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Aitutaki Time |
Welcome to the most complete site on Aitutaki accommodation
Aitutaki accommodation & Information
Aitutaki accommodation & Information
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Airport Currency/Banking Entry requirements Churches Customs & Imports Medical services
Communications Departure Taxes Public Transport
Climate Driving/road safety Taxes & Tipping
Clubs & Services Electricity Fun Stats
Communications Departure Taxes Public Transport
Climate Driving/road safety Taxes & Tipping
Clubs & Services Electricity Fun Stats
Airport
World Airport codes Aitutaki Airport code (AIT) Rarotonga (RAR)
Rarotonga Island is the only international center for arrivals into the Cook Islands. There are weekly flights from Los Angeles, and many weekly flights from Austrailia and New Zealand. Once on Rarotonga the flight to Aitutaki is only 40 minutes North by Air Rarotonga. Air Rarotonga is the only Airlines to service the Cook Islands locally.
Air New Zealand For reconfirmation of flights, phone 682 26 300.
Pacific Blue For reconfirmation of flights, phone 682 24 040.
Air Rarotonga Rarotonga arrv & dept, local, 22889 Int (682) 22889
Aitutaki arrv & dept, local 31888 Int (682) 31888
Top of Page
Churches
There are many churches on Aitutaki, the locals put on an amazing performance with their singing. Some churches put out food and refreshments for the tourists after the service. Aitutaki is know for its hospitality and it really shows after the church services.
Here is a list of some of the denominatons of the local Aitutaki churches.
Christian, Protestant, Latter Day Saints, Roman Catholic, Seventh Day Adventist, Baha`i Faith, Apostolic, Assembly of God, Jehovah`s Witness.
Once you arrive on Aitutaki you can check with locals about times and locations of the services.
Top of Page
Communications
Post office
Post office/telecom office located next to Westpac Bank at the main 4 way junction in town. They have postal service, phone cards, fax, and Western Union. Open Mon thru Fri 8am - 4pm
Banks
There are 3 banks on the island, (2 ANZ banks and 1 Westpac bank).
Two of them are located next to the Post office, and the Westpac has an ATM.
The other ANZ located just down from the Pacific resort next to spider cafe also has an ATM.
Westpac is open Mon-Wed-Fri 9:30am-3pm
ANZ is open Mon thru Thurs 9am-12 noon & 1pm-3pm
Phones
When phoning the Cook Islands from other countries dial 682 then the number.
Internet
There is an internet cafe located in the middle of the man stretch of road on the North west side of Aitutaki, it is called Spider internet cafe and has 4 terminals, but be patient it is not high speed.
Television
There is no cable television on Aitutaki, a few of the resorts have satelite, but only offer a few channels at best.
There is a local channel broadcast from the top of the mountian on Aitutaki for the few places that have a television.
Top of Page
Climate
Aitutaki gets better weather then Rarotonga, more sun and less rain, raro with its large monutains traps the clouds and produces considerably more parcipitation and cloudiness.
Since the Cook Islands and Aitutaki are South of the equator, the seasons are opposite to those of North America and Europe. While there are no extremes in temperatures, the drier cooler season runs from April to November. The warmer, more humid season runs from December to March. Following are the average monthly temperatures (in Fahrenheit and Celsius).
Warmeth and sunshine can be enjoyed year-round in the Cook Islands. Severe weather is rare and infrequent, so lightweight clothing is the norm. A lightweight raincoat is a good idea as we do have showers, how else can we keep our plants and jungle looking so lush!
(Temp degrees celcius) (Hours per month)
Max Min Sunshine
Jan 22.8 22.9 179
Feb 29.1 23.1 171
Mar 28.8 22.6 181
Apr 28.2 22.0 174
May 26.6 20.4 162
June 25.6 19.3 169
July 25.2 18.6 177
Aug 24.9 18.4 182
Sept 25.3 19.1 177
Oct 26.0 20.0 185
Nov 27.1 21.0 178
Dec 27.8 21.9 181
Top of Page
Clubs & Services
Aitutaki is not big on the night club scene, that's why it is so popular for relaxing vacations. There is a few places one can take in the Aitutaki night life,
there is a new bar just down from the airport, it is a large open air type place, lots of colorful lights and canned music. The second most popular place is the Blue nun, at the end of the Aitutaki market place on the main peir.
Both places really only happen on Friday & Saturday nights starting late, 9-10pm. The Aitutaki sport fishing club is a nice place for a casual drink on the water front, directly across from the Aitutaki market on the main pier, they also host several events, check with the locals on arrival. Of course Island nights are very popular on Aitutaki, see the activities page for a complete list of times and locations.
-Aitutaki game fishing club, located directly across from the Aitutaki market on
the water front.
- Emeli’s Hair Salon Located in the long building by the wharf.
Open Mon thru Fri 10:30am to “late”. #31790
and Mobile #56216 located in the Aitutaki market place
-Digital photo shop and specailty coffee,
located adjacent to Aquila gas station, in the Sunny
side lodge.
