Rarotonga And The Cook Islands
Vodafone Cook Islands is the sole mobile phone provider on the island.
Wi-Fi is available at most hotels, resorts, cafes, and some public hotspots around the island.
English and Cook Islands Māori (Rarotongan dialect) are the official languages.
Learning a few basic phrases in Cook Islands Māori fosters connection.
A local Vodafone SIM card delivers the most convenient and often most affordable way to stay connected and use maps on your phone.
Operating hours and public holidays influence service availability.
Monday-Friday 9 AM-4 PM, Saturday 9 AM-12 PM. Most shops closed Sunday.
Most active Saturday mornings from 6 AM. Limited offerings other weekdays.
Typically operates Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings from 5 PM.
ANZ and Bank of the Cook Islands (BCI) have branches in Avarua.
Services for travelers at Rarotonga International Airport.
Always confirm specific opening hours for restaurants or attractions with your accommodation or a local visitor center. "Island time" means schedules can be flexible.
Cultural sensitivity makes for a welcomed visit to Rarotonga.
The most important greeting is "Kia Orana" (-ah-oh-RAH-nah), meaning "hello" or "may you live long."
Tipping is not customary or expected in the Cook Islands.
Respect local customs and avoid sensitive interactions.
Rarotonga is generally tolerant, but remains a conservative, Christian society.
Dress modestly when in villages or attending church. 'Kia Orana' is a fundamental greeting.
For travelers with mobility challenges, Rarotonga's infrastructure presents limitations.
Rarotonga's infrastructure is not extensively designed for full accessibility.
Some newer or larger resorts may offer accessible rooms and facilities.
Specialized services or infrastructure for these impairments are not widely available.
Contact the Cook Islands Tourism Corporation directly before your trip.
If you have mobility concerns, communicate your specific needs directly with your chosen accommodation and tour operators well in advance of your trip. This enables them to prepare and advise you accurately.
