Cook Islands Information

Traveller Information

The Rarotongan Visitor Centre is located in the main township of Avarua next to the ANZ bank. It is open Monday to Friday – 8am to 4pm.

Electricity

Services here are all 240 volts AC H2/50 cycle. North American and some European appliances will need adaptor plugs suited for New Zealand to use dual voltage appliances such as shavers and hair dryers.

Road & Driving

All cars drive on the left hand side of the road. Speed limit is 20km in the main town and 40km in all other areas with a maximum speed of 60km on open roads between townships.

You must obtain a Cook Islands drivers licence from police head quarters in Avarua. The cost is $10.00 for a car and bike licence. If you do not already hold a bike licence you will have to sit a practical test. As the roads are narrow, please walk or ride in single file for safety.

Dress Code

Informal cool and comfortable is the rule. Brief attire is not acceptable in town or villages. Nude or topless sunbathing is prohibited. A respectable standard of dress is required for church services.

Communication

Cook Islands Telecom is very reliable and up to date with most satellite services. There are a number of cyber cafes around Rarotonga for all your internet needs. Phone cards are available for any overseas calls you may wish to make. Visitors on long stays to Rarotonga can connect to the Kokanet service with their digital (900mhz) cellular network. A full postal service is available at the main post office in Avarua. Rarotonga stamp and coin collectors should visit the Philatelic Bureau in Avarua.

Medical Services

A 24 hour hospital and dental service is available. There are no poisonous animals or insects in the Cook Islands although insect repellent is advised for inland ventures.

Currency

New Zealand dollar

Language

A mixture of Cook Island Maori and English. All Cook Islanders are taught English at school.

Find out more about our Rarotonga accommodation.