Advice levels
What does this mean?Overview
Safety
- There’s a Pacific wide tsunami warning in place following an M8.6 earthquake 60kms offshore from the Kamchatka peninsula, Russia. The warnings extend to some coastal areas of all Pacific islands. If you're in the affected area, move to higher ground immediately. If there's an official evacuation warning, follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor media for updates. See our advice on what to do during an earthquake and tsunami.
- The Cook Islands' crime rate is low. Thieves sometimes target tourists, especially at the beach. Watch out for your belongings. Ensure your accommodation is kept locked at all times.
- Don't leave valuables in motor scooters or motorcycles.
- Cyclone season is from November to April, but severe storms can happen anytime. Know your accommodation's evacuation plan and your nearest shelter.
- Earthquakes and tsunamis occur in the Cook Islands. Rarotonga has tsunami alert signs. If there's an alert, follow the advice of your host or hotel and local officials. Move to higher ground if you're near the beach or low-lying areas.
Full travel advice: Safety
Health
- Insect-borne illnesses, including dengue and chikungunya, are present in the Cook Islands. Protect yourself against mosquito bites and use insect repellent and ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.
- The Cook Islands has reported cases of Zika virus. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor.
- Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic, and other infectious diseases are common. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
- Medical facilities are limited, especially on outer islands. You'll need medical evacuation to New Zealand or Australia if you're seriously ill or injured. Check your travel insurance covers this.
Full travel advice: Health
Local laws
- If you're driving, monitor your alcohol intake.
- The Cook Islands' standards of dress and behaviour are modest. Be careful not to offend, especially outside resort areas. Ask locals if you're unsure of customs.
- The Cook Islands has banned the sale or importation of imitation tobacco products, including vapes/e-cigarettes. Visitors over the age of 21 are allowed to bring one e-imitation tobacco device and up to 30 millilitres of e-liquid (for more details see 'Local Laws').
Full travel advice: Local laws
Travel
- Authorities will issue a 31-day visitor visa on arrival. On application, you may visit up to 8 months in total. Contact the Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration for the latest details and fees.
- Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration for the latest details.
- The Cook Islands has two official currencies: Cook Islands Dollar (CKD) and the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). You can't exchange Cook Islands dollars outside the country. The airport has a currency exchange bureau.
Full travel advice: Travel
Local contacts
- The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
- For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
- To stay up to date with local information, follow the Australian High Commission's Facebook account.
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Safety
Crime
Petty crime
The crime rate is low in the Cook Islands. Most crime is opportunistic, however, sometimes thieves target travellers. Watch your belongings.
Thieves may target items:
- on the beach
- left unsecured, such as valuables stored in motor scooters, motorcycles or accommodation left unlocked
Occasionally, travellers are assaulted. Look out for suspicious behaviour.
Cyber security
You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.
Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.
More information:
Drink spiking
Drink spiking can happen anywhere. Be alert to the potential risks, and don't leave food or drinks unattended. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Stick to reputable venues and avoid homemade alcoholic drinks due to the risk of methanol poisoning. Get urgent medical help if you suspect you’ve been a victim.
More information:
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.
More information:
Tours and adventure activities
Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes:
- tours and travel between islands
- adventure activities, such as scuba diving
If you plan to do an adventure activity:
- check if your travel insurance policy covers it
- ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
- always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts
If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.
Swimming safety
Strong rips can occur where there is a break in the reef. Swimmers have died because of strong tides and powerful lagoon currents.
Ask local residents and tour operators about safe swimming and water sports areas.
There are no lifeguards on beaches.
Wildlife safety
Be aware of local wildlife.
Dogs are common in Rarotonga. Some are aggressive, travel in packs and have bitten people. If you're bitten or scratched, seek medical help immediately.
Be mindful of dogs when walking, cycling or running. Don't approach, touch or feed them.
Be aware when driving, wandering animals are common on the roads.
