DESTINATION FAST FACTS Location: 4790km North East from Brisbane (Around 8 hours by plane) Capital City: Avarua Language: English (Offical Language) and Maori Currency: New Zealand Dollar Climate: Moderate climate year-round, maximum of 25˚C in Winter and 29˚C in Summer

The Cook Islands are an archipelago of 15 islands located 4790km north east from Brisbane. The Cook Islands are neighboured by Samoa to the west and French Polynesia to the east. The nation’s capital lies on the main island of Rarotonga, where the international airport is located. The islands are divided into North and South groups, where northern islands are mostly low-lying coral atolls, and the southern group are higher islands, volcanic in origin.

The Cook Islands will overwhelm your senses with bright hues of colour, the scent of fresh flowers, the taste of seafood cuisine, the feel of sand between your toes and the sounds of beautiful island voices raised in hymn on a Sunday. Rarotonga is only 32 kilometres in circumference and features a coastal road that winds around the island exposing breathtaking beaches, making travel an absolute joy. 

History is rich on the Cook Islands and most of it is exhibited in local museums. Yet Polynesian identity can be found in everyday life in many of the art galleries around Rarotonga and in local buildings and crafts. Dance and drama is an everyday aspect of the locals, more so during Te Maeva Nui Constitution Celebrations in July, where the warrior’s might and dancer’s grace are renewed.

The islands are named after Captain James Cook, the famed British explorer who sailed through them in 1773. The name ‘Cook Islands' appeared on a Russian naval chart published in the 1820's in honour of Captain Cook. Yet the islands were inhabited from around 800AD where the Cook Islands ancestors arrived as a result of the Great Polynesian Migration on giant double-hulled canoes (called Vakas). It is during this original migration that Chief Toi is believed to have arrived in the Cook Islands, where he presided over the creation of a grand road, built of coral, laid through the inland swamps. The road still exists today, though sealed by tar it lies inland and is called the Ara Metua. Although legends explain its presence, the real purpose for its construction remains a mystery.

The Cook Islanders have been greatly influenced by the arrival of Europeans and particularly Christian missionaries, and today, the Cook Islanders have been able to preserve a harmonious balance between pride in their Polynesian heritage alongside their commitment to Christian faith.  

Aitutaki
We have also travelled to Aitutaki, 220km north (less than an hour by plane) which is world renowned for its beauty. Isolated, the island is the perfect location for a very special romantic getaway or honeymoon. A barrier reef has formed a sheltered lagoon, the centrepiece of the islands’ life. The hot sun, sparkling white sands and deep blue sea is the perfect tonic to soothe away the pressures of the outside world. Tours and activities either land or water based are on offer, as well as great dining at local restaurants or cafes to tempt your taste buds. Hire cars or mopeds are available for travelling around the island at your own pace, where you can do as much or as little as you please. Eftpos, ATM facilities and internet cafes are also available on Aitutaki so you are not totally removed from the outside world.

When you step off the plane you will be welcomed with smiles and “Kia orana” the traditional greeting meaning “may you live long”. The Team re-visited Rarotonga and Aitutaki in August 2011. Call us today to make your Pacific Island dream come true and ask us about our holiday offers to the Cook Islands.