Flight time.
Close to home. Raro is just a 3-hour flight from Auckland – that means less time travelling and more time unwinding.
Unwind, explore and fall in love with the Cook Islands
Dreaming of turquoise lagoons, endless sunshine, and a pace of life set to "island time"? Just a short 3 to 4-hour flight from New Zealand, the Cook Islands offer the perfect escape, whether you're after relaxation, romance, unforgettable family memories or tropical adventures.
Picture yourself strolling along Rarotonga’s sun-kissed beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or getting swept up in vibrant cultural celebrations. From leisurely days by the pool at your world-class resort, to exploring hidden gems and lush island interiors, there’s magic around every corner.
Best of all, these islands embrace a wonderfully relaxed pace, no rush-hour, no traffic lights, and plenty of happy locals keen to share their slice of paradise.
Chat to our Pacific travel specialists and together, let’s plan your magical Cook Islands escape today.
Best time to go.
May to October, is dry season and generally considered the best time to visit. However, even during the wet season (November to April), the rain showers are usually short-lived, and the islands remain lush and green.
Time difference.
Despite being a 3 hour flight away, New Zealand is 22 hours ahead of Raro (GMT -10).
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Cook Islands deals 8
Explore Lagoon Breeze Villas
Rarotonga
Lagoon Breeze Villas
Return flights
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
1679
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
$250 FOOD & BEVERAGE CREDIT
ADULTS ONLY
Explore Little Polynesian Resort
Rarotonga
Little Polynesian Resort
Return flights
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
3479
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
ADULTS ONLY
Explore Sunset Resort
Rarotonga
Sunset Resort
Return flights
7 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
2099
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
$250 FOOD & BEVERAGE CREDIT
KIDS PLAY FREE*
Explore Pacific Resort Rarotonga
Rarotonga
Pacific Resort Rarotonga
Return flights
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
2509
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
$250 FOOD & BEVERAGE CREDIT
ADULTS ONLY
Explore Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Aitutaki
Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Return flights
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
4329
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
FOOD & BEVERAGE CREDIT
FREE 2X 30MIN MASSAGES
Explore Tamanu Beach
Aitutaki
Tamanu Beach
Return flights
6 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
3099
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
KIDS STAY, PLAY & EAT FREE*
FOOD & BEVERAGE CREDIT
Explore The Edgewater Resort & Spa
Rarotonga
The Edgewater Resort & Spa
Return flights
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
from
$
1639
per person share twin
Flying with
Air New Zealand
BOOK NOW FOR 2026
RESORT CREDIT
Explore Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa - Book for 2026 travel
Rarotonga
Te Manava Luxury Villas & Spa - Book for 2026 travel
5 Nights
Transfers
from
$
1749
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Our favourite things to do in the Cook Islands
An Island night to remember!
Get ready for a night that’s all about culture, food, and fun at Te Vara Nui Village!
Swim with turtles
Zip around underwater on a sea scooter safari with Ariki Adventures. Your first encounter with a sea turtle in the wild is something you’ll remember forever.
Aitutaki’s ultimate must-do!
This is a must do when in Aitutaki.
Get off-road in Raro
All aboard for an adventure you won’t soon forget! Take on the most thrilling road trip inland of Rarotonga!
Hop on a lagoon cruise
Don’t miss a fantastic day out exploring Muri Lagoon.
Try Paddleboard Yoga
Ready for a unique twist on your typical yoga routine?
Enjoy the local nightlife
Rarotonga’s got the vibe! Dance, drink, and enjoy a good time at one of Raro's lively bars and clubs!
Catch of the day
Fish and feast, an angler’s delight!
BUGGY TOUR
FISHING TRIP
Explore Rarotonga Fishing & Adventure Package
Rarotonga
Rarotonga Fishing & Adventure Package
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
1829
per person quad share. Flights are additional
Explore Heavenly Honeymoon in Paradise - Pacific Resort Aitutaki
Aitutaki
Heavenly Honeymoon in Paradise - Pacific Resort Aitutaki
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
4099
per person share twin. Flights are additional
DINNER & SHOW
PROGRESSIVE DINNER
Explore Te Vara Nui & Progressive Dinner Package
Rarotonga
Te Vara Nui & Progressive Dinner Package
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
1569
per person share twin. Flights are additional
LAGOON CRUISE
BUGGY TOUR
Explore Raro Experience Package
Rarotonga
Raro Experience Package
5 Nights
Transfers
Breakfast
Sightseeing
from
$
1459
per person share twin. Flights are additional
Our Cook Islands travel blogs
93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5
"At a shorth notice Angela was able put together a package that suited us."
