Aarua, Cook Islands: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Avarua (often misspelled as “Aarua”) is one of the smallest capital cities in the world, yet hosts over 70% of all visitors to the Cook Islands? This charming South Pacific hub packs an incredible array of experiences into its modest size, from vibrant markets and pristine beaches to rich cultural heritage sites that tell the story of ancient Polynesian voyagers who navigated by stars to reach these shores.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Avarua offers an authentic island experience without the overwhelming crowds of more commercialized destinations. Let’s explore the best things to do in this tropical paradise that captivates travelers from around the world.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Rarotonga International Airport (RAR) is the gateway to the Cook Islands and is located just 3 km (1.9 miles) west of Avarua. Most international flights arrive from Auckland, Sydney, and Los Angeles. Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia are the main carriers serving the island. Flights typically take 3-4 hours from New Zealand and 5-6 hours from Australia.

Upon arrival, you’ll need to clear customs and immigration. Visitors from most countries don’t need a visa for stays up to 31 days, but you must have a valid passport, confirmed accommodation, and a return ticket. The Cook Islands use New Zealand dollars (NZD) as their currency, so it’s advisable to exchange some money before arrival or at the airport.

From the airport to Avarua town center, it’s a quick 10-minute drive. You can take a shuttle service, taxi, or arrange a pickup through your accommodation. Many visitors prefer to rent a car directly at the airport for maximum flexibility during their stay.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Recommended Months to Visit

The best time to visit Avarua is during the dry season from May to October. During these months, you’ll enjoy temperatures around 24-27°C (75-81°F) with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, snorkeling, and exploring the island.

June to August offers the most pleasant weather but is also high season, so expect more tourists and higher prices. May and October are excellent shoulder season months with good weather and fewer crowds.

Months to Avoid

The wet season runs from November to April, with January and February being the rainiest months. During this time, temperatures climb to 26-30°C (79-86°F) with high humidity. While prices are lower, be prepared for afternoon downpours and the possibility of cyclones (though they’re relatively rare).

If you do visit during the wet season, plan indoor activities for the afternoons when rain is most likely, and take advantage of the sunny mornings for beach time and outdoor exploration.

Getting Around Locally

Avarua and the entire island of Rarotonga are easy to navigate with several transportation options:

• The local bus service runs in two directions around the island: clockwise and anti-clockwise. Buses depart from Avarua approximately every hour from 7am to 4pm. A single ride costs about $5 NZD, or you can purchase a 10-ride pass for $35 NZD.
• Renting a scooter is a popular option, costing around $15-30 NZD per day. You’ll need to obtain a Cook Islands driving license from the police station in Avarua for about $20 NZD. This requires presenting your home country’s valid license.
• Car rentals provide the most flexibility and comfort, especially during rainy periods. Expect to pay $45-80 NZD per day depending on the vehicle type. The same local license requirement applies.
• Bicycles are available for rent from many accommodations and shops for around $15 NZD per day, offering an eco-friendly way to explore at a leisurely pace.
• Walking is perfectly feasible for getting around Avarua town itself, as most attractions are within a 20-minute walk of each other.

The island’s main road (Ara Tapu) circles Rarotonga and is about 32 km (20 miles) in circumference. Most people can drive around the entire island in about 45 minutes without stopping.

Where to Stay

Avarua offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. While the capital itself has fewer beachfront properties than other parts of Rarotonga, it provides convenient access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Avarua’s food scene offers everything from casual takeaways to upscale dining experiences. The local cuisine blends Polynesian traditions with international influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and tropical produce.

Must-Try Local Dishes

• Ika Mata – Raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut cream, similar to ceviche but with a Pacific twist.
• Rukau – Young taro leaves cooked with coconut cream, similar to creamed spinach.
• Poke – A pudding-like dessert made from ripe bananas or papaya and coconut milk.
• Curried Eke – Octopus curry, a local specialty with Indian influences.

Where to Eat in Avarua

Don’t miss the Muri Night Market (open several evenings a week) for a variety of food stalls in a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to sample different local dishes in one visit.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

1. Experience the Punanga Nui Market

The Punanga Nui Market is the heart of Avarua’s cultural life, bustling with activity every Saturday from 7am to 12pm. This vibrant marketplace offers an authentic slice of Cook Islands life with stalls selling everything from tropical fruits and vegetables to handcrafted souvenirs, black pearl jewelry, and island-style clothing.

Food vendors serve up local delicacies and refreshing fruit smoothies, while cultural performances take place on the central stage. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts, sample local cuisine, and interact with friendly locals. Arrive early (before 9am) to avoid the crowds and see the best selection of goods.

2. Visit the Cook Islands National Museum

Located at the Sir Geoffrey Henry National Culture Centre, this museum houses an impressive collection of Cook Islands artifacts, including traditional carved items, seafaring vaka (canoe) replicas, and tivaevae (traditional quilts). The exhibits provide fascinating insights into the islands’ history, from ancient Polynesian settlement to European contact and beyond.

Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, the museum charges a small entrance fee and offers a welcome respite from the tropical heat. It’s an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the rich cultural heritage that shapes life in the Cook Islands today.

3. Explore the Historic Beachcomber Building

This grand limestone building on Avarua’s eastern waterfront houses several attractions under one roof. Browse local crafts and stunning black pearls at The Beachcomber Store, admire contemporary Pacific art at the Bergman Gallery, and relax at The Cafe with its quirky “Vinyl Revival Club” atmosphere.

The historic architecture itself is worth appreciating, representing an important era in the island’s development. Its location on the main road makes it an easy stop while exploring the town center.

4. Snorkel to the Maitai Shipwreck

Just offshore from Trader Jacks restaurant, you can see “The Boiler” of the 100+ year-old Maitai shipwreck poking above the water. Strong swimmers with proper equipment can snorkel out to explore this fascinating piece of maritime history. The swim is approximately 500m (547 yards) from shore, so it’s recommended only for confident swimmers and preferably at low tide.

If you’re not comfortable swimming out, you can still admire the wreck from shore while enjoying a meal or drink at Trader Jacks. For those wanting a closer look without the swim, consider joining a glass-bottom boat tour or the Raro Reef Sub tour that visits the wreck site.

5. Check Out the Pare O Tane Palace

Opposite the prominent CICC Church stands the historic Pare O Tane Palace of Makea and the surrounding Taputapuatea Marae (traditional meeting ground). This significant historical site is where paramount ariki (chief) Makea Takau signed the treaty accepting the Cook Islands as a British protectorate in 1888.

The grounds are open to the public, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of Cook Islands royalty and appreciate the renovated palace building. The site offers a tangible connection to the islands’ political history and traditional governance structures.

6. Attend a Sunday Church Service

Experience the powerful harmonies of Cook Islands singing by attending a Sunday church service at one of Avarua’s churches. The Avarua CICC (Cook Islands Christian Church) is particularly recommended for its beautiful coral limestone construction and traditional hymn singing that will leave you speechless.

Services typically begin at 10am and visitors are welcome, though appropriate dress is expected (shoulders and knees covered). The experience offers a window into the important role Christianity plays in modern Cook Islands culture, blended with traditional Polynesian musical elements.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Cultural Experiences

Beyond the National Museum, Avarua offers several other cultural attractions worth exploring:

• Cook Islands Library & Museum – Set in park grounds surrounded by some of Avarua’s oldest buildings, this museum displays ceremonial artifacts, cooking utensils, and weapons. Their library holds a collection of rare books about the Pacific. Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 1pm, and Tuesday evenings from 4pm to 7pm.
• Takamoa Theological College – Completed in 1843, this well-preserved multi-story building was the first college for training indigenous missionaries in the Pacific. An interpretation panel at the entrance tells the fascinating story of the college and its role in spreading Christianity throughout the Pacific islands.
• Bergman Gallery – Located in the Beachcomber Building, this gallery showcases contemporary Pacific art, with exhibitions changing regularly. It’s a great place to appreciate the vibrant art scene of the Cook Islands and wider Oceania.

Annual Festivals

If your visit coincides with these events, they offer an unforgettable glimpse into Cook Islands culture:

• Te Maeva Nui Festival (late July/early August) – Celebrating self-governance, this week-long festival features cultural competitions, traditional dancing, drumming, and singing performances.
• Vaka Eiva (November) – An international outrigger canoe racing festival that brings teams from around the world to compete in Rarotonga’s lagoon.
• Tiare Festival (November) – A celebration of flowers with competitions for best garden, floral arrangements, and the crowning of the Tiare Queen.

Cultural Shows

For an evening of entertainment, consider attending a cultural show that combines traditional performances with dinner:

• Te Vara Nui Village – Offers a cultural village tour followed by an over-water night show with dinner. Their “Pride of Rarotonga” performance showcases traditional dancing, drumming, and fire dancing.
• Highland Paradise – Located in the mountains but offering transport from Avarua, this “lost village” provides historical tours and an evening cultural show with traditional feast.

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Water Activities

The pristine waters surrounding Rarotonga offer numerous opportunities for adventure:

• Snorkeling – The Aroa Marine Reserve on the southwest coast offers some of the best snorkeling on the island. Titikaveka Beach is another excellent spot with clear waters and abundant marine life.
• Kayaking – Paddle across Muri Lagoon to explore the small offshore islands (motus). Many accommodations offer free kayaks, or you can rent one from beachside operators for around $20 NZD per hour.
• Lagoon Cruises – Join a glass-bottom boat tour or lagoon cruise to explore further afield with expert guides who can show you the best snorkeling spots and share information about the marine ecosystem.
• Fishing Charters – Departing from Avatiu Harbour in Avarua, fishing charters offer the chance to catch yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and even marlin in the deep waters beyond the reef.

