Cook Islands - FAQ
1.Where are the flights to Cook Islands from USA?
Air New Zealand flies directly to Rarotonga from Los Angeles, Tahiti, Fiji, and Auckland. Aloha Airlines has service between Honolulu and Rarotonga, with stops in American Samoa each way. Royal Tongan Airlines has service between Auckland and Rarotonga.
2.Do I require a visa to Cook Islands?
A bona-fide visitor (any person who enters the Cook Islands solely for recreation or vacation/holiday), does not require an entry permit, provided he/she possesses proof of onward passage (booked and paid) for stays of not more than 31 days. 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.
3.What is The local currency and banking hours?
The denomination of currency used in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). The Westpac Bank in Avarua opens weekdays from 9am - 3pm and on Saturdays from 9am.
4.What kind of medical facilities available in the island?
A range of medical and dental services are available on Rarotonga. This includes a hospital and emergency services, as well as an optometrist. Various pharmacies are available for prescription medicine.
The Rarotonga General Hospital caters for both minor and major injuries, however there are other health centres on the outer islands, which handle minor injuries and medical problems. In the case of major injuries or other medical difficulties in the outer islands they are usually referred to the Rarotonga General Hospital by air transport. All major injuries can be stabilized at the Rarotonga General Hospital prior to evacuation by earliest plane to Auckland, New Zealand.
5.What kind of electric power supply available ?
Voltage is 220 AC/50 cycle, the same as New Zealand and Australia. In some cases, a two pin adapter may be required. Some hotels and motels have provisions for 110 volt AC electric razors.
6.Is it safe to drink the normal tap water ?
Don’t drink the tap water unless you are sure it comes from a rainwater catchment, and boil it even if it does
7.What kind of activities are available in the island?
Boating, Golf, Hiking, Scuba Diving, Fishing, Horseback Riding,Snorkelling, Tennis etc
8.Is it Legal to get married in Cook Islands?
Yes.
9.How is the night Life?
Cook Islanders are some of the most fun-loving folks you will meet in the South Pacific, and you can easily catch their spirit. Every evening except Sunday is a party night, and especially Friday when the pubs stay open until 2am (they close promptly when the Sabbath strikes at Sat midnight). And as with their Tahitian cousins, the infectious sound of the traditional drums starts everyone dancing.