Away With The Steiners

Rarotonga with Kids: A Complete Holiday Travel Guide for Families.

Sarah Steiner

When it comes to finding a tropical paradise to create family memories you will treasure forever, Rarotonga with kids is an amazing destination.

We might be bias; but we love Rarotonga. And that’s speaking from the best experience; because we live in Rarotonga with kids!

The island – and island-life – is beautiful and makes the perfect beachy playground for children of all ages. And family togetherness is such an important part of culture in the Cook Islands; you will be welcomed warmly as a family.

There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained; from snorkelling and swimming to island walks, local fruits to try and cultural shows that are seriously spectacular. 

So read on for everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable holiday in Rarotonga with kids – and an adventure they will never forget! 

Everything you need to know before booking that family trip

A quick introduction to the Cook Islands 

Welcome to Rarotonga and the beautiful Cook Islands (one of our closest Pacific neighbours!).   

There are 15 major islands in the Cooks, spread over 2,200,000 km2 (850,000 sq mi) of ocean.  The islands are divided into two distinct groups: the Southern Cook Islands and the Northern Cook Islands.

Rarotonga is the largest island in the southern group of the Cook Islands about 3400km (2100 miles) northeast of New Zealand.

Most people holidaying in the Cook Islands visit Rarotonga.  But there are other islands in the Southern group that are easy (and incredible) to visit too.  (More about that later!).   

A complete travel guide to Rarotonga with kids. EVERYTHING you need to know before booking a family holiday in the Cook Islands!
Rarotonga from the water.

For now read on for everything you need to know to plan an amazing holiday in Rarotonga with kids. 

Visas for Rarotonga

First up, visas.  All visitors to the Cook Islands will be issued a visitors permit on arrival at the International Airport in Rarotonga.  All you need to prepare is the following: 

New Zealand passport holders are allowed to stay in the Cook Islands for up to 90 days.  Australian passport holders are eligible for a stay of up to 31 days. 

Getting to Rarotonga with kids

Direct international flights to Rarotonga have changed since the pandemic started.  Currently it is only possible to fly directly to Rarotonga from Auckland, New Zealand.  (You used to be able to fly from Sydney, Los Angeles and Tahiti as well; this may resume).  

For now, Air New Zealand flights from Auckland to Rarotonga start at around NZD $650 return.  Those flying from Wellington and Christchurch via Auckland will pay at least $850 return. 

Prices are the most expensive during the July (winter) school holidays in New Zealand, with return flights up to $1157 return at the time of writing. 

Views of Rarotonga from above.

Best time to visit Rarotonga for families

The Cook Islands is a topical country and experiences warm temperatures year round.  Instead of four, it has two distinct seasons: a dry season which is cooler and drier and a wet season which is hotter and (much) more humid. 

In theory, the best time to visit Rarotonga is later in the year from September – November when the weather is hot (but tolerable) and it isn’t too wet.  And this is also the quietest time of year to visit as tourist-wise it is not as busy as the middle of year (when everyone is escaping the NZ winter!).  

It is definitely worth looking ahead when planning which time of year to travel to Rarotonga with kids as remember that aside from weather-wise, it is more expensive for flights if you book close to departure and/or during the school holidays. 

Another beautiful day in Rarotonga out for a Reef Walk with Ariimoana Tours.

Language

The official languages are Cook Islands Maori and English.  English is widely spoken on the island of Rarotonga but you will be warmly received passing greetings and thanks in Cook Islands Maori. 

Some useful phrases in Cook Islands Maori: 

Money and currency in the Cook Islands

Currency in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).  The Cook Islands also has specific coinage (New Zealand coins are accepted too) including a triangular $2 coin.  

You cannot change Cook Islands money outside of the country so remember to spend/change local coins before you leave. 

ATM’s and payment

There are sixteen ATM’s around Rarotonga operated by ANZ, BSP (Bank of the South Pacific) and BCI (Bank of Cook Islands) that provide facilities for cash advances on major credit cards.  And there are two ATM’s on Aitutaki (none of the other islands have ATM facilities).  

Some of the larger retail outlets and restaurants accept payment by credit card.  However you definitely need to carry cash with you for the night and weekend markets, roadside stalls and small village stores. 

There are ATM facilities at Rarotonga airport for cash withdrawal on arrival.  

All ATM’s charge international cardholders a withdrawal fee of $5 NZD.