-Local radio: FM 91.8
Top of Page
Currency & Banking
Currency
The Cook Islands unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, supplemented by notes and coinage minted for local use. The unique local coins and notes are not negotiable outside the Cook Islands, but are keenly sought by collectors worldwide. While on Aitutaki you will be able to collect the popular triangle shaped $2 coin along witht eh $3 bill.
Banking
There are 3 banks on the island, (1 ANZ bank 1 Westpac bank and 1 BCI, bank of the Cook Islands).
Two of them are located next to the Post office, the Westpac has an ATM.
The other ANZ located just down from the Pacific resort next to spider cafe also has an ATM.
Westpac is open Mon-Wed-Fri 9:30am-3pm
ANZ is open Mon thru Thurs 9am-12 noon & 1pm-3pm
BCI is open Mon - Fri 9am-3pm
Western union
Located inside the Post office at the main 4 way junction.
Open - Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
Top of Page
Customs and Imports
No duty is levied on clothing or personal effects (including sports equipment).
In addition, each visitor may bring the following items, free of duty, into the Cook Islands:
200 cigarettes or up to ˝ pound (1 kg) of tobacco or up to 50 cigars,
2 litres of spirit or wine or 4˝ litres of beer.
Goods with total value of up to NZ$250 are not open to duties, however goods in excess of NZ$250 are liable to duty.
Fruits and plants are not allowed into the country.
You are permitted to bring frozen food, canned food and vacuum packed products. These must be declared to Customs on arrival. If not declared, Customs have the right to confiscate any items/products
Quarantine service
Ministry of Agriculture
Government of the Cook Islands
Phone - Int 682 28710 Local 28710
Fax - Int 682 21881 Local 21881
Email - quaranti@oyster.net.ck
Top of Page
Departure taxes
Upon departure from Rarotonga all visitors will be charged the following taxes:
There are no departure taxes for Aitutaki.
Adults NZ$30,
Children under 12 years NZ$15,
Children 2 years and under are exempt.
This must be paid upon departure, and is not included as part of prepaid taxes with airline tickets.
Departure tax can be purchased from the Westpac Bank at the International Terminal (Open for all International Flights), or at Westpac Bank in the main town Avarua on Raro.
Top of page
Driving/road safety
Vehicles are driven on the left hand side of the road.
The maximum road speed limit is 50kph in the town and villages and 60kph outside of populated areas.
Drivers of all vehicles are required to have a current Cook Islands Drivers Licence, which can be obtained from the Police Station located behind the Aitutaki market on the waterfront pier, just right at the main 4 way junction, a charge or $2.50NZ applies, you only need to present your own license in order to recieve a cook islands license, this applies to Aitutaki only.
The Cook Islands asks you to be sensible when on our roads. In many areas, we do not have footpaths so please make sure that you stay on the grassy verges of the roadside. Please do not walk on the road.
At night, please ensure you are visible when walking on the roadside. If possible, take a torch or wear something that will glow in the dark.
When cycling the same rules apply.
Please do not speed on our roads. And remember, never drink and drive.
Top of Page
Electricity
Voltage is 220 AC/50 cycle, the same as Australia and New Zealand.
In some cases a two pin adaptor may be required.
Some hotels and motels have provisions for 110 volt AC electric razors.
Northern Hemisphere travellers will need adpator plugs suited for New Zealand to use dual-voltage applicances, such as hairdryers.
All laptop computers will work on 115 volts or 220 volts so all you need is the 2 pin adapter to plug into the local receptacle.
Top of Page
Entry requirements
The main point of entry to The Cook Islands is Rarotonga International Airport.
This is a fully functional airport, operating since 1974, catering to the increased tourist numbers arriving each year.
Stays of up to 31 days require a valid passport and a return ticket. Adequate financial means of supporting stay, and suitable accommodation. Extensions are granted on a monthly basis - up to five additional months only.
A fee is payable with each application within 14 days prior to the expiration of the permit. Extensions are granted at two levels.
Up to three months NZ$70 (15 years and older),
up to five months NZ$120 (15 years and older).
Children under 15 years of age are exempt from charges but must report to Immigration for official paperwork to be completed.
For further information contact the Department of Immigration, phone 682 29347 or email tutai@immigration.gov.ck
For those wanting to stay in the Cook Islands longer than 6 months, you must apply for a visa from your home territory, prior to their arrival in the Cook Islands.
Please direct applications to:
Principal Immigration Officer
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration
PO Box 105
Rarotonga Ph: (682) 29347
COOK ISLANDS Fax: (682) 21247
Top of Page
Medical services
There is a small hospital on Aitutaki should the need arise.
Aitutaki has an ambulance service as well.
Rarotonga has a larger facilty with New Zealand trained doctors.
For an medicines you will have to see a doctor at teh local Aitutaki hospital, there are no seperate pharmacies on Aitutaki.
Mosquito repellent is essential and we recommend reef shoes to all our visitors.
Hospital - Phone# 31-002 Emergency # 31-698
Top of Page
Public transport
Aitutaki has no bus system in place.
