I can't put it better than John W. McDermott in his book "How to Get Lost and Found in the Cook Islands" which inspired my interest in this Polynesian paradise: "Basically all you need to know or have in the Cook Islands is a sense of humour, a pair of old comfortable shorts, a passport and money". But here's a bit more detail....
DOCUMENTS As long as you're staying no more than 31 days (90 days if you're a New Zealand citizen), your valid passport is the only entry permit you need, along with proof of onward journey, the means to support yourself while on the islands and somewhere to stay. And you can sort out the accommodation on arrival.
You can stay for up to five months more, but you'll need to extend your entry permit - at the Department of Immigration in Rarotonga. New Zealanders can apply for a three month extension and other nationals for a month at a time. In both caes, you pay a fee for the privilege. And a reminder...when you leave the country, if you're 12 or older, you'll pay a somewhat extortionate departure tax of NZ$55! (UK£28, US$45, AUS$43, 32 Euros) Approx currency conversion based on rates at 13 July, 2011
You can stay for up to five months more, but you'll need to extend your entry permit - at the Department of Immigration in Rarotonga. New Zealanders can apply for a three month extension and other nationals for a month at a time. In both caes, you pay a fee for the privilege. And a reminder...when you leave the country, if you're 12 or older, you'll pay a somewhat extortionate departure tax of NZ$55! (UK£28, US$45, AUS$43, 32 Euros) Approx currency conversion based on rates at 13 July, 2011
PEOPLE The Cook Islanders are eastern Polynesians of the Maori Race who are British Subjects and New Zealand citizens. The language is Maori but English is almost everyone's second language. The islands are a democracy based on the British Model.
They don't all dress as scarily as the guy on the left....he's in full costume for a traditional dance which you can see at one of the 'Island Night' shows. But also don't be surprised to see locals - male and female - wearing head dresses or eis, or maybe just a flower behind the ear (an indicator of marital status)
They don't all dress as scarily as the guy on the left....he's in full costume for a traditional dance which you can see at one of the 'Island Night' shows. But also don't be surprised to see locals - male and female - wearing head dresses or eis, or maybe just a flower behind the ear (an indicator of marital status)
CLIMATE AND CLOTHING From June to September, the days are usually warm and sunny, but you might want a lightweight sweater or jacket at night because it can get chilly sometimes. From December to March, it's a bit hotter and more humid. It also rains a bit more, so maybe a brolly will come in handy! As a general rule, dress is casual except on Sunday (see Religion). I ran into the New Zealand High Commissioner in a cafe in town (as you do!) and his choice was a Hawaiian style shirt and shorts - in case that's any guidance! Click here for more about the weather
RELIGION Yes, there's lots of it! In the majority are Protestants of the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC), inheritors of the London Missionary Society who brought Christianity to the islands in 1821. Almost two thirds of locals belong to the CICC, 15% are Roman Catholics and the rest belong to the Seventh Day Adventist Church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Assemblies of God or Baha'i Faith. Locals wear their best clothes for church - women often in white, light dresses and men in shirt and tie. The churches are filled with glorious singing and you'll be amazed at the hospitality shown to visitors.
ECONOMY Tourism generates around 80% of gross domestic product. Other mainstays are agricultural and financial services. For many years, black pearls were the main export, but the industry is currently in decline and fishing has now taken the top spot. The distinctive stamps and coins of the islands, which are much sought after by collectors, also generate a healthy income. The $3 dollar note is particularly prized. You can find out more detail about the economy of the islands by visiting the Official Government Website.
AND UNIQUELY COOK ISLANDS....
A bottle of Noni Juice makes a souvenir to dine out on (and with?)
Perfumes of Rarotonga will help you remember your visit with a treat for the senses.
Click on the underlined links to find out more. And of course, stamps...a visit to the Philatelic bureau in town will overhwelm you with choice. For other souvenir suggestions, click here
Two events to look out for depending on when you visit: The Miss Cook Islands competition (every two years), and the annual independence celebrations. Click here to find out about important dates in the Cook Islands calendar.
A bottle of Noni Juice makes a souvenir to dine out on (and with?)
Perfumes of Rarotonga will help you remember your visit with a treat for the senses.
Click on the underlined links to find out more. And of course, stamps...a visit to the Philatelic bureau in town will overhwelm you with choice. For other souvenir suggestions, click here
Two events to look out for depending on when you visit: The Miss Cook Islands competition (every two years), and the annual independence celebrations. Click here to find out about important dates in the Cook Islands calendar.
For details about health, driving, water, electricity, currency, taxes and tipping, mobile (cell) phone services and other basics, go to the Islands fact file page, or frequently asked questions.
SOME OTHER "ESSENTIAL INFORMATION" PAGES ON THIS SITE
GETTING TO THE ISLANDS ACCOMMODATION WEATHER INTERNAL TRAVEL
GETTING TO THE ISLANDS ACCOMMODATION WEATHER INTERNAL TRAVEL
