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Our Latest Cook Island Deals

Rarotonga, Aitutaki & more

Our Latest Cook Island Deals

Our best Rarotonga & Aitutaki packages in the Cook Islands right now, created by our travel experts to offer you incredible holidays at serious value.

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Plan your Cook Island holiday with our handy guides

Rarotonga's Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit the Cook Islands?
There’s never a bad time to visit this island paradise that embodies a warm tropical climate all year round, but the popular time to travel is between late April to October. Busiest time to be on the island is school holidays – book early to avoid disappointment. 
 
What is the currency in the Cook Islands
The unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar. The Cook Islands also issue their own banknotes and unique coins so remember to change your local notes before you leave.

Where to go on holiday in the Cook Islands?
If you're planning a holiday in the Cook Islands, explore our Cook Islands travel guide to make the most of your time on these beautiful islands. Discover top spots like Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and the lesser-known gems like Atiu and Mangaia.

How to find the best holiday package to the Cook Islands?
We've got that covered for you! Our Cook Island specialists have handpicked and curated the best Cook Island deals for you so you can make the most of your island holiday. Visit our Cook Island deals section on our website or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your email.

Is The Cook Islands in the same time zone as NZST?
Cook Islands are 22 or 23 hours behind New Zealand (depending on daylight savings in New Zealand). Do your calculation before arrival eg. when you fly from New Zealand you arrive Cook Islands the day before.

What power voltage and power outlet plugs do they use in the Cook Islands?
Electricity voltage is 240 AC/50 cycle, the same three pin plugs as used in New Zealand and Australia. Some hotels have outlets for 110-volt AC electric razors.

Where to stay in the Cook Islands?
Choosing where to stay in the Cook Islands can be tough with so many options. For luxury resorts and pristine beaches, Rarotonga is perfect. Take the family to The Edgewater Resort & Spa or Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Aitutaki offers stunning lagoons and secluded resorts from budget to luxury, while Atiu is an eco-lovers paradise, great for nature lovers with its lush landscapes and caves.

What should I pack for my trip to the Cook Islands?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, swimwear, sunscreen, jandals, a hat, insect repellent and sunglasses. If visiting during the cooler months (May to October), we recommend including a light jacket for cooler evenings. Please note, Cook Islands is a very modest society and you should dress and behave so as not to offend.

Do I need travel insurance for the Cook Islands?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to the Cook Islands. We provide a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to the Cook Islands. Find more information here.

Do I need to hire a car to get around in the Cook Islands?
Recommend hiring a car to offer flexibility and convenience if you plan to explore at your own pace. NZ full drivers license is valid in the Cook Islands. Just remember not to park under a coconut tree. If hiring a scooter, please note helmets are mandatory. If you hold a motorcycle license this will be valid in the Cook Islands, if not you will need to obtain a Cook Islands visitor license.  

How can I get around the Cook Islands without a car?
There are two public buses on the island of Rarotonga, one which runs clockwise and the other runs anti-clockwise. The bus will stop anywhere on the main road, just wave and smile and the bus will pick you up. For exploring more of the back roads of Rarotonga, and to see historical sites and check out the scenery, we recommend you hire a car for at least a part of your holiday or there is the option of booking a tour.

What are some family-friendly activities in the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands are the ultimate family holiday destination with activities like Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes where the whole family is entertained by Captain Tama’s crew, snorkelling and lunch included, visit the Punanga Nui Market, exploring traditional Cook Island villages and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Resorts often offer kids' clubs and family-friendly excursions.

What is there to do in Cook Islands?
There are so many things to do! Indulge like a local and try the traditional dishes of the Cook Islands, Enjoy an island night cultural show, Relax, unwind and release all that tension with a massage or spa treatment or Jump on a lagoon cruise on the world’s most beautiful lagoon in Aitutaki, you’ll be mesmerised by the natural beauty that surrounds you.

What is the telecommunications network in the Cook Islands?
Vodafone Cook Islands is the current mobile provider for telecommunications services in the country. 4G+ mobile data is available on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. With 4G now available on the remaining outer islands. There are WiFi hotspots at prime locations spread across all islands.

Meet our Cook Islands specialists

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Leonie Paul

Leonie Paul

House of Travel Merivale

With many years at  House of Travel, I have a passion for  travelling and exploring the world.

I look forward to working with  you and planning  your next adventure

Leonie

Gemma Pearce

Gemma Pearce

House of Travel Barrington

I love turning people's dreams into reality and enjoy sharing my travel experiences.

Travel is my passion and I feel it’s the only thing you can buy that makes you richer!

Gemma

Silvana Rooney

Silvana Rooney

House of Travel Auckland City

I was born in Brazil, moved to New Zealand in 2004 and have worked in the travel industry since 1999. I enjoy turning holiday dreams into reality assisting my clients to create their perfect holiday. My goal is to exceed customer expectations every time.

Silvana

Melanie Hubber

Melanie Hubber

House of Travel Ferrymead

I am passionate about sustainable travel for the future. 

My entire career of 30 years has been in travel sales and tourism. I have travelled overseas more than a hundred times to over 70 countries and 6 continents for personal holidays, business and leisure.

I've made my home in London, Dorset, Chamonix and Auckland. I settled back in my home town of Christchurch after being away for five years. 

I love travel and how it enriches lives and provides a livelihood for people and communities around the globe. I love helping to inspire and inform clients, who care about the impact their choices have on local communities and the environment, and who want to have a great holiday. 

Sustainable doesn't mean you can't have luxury! My personal holidays always have a sense of adventure, you will find me on a beach or mountain or taking in a cultural experience to make the most of a destination. 

I personally rate train travel one of the best ways to casually explore, there's nothing I love more than checking in at a downtown railway station off to a new destination. I think travel provides new perspectives and respect for different cultures and values are par for the course. We can always find common ground when we are prepared to go out of our comfort zone. 

Why book your travel with me? I am a CLIA certified Cruise Master and dedicated to helping you with your travel plans. I have the tools and the networks available to assist with all styles of travel experiences you may be looking for. 

Mel

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