Always carry change so you can stop and get a coconut.

Communication, WIFI and SIM Cards

Vodafone is now the only network operator in the Cook Islands.  Most hotels and accommodation will have WIFI services but it is also easy to get a SIM card in Rarotonga.  

There are two Vodafone shops in town (Avarua).  A Travel SIM card in Rarotonga costs $49 NZD and includes:

A Vodafone Travel SIM in Rarotonga is valid for 15 days.

(There used to be a Vodafone outlet outside of Arrivals at Rarotonga International Airport to buy a SIM card on arrival.  This service is likely to resume as tourists return to the island). 

Health and safety on holiday in Rarotonga with kids

Rarotonga is a fantastic holiday destination for families.  And overall, requires more or less the same safety precautions as those you would use at home in New Zealand.  

The Cook Islands has a fragile marine ecosystem that needs your consideration and respect while on holiday.  Natural and reef safe sunscreens and mosquito repellents are a must.

And if you’re visiting Rarotonga with kids you’re likely already thinking ahead about mosquitos. But don’t panic.  Most accommodation places have mosquito screens on the windows.  Use repellent and/or wear long trousers in the evening if worried.  

Accommodation providers (and local villages) are continuing precautionary action by spraying regularly throughout the year to eradicate mosquitos.  

When swimming pay attention to the coral reefs and passages to the open ocean.  These should be treated with caution (and note there are no lifeguards on beaches).  Wearing reef shoes is encouraged for kids (and adults) to protect against stonefish and coral cuts. 

Beautiful evenings just exploring Rarotonga (before sundown and mosquito-time).

Drinking water

Tap water in Rarotonga is not filtered and therefore not recommended for drinking while on holiday.  

Some accommodation providers will have filtered taps.  Otherwise one of the best things about Rarotonga is that it’s free and easy to refill your reusable water bottle at one of the filtered water stations around the island.  (A great initiative for locals and tourists alike!). 

A fresh filtered water station at the markets in Avarua (town).

Electricity and charging devices in Rarotonga

Electricity voltage in the Cook Islands is the same as in New Zealand and Australia using three-pin plugs (Plug Type I) with a 240 AC/50 cycle.  

Some hotels and resorts provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. 

How much does it cost to take a family holiday in Rarotonga? 

Ah ha. Now to the juicy part.  How much does it cost to holiday in Rarotonga with kids?  

The main expenses for your holiday are accommodation and transport (aside from the flights to get here in the first place!).  

The cost of activities ranges depending on what type of holiday you are planning.  And although Cook Islands has the same currency as New Zealand, food costs can be quite pricey. 

Keep reading below to find out some of the costs with examples of options to make your holiday fit within your budget.  

Accommodation options in Rarotonga and the cost of family accommodation 

Rarotonga is ideal as a destination for a family holiday.  There is a great range of family friendly accommodation options with resorts, hotels and motels, holiday homes and self-catering AirBnB’s.  

It is often possible to book flights and family accommodation in Rarotonga as a package (through a NZ travel agent).  Otherwise it’s easy to book family accommodation online.  

Here is an initial list of accommodation in Rarotonga and options for families.  

There are plenty more but this is just a start.  Have a browse or leave us a comment if you have any questions. 

Resorts in Rarotonga for families

Hotels and motels in Rarotonga for families

Holiday homes and AirBnB

There are loads of amazing AirBnB options to browse online (I haven’t listed them all). But check them out for a great self-catering holiday option.

Backpacker and budget accommodation options 

I have to add in here that on our first ever trip to Rarotonga with kids in 2018 (we came for Christmas in Rarotonga with our extended family) we stayed in a self-catering, beachfront bungalow at the Rarotonga Backpackers.  And it was just perfect!  

Look into your options when choosing accommodation in Rarotonga.  There is a fantastic range available and each option has different qualities that will make your trip suited just to you. 

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Traditional/iconic food of the Cook Islands (everything you need to try while in Rarotonga!) 

Traditional food in the Cook Islands mostly includes something with fish or with beautiful fresh fruit and vegetables.  Some of the most well-known dishes to try on your visit include: 

Fruit is grown in abundance on the island and is a great option for kids to try something new while in Rarotonga (our boys loved uto, nu and soursop!).   Stop at any of the roadside fruit stalls dotted along the main road; say Kia Orana and get a fresh drinking coconut to try…

Lining up for a fresh drinking coconut at Muri Night Markets.

