
Cook Islands Embassy & Consulate contacts in Australia
Consulate of the Cook Islands
8/8 Lauderdale Ave, Fairlight NSW 2094
Phone: (02) 9907 6567
Electricity
Electricity voltage is 240 AC/50 cycle, the same three-pin plugs as used in New Zealand and Australia.
Getting there (stopovers)
Air New Zealand operates flights to Rarotonga via Auckland.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in the Cook Islands, but it’s not frowned upon for exceptional service. Haggling over prices is considered rude.
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