The Cook Islands’ is an authentic and refined Pacific experience encased in a lifestyle that exudes warmth, happiness and respect. We are a proud people with a rich culture and a lush tapestry of traditions that entwine with our daily lives. As part of our welcome to you, we would be honoured if you would share our customs and culture, and in this way, become one of us.
Cook Islands Travel Guide
Former Name
Harvey Islands
Capital City
Avarua
Government Type
self-governing parliamentary democracy
Area Size
total: 236.7 sq km
Time Zone
UTC/GMT -10 hours
Climate
Weather can be quite changeable from day to day and varies throughout the islands. It is generally hot throughout the year, although the trade winds provide some moderating influence. Rainfall is heaviest in Rarotonga, while the northern atolls tend to be drier. The coolest months are June to August, while November to March marks the warmer season, which also has the highest rainfall.
Geography
The Cook Islands are in the South Pacific Ocean, north-east of New Zealand, between French Polynesia and Fiji. There are fifteen major islands, spread over 2.2 million square kilometres of ocean, divided into two distinct groups: the Southern Cook Islands, and the Northern Cook Islands of coral atolls.
Languages
English (official), Maori
Culture
What most defines the Cook Islands and leaves a lasting impression on tourists is the grace, art and skill demonstrated in song and dance – particularly a traditional dance known as the Ura. Unlike most western dancers, the islanders tell a story with their bodies that matches the words of the song. The dancing, accompanied by highly rhythmic drumming is taken very seriously, with each island having its own unique songs and dances that are practised from an early age. The Cook Islanders are considered amongst the finest Polynesian singers and dancers. And there are many competitions throughout the year where the competitive spirit between each island comes to the fore. Regular international awards are a testament to this phenomenal talent. Close harmonious singing can also be heard in churches along with the powerful and emotional impact of chants and hymns during weddings and funerals. This range and talent of popular singing can be found at numerous festivals throughout the year. String bands that play at restaurants, hotels and concerts, using combinations of modern electronics with traditional ukuleles made from coconut shells also provides tourists with a uniquely Cook Islands experience.
History
According to tradition, the first voyagers to arrive in the Cook Islands landed on Rarotonga around 800 AD. These people had set sail from Tupua'i in what is now French Polynesia. Continuing the Polynesian habit of seabound exploration and migration, Cook Islands tradition also has it that the great Maori migrations to New Zealand began from Rarotonga as early as the 5th century AD. The first written history of the Cooks began in 1595, prompted by the sighting of Pukapuka by the Spanish voyager Alvaro de Mendana. It took almost 150 years for the British to arrive, beginning again with a sighting of Pukapuka in 1764. Subsequently, the infamous Captain Bligh and his ship the HMS Bounty landed on Aitutaki in 1798. 1821 saw the arrival of the first Christian missionaries. Their influence spread quickly throughout the Cook Islands. But whilst the arrival of Christianity did alter many aspects of traditional island existence, the people of the Cook Islands have been able to preserve their proud Polynesian heritage alongside their Christian faith. One final point: the name 'Cook Islands' was actually bestowed by the Russians, in honour of the great English navigator!
Travel Information
The Cook Islands are served by Air New Zealand (NZ), which offers regular flights from New Zealand, Tahiti and Fiji. There are also frequent connections from Australia, North America and Europe. Rarotonga (RAR) is 3km west of Avarua. Hotel coaches meet each flight (journey time – 10 minutes). Taxis and buses are also available. Airport facilities are open according to flight arrivals and departures and include 24-hour luggage storage facilities, duty-free shops, bank/bureau de change, bars, shops and car rental.Departure Tax NZ$30 for passengers over 12 years of age; NZ$15 for passengers aged 2 to 12 years. Main ports: It is possible to moor yachts at Avatiu Harbour; for maritime matters, contact the Harbour Master, Ports Authority, PO Box 84, Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
Accommodation
Accommodation of a high standard is increasing yearly. There are several resorts, hotels and a number of villas, motels, bungalows and self-catering apartments. Most are situated close to, if not on, a beach. Advance booking is essential, and it is probably wiser to book via an inclusive tour operator specialising in Pacific destinations. For more information on hotels, contact the Cook Islands Tourist Bureau.
Visa Requirements
Stays of up to 31 days require a valid passport and a return ticket. Adequate financial means of supporting stay, and suitable accommodation. Extensions are granted on a monthly basis - up to five additional months only. A fee is payable with each application within 14 days prior to the expiration of the permit. Extensions are granted at two levels. Up to three months NZ$70 (15 years and older), up to five months NZ$120 (15 years and older).Children under 15 years of age are exempt from charges but must report to Immigration for official paperwork to be completed. For further information contact the Department of Immigration. For those wanting to stay in the Cook Islands longer than 6 months, you must apply for a visa from your home territory, prior to their arrival in the Cook Islands.
Getting Around
Air Rarotonga (GZ) runs regular inter-island services to Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke, Manihiki, Mitiaro and Penrhyn. Services do not operate on Sundays. Inter-island flight times: From Rarotonga to Aitutaki is 50 minutes, to Atiu is 45 minutes, and to Mauke and Mitiaro is 50 minutes. Traffic drives on the left. There are two main roads that circle the island; the Ara Tapu sealed road that runs through villages and past beaches, and the older inland road which winds through local farmlands. The ‘Round the Island Bus’ operates regular services around Rarotonga from Monday to Saturday. The buses will pick up and drop off anywhere on request. Taxis are available on Rarotonga. Several companies offer cars for hire from a number of shops and hotels. Motor scooter and bicycle hire is also popular.
Health & Safety
Travellers are recommended to take special precautions against; Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid and sometimes Diphtheria. Inoculation regulations can change at short notice. Please take medical advice in the case of doubt. Vaccination against hepatitis B and tuberculosis is sometimes advised. Tap water is relatively safe but may cause mild abdominal upsets. Bottled water is available and is advised for the first few weeks of the stay. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. There is one government hospital (on Rarotonga). Most visits to the Cook Islands are trouble-free but you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate international terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.
National Holidays
1-2 Jan - New Year. 6 Apr - Good Friday. 9 Apr - Easter Monday. 25 Apr - ANZAC Day. 4 Jun - Queen's Birthday. 26 Jul - Rarotonga Gospel Day. 4 Aug - Constitution Day. 26 Oct - National Gospel Day. 25-26 Dec - Christmas.
Currency
NZ dollar (NZD)
Electricity
220v DC
Working Hours
Office hours: Mon-Fri 8.00am -4.00pm.
Emergency Numbers
998(Ambulance) 996(Fire) 999(Police)
