Comprising of 15 islands, divided into the Northern Group (mainly volcanic in origin) and Southern Group (six true atolls), the Cook Islands reflect traditional Polynesian culture at its finest.

In just over four hours, you can fly from Auckland to Rarotonga, the main island, to begin your "holiday in heaven". Located in the Southern Group of islands, where ninety percent of the population resides, Rarotonga's lagoon is almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef ensuring its protected beaches are idyllic and its accommodation is seldom far from its shores.
Only 32 kilometres in circumference, the island is easy to get around, be it on scooter, the 'Island bus" , in a car or jeep. The choice is yours! As you get to know the island, you will be captivated by the friendliness and charm of its people, the lingering fragrance of frangipani and the relaxed pace to which you quickly become accustomed!

The capital Avarua is the commercial centre and main port of the Cook Islands. Bustling with activity this tropical town offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés and with 20 bars offering everything from live bands to dance music, the town has an enviable nightlife.

Also popular with travellers is the beautiful island of Aitutaki, famous for its turquoise lagoon, sandy white beaches and spectacular marine life. Just a 45 minute scenic flight from Rarotonga, you can do a day trip or better still - STAY!

Like its famous black pearls, the Cook Island's possess a magic and beauty second to none. We call it the "X-FACTOR" - you might call it "true paradise".

CLICK HERE FOR THE MAP OF COOK ISLANDS

LANGUAGE
The local language is Cook Islands Maori. Everyone also speaks English.

DEPARTURE TAX
From the 01 April 09 to 31 August 2009
$55.00 per Adult
$15.00 per child 2yrs up to and including the age of 12yrs old

VISA
Not required by New Zealand passport holders for stays up to 31 days. Visitors must have a return or onward ticket.

TIPPING
Tipping is not expected, however if you experience exceptional service a tip will be gratefully accepted.

DRIVING
Keep to the left. Drivers must get a Cook Islands licence which can be obtained from the police station in Avarua on presentation of your own licence and $10.

CURRENCY
New Zealand Dollar. This is supplemented by notes and coins minted for local use. ANZ and Westpac Banks are located on Rarotonga, in downtown Avarua and open 9.00am to 3.00pm, Monday -Friday, Westpac also has a branch in Aitutaki, open on Wednesdays and its Rarotonga Airport branch is open for all international flights.

MEDICAL SERVICES
There are no special health problems and no poisonous animals and insects. There is a hospital in Rarotonga with New Zealand trained staff. The most common travellers complaint is coral scratches and attention to these is recommended.

CLOTHING
The dress code is definitely "island style". However brief clothing, suitable for the beach is not suitable for town or villages. A light sweater may come in handy for the cooler evenings during July & August.

DRINKING WATER
Water is safe to drink in Rarotonga, however it is advisable to boil it first. When travelling to outer islands, it is advisable to take bottled water or boil any required for drinking.

DUTY FREE
There is no duty on personal effects and visitors may bring in 200 cigarettes or up to 250 gms of tobacco, or up to 50 cigars, 2 litres of spirits or wine, or 4.5 litres of beer. Goods in excess of $250 are liable for duty.

TRANSPORT
Air Rarotonga flies regularly to the Northern and Southern group of the Cook Islands, with daily services (except Sundays) to Aitutaki. On Rarotonga a bus service operates around the island daily. Single, daily and weekly tickets are available.

THE COOKS - AN EXOTIC BLEND OF ROMANCE & RELAXATION
Only four hours from New Zealand, these beautiful, tranquil, magical islands provide the perfect exotic setting for romantic weddings and honeymoons.

Prepare to arrive in Rarotonga three full working days prior to the wedding with you birth certificate in English and show any Decree Absolute (divorce documents) if either of you has been married before.

Many Cook Island wedding packages are cheaper than being married in New Zealand.

With optional extras to suit your budget, you can choose to have everything from a casual "sand between the toes" occasion with a simple beachside exchange of vows to a full religious ceremony.

GO Holidays have created a special wedding planner to ensure no details are overlooked so your wedding day is truly perfect.

Included within our Cook Island programme are properties belonging to the "Black Pearl Group".