Ashley"Great knowledge and very helpful"
Te Arepa"She very promptly arranged what I had asked for. Attention to detail Good communication by phone and email."
Shara
Andy Gosnell
House of Travel Christchurch City
There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team and Andy is ours! His easy and honest approach makes for an enjoyable relationship and experience for clients, suppliers and all the team.
Travel has always been a constant in Andy's life.
Andy first developed a love for travel early, living in the USA for 3 years from the age of 5. After this he has taken every opportunity, travelling the world to some of its most remote spots. Whether he is trekking in the Patagonian Andes, strolling the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread across USA, Asia, Europe and the Pacific, Andy's in his element.
Being in the travel industry for almost 7 years has given Andy a great opportunity to visit amazing places and diversify his knowledge, so no matter where you want to go, he will have some expert advice to make your trip unforgettable.
"I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything, your only limited by how far your imagination can stretch."
Years in the industry: 7
No. of countries visited: 10
Favourite place to visit: Amalfi Coast
Nest place on the list to visit: Yosemite, California
Not all those who wander are lost - J.R.R. Tolkien.
Why I love travel:
The places I see and the people I meet, travel really is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from all cultures and walks of life. Remember life is short, travel often.
My travel tips:
- If you are always early, you are never late.
- Prebook as much as possible before you go and schedule rest days on long trips.
- Live courageously - you miss 100% of the opportunities you don't take.
My top 3 favourite destinations:
- Italy - The food, the history, the people, the stunning coastlines, and mountains. Italy should be on everyone's bucket list.
- USA - With a multitude of cultures to experience and adventures to be had, you could spend your life just in the USA and not see everything.
- Patagonia - A challenge to reach, the landscapes that will great you make every minute of the journey worth the effort.
What's in my suitcase:
- Kindle/E-reader - it is easy to pack, light to carry, and has a long battery life; this is an essential on all my trips.
- Noise cancelling headphones - perfect for noisy flights and airports.
- Travel plug adapter - easy to forget but a must have.
Andy
Ellie Gallagher
House of Travel Hobsonville
Working within the Travel industry was always my dream, I'm passionate about experiencing different cultures and immersing ourselves in history; it broadens the mind. I look forward to connecting with you, and being a part of your next adventure.
Ellie
Namrata Patel
House of Travel Hobsonville
Hi, I’m Namrata — a travel
consultant who genuinely cares about your time, your budget, and your hopes for
that memorable holiday. I love turning travel ideas into something real and
unforgettable. For me, building an itinerary is like solving a puzzle — shaped
by your interests, personality, and sense of adventure.
I’m research-driven and love digging into the details that make a trip special.
Whether it’s tricky airfares, island-hopping cruises, or crafting meaningful
family journeys, I’m here for it.
Travel is never one-size-fits-all, and I look forward to discovering your
unique travel style.
Every trip starts with a good chat — let’s start there.
Namrata
Robyn Oretsky
House of Travel Wellington City
For me, travel has been more than just a series of destinations, it has been a transformative journey that has sculpted my character and contributed to my personal evolution. My travel experiences are not merely about ticking off destinations from a bucket list, but about immersing myself in the heart and soul of each place I’ve visited visit.
My early travels began with frequent road trips around my home country of Canada and the USA, and I am fortunate enough to have now been to six of the seven continents. Exploring the world through various modes of transportation has been a thrilling adventure for me, from cruise ships, to trains, to rickshaws, and I have an appreciation for the experiences that local transport offers. I am comfortable with sleeping in a hammock in the rainforest, an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific, and everything in between.
My experiences have taught me to adapt to different situations and understand diverse perspectives, and my background in customer service and sales has equipped me with valuable skills that I believe make me well-suited for various client needs. I believe this makes me well-suited to meet your needs as a client. Whether it's finding solutions to problems or anticipating your preferences, I strive to provide an exceptional service tailored to you. My aim is to not just meet but exceed your expectations by drawing on my varied background.