There is a local taxi- Pacifica Taxi 31220
Most visitors rent a scooter to see the island and go shopping etc, most resorts rent push bikes (normal pedal bikes), the island is mostly flat so push bikes are fine for most people.
Most resorts will meet you at the airport and provide transport to your accommodations.
There is also a passenger bus that meets all flights and will deliver you to your resort for a fee.
Of course Aitutaki gets the more adventurous types that like to walk, most things are within a 3 km or less radious of most resorts.
Top of Page
Taxes & Tipping
Their is a 12.5% vat tax on all goods and services in the Cook Islands, most places will include this is the price, some resorts may add it to the cost of the stay.
Tipping isn’t expected and is contrary to Cook Island’s custom. However if you receive excellent service and want to acknowledge it, please feel free to do so.
Top of Page
Fun Stats
World Airport codes Aitutaki Airport code (AIT) Rarotonga (RAR)
Rarotonga Island is the only international center for arrivals into the Cook Islands. There are weekly flights from Los Angeles, and many weekly flights from Austrailia and New Zealand. Once on Rarotonga the flight to Aitutaki is only 40 minutes North by Air Rarotonga. Air Rarotonga is the only Airlines to service the Cook Islands locally.
Air New Zealand For reconfirmation of flights, phone 682 26 300.
Pacific Blue For reconfirmation of flights, phone 682 24 040.
Air Rarotonga Rarotonga arrv & dept, local, 22889 Int (682) 22889
Aitutaki arrv & dept, local 31888 Int (682) 31888
Top of Page
Churches
There are many churches on Aitutaki, the locals put on an amazing performance with their singing. Some churches put out food and refreshments for the tourists after the service. Aitutaki is know for its hospitality and it really shows after the church services.
Here is a list of some of the denominatons of the local Aitutaki churches.
Christian, Protestant, Latter Day Saints, Roman Catholic, Seventh Day Adventist, Baha`i Faith, Apostolic, Assembly of God, Jehovah`s Witness.
Once you arrive on Aitutaki you can check with locals about times and locations of the services.
Top of Page
Communications
Post office
Post office/telecom office located next to Westpac Bank at the main 4 way junction in town. They have postal service, phone cards, fax, and Western Union. Open Mon thru Fri 8am - 4pm
Banks
There are 3 banks on the island, (2 ANZ banks and 1 Westpac bank).
Two of them are located next to the Post office, and the Westpac has an ATM.
The other ANZ located just down from the Pacific resort next to spider cafe also has an ATM.
Westpac is open Mon-Wed-Fri 9:30am-3pm
ANZ is open Mon thru Thurs 9am-12 noon & 1pm-3pm
Phones
When phoning the Cook Islands from other countries dial 682 then the number.
Internet
There is an internet cafe located in the middle of the man stretch of road on the North west side of Aitutaki, it is called Spider internet cafe and has 4 terminals, but be patient it is not high speed.
Television
There is no cable television on Aitutaki, a few of the resorts have satelite, but only offer a few channels at best.
There is a local channel broadcast from the top of the mountian on Aitutaki for the few places that have a television.
Top of Page
Climate
Aitutaki gets better weather then Rarotonga, more sun and less rain, raro with its large monutains traps the clouds and produces considerably more parcipitation and cloudiness.
Since the Cook Islands and Aitutaki are South of the equator, the seasons are opposite to those of North America and Europe. While there are no extremes in temperatures, the drier cooler season runs from April to November. The warmer, more humid season runs from December to March. Following are the average monthly temperatures (in Fahrenheit and Celsius).
Warmeth and sunshine can be enjoyed year-round in the Cook Islands. Severe weather is rare and infrequent, so lightweight clothing is the norm. A lightweight raincoat is a good idea as we do have showers, how else can we keep our plants and jungle looking so lush!
(Temp degrees celcius) (Hours per month)
Max Min Sunshine
Jan 22.8 22.9 179
Feb 29.1 23.1 171
Mar 28.8 22.6 181
Apr 28.2 22.0 174
May 26.6 20.4 162
June 25.6 19.3 169
July 25.2 18.6 177
Aug 24.9 18.4 182
Sept 25.3 19.1 177
Oct 26.0 20.0 185
Nov 27.1 21.0 178
Dec 27.8 21.9 181
Top of Page
Clubs & Services
Aitutaki is not big on the night club scene, that's why it is so popular for relaxing vacations. There is a few places one can take in the Aitutaki night life,
there is a new bar just down from the airport, it is a large open air type place, lots of colorful lights and canned music. The second most popular place is the Blue nun, at the end of the Aitutaki market place on the main peir.
Both places really only happen on Friday & Saturday nights starting late, 9-10pm. The Aitutaki sport fishing club is a nice place for a casual drink on the water front, directly across from the Aitutaki market on the main pier, they also host several events, check with the locals on arrival. Of course Island nights are very popular on Aitutaki, see the activities page for a complete list of times and locations.
-Aitutaki game fishing club, located directly across from the Aitutaki market on
the water front.
- Emeli’s Hair