Climate and natural disasters
The Cook Islands experiences natural disasters and severe weather, such as:
- cyclones and tropical storms
- earthquakes
- tsunamis
If there's a natural disaster or warning:
- secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
- monitor local media such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
- follow the advice of local authorities
- keep in touch with your friends and family
If you're travelling after a natural disaster, contact your tour operator or airline to find out if services are affected.
Cyclones and severe weather
Cyclone season is from November to April. Tropical storms and cyclones can happen in any month.
The direction and strength of cyclones can change suddenly.
Tropical storms and cyclones can:
- cause flooding and landslides
- disrupt essential services, such as water, electricity and communications
If there's a cyclone or severe tropical storm:
- you may get stuck in the area
- flights could be delayed or suspended
- available flights may fill quickly
- adequate shelter may not be available
- ports may close
Monitor weather updates and warnings:
- Fiji Meteorological Service
- World Meteorological Organisation Severe Weather Information Centre
- Emergency Management Cook Islands Facebook
- Australia High Commission Facebook
If a cyclone is approaching:
- know the evacuation plan for your accommodation provider
- identify your local shelter
- stock up on bottled water
More information:
Earthquakes and tsunamis
The Cook Islands can experience earthquakes and tsunamis.
Evacuation signs in Rarotonga will direct you if there's a tsunami alert.
If there's an earthquake or a tsunami alert:
- take directions from your accommodation provider
- follow the advice of local authorities
- monitor the Tsunami Warning Center and local sources
- move to higher ground if you're near the beach or in a low-lying area
Health
Travel insurance
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
- what activities and care your policy covers
- that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away
- any exclusions to your policy
Ensure you have appropriate insurance cover if you plan to undertake higher-risk activities like diving, off-roading, hiking or other adventure-based activities.
Physical and mental health
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
- have a basic health check-up
- ask if your travel plans may affect your health
- plan any vaccinations you need
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.
More information:
- General health advice
- Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
Medications
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medication, make sure you bring enough for the duration of your trip and carry it in its original packaging. Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
- what the medication is
- your required dosage
- that it's for personal use
There are specific legal requirements to be met to bring into the Cook Islands a personal supply of a Controlled Drug (for example medicines for ADHD such as methylphenidate or strong pain medicines, such as codeine or morphine). For more information or to check details for specific medicines refer to the Ministry of Health website.
More information:
Health risks
Insect-borne diseases
Insect-borne disease outbreaks occur in Cook Islands. The Cook Islands Ministry of Health continues to monitor for dengue and other insect-borne outbreaks. Protect yourself against mosquito bites and use insect repellent.
Cases of disease spread by mosquitoes include:
Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.
To protect yourself from disease:
- make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
- take preventative measures, such as minimising skin exposure by wearing long, loose, light-coloured clothing and using insect repellent
- seek medical attention at the nearest health facility if you're experiencing symptoms such as acute onset fever, nausea, aches and pains, and rashes
If you're pregnant, discuss travel plans and health risks with your doctor before you travel.
More information:
Other health risks
Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are found in the Cook Islands.
To protect yourself from illness:
- drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
- avoid ice cubes
- avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
Get medical advice if you suspect food poisoning or have a fever or diarrhoea.
Medical care
Medical facilities are limited, especially on outer islands.
Treatment can be expensive. Hospitals and medical facilities may ask for payment before treating you.
You may need to be evacuated to New Zealand or Australia if you become seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
Cook Islanders who hold an Australian Passport but don't hold a New Zealand passport, don't qualify for urgent patient referrals (medical evacuations) to New Zealand. Ensure your travel insurance provides appropriate cover for your situation.
No hyperbaric or decompression chambers are available. If you need to be treated for decompression sickness, you'll be evacuated to the nearest treatment centre in either Tahiti or New Zealand.
Registered dive companies carry basic treatment equipment to meet Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) standards.
More information:
Local laws
Local law
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Drugs
Penalties for carrying or using even small amounts of illegal drugs are severe. They may include fines and prison sentences.
