Cook Islands

DESTINATION INFORMATION

Kia Orana!

Since ancient times the Cook Islands have been the home of Polynesian people who have created one of the South Pacific's most tranquil and friendly societies, and one of the world's great holiday hideaways.

Rarotonga, the largest of the 15 Cook Islands is spread over more than 2 million square kilometres of the Pacific south of Hawaii between Fiji and Tahiti, is a mountain rising from deep beneath the ocean to a tremendous peak, covered in lush tropical vegetation.
Circled by a fantastic coral-reef lagoon (much of it a marine reserve) and one of the world's great palm-fringed white-sand beaches, this special place enjoys a delightful balmy tropical climate (with a hot season from January to March).
A collection of small to medium sized quality resorts function virtually as a single holiday paradise.
An hourly bus service makes it easy to travel around the island in either direction.
You will adore the Cook Islanders, a unique mixture of Polynesian, Maori and Papa (Europeans) people who are full of character and personality - known around the world for their friendly, open approach to life.
This sanguine mix is a recipe made for good fun, laughter and singing, and lots of activity - what all good holidays should be made of.

We look forward to sharing these extraordinary islands with you!

REGIONS

Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the vibrant centre of the Cook Islands. It's circular shape is dominated by high mountain peaks from which lush rain forests cascade to a palm-fringed shore. The island is almost completely encircled by a reef, which harbours a lagoon of clear turquoise waters and many inviting white sand beaches. Beyond the reef, the indigo blue of the ocean provides a vivid contrast and a bountiful supply of fish.

Aitutaki
Your visit to this stunning lagoon 225 kilometres north of Rarotonga will be a very special experience you will always remember - a step back in time, a renewal of the spirit.

Cook Islands Fast Facts

Climate: Balmy topical climate with the hottest months from November to April. Rain is more likely in the summer months. While there is no real winter, it may be cool in the evening May to October. Average temperatures in Summer is 30°C and in winter 24°C.

Time Zone: The Cooks Islands are 20 hours behind Australian EST.
Currency: The New Zealand dollar is the basic unit of currency. 1AUD = 1.15NZD.
Languages: Cook Islands Maori is the local language but everyone speaks English.
Vaccinations: No vaccinations are mandatory however consult your doctor before travelling.
Tipping: Tipping is not expected or encouraged.
Electricity: 220 volts with three pin plugs the same as Australia.

The Cook Islands Experience

Explore the turquoise colourised Aitutaki lagoon with its magnificent sand bars, coral ridges and is ideal for snorkelling.
Hike Rarotonga's rugged interior of mountains, streams and valleys.
View Aitutaki from Maungapu, the island's highest peak.
Visit Atiu's caves - home to ancient burial sites and rare species of swallows.
Indulge in Island nights and watch the local dancing and fire twirling.
Visit a local church to hear the soulful voices of the Cook Islanders.
Gain a true sense of isolation in the northern islands

NB: Currency exchange subject to change without notice.

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