Cook Islands Flag

Cook Islands Travel Guide

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands lie in the center of the Polynesian triangle about 4,500 km south of Hawaii. They range from towering Rarotonga, the country's largest island, to the low oval islands of the south and the solitary atolls of the north.

Visitors are rewarded with natural beauty and colorful attractions at every turn. There is motion and excitement on Rarotonga and Aitutaki, peaceful village life on the rest. Since few tourists get beyond the two main islands, a trip to Atiu, Mangaia, or Mauke can be a fascinating experience.

COOK ISLANDS AT A GLANCE
ISLAND AREA
in hectares		 POPULATION
(2006)
Rarotonga6,71814,153
Aitutaki1,8052,194
Mangaia5,180654
Atiu2,693572
Pukapuka506507
Mauke1,842393
Manihiki544351
Penrhyn984251
Mitiaro2,228219
Rakahanga405141
Nassau12171
Palmerston20263
Suwarrow404
Manuae6170
Takutea1220
Cook Islands 24,007 19,569
Cook Islands Map

After Tahiti, the Cook Islands is inexpensive, and the local tourist industry is efficient and competitive. It's a safe, quiet place to relax and you feel right at home. The local greeting is kia orana (may you live on). Other words to know are meitaki (thank you), aere ra (goodbye), and kia manuia! (cheers!).


Fast Facts

Where

The Cook Islands lie in the center of the Polynesian triangle about 4,500 km south of Hawaii.

When

The time is the same as in Hawaii and Tahiti, two hours behind California and 22 hours behind New Zealand.

Why

Rarotonga and Aitutaki offer good hotel facilities and excellent beaches. Travelers can get lost and found on Atiu, Mauke and Mangaia.

How

Air New Zealand delivers most visitors on its direct flights from Auckland and Los Angeles. Pacific Blue arrives from New Zealand.

Who

Cook Islands Maoris comprise 84% of the population. All are New Zealand citizens.

Highlights

island night, Aitutaki:
dancing, culture, food, fun

makatea of Mangaia:
geology, hiking, nature

Tapuaetai, Aitutaki:
swimming at One Foot Island, lagoon trips

The Needle, Rarotonga:
hiking, geology, nature

Titikaveka snorkeling, Rarotonga:
marinelife