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Cook Islands Travel - Getting Around
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The Cook Islands travel network is fairly sophisticated which makes getting around the islands easy. Rarotonga is only 32km in circumference so it is easy to explore by car, moped or bicycle. The main circular coastal road is flat and tar-sealed and there are lots of side roads heading inland which connect to an ancient road, a km or so inland at the foot of the mountains.
Polynesian Moped Hire
Car hire is about NZ$50 a day basic. Moped rentals are a lot more reasonable with deals of NZ$55 for four days. There are rental companies based in Avarua Town, at the Airport and at several of the resorts and hotels. Helmets are not necessary although hire companies do offer them is you want. Petrol is reasonable and driving is on the left.
Budget Car Rental
To drive in the Cook Islands (moped or car) you will first need to obtain a Cook Islands driving license at the police station in Avarua. If you're current license does not specify you can drive a moped, you will need to take a quick test. Fees for the license are NZ$15 and are obtainable on the same day. Moped and bicycle hire is also available on Aitutaki, Atiu and Mauke but a license must first be obtained in Rarotonga.
Buses travel around Rarotonga every hour in each direction between 7am and 4pm Mon to Sat with reduced Sunday services. There's also a night bus operating until 10pm weekdays and until 1.30am on busy Friday night. Fares are NZ$2.50 a ride or NZ$17 for 10 rides. There is no bus service on Aitutaki (except airport pick-ups / drop-off's) nor on the other islands.
Inter Island Travel
There is only one airline operating between the islands - Air Rarotonga. There are daily air connections (except Sunday) from Rarotonga to Aitutaki and several flights a week from Rarotonga to Atiu, Mauke, Mitiaro and Mangaia for the same price. Air Rarotonga's pass between Rarotonga, Aitutaki and Atiu offer substantial savings. Inter island shipping is generally too infrequent and too great a distance to be considered by all but the most seasoned of travellers -those looking for something special.
Airlines, Car Rental & Transfers
Cook Islands Tour Companies
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