GENERAL INFORMATION
240 volts. Some hotels have 110 volt AC plugs for shavers.
The Cook Islands, situated just west of the International Dateline, is nine hours behind Greenwich Mean Time and six hours behind New York.
The unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar. The Cook Islands also have their own very interesting currencies and coins (only exchangeable in the Cooks) which are interchangeable with the New Zealand dollar. Currency Converter. The dollar coin and three dollar bill are popular souvenirs. Westpac and ANZ Banks in Avarua are open weekdays from 9am to 3 pm and the airport bank is open when flights are going or coming. Major credit cards/travellers cheques are accepted at most shops and restaurants. Offshore banking facilities also available.
The capital Avarua is situated on Rarotonga, and is the main administrative, commercial and service centre.
Tourism is the major revenue earner for the country, with 50,000 tourists arriving annually. Other export industries include fresh fruit, copra, soaps, perfumes, coffee, black pearls and clothing. The Cook Islands is an international and offshore banking centre offering a range of financial services, including an offshore tax haven. The country's main trading partner is New Zealand.
VISITOR INFORMATION
AIRLINES
Air New Zealand flies into Rarotonga from New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti and Honolulu (Hawaii), and Aloha Airlines flies in from Honolulu.
The International Airport is at Rarotonga. Air Rarotonga provides regular domestic air services from Rarotonga to Aitutaki, Atiu, Mauke, Mangaia, Mitiaro and the northern group of islands.
PORTS
Avatiu Harbour on Rarotonga, at the capital Avarua, is the official port of entry and one of the few ports that can take larger vessels. The main dock is 1000 feet long, handling ships of up to a 32 foot draft.
AIRPORT TAX
Departure tax is US$16.25 (NZ$25) for adults and US$6.50 (NZ$10) for children between 2 and 11.
VISAS
Bona fide visitors do not require entry permits provided they possess onward passage and do not intend staying for more than 31 days. They must have a valid passport, adequate financial means of supporting their stay, and suitable accommodation.
Extension permits are usually granted for visitors wanting to stay over 31 days. Applications can be made on arrival at the Immigration Department. Extensions, for which there is a fee, are granted on a monthly basis, up to five additional months only. Children under 15 are exempt from charges but must report to Immigration. for official paperwork to be completed. People who wish to stay longer than six months must apply for a visa from their home country, before their arrival to Principal Immigration Officer,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration,
PO Box 105 Rarotonga, Ph: (682) 29347 : Fax: (682) 21247
GOODS AND SERVICES TAXES
There is a 12.5% Government Tax included in all prices.
POSTAL SERVICES
The main Post office on Rarotonga is open from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
TIPPING
Tipping is not customary, and may put the person tipped into a difficult position as they may feel obliged to return the present with another, as custom dictates.
CLOTHING
Dress is casual but, in common with most Pacific islands and Asia, it is considered offensive to wear almost nothing when visiting towns or villages. Topless sunbathing is definitely a no-no.
ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES
Electrical Power is 240 volts at 50 DC cycles, usually with a two- or three-point plug (same as Australia & New Zealand plugs). Some hotels have 110 volt AC plugs for shavers.
TIME
The Cook Islands are just east of the International Dateline, which puts them ten hours behind Greenwich Mean Time and six hours behind New York.
WATER
While the locals drink it from the tap, visitors might like to boil it or drink bottled water. In rural areas with no taps or treatment facilities, it is advisable to drink boiled or bottled water.
MEDICAL FACILITIES & HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Medical services are available 24 hours a day, and dental services during working hours on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. There is a modern, well-equipped hospital, a number of private medical practitioners and two pharmacies. Vaccinations are only required if arriving from an infected area. The Cook Islands are free from serious diseases and pests and dangerous plants and animals. However, visitors need to be cautious about sunburn, heat stroke and hypothermia.
|
