There
are many islands that along with Rarotonga
make up what is known as the Cook Islands.
Rarotonga is the vibrant centre of the Cook
Islands is almost completely encircled
by a reef, which harbours a lagoon of clear
water and white sandy beaches.
With an International Airport you can arrive
with Air New Zealand from several destinations – Los
Angeles, Fiji, Tahiti, Auckland and Christchurch,
on flights that arrive most days of the week.
The main
town on Rarotonga is Avarua where you will
find banks, tourism centres and shopping for
any of your self catering requirements.
Currency
Rarotonga uses New Zealand dollars as the
primary currency. For exchange rates
and currency converter please click
here.
Banks
ANZ, Westpac and Western Union are the banks
in Avarua. Automatic Teller Machines (ATM’s)
are available in some areas.
Business
Hours
Business hours in Rarotonga are from 8am
to 4pm, Mon to Friday and 9am to 12 noon
on Saturdays. On Saturday there is a market
in town from 7am-12pm featuring all local
produce, crafts and food. A must see for
your visit.
Telecommunications
Telecom is the major telecommunications provider
in the Cook Islands. Internet cafes are available
for checking your emails.
The international phone code for the Cook
Islands is +682.
Car
Hire
Scooters are the most popular form of transport
hire on the island, however cars are also
available. You will need a licence from the
Police Headquarters in Avarua to be able
to drive in Rarotonga. This will cost $10.
Roads
There is a main road around the perimeter
of the island. The maximum speed for this
road is 40kmh in the built up villages and
towns and 60kmh in the open areas.
Public
Transport
There are two buses that travel the Island
constantly (in opposite directions).
Stay
Duration
You can stay in Rarotonga for up to 31 days
with only the need for a valid passport and
a return ticket. Should you wish to stay
longer visas can be obtained for extra months
(up to a maximum of 3 months).
Medical
There are modern hospital services on the
Islands with well-trained medical staff.
Doctors and dentists are available 24 hours
a day. There are several pharmacies around
the island including one situated in CITC
in the main street of town.
Activities
There are a variety of activities available
on the Island, these include:
• Snorkelling
• Canoeing
• Sailing
• Diving
• Lagoon cruises
• Horse riding
• 4WD safaris
• Fishing |
• Soccer
• Softball
• Tennis
• Cricket
• Tramping
• Kayaking
• Windsurfing
• Swimming |
• Golf
• Squash
• Big Game Fishing
• Softball
• Rugby
• Rugby League
• Bowls |
Tipping
It is not customary to tip in the Cook Islands.
However should you have enjoyed the service
you have received gratuities are acceptable.
 Climate
The Cook Islands enjoy a warm climate with
plenty of sunshine hours. The cooler months
are June and July where the minimum temperature
still remains above 15 degrees Celsius. December
through March are the warmest months and
are also the wettest months.
Light clothing is all that is required for
most months although a sweatshirt may be
required in the cooler periods.
Electricity
230 volts, 50hz
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