The cost of food in Rarotonga

One piece of advice you are likely to hear when planning your visit to Rarotonga is, “bring food!”  There are plenty of restaurants and cafes all around Rarotonga and supermarkets are stocked with familiar brands and everything you could want food-wise.  But it is more expensive than buying food in New Zealand.  

Some food costs (in NZD) you might expect while travelling with (or without!) kids in Rarotonga include: 

*Note: Rarotonga is amazing in that there are free drinking water refill stations all around the island.  Please bring your own re-useable bottle and prevent any unnecessary plastic waste heading to the island’s landfill… 

Buying milk at Superbrown, Tupapa (and eyeing up all the other treats!).

Wondering if you can bring food into Rarotonga? 

This is often one of the first questions we are asked by family or friends wanting to visit Rarotonga; with kids especially (and fair enough!).  It used to be more common to fill your bag with food before coming, but times have changed and it is pretty much possible to get anything you need at the shops in Rarotonga. 

There are four main supermarkets on the island: 

And those include an impressive butchery selection (Prime Foods) with meat and loads of vegetarian and organic options too (Wigmores).  

Some food can be brought with you into the Cook Islands but all food items must be declared on your arrival card.  No fruit and vegetables are permitted.  More information and all the specific details is available from the Ministry of Agriculture. 

But pre-planned food aside, look forward to trying something new and making the most of the abundance of beautiful fresh fruit and produce on Rarotonga. 

CITC in Avarua is the main/biggest supermarket on Rarotonga.

Cost of family tours and activities 

Wanting to do a lagoon cruise in Rarotonga?

Cost of transport in Rarotonga with kids

How long do you need for a family holiday in Rarotonga? 

Obviously it depends entirely on how much time you have to holiday in the first place… But, I would recommend one week as the ideal length of holiday to explore (and relax?) and see the key sights of Rarotonga with kids. 

If you have more time to allocate to your holiday in Rarotonga and/or you are a more intrepid family (like us!) you can look towards the Pa Enua; the beautiful outer islands of the Cooks.  I recommend Aitutaki and Atiu as good family destination islands in the southern Pa Enua.  

5 days in Rarotonga

This is kind of like an extended-long-weekend in Rarotonga (and definitely to be maximised!) and enough time to get to know your way around the island and take a day cruise out on the lagoon in Muri.  If you time it right and are here on a Saturday morning then you are in luck to visit the Punanga Nui Market and try plenty of local treats.  

7 days/one week in Rarotonga

I reckon a week in Rarotonga with kids is the ideal (perfect) amount of time for your holiday.  (And, it totally depends on your budget and whether you’re staying at a resort – with a kids club – but a week might even give you time to relax!). 

Hire a car and enjoy getting familiar with all sides of the island.  Have a snorkel at different beaches and get out on the lagoon with a walking reef tour (Ariimoana) or boat cruise (Koka Lagoon/Captain Tamas).  Visit the beautiful Papua Waterfall.  Stop at all the roadside fruit stalls.  And with 7 days you will be there for the weekly Saturday market and Sunday night Muri Night Markets. 

Oscar making the (absolute) most of trying every single tropical fruit on our inland walk with Ariimoana Tours.

10 – 14 days/two weeks in Rarotonga

You are definitely in luck with two weeks in Rarotonga!  This will give you time to enjoy everything as above on the main island of Rarotonga but also with the opportunity for some island hopping… It’s easy to book and enjoy a few days visit on beautiful Aitutaki or Atiu island (in the Southern Group).  

And there are day tours to Aitutaki departing Rarotonga in the morning with a full day to explore Aitutaki’s breathtaking (and world famous) lagoon.  Flights to Aitutaki are from $149 NZD each way.  

Check Air Rarotonga for all flights to the Pa Enua.  

A day exploring Aitutaki by scooter is one that’s hard to beat!

The best way for families to get around Rarotonga

You have several options for getting around the island of Rarotonga.  

Without doubt, the easiest option for getting around in Rarotonga with kids is to hire a car for your stay. 

Renting a car in Rarotonga

All visitors (over the age of 16) are able to drive in the Cook Islands provided they have a current driver’s license from their home country.  

Your overseas license enables you to drive the motor vehicle class that you are entitled to drive in your own country.  For example, if you have a motorcycle license you can also use that to ride a motorcycle in Rarotonga. 

