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Cook Islands Travel Information

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When to Go to Cook Islands

To get the most out of your next adventure it makes sense to consider some of the very local factors that combine to make up what you feel is the best time to travel to a destination. Many of these factors are very personal - some people prefer to travel when the weather is not too hot, or sites too crowded - others prefer to travel when a traditional local event is taking place. Taking into account the dates of public holidays can also make sense as these may have an impact on opening times of attractions, shops and restaurants, or might affect public transport or other services. Conversely public holidays can be a time of great local festivities and celebrations providing a feast of local expressionism and culture.

Climate

The Cook Islands enjoy a pleasantly warm and sunny climate all year round.  June to August are the cooler months, whilst November to March marks the warmer season, with occasional tropical showers expected.

The drier months from April to November have an average temperature of about 26 degrees Celsius. During the warmer, more humid and damp season from December to March the temperature ranges between 22 and 29 degrees Celsius.

Severe weather is rare and infrequent.

Seasonality

As in many countries, Christmas and Easter are popular times of the year for visiting the Cook Islands.

National Holidays

Date Description
25 Apr 08 Anzac Day
02 Jun 08 The Sovereign's Birthday
04 Aug 08 Constitution Day
26 Oct 08 National Gospel Day
25 Dec 08 Christmas Day
26 Dec 08 Boxing Day
01 Jan 09 New Year's Day
02 Jan 09 New Year Holiday

National Events

Event Occurs Description
Te Mire Kapa (Dancer of the Year) April This event attracts many spectators. During the month men, women and children participate in several categories of dance, all leading up to the finals late in the month or in early May.
Gospel Day 'Nuku' October Religious groups from around the islands assemble together to perform religious dramas or acts, in remembrance of the arrival of the missionaries to the islands.
Tiare Festival November The Tiare Festival also known as the 'Flower Festival' has a different theme each year. There are competitions for the best decorated shops, schools and government buildings. Also best head or neck 'ei, best pot plant and much more. Miss Tiare Pageant and a float parade also feature during this fun week of festivities.
When to go to Cook Islands
(1/78) - Frigate Bird (from Metropolitan Touring)
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Things to do in Cook Islands

Cook Islands Travel Information

Background Information for Cook Islands

Why Travel to Cook Islands?

  • Experience warm and spontaneous hospitality, exuberant music and dancing and a relaxed mood.
  • Explore spectacular Rarotonga, the vibrant centre of the Cook Islands, with its high mountain peaks, lush rain forests and palm-fringed shores.
  • Spend a few days chilling out on Mangaia, an island of incredible, serene beauty. Trek for miles along the coast, or in the interior and not meet another soul or hear a vehicle.
  • Follow in the wake of Captain Cook and discover Palmerston Island for yourself - a true atoll with sandy islets on a continuous ring of coral reef enclosing a lagoon.
  • With its crystal clear turquoise waters and sparkling white beaches the beautiful island of Aitutaki is an essential ingredient in any Cook Island holiday.