£1 NZ$2.30
Today
5:55 pm
-10h from you
Weather in Cook Islands
Cook Islands
25°
Slight rain showers
Wed
25
25
Thu
25
26
Fri
25
26
Sat
25
26
Sun
25
27
SPF level in Cook Islands
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Cook Islands
Tipping in Cook Islands
Tipping isn't a widespread custom in the Cook Islands, and service charges are often included in restaurant bills. However, it is becoming more common to offer a small gratuity for exceptional service.
Restaurant
5-10% for outstanding service, if no service charge is included.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill is appreciated for good service.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Hotel Porter
2-5 NZD per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
2-5 NZD per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
5-10 NZD per person for a good tour.
Safety in Cook Islands
Driving in Cook Islands
A valid UK driving license is accepted for visitors. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
60 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Cook Islands
Voltage
240V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type I
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The Cook Islands operate on a 240V supply voltage and 50Hz. Plugs used are Type I. UK travelers will require a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in major tourist areas, hotels, and larger establishments, particularly in Rarotonga. Smaller businesses and outer islands tend to prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Cook Islands
Limited. ATMs are primarily found in Rarotonga, especially in Avarua, the capital. Availability is scarce on other islands.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are present but not ubiquitous. Ensure you have sufficient cash, especially when traveling to outer islands. Credit and debit cards are accepted at major hotels and tourist establishments.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high in the Cook Islands. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates and packages before you travel. Post-Brexit, EU roaming regulations no longer apply, so standard international roaming rates will apply. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data and calls.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 35 NZD (~£18)
Network coverage
4G
Local carriers
Bluesky Cook Islands
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available at many hotels, resorts, and cafes, especially in Rarotonga. Internet speed can vary.
Average speed
10 Mbps
WiFi access is generally available in tourist areas, but it might not be as fast or reliable as you are used to in the UK.
Health & vaccinations in Cook Islands
As a British tourist, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency treatment and repatriation. While the GHIC/EHIC card is useful in Europe, it is not applicable in the Cook Islands. Check your policy details for inclusions and exclusions, particularly regarding adventurous activities.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
Consult your doctor or travel clinic for the most up-to-date health advice and recommended vaccinations for the Cook Islands, which may include protection against mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus. Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in accommodations with screened windows or air conditioning. Food and water safety are generally good, but it's advisable to drink bottled water to avoid any stomach upsets.
Calling Cook Islands
Country code
+682
To call the Cook Islands from the UK, dial 00 + 682 + [local number].
To call a Cook Islands number 22222 from the UK, you would dial 00 682 22222.
To call the Cook Islands, you'll need the exit code (00 from the UK), followed by the country code (682), and then the local number. Mobile coverage is generally good in populated areas.
UK Embassy in Cook Islands
British High Commission Apia (Samoa)
British High Commission John Williams Building, 4th Floor Beach Road, Apia, Samoa
Airport in Cook Islands
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.