How do we get to Rarotonga?
There are two international airlines that fly into Rarotonga; Air New Zealand and Pacific Blue Flights to the outer islands can be booked through our local airline, Air Rarotonga.
What are the visa requirements?
Immigration policy allows you to enter the Cook Islands without a Visa. All visitors are required a to have a valid passport and valid ticket for onward travel. When you arrive on the island immigration will stamp your passport with a 31 day visitor permit, extensions are granted on a monthly basis for a fee, you also need to know with whom or where you are staying.
How do I get from the airport to the property?
Transfers can be arranged where you will be welcomed at the airport and taken to your new home, we can also arrange your return transfer so at the end of your tropical island stay you will be taken back to the airport.
What kind of currency do I need?
The Cook's use the New Zealand dollar. We advise all our guests to a bring mix of travelers cheques and cash. Although many stores and restaurants accept credit cards, the markets and some of the smaller grocery stores around the island only accept cash. There are ATM's around the island that accept cards with the Cirrus Plus or Maestro logos.
What are the power requirements?
Yes the island does have electricity! Raro runs on 240 volts, if you are arriving from a 110 volt country, you will need to bring a plug in voltage converter for anything electrical.
How big is Rarotonga?
Rarotonga is 32kms in circumference, the main road around the island affords views of the lagoon and ocean at almost every point, and of course views of the islands magnificent mountainous interior as you look in the opposite direction.
Any wild animals?
On land, no snakes, poisonous spiders or tigers. The island lagoon is protected by a reef which keep the big fish out, and the little fish in, there are many gorgeous tropical fish feeding amongst the coral, but there is some marine life to be wary of. The Rock Fish (it looks like a rock) and Crown of Thorns (spikey sea urchin) has poisonous spines, there are also some sea snakes (not poisonous but territorial). Wear reef shoes when in the water.
Is there are babysitting service?
We are in touch with some baby sitters on the island that are more than happy to look after the kids if you want to sample some of the islands nightlife. There are also kids clubs on the island for a �drop off for the day� arrangement.
Do we need to bring a high chair or car seat?
These can be hired on the island. Check out our link to Cocotots on the links page.
What's the weather like?
Of course predicting the weather is an imperfect science, but it�s always warm, and there is rain from time to time. Rarotonga is situated just inside the Tropic of Capricorn, summer is from November to April and the wet season is normally January to early May. For a weather report check out the weather link on our links page.
What's the time there?
The Cook Islands is 10 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). If coming from New Zealand, Fiji or Australia please remember you cross the dateline. Please carefully check your tickets for exact arrival/departure times IN Rarotonga.
Anything to Avoid?
Do not swim in the passages that lead to the outside reef. Strong currents. If in doubt ask a local.
Take care when riding a scooter. Pillion passages should get off the left hand side of the bike to avoid an exhaust burn.
Is there a hospital?
Rarotonga Hospital is equipped to handle emergencies from toothaches to minor surgery. If an emergency situation arises that you need to see a specialist then you'll be flown to NZ. If you take special medication, bring enough to last the distance. The cost of visiting a doctor ranges from $20 for children and $40 for adults. Travel Insurance, tick.
Departure Tax?
Departure tax is NZ$55 for everyone over 12 years old and NZ$15 for children aged 2 - 11 years old. Anyone under 2 years is exempt. Departure tax can be paid at the Westpac Bank in downtown Avarua or at the airport