Wake amongst sincere beauty, discover the vast reef, lap up the afternoon rays and unwind in sheer indulgence.”¨The Cook Islands – the perfect Polynesian honeymoons bliss!
About the Cook Islands
- Located in the South Pacific Ocean
- All 15 islands can be reached by domestic flights from the commercial centre of the islands -Rarotonga.
- Volcanic Rarotonga and the remaining of the lush, fertile Southern islands account for 89% of the Cook’s land area and population of 18,700.
- Two largest islands are Rarotonga and Aitutaki, and hold the key to a dream ‘South Seas’ holiday.
What to do there
- Take a trip to Atiu, Mangaia or Mauke – it will be a fascinating journey and take you far off the beaten track.
- Step back in time and marvel at the isle traditions that are still so rich and abundantly found at every reef and village. So much of these vast, breathtaking lands have survived the explosion of global modernisation.
- For those coffee-lovers visit the island of Atiu’s, there you’ll unearth a coffee plantation boasting authentic world-class coffee.
- Atiu also homes many caves, riddled with limestone caverns, ancient stalactites and stalagmites, the most famous being the “Kopeka Cave”. In this cave dwells the Kopeka, an extremely rare bird solely found on this island. To visit this natural sub-terrane, you must have a local guide present and of course leave that coffee back at the car.
Exotic ceremony
The Cook Islands is an ideal location for a destination wedding with its superior weather and five-star comfort. ҬA license is required to marry in The Cook Islands, and is available within three working days from a local registry (a license cannot beӬobtained outside the country). Most packages include:
- Accommodation for a couple of nights,
- A minister or celebrant,
- Assistance in obtaining a marriage license, flowers and leis, champagne and an unforgettable candle-light dinner.
Visa regulations
All visitors must have:
- A valid passport (with more than three months until expiry)
- Adequate funds to support themselves during their stay
- Evidence of a return ticket.
Language
The Cook Islands are connected with New Zealand and the national language is Maori, however these days English is fast becoming the official language.
Honeymoon health
- Free of tropical diseases so you won’t need any needles
- There are mosquitoes on most tropical islands so repellent will come in handy.
- Soak up a true South Pacific lifestyle – just what the doctor ordered.
Weather facts
Dry season – May to October. Temps: 20C – 26C. “¨Wet season – November – April. Temps: 25C – 30C.
Fancy a swim?
Whether it be a cool-down leisurely dip, morning laps in the ocean or a dive among island treasures, the water temperature is pleasant year round with a typical temperature of 25C during the winter months (June, July, August) and 29C during the summer (December, January and February).
Money
While travelling around the Cook Islands you will need New Zealand Dollars. All major credit cards are accepted.”¨Here are some helpful websites to get you on your way:”¨www.cookislands.travel.com“¨The Cook Islands’ Official tourism website”¨www.cookislandsatoz.com“¨A-Z Travel Guide from black pearls to visas”¨www.southpacific.org“¨Details covering all things in the Pacific