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The Cook Islands

by Jodie Collins

The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands scattered over 850,000 square miles of the Pacific Ocean. Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands and offers kilometres of mountains and a flat coastal area which offers a magnificent reef and clear turquoise water.

The flight from Sydney to Rarotonga will generally transit via Auckland and will take approximately 8 hours with Air New Zealand.

The Cook Islands are generally a warm pleasant temperature year around and will average around the mid 20’s.

There is a whole host of accommodation offered in the Cook Islands except five star hotels. All hotels and most motels are located on the beach, but even if you aren't on the beach it isn't far to get to one. One of my favourite resorts was the Pacific Resort, Rarotonga which is a 4 star resort located on the Muri Lagoon. Room choices here range from fully self contained spacious villa to one or two bedroom beachfront or garden units with kitchenettes.

The best way to get around the island is either by hiring a scoter or car. It only takes about 45 minutes to drive around the whole island.

There are many things to do in the Cook Island such as diving, snorkelling, golf, cycling, tennis, lagoon cruises, water sports such as windsurfing, shopping – black pearls are extremely cheap to buy here, bush walking, sunbathing, relaxing by the pool or on the beach and much more.

If you get a chance I would definitely recommend visiting Aitutaki. Aitutaki is a beautiful 40 minute scenic flight from Rarotonga. Aitutaki is a spectacular setting for snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing and offers sparkling white sand beaches. Colourful marine life is abundant in the crystal clear waters and scuba divers and game fishers are well catered for. A minimum of 3-4 days would be recommended on Aitutaki, however you can also take a day tour here from Rarotonga.

The Cook Island is your recipe for true paradise!