Wedding Destination

Lying in the very centre of the Polynesian range, the Cook Islands consists of 15 islands and their individual beauty sprinkled over 2 million squared kilometres of the Pacific Ocean. Unsurpassed in natural magnificence, the Cook Islands have been a favorite South Pacific destination known for its relaxed atmosphere and little hype.

The People

Being a British dominion, Christian is the main religion and is widely spread throughout the islands, with Sunday being a rest day. The locals speak Cook Islands Maori although English is common. 18,000 people settle in the Cook Islands, although the islands attract nearly 100,000 visitors each year.

The Islands are largely unspoilt by tourism. The locals are such friendly people and here you will get to know everyone by name, the people are stress-free and very hospitable.

Currency used here is the New Zealand Dollar, exchange rates are quite good, about $1.25 NZD for every $1 AUD. Accessing your money is quite easy as Westpac and ANZ banks are located in the main towns.

The Land

Rarotonga is the youngest island to emerge from the volcanic atoll, therefore the scenic features haven’t become weather worn like her sister islands. Razorback ridges and rugged cliffs meet mountains covered with jungle and running streams. Rarotonga is the Cooks Islands capital city and hosts the international airport.

The Sky

The year sees temperatures sitting above 25 degrees, with the warmest season being summer which extends from November to April and reaches about 30 degrees. January to early May is the wet season but the rain usually only lasts for about half an hour before its bright and sunny again.

The Sea

Cook Island beaches have pretty much put the nation on the Map. Beach seekers and the like have been tantalized by the serene tropical waters of The Cook islands,her powdery beaches and crystal lagoons. Snorkelers and divers are very well catered for, as the coral reefs that surround the islands are just waiting to be explored. Palms sway in the fragrant breeze and the ocean tickles the shore, which has been until now, a long kept secret.

Getting to The Cooks

Air New Zealand operate direct flight from Auckland which take about 4 hours. Air Rarotonga fly inter-island so getting around and viewing the different islands is quite easy.

Whilst Your There

Electricity voltage is 240 so you won’t need a converter or adaptor. In some cases the hotel uses a two prong connector which may require you to hire one from the hotel. Driving is on the left hand side of the road, and before hiring a car or motorbike, you must obtain a licence for about NZ $25 which also makes a great souvenir, you will only have to show your current licence or have a practical test.

Getting around Rarotonga is quite easy as the island is only 32kms in circumference, two buses run around the circuit, one operating clockwise, and the other anti clockwise, both depart on the hour from Cooks Corner. A great way to see the sights of Rarotonga. The Cooks aren’t really a shoppers delight, although Saturdays are market days, and you can pick up little souvenirs for the family back home. Black pearls are great buys, prices range from NZ $50 – NZ $20,000! Sarongs and island t-shirts will be found everywhere, along with assortments of knick knacks and carvings.

Before You Start Packing

Every international departure from Australia will require you to have a current Australian passport with a minimum of 6 months validity remaining from your return date into Australia. If you are traveling on a foreign passport, a visa may be required so you will need to contact Wedding Destinations to check your status.

You can take from duty free: 200 cigarettes or 1 kg of Tobacco, 2 litres of spirits or 4 litres of beer.

Why Wedding Destinations love the Cooks

Gentle emersion into paradise, feel the connection with nature as you delight in an authentic Polynesian experience. Taste, see and touch the Cook Islands as their very traditions are not confined to museum walls, but to everyday life. Here to meet you are the stunning backdrops of waterfalls and generous marine life, from the lagoons to the secluded beaches, you can find romance and intimacy with your loved one. Effortlessly accessible the islands are, no high rise hotels or concrete jungles, a view to be seen from every angle. Your time in the Cooks will leave a deep impression that will stay with you always.

Honeymoon

Aitutaki is another island of the necklace, an alluring escape is what this treasure is all about. The most amazing sunsets meet the horizon at dusk, accompanied by the best Polynesian dancers of the entire islands. Many historical names have been enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of Aitutaki, such as James Cook and the crew of HMS Bounty, making her roots rich in history’s charm. Idyllic, enticing and unforgettable are just a few words that come to mind when describing this truly unique region.

With arguably the best lagoons in the world, the abundant marine life will have you amazed. But get your breath back and explore with a scenic flight or lagoon cruise. Either way you look at life a little differently after experiencing this wonderful place. The island offers some fantastic resorts and hotels to cater for any budget, whether you want 5 star luxury or a little beach bungalow, its at your fingertips. Are you packing yet?

Because the Cook Islands are truly and geographically in the heart of the South Pacific, Tahitis is just s stones throw away (the island of love as it is fondly called). Or Samoa and Tonga to the west, do some more swimming, snorkeling and tanning on just another magnificent beach of the Polynesian islands.