My enthusiasm for travel is infectious, and it is my goal to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty of our planet.
Robyn
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year to visit the Cook Islands?
There’s never a bad time to visit this island paradise that embodies a warm tropical climate all year round, but the popular time to travel is between late April to October. Busiest time to be on the island is school holidays – book early to avoid disappointment.
What is the currency in the Cook Islands
The unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar. The Cook Islands also issue their own banknotes and unique coins so remember to change your local notes before you leave.
Where to go on holiday in the Cook Islands?
If you're planning a holiday in the Cook Islands, explore our Cook Islands travel guide to make the most of your time on these beautiful islands. Discover top spots like Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and the lesser-known gems like Atiu and Mangaia.
How to find the best holiday package to the Cook Islands?
We've got that covered for you! Our Cook Island specialists have handpicked and curated the best Cook Island deals for you so you can make the most of your island holiday. Visit our Cook Island deals section on our website or sign up to get the hottest deals sent straight to your email.
Is The Cook Islands in the same time zone as NZST?
Cook Islands are 22 or 23 hours behind New Zealand (depending on daylight savings in New Zealand). Do your calculation before arrival eg. when you fly from New Zealand you arrive Cook Islands the day before.
What power voltage and power outlet plugs do they use in the Cook Islands?
Electricity voltage is 240 AC/50 cycle, the same three pin plugs as used in New Zealand and Australia. Some hotels have outlets for 110-volt AC electric razors.
Where to stay in the Cook Islands?
Choosing where to stay in the Cook Islands can be tough with so many options. For luxury resorts and pristine beaches, Rarotonga is perfect. Take the family to The Edgewater Resort & Spa or Pacific Resort Rarotonga. Aitutaki offers stunning lagoons and secluded resorts from budget to luxury, while Atiu is an eco-lovers paradise, great for nature lovers with its lush landscapes and caves.
What should I pack for my trip to the Cook Islands?
Pack light, breathable clothing for warm weather, swimwear, sunscreen, jandals, a hat, insect repellent and sunglasses. If visiting during the cooler months (May to October), we recommend including a light jacket for cooler evenings. Please note, Cook Islands is a very modest society and you should dress and behave so as not to offend.
Do I need travel insurance for the Cook Islands?
Absolutely, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance for your trip to the Cook Islands. We provide a range of travel insurance options suitable for travel to the Cook Islands. Find more information here.
Do I need to hire a car to get around in the Cook Islands?
Recommend hiring a car to offer flexibility and convenience if you plan to explore at your own pace. NZ full drivers license is valid in the Cook Islands. Just remember not to park under a coconut tree. If hiring a scooter, please note helmets are mandatory. If you hold a motorcycle license this will be valid in the Cook Islands, if not you will need to obtain a Cook Islands visitor license.
How can I get around the Cook Islands without a car?
There are two public buses on the island of Rarotonga, one which runs clockwise and the other runs anti-clockwise. The bus will stop anywhere on the main road, just wave and smile and the bus will pick you up. For exploring more of the back roads of Rarotonga, and to see historical sites and check out the scenery, we recommend you hire a car for at least a part of your holiday or there is the option of booking a tour.
What are some family-friendly activities in the Cook Islands?
The Cook Islands are the ultimate family holiday destination with activities like Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes where the whole family is entertained by Captain Tama’s crew, snorkelling and lunch included, visit the Punanga Nui Market, exploring traditional Cook Island villages and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Resorts often offer kids' clubs and family-friendly excursions.
What is there to do in Cook Islands?
There are so many things to do! Indulge like a local and try the traditional dishes of the Cook Islands, Enjoy an island night cultural show, Relax, unwind and release all that tension with a massage or spa treatment or Jump on a lagoon cruise on the world’s most beautiful lagoon in Aitutaki, you’ll be mesmerised by the natural beauty that surrounds you.
What is the telecommunications network in the Cook Islands?
Vodafone Cook Islands is the current mobile provider for telecommunications services in the country. 4G+ mobile data is available on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. With 4G now available on the remaining outer islands. There are WiFi hotspots at prime locations spread across all islands.
