Rarotonga is only 32km in circumference so it is easy to explore by moped. 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. 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. 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.

Polynesian Bike Hire

Rarotonga Tour Companies Cook Island Resort Listings

Our top 10 things to do in the Cook Islands:

1) Aitutaki Lagoon Cruise - island hopping, beaches and snorkelling

2) Traditional Dance Shows - best dancers in the South Pacific

3) Overnight trip to Atiu Island - caves and traditional life

4) Explore Rarotonga by Moped - buzz around Rarotonga

5) Aerial Sightseeing around Rarotonga - take to the air

6) Night on the Town - fine dining and great nightlife

7) Cook Islands Cultural Centre, Rarotonga - handicrafts and stories

8) Muri Beach, Rarotonga - activity beach centre on Rarotonga

9) Cross Island Hike - Rarotonga - rainforest and waterfall

10) Learn to Scuba Dive - relaxed scuba diving courses for beginners


Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:

Fiji Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Samoa Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Tonga Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Tahiti Tours - Top 10 Attractions
Hawaii Tours - Top 10 Attractions

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Other Recommended Websites: South Pacific Pictures fiji pictures ; cook islands pictures ; samoa pictures ; tonga pictures ; tahiti pictures ; hawaii pictures