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Cook Islands

  • Reviewed: 14 January 2022, 10:54 NZDT
  • Still current at: 7 March 2022

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Latest update – 14 January 2022

Quarantine-free travel from New Zealand to the Cook Islands recommenced on 14 January 2022.

Detailed information about quarantine-free travel with the Cook Islands is available on the Unite Against Covid-19 website here.

Further information is also available on the Cook Islands Government website here.

We continue to provide travel advice about other safety and security risks in the Cook Islands below.

Exercise increased caution in the Cook Islands. Detailed information about quarantine-free travel with the Cook Islands can be found on the Unite Against COVID-19 website.

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Cook Islands

Crime
Although the crime rate in the Cook Islands is low, New Zealanders are advised to take care of their belongings and ensure that their accommodation is locked at all times. Thieves may target items (such as phones, cash, ipads) left on the beach or otherwise unsecured in scooters or motorcycles and accommodations.

General Travel Advice
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in the Cook Islands to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour, particularly outside of tourist areas and when visiting villages.

Tropical Cyclone season runs from November to April. Tsunamis may also occur in the Cook Islands. Rarotonga has tsunami alert signs. In the event of a tsunami alert, follow the advice of local authorities and your hotel or resort management.

New Zealanders undertaking tourist activities in the Cook Islands, including travel between islands and adventure activities such as scuba diving, should check that they are covered by their travel insurance policy. Always use available safety gear such as life jackets or seatbelts, and use another provider if these are not available.

If using a car, motorcycle, scooter or an Ebike, New Zealanders are advised to take necessary safety precautions, check that their travel insurance covers the activity, learn local traffic laws and do not operate the vehicle after drinking alcohol. Please note that it is mandatory to wear a helmet while riding scooters and motorcycles.

Swimmers should be alert to strong tides and breaks in the reefs and the fact that there are no lifeguards on beaches. Wearing reef shoes or similar is encouraged to protect against stonefish and coral cuts. Ask local residents and tour operators about safe areas for swimming and water sports.

Exercise personal care regarding mosquitos. On 2 February 2021, the Cook Islands declared a dengue 2 outbreak. The outbreak is ongoing and all travellers to the Cook Islands are advised to protect themselves against mosquito bites. For further advice read the information about dengue provided by the New Zealand Ministry of Health.

Medical services in the Cook Islands can be limited.

We advise New Zealanders travelling or living in the Cook Islands to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

Travel tips


The New Zealand High Commission Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Street Address 1st floor, Philatelic Bureau Building, Takuvaine Road, Avarua, Rarotonga, Cook Islands Postal Address PO Box 21, Rarotonga, Cook Islands Telephone +682 22 201 Fax +682 21 241 Email nzhcraro@gmail.com Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/cook-islands Hours Mon – Fri 0800 – 1600 hrs

See our regional advice for the Pacific

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