Drivers licenses are accepted from:

If you hold a driver’s license from a country that is not listed you will need to get a Cook Islands visitors vehicle license from the Police Station in Avarua.

Car rental in Rarotonga begins from around $45 per day for a small car (which is all you need – trust me on that one; we love our little Nissan March!).

Start here with some of the car rental options on Rarotonga:

Vehicles of all sizes for hire at Raro Cars in Avarua.

Hiring a scooter in Rarotonga

This is obviously not the most practical means of getting around in Rarotonga with kids, but if it works for you and you have an existing motorcycle license it is easy enough to rent a bike.  

If you are wondering how to get your scooter licence in Rarotonga you can read our complete guide to licensing and hiring a bike here. 

Getting around by public bus

There are two buses that circle the island of Rarotonga; one going clockwise and one going anti-clockwise.  The buses stop all along the main road. 

Read all about how to take the bus in Rarotonga here.  

Things to do in Rarotonga with kids 

Walk out onto the lagoon at low tide and learn about the natural environment from Kura and Jacopo; two of Rarotonga’s well known hosts.  See starfish, anemones, sea slugs, turtles(!) in the passage and all kinds of sea life native to the Cook Islands. Ph: (+682) 51871.

Tumutoa is a friendly island warrior who will have your kids climbing coconut trees, learning about local fruit and vegetables, weaving palm fronds, dressing like a warrior and preparing an island feast for your lunch! 

Boat tours, banana boat riding and boat trips out in whale season – loads of fun on the water! Ph: (+682) 29645 or check out their website to book. 

Meet legendary Papa Mike and have a go at carving. (An incredible experience for the whole family!).

Having a go carving with Papa Mike at Gallery Tavioni.
Heading out of the harbour on the Raro Reef Sub.

Island nights and cultural shows

It’s always a great opportunity to experience the culture wherever we travel.  Rarotonga has some fantastic cultural shows (dinner included) and island nights.

The best family friendly dining in Rarotonga 

Kids menus are popular in Rarotonga so it’s easy to dine out as a family.  Our favourite family-friendly restaurants and takeaways in Rarotonga (beachfront too) are: 

Getting our favourite real fruit ice cream on the beachfront in Nikao at BeFruitful.

What to wear/packing list for Rarotonga with kids

Yippee! You’re packing for a tropical family holiday! 

Along with the obvious items – swimming togs, sun hat and jandals – there are a few further items for travel with kids that we always recommend so you can feel prepared (and therefore relaxed).  

It sounds obvious, but do pack lightweight clothes for your island holiday – for all of you.  And don’t forget some more modest items of clothing for wearing in town (away from the beach).  The general dress code in Rarotonga is informal but don’t wear brief attire in town or villages.  

And certainly if you attend a Sunday church service (recommended for the singing alone) be sure to dress respectfully.  

You can get kitted out with beautiful island wear from the markets or Mareko shop in town.

What to bring with you from home

A basic toiletry/medical kit is always good to include.  (Don’t panic if you forget something as these items are all available in Rarotonga.  But it’s always easier to bring your own and be prepared).  Travelling with kids you might include: 

If you normally go away with antihistamine and/or a thermometer this could be good to pack for peace of mind.  And obviously seek advice from your doctor for anything of concern to you. 

If you are holidaying with babies or younger children bring everything you normally need in your nappy bag.  It is possible to buy nappies and baby-items in Rarotonga (albeit everything is more expensive and the selection is far less).  I’d recommend packing enough: 

Clothes-wise, a packing list for Rarotonga for the family might look something like this: 

Happy for a sunhat and walking shoes so we can get out exploring.

And a few extras that will make all the difference for an island holiday: 

Snorkelling in Rarotonga with kids

I can’t finish up without sharing some of the best snorkelling spots to take the kids to in Rarotonga.  

Take care and check out where the passages beyond the reef are (don’t swim near those).  These are our favourite beaches for snorkelling in Rarotonga with the kids:

If you have a snorkel; bring it (you’ll use it every day!).

More about planning the ultimate holiday to Rarotonga with kids

That’s it for our complete family travel guide to Rarotonga but we do have plenty of other guides to local activities, highlights and some of our favourite things to do in the Cook Islands. 

Enjoy your holiday in Rarotonga with kids and remember that the best of memories are made travelling with children.  Kia manuia! 

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