LOCATION

The Cook Islands lie in the Pacific Ocean , 9 and a half hours flying time from Los Angeles , via Tahiti .  They consist of 15 islands scattered over 850,000 square miles. Rarotonga , the largest of the islands sits like an emerald in the center of a magnificent reef enclosing clear turquoise waters. It is an island of rugged mountains, flat coast lines, lush tropical growth and beautiful native flowers. 

Aitutaki, one of several outer islands reached by air, is a favorite day trip as well as a ‘stay put’ destination for people who love to snorkel.

AIRPORT INFORMATION

Rarotonga Airport is 2.5 miles from Avarua township and caters to both International and Domestic flights. There are no domestic air services on Sundays.

VISITOR VISAS

All visitors are required to present a valid Passport and onward airline ticket for travel to the Cook Islands along with travel documents verifying  full pre-payment of accommodation for the duration of their stay.

United States Citizens are given an automatic visitor visa on arrival.

DUTY FREE ALLOWANCE

Each traveler over the age of 18 can bring the following into the Cook Islands . These allowances are a guide only and are subject to change.

Item                               Limit

Cigarettes                      200

Tobacco                          250 grams

Cigars                            50

Wine/Liquor                  2 bottles/ 750ml each

Beer                               4.5liters                                          

CLIMATE

The Cook Islands enjoy a warm and sunny year round climate with very little variation in temperature. April to November is the drier season with temperatures averaging 82°F. The warmer, more humid season runs from December to March with temperatures averaging 88°F.  Severe weather is very rare.

POPULATION

Cook Islands 21,000

Rarotonga    10,337

LANGUAGE

Cook Islands ’ Maori is the local language however, English is spoken by most people.

CURRENCY

The Cook Islands currency is the New Zealand dollar, supplemented by notes and coins minted for local use. The unique local coins and notes are not negotiable outside the Cook Islands , but are keenly sought by collectors worldwide.

BUSINESS HOURS

Monday to Friday:          8.00am to 4.00pm

Saturday:                       8.00am to 12.00noon

SHOPPING

  The Cook Islands are known for their cultured black pearls, which are readily available from shops and resorts throughout the island. Modern and traditional handicrafts, woodcarvings, unusual clothing shops as well as duty free stores and markets can be found in the capital of Avarua.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS       2008

Date                               Holiday

January 1 & 2                       New Year

March 21                                Good Friday

March 24                                 Easter Monday

April 25                                   ANZAC Day

August 4                                  Constitution Day

October 26                              National Gospel Day

December 25                 Christmas Day

December 26                 Boxing Day

 

ELECTRICITY

240 voltage and many hotels have 110 volt electric shaver facilities.

DRIVING

Vehicles are driven on the left hand side of the road. The maximum road speed limit is 40kmph in the town and 50kmph outside the populated areas. Drivers of all vehicles are required to have a current Cook Islands driver’s license, which can be obtained from the Police station in Avarua at a small cost upon presentation of your own drivers license.

LOCAL TRANSPORT

The “Island Bus” operates regular service around Rarotonga from Monday to Friday between the hours of 7.00am – 4.00pm and on Saturday from 8.00am to 1.00pm . Taxis, rental jeeps and motor scooters are available and can be rented from local shops, rental companies and hotels.

DRINKING WATER

Drinking water is safe in Rarotonga but we recommend bottled water where available.

HEALTH

Medical and dental services are available and there is a well-equipped hospital with New Zealand trained staff. There are no poisonous animals or insects on the Cook Islands .

NIGHTLIFE

The buffet style dinners and accompanying dance shows are a must for any visitor. A traditional Polynesian feast (umukai) is baked in an underground oven and usually consists of pork, fish and vegetables. After the feast you can enjoy the hypnotic rhythm of the drums and the exciting sensuality of dance, as young men and women dressed in traditional costume perform for you.

Rarotonga also has over two dozen licensed bars many of which offer a good selection of entertainment and music.

DINING OUT

Most restaurants are licensed and there is a large selection to choose from on Rarotonga . High-class renowned establishments offer superb cuisine and cafes serve light meals and espresso coffee. Favorites include Chinese, Italian, Continental, Seafood and friendly “Island Style” restaurants.  

TIPPING

Tipping is not expected and is contrary to Cook Islands custom.

The above information has been derived from various sources and Travel Arrangements Ltd is not responsible for the accuracy of the content.