Things to Do in Cook Islands

About Cook Islands

The Cook Islands sit in the South Pacific: fifteen islands where Polynesian culture hasn't faded into tourist performance but remains the actual rhythm of daily life. Locals speak Māori in Rarotonga's markets, which smell like frangipani and fresh fish, while kids learn the same dances their ancestors did centuries back. Aitutaki's lagoon is clear enough to count fish from above water. The blue is intense. On all fifteen islands, time follows trade winds through palms—not cruise ship schedules. The smiles aren't for tourists. They come from a culture built on community and respect, and they're as real as the isolation that keeps these islands relatively unknown. The Cook Islands don't offer escape. They offer a different speed entirely.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use local buses on Rarotonga for NZ$5 per ride—they circle the island in both directions hourly. Rent scooters from Avarua for NZ$25-35 daily but bring international license. Inter-island flights with Air Rarotonga to Aitutaki cost NZ$350-450.

Money: New Zealand dollars and Cook Islands dollars are both accepted (1:1). ATMs at ANZ and Westpac work reliably but charge NZ$3-5 fees. Budget NZ$80-120 daily for meals and activities, excluding accommodation.

Cultural Respect: Learn basic Cook Islands Māori: 'kia orana' (hello) and 'meitaki' (thank you). Respect Sunday as a day of rest—most businesses close and activities are limited. Remove shoes when entering homes and cover up when leaving beach areas.

Food: Try ika mata (raw fish in coconut cream) and rukau (taro leaves) at The Mooring Fish Café where traditional meals cost NZ$25-40. Sample fresh coconut water directly from vendors for NZ$3-5. Local Matutu beer costs NZ$7-12 per bottle at restaurants.

When to Visit

The Cook Islands enjoy a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season (May-October) offers perfect conditions with temperatures of 20-26°C, minimal rainfall (50-100mm monthly), and constant trade winds. This is peak season with 40-60% higher accommodation rates, but ideal for diving, snorkeling, and outdoor activities. Book 3-6 months ahead for July-August. The wet season (November-April) brings higher temperatures (24-29°C), increased humidity, and heavier rainfall (200-300mm monthly), with cyclone risk January-March. However, this off-peak period offers 30-50% savings and fewer crowds. March-April and November provide the best compromise—warm weather with manageable rainfall and moderate prices. Key festivals include Te Maeva Nui (Constitution Celebrations) in late July/early August featuring traditional dancing, drumming, and cultural competitions. Vaka Eiva outrigger canoe racing occurs in November. For families, visit during school holidays (July-August, December-January) when kid-friendly activities peak. Divers should target April-May and September-November for optimal visibility. Budget travelers benefit most from February-April visits, avoiding both peak prices and cyclone season's worst weather.