About Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are a perfect destination for beach lovers and courageous adventurers alike. The two most visited Islands are the beautiful island of Rarotonga, which combines densely forested Mountains and superb snorkelling reefs and Aiutaki which has one of the most beautiful lagoons in 1he Pacific.

Most of the island attractions in Rarotonga are on or near the Ara Tapu coastal road. The main attractions are the cemetery, Black Rock, Arorangi, Cultural Village, Highland Paradise, Muri, Matavera and Arai-Te-Tonga.

The Cemetery, also known as the ‘brickyard’ is located across from the airport terminal. Here the patients of Australian cancer-cure specialist Milan Brych are buried.

Black Rock is believed to be the take-off point from where the spirits of the dead commence the voyage back to the legendary homeland of 'Avaiki. This is also where the missionary Papeiha is supposed to have swum ashore, clasping the Bible over his head.

Arorangi is located on Rarotonga's west coast, Arorangi was the first missionary-built village and was conceived of as a model for all the other villages on the island. Its main place of interest is the church that was built in 1849.

The Cook Islands Cultural Village, on Arorangi's back road is a fantastic experience. Here you will get a taste of Cook Islands culture. You can take a tour and visit traditional huts, taste traditional foods and even see a show of music, dance and chants.

Highland Paradise is situated high above Arorangi, and is on the site of the village where the Tinomana people lived before the introduction of Christianity.

Muri, on the south-east side of the island, is absolutely beautiful, The shallow water has a white sandy bottom that is speckled with an infinity of sea cucumbers and corals. On the main road there are hundreds of shells for sale.

Matavera is famous for the old church located here. For a great phot opportunity, visit the church at night when the outside is all lit up.

Arai-Te-Tonga is the most important marae site on the island. Here you will see a fantastic ceremonial ground.

Aitutaki’s main attractions are Arutanga, New Jerusalem, Marae, Aitutaki Lagoon and Tauano's.

Arutanga is a pleasant, sleepy little town. The main highlight here is the CICC church, built in 1828. It is the oldest church in the Cook Islands, and has stunning carved wood that has been painted red, yellow, green and white all around the ceiling, and the stained-glass windows are beautiful.

New Jerusalem village is on the south coast. It was built in the 1990s out of native materials, in the style of a traditional Cook Islands village. The people who live here are all members of the Free Church.

Aitutaki's Marae are recognised for their large stones. The main road goes right through a big marae at the turn-off to Aitutaki Lodges, the stone, are along both sides of the road

Aitutaki Lagoon is a perfect looking lagoon. It is large, extremely colourful and full of life, the snorkelling is a spectacular experience. The lagoon is dotted with sandbars and coral ridges.

While in Aitutaki you must visit Tairono's. Here there is a huge array of organic fruits, vegetables and herbs that can be picked to order from the lush garden. Also sold here are deep sea and reef fish, Cakes, coffee and herbal teas.

Culture

The Cook Islands culture lives on in the vibrant performance of song and dance. Cook Islanders are considered among the finest Polynesian singers and dancers and awards come often in international contests. Unlike most Western dancers, Polynesians tell a story with their bodies that matches the words of the song. Cook Islands dancing is fast, frenzied and erotic, with hip swinging and suggestive gestures.

Although the dress code is informal, they do ask that brief attire not be worn when visiting town or villages. Nude or topless sunbathing will cause offence. A light sweater may come in handy for the cooler evenings during July and August.

Local_Currency

Banking facilities are also provided at the airport for currency exchange and cashing of travellers cheques. They are open for the arrival and departure of all International flights. Major credit cards are accepted throughout the island at most shops, and restaurants. ANZ have recently installed an ATM machine. EFTPOS facilities are becoming more widespread throughout local businesses and cash advances on major credit cards are accepted.

Transport

Aitutaki has rental cars, Jeeps, motorcycles and bicycles. The island is great for bicycles as the distances are short and the raods a quite flat.

Visa_Information

Extension permits are usually granted for visitors wanting to stay over 31 days. All visitors are required to have a valid passport, proof of onward passage, adequate financial means of supporting stay, and suitable accommodation. Applications can be made upon arrival at the Immigration Department. Extensions are granted on a monthly basis, up to 5 additional months only. A fee is payable with each application within 14 days prior to the expiration of the permit.

For those wanting to stay in the Cook Islands longer than 6 months, must apply for a visa from their home territory, prior to their arrival in the Cook Islands.