The Cook Islands are New Zealand-administered Polynesian atolls where Aitutaki's One Foot Island claims the world's most remote post office and Rarotonga remains under three storeys tall by law.
Highlights
Rarotonga
Aitutaki
One Foot Island
Te Vara Nui
When to Visit
Apr-Oct
Dry trade-wind season with Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise at peak, Rarotonga snorkelling at calmest, and Te Maeva Nui Independence celebrations in late July.
Aug
Te Maeva Nui peak week with traditional dance competitions filling the National Auditorium, and the Aitutaki crossing reliable for day trips.
Nov-Mar
Wet season with cyclone risk peaking January-March, but Rarotonga remains accessible and the rates drop sharply across One Foot Island day-trippers.
Sep-Oct
Late dry season with Aitutaki at peak photogenic, humpback whales close to Rarotonga in late September, and the Tangaroa Festival on the lagoon.
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