Land Adventures

Explore Rarotonga’s lush interior with these activities:

• Cross-Island Trek – This challenging 3-4 hour hike crosses from north to south through rainforest and includes climbing to “The Needle” (Te Rua Manga), a dramatic rock spire offering panoramic views.
• Raemaru Track – A shorter, easier alternative to the Cross-Island Trek, this 90-minute return hike still offers impressive views and includes a 15-meter rock climb at the top.
• Mountain Biking – Rent a mountain bike to explore the inland roads and trails that most tourists never see.
• Buggy Tours – For an adrenaline rush, join a guided buggy tour that takes you off-road into Rarotonga’s mountainous interior.

Natural Attractions

• Wigmore’s Waterfall – A refreshing freshwater pool and waterfall located in the southern part of the island. It’s especially impressive after rainfall.
• Black Rock – This volcanic outcrop on the western coast is not only a great swimming spot but also offers beautiful sunset views.
• Avana Passage – A historically significant channel where ancient Polynesian voyagers departed for New Zealand. Today it’s a scenic spot where you might spot turtles or eagle rays.

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety Tips

The Cook Islands are generally very safe, but it’s still wise to take basic precautions:

• Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly – the tropical sun is intense, even on cloudy days.
• Stay hydrated and carry water with you, especially when hiking or spending time at the beach.
• Be cautious when swimming in passages or areas with strong currents. Stick to designated swimming areas.
• Wear reef shoes when exploring rocky or coral areas to protect your feet from cuts and stonefish.
• Use mosquito repellent, particularly at dawn and dusk, to prevent insect bites.
• While crime is rare, don’t leave valuables unattended on beaches or in unlocked accommodations.

Local Etiquette

Respecting local customs will enhance your experience:

• Dress modestly when visiting villages or churches (cover shoulders and knees).
• Remove shoes before entering someone’s home if you see shoes at the door.
• Ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially during ceremonies.
• Sunday is observed as a day of rest and worship. Many businesses close, and swimming/noisy activities near churches during services is discouraged.
• Greet people with a smile and “Kia Orana” (may you live long), the traditional Cook Islands greeting.

Cultural Insights

Understanding these aspects of Cook Islands culture will deepen your appreciation:

• The Cook Islands operate on “island time” – a relaxed pace where punctuality is less important than in Western cultures.
• Family (kopu tangata) is central to Cook Islands society, with extended family networks playing important roles in daily life.
• Traditional leadership still exists through the ariki (chiefs) system, which operates alongside the modern government.
• Land in the Cook Islands is family-owned and cannot be sold, only leased – this preserves cultural connections to ancestral lands.
• Christianity is deeply integrated with traditional culture, creating a unique spiritual landscape.

Visitor Comments About Avarua

Practical Travel Tips

Money Matters

• The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is the official currency. There are ATMs in Avarua, but they can occasionally run out of cash, so have a backup plan.
• Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but smaller establishments and market vendors often prefer cash.
• There’s a 15% VAT included in most prices. There’s no need to tip in the Cook Islands, though it’s appreciated for exceptional service.

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi is available at most accommodations and cafes but can be expensive and slower than you might be used to.
• Local SIM cards with data packages can be purchased from Vodafone in Avarua.
• Consider a digital detox – embrace the island pace and limit your online time!

Packing Essentials

• Reef-safe sunscreen (regular sunscreens can damage the coral reef)
• Insect repellent with DEET
• Reef/water shoes for exploring rocky or coral areas
• Light, breathable clothing plus one modest outfit for church or cultural events
• Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste
• Snorkeling gear (though rentals are available, bringing your own ensures a good fit)

Health Considerations

• No vaccinations are required to enter the Cook Islands, but it’s always good to be up-to-date on routine vaccines.
• Bring any prescription medications you need, as the local pharmacy may not stock them.
• The Rarotonga Hospital in Avarua can handle basic medical needs, but serious conditions may require evacuation to New Zealand.
• Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended.

Paradise Awaits: Your Avarua Adventure Begins

Avarua may be small in size, but it offers a wealth of experiences that capture the essence of Cook Islands culture and natural beauty. From the vibrant energy of the Punanga Nui Market to the serene majesty of The Needle rising above the rainforest, this charming capital invites you to slow down and embrace island time.

Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons, savoring fresh tropical cuisine, or simply watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues, Avarua offers authentic Pacific experiences that will stay with you long after your tan fades. The warm hospitality of the Cook Islanders, their rich cultural traditions, and the stunning natural environment combine to create a destination that calls visitors back time and again.

Pack your sense of adventure, leave your worries behind, and prepare to discover why this tiny capital in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean captures the hearts of all who visit. Kia Orana and safe travels!