More information:
Imitation Tobacco Products (vapes/e-cigarettes)
The Cook Islands has banned the sale or importation of imitation tobacco products, including vapes/e-cigarettes. Visitors over the age of 21 are allowed to bring one e-imitation tobacco device and up to 30 millilitres of e-liquid. Visitors must make sure the device and any remaining liquid is taken with them when they depart from The Cook Islands or is surrendered to the Ministry of Health. Refer to the Ministry of Health for more information.
Australian laws
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Dual citizenship
More information:
Local customs
Standards of dress and behaviour are modest.
Be careful not to offend, especially outside resort areas, when visiting towns, villages and the outer islands.
Visitors are welcome to attend Sunday services, observing modest attire of shirts and long trousers for men and longer-length skirts or dresses for women, preferably with covered shoulders.
Ask for local advice if you're unsure of any customs.
Travel
Visas and border measures
Visas
Authorities will issue a 31-day visitor visa on arrival. On application you may visit up to 8 months in total. Contact the Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration for the latest details and fees.
To enter the Cook Islands, you'll need to show proof of:
- an onward or return ticket
- sufficient funds for your stay
- arranged accommodation
In other situations, you'll need a visa.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.
Travelling with a Criminal Conviction
If you have a criminal conviction, contact the Cook Islands Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration ahead of your intended travel. Immigration Cook Islands will review cases with external agencies. Failure to declare could impact travel in the future.
Passport
Validity
Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. You may receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Lost or stolen passport
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
- In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
- If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier
Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.
More information:
Money
Cook Islands has 2 official currencies:
- Cook Islands Dollar (CKD)
- New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Cook Islands dollars can only be exchanged in the Cook Islands.
The bank at the airport can change currency.
Most shops and hotels accept credit cards.
ATMs are limited outside Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
Before you leave Australia, ask your bank if your cards will work overseas.
Local travel
Driving permit
You can use a valid Australian driver's licence for up to 6 months (digital driver's licences may not be accepted).
You can only drive vehicles covered by your licence. For example, with an Australian car licence you can drive a car but not a motor scooter.
If you're staying longer than 6 months, you can get a Cook Islands driver's licence from the Cook Islands Police Department in Rarotonga.
Road travel
Driving can be dangerous, particularly at night.
Hazards include poorly maintained roads, line markings, street lighting and stray animals.
If you plan to drive in the Cook Islands, check local traffic laws and practices.
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Motorcycles
Motorcyclists are hospitalised after many traffic accidents.
You can get a temporary motorbike or motor scooter licence in the Cook Islands. To apply, you must:
- sit a practical test at the police headquarters in Avarua
- show your current Australian driver's licence and passport
Queues can be long. Be prepared to wait.
Always wear a helmet.
If you don't follow the local laws, your insurance policy may not cover you.
If you want to ride a motorbike:
- check that your travel insurance covers it
- learn local laws
- don't drink alcohol and ride
Taxis
Only use registered taxis, arrange one through your hotel or resort.
Public transport
Limited buses are available on Rarotonga.
Public transport is limited on other islands.
Sea travel
Travelling by boat can be dangerous.
To reduce your risk on boats:
- use your own life jacket
- carry an emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) and satellite phone
- avoid single-engine boats
- travel in a group of boats that are no more than half full
- tell someone you trust about your plans, including when you expect to return
More information:
Air travel
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
More information:
Local contacts
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- family and friends
- travel agent
- insurance provider
- employer
- airline
Emergency services
Call 999.
Fire and rescue services
Call 996.
Medical emergencies
Call Rarotonga Hospital on 22 664 or email MOHsupport@cookislands.gov.ck
Police
Call 22 499 or email enquiries@police.gov.ck
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Consular contacts
Check the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Rarotonga.
Australian High Commission, Rarotonga
Philatelic Building
Takuvaine Road
Avarua, Rarotonga
Phone: +682 22223
Email: ahcrarotonga@dfat.gov.au
Website: cookislands.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australian High Commission, Cook Islands
Check the High Commission's website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
24-hour Consular Emergency Centre
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the High Commission, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
- +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
- 1300 555 135 in Australia