When is the best time
to visit the Cook Islands?
Whenever it suits you to come and visit our beautiful islands. The people here never change, and the summer season is a year round, so everything is happening - all the time. Accommodation rates are pretty well standard all year, though occasionally we are able to offer specials.

When is the weather the best?
Generally, our driest months are from May to October, and the warmest months from January to March. Daytime temperatures range between 20 and 30 degrees centigrade pretty well year round, so it is usually sun bathing and swimming weather.

Where are the best beaches?
On Aitutaki, the very best beaches are on the uninhabited lagoon motus (islands), but there are many fine stretches of white sand and safe lagoon areas on the main island too.
Most other outer islands have small intimate beaches - just perfect for couples.

How safe is the Cook Islands?
From insects and animals etc - VERY safe. There are no wild animals or snakes or poisonous spiders. From People - Cook Islanders are a gentle race. There are very few (if any) places that you would be advised against visiting. Cook islanders are basically a giving, honest people. As with all societies, there may be exceptions. Common sense precautions against theft should be taken (just as you would at home).

Do I need pre-booked accommodation to enter the Cook Islands?
Our immigration current policy is that you must have evidence of pre booked accommodation here when you arrive. The commonly accepted reason for this is to prevent anyone taking advantage of our people's natural tendency to hospitality. Most of our holiday complexes are small, and as we are a popular destination with many "very busy" periods, accommodation can be at a premium.

How much does food cost?
If you are cooking for yourself - the supermarkets and local food stores provide almost everything you will need. The costs are probably a little higher than you are used to because of our small population and the cost of airfreight and shipping for imported food. On the other hand, locally produced fruits and vegetables can be a bargain.

If you are eating out - the cafes and restaurants are plentiful - and so are their menus.
You can eat from NZ$30 for 3 courses, or you can pay up to NZ$30 for an exotic main course.
Or you can buy a full plate of local food for NZ$5. As always - you usually get what you pay for.

Wine and beer?
We have plenty of wine, beer and spirits outlets, and the costs are reasonable when compared to overseas prices. Almost all restaurants and cafes carry liquor licenses and extensive fine wine lists.

What is the norm for tipping?
Tipping is not expected in the Cook Islands. Nor is it customary. In other words - a kind word is appreciated as much as a dollar is.

Which side of the island should I stay on?
It really is your choice.
Do you wish to be near the town, the restaurants, the beach, the mountains, the sunset, the sunrise? The island of Aitutaki is also small and it is not too far to anywhere.

Will I have enough to do there?
Oh yes!
The selection of tours and excursions will keep you busy for days. Then there are the local activities and sports that you are encouraged to participate in. The nightlife is fun and safe and restaurants plentiful. I doubt if anyone ever left the Cook Islands, having done it all.

How do I get around on Aitutaki?
There is a choice of:
Walking (remember you have to get back too)
Bicycles (about NZ$15 per day). Most roads are flat.
Motor Scooters (around $25 per day) which take two and have lights!
Cars and jeeps (from about NZ$50 per day by the week)
Aitutaki also has motor scooters, cars and jeeps for hire.

How long can I stay in the Cook Islands?
Immigration policies can change so if you are considering a lengthy stay - you should check with the authorities here.
Most visitors receive an arrival stamp in their passport which allows a stay here for up to a 31 days. Extensions for up to six months are usually possible.
If you are looking to work or invest here, then special conditions apply.

What language is spoken there?
In fact English is the official language but most speak Maori (Polynesian) as well as English. All signs are in English. There is usually someone on the island who can speak your particular language if needed.

For Electrical appliances - what voltage / plugs?
240 volts. Most good hotels and tourism properties have "multi plugs" to enable you to use your foreign appliances - as long as they are 240V.
Irons and hairdryers are standard inclusions in most accredited holiday accommodation.

Which properties have rooms with kitchen facilities?
Check out our listings on this web site for "self catering"

Which properties are family friendly?
Our site listings show you which properties accept children and which do not.
Generally speaking the smaller (boutique) properties which cater mainly for romantic couples do not accept children but most others do.

What currency is used in the Cook Islands?
The New Zealand dollar is the official currency here but there are Cook Islands coins used also. They are souvenir items outside the Cook Islands because they cannot be exchanged.
There are two major trading banks on Aitukaki and some 24-hour automatic teller machines. Travelers cheques and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
All prices quoted within our site are in NZ dollars.

Nude and topless sunbathing?
No.