It’s no secret that we Kiwis love the Cook Islands. We’ve got a history of close social and economic ties – you don’t even need to change currency when visiting the Cooks!
Rarotonga is the obvious choice, but there are many more islands in the Cooks with lots to offer. Although not all of them can be visited, it’s worth looking beyond the typical destinations. (Just remember to take cash as only Rarotonga and Aitutaki have ATMs.)
Rarotonga
About me
Let me introduce you to the magic of the Cooks. What’s not to love? Frequent direct flights from New Zealand, a good mix of accommodation options, a bustling market, and a range of places to dine and drink. From lush mountains and jungle to sparkling lagoons and powdery sands, I am a tropical paradise personified.
My perfect match
Happy to kick back at a resort and switch over to island time – without being too far from creature comforts? Then we’ll get along just fine.
My ideal date
We’ll start with a leisurely cruise – snorkelling and sunbathing to your heart’s content, guided by lively locals who know all the best spots. We might even throw in a beachside BBQ. Then it’s back to your resort to freshen up, before we head out at night for a different kind of island experience: a cultural village tour with a buffet spread fit for a king. Expect flames, drums, and plenty of hip-shaking dance moves.
Aitutaki
About me
I’m a sucker for romance – palm trees, sunset strolls, rose petals on pillows. I’m also a water baby through and through – my coral lagoon is my pride and joy. There are flights over from Rarotonga every day that get here in less than an hour (and the aerial views are stunning); you can also fly here from New Zealand via Rarotonga.
My perfect match
If you believe in fairytales and true love, let’s talk.
My ideal date
You can’t visit Aitutaki and not take a cruise out on the lagoon to see the amazing blues, greens and purples in full technicolour for yourself. All the best snorkelling spots are a little further out, and there’s nothing like swimming with tropical fish in these tranquil waters. We’ll stop off at the volcanic island of Moturakau, and get your passport stamped at One Foot Island. If the weather gods are smiling on us, I’d take you out kitesurfing; otherwise we’d explore the back roads and check out some churches and marae off the main drag.
Atiu
About me
You could say I’m the outdoorsy type – growing up in the jungle and all, surrounded by coral gardens. It may take a little while to get to know me, but I’m pretty down to earth and don’t put on any airs. I’m proud of my Polynesian heritage and I’d love to share our traditions with you. Flights from Rarotonga or Aitutaki take less than an hour, or you can pop by on an island-hopping tour.
My perfect match
Appreciates wildlife and the great outdoors. Bonus if you’re a caffeine addict – we can indulge together at one of the local coffee plantations.
My ideal date
If you’re up for it, we’ll go exploring limestone tunnels and caves, dodging stalactites and stalagmites and listening out for the clicking sounds of birds like the kopeka. We might even see some giant crabs. Every cave is unique – some drop into swimming holes, other are legendary for being home to long-buried bones. We’ll also sample some home brew at a ‘tumunu’ – a local drinking club where traditional bush-beer drinking ceremonies live on.
Mangaia
About me
Some might say I’m a bit of a mystery, but I just enjoy solitude and quiet and long solo hikes. I may have a lot of land space but I’m deliciously uncrowded. My climate is cooler than some of my neighbours and I’d like to think I’m mature for my age. (They say I’m 18 million years old, with lots of rich mythology to match.) Come on over on a day tour from Rarotonga or hop on a flight (every day but Sunday, it takes under an hour) and stay in one of my homely lodges.
My perfect match
Rugged, sober, and modest. But seriously, someone with a sense of adventure and a love of hiking and rock climbing.
My ideal date
The beauty of this island lies in gems like the Tuatini Caves and the towering rock formations made of fossilised coral reefs. We’ll head out on some hiking trails and climb to lookouts where we can see across to Rangimotia, the highest point on Mangaia. We could take it down a notch and wind down by strolling the boardwalks at Lake Tiriara or check out the taro plantations. At the end of the night, I’d give you an ei, a string of shells from the pupu (tiny yellow snail) to remember me by.
Mauke
About me
I’m a great host and a keen gardener – wherever you turn you’ll find lush greenery, fragrant flowers and majestic trees. I’m big on living off the land, so don’t be surprised to see chickens and goats running around freely. All this, along with freshwater pools and secluded beaches, is less than an hour’s flight from Rarotonga (every day but Sunday).
My perfect match
Is down to earth, enjoys getting back to nature, good with animals. No shopaholics.
My ideal date
We’ll start with a visit to the largest banyan tree in the world, then pay a visit to the famous Divided Church. (It’s quite a sight – each side is decorated differently due to a past dispute between rival villages.) Vai Tango Cave is a must-see, with a crystal clear pool at the end of a trail of hibiscus trees. And if you’re itching for a beach fix, we can see to that too – the best ones are on the south side.
Mitiaro
About me
Small but perfectly formed, I take things at my own pace. I’m a little old-fashioned – you can expect a grassroots homestay experience. We’d love to welcome you – stay a while and make the most of it. With a tiny population, you’ll never feel crowded or rushed here. Flights from Rarotonga operate Mondays and Fridays.
My ideal match
Someone unpretentious, who enjoys the old-school charm of sleepy village life. If five-star hotels rather than homely huts are more your style, we probably aren’t the right fit – but if you want a unique and unforgettable trip, read on.
My ideal date
After filling up on fresh fruit, we’ll take a leisurely stroll around the island. I promise you’ll be enchanted by the colours of the coral and the bewitching scent of frangipani. We’ll explore palm groves, secret caves, and fresh pools and lagoons just crying out for you to take a dip in.
Manihiki
About me
Although I’m hard to get to, I’ve got plenty to offer for those who venture this far. I’m known for my black pearls and untouched lagoon. Plan ahead, as there’s only one flight a week from Rarotonga and it takes 3.5 hours.
My ideal match
Someone intrepid who also appreciates the finer things in life. If you like diving, snorkelling and spear fishing, we’ll have plenty to do together.
My ideal date
I’d start by taking you out to a pearl farm to show you how these are made, then, if there’s time, we’d take a boat tour to the top end of the lagoon for a snorkel and swim. If you’re up for it, we could head out later for a spot of night fishing and have a go at catching something by moonlight.
