Currency
The Cook Islands unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar. There are Cook Island coins of $1, $2 and $5 which are not negotiable outside of the Cook Islands but make interesting souvenirs. New Zealand dollars can be purchased at the international airport, or in the town of Avarua at the banks of ANZ, Westpac or Western Union.
Visiting the Cook Islands
-
NZ passport holders are granted an entry permit of 3 months.
- Visitors from other countries are granted a stay up to 31 days.......Visas are NOT required for visits to the Cook Islands for stays of up to 31 days
GETTING AROUND - BUS / CAR / ScooTER / TAXI ...?
BUS - running twice hourly, Rarotonga has a Clockwise and an Anti-Clockwise bus service which circles on the Main road around the island... no bus stops are necessary, simply find a safe place for the bus to pull over, wave and the driver will stop for you. You can pay per ride or buy a Concession ticket.
Sunday and Night have restricted timetables www.busaboutraro.com
CAR - hiring a car gives you the flexibility and freedom to explore. There are several rental car outlets dotted around the island and it is best to pre-book.
A Full Drivers License (from your own country) is required. www.aviscookislands.com polynesianhire.co.ck
SCOOTER - the most common / fun mode of transport If you do not have a scooter/motorbike license from your home country, you will need to have a car license and then pass a practical and written test at the Police Station..... Please Note - it is compulsory for all riders to wear a helmet.
TAXI - great after a night out! (drink/driving laws apply)
Bringing food to the Cook Islands
Food that has been securely packed or meats that been vacuum packed can be brought into Rarotonga. The exception is fresh fruit, vegetables and honey which cannot enter into the Cook Islands.
Please remember to list all food products to immigration at time of entering our island.
Local business hours
Businesses in Rarotonga are generally open Monday to Friday, 8am – 4pm. Banks are open 9-3pm. Saturday morning shops are open 8-1pm and supermarkets stay open until 4pm.
The local market on Saturday mornings in Avarua the main town centre is a must see for local crafts and produce and is open from 7am-12 noon. This is a cash only market.
Telecommunications
There are many internet cafes and Wifi hotspots located around the island. Wifi Pre-paid vouchers can be purchased through several outlets.
A Visitor SIM card is also available and includes: minutes, texts and data.
Electricity
Rarotonga uses the same electrical outlets as New Zealand. North American and European appliances will need adaptor plugs. The Cook Islands electricity usage is 240 volts.
Medical Services
The Rarotonga Hospital has doctors available 24 hours to provide medical care in the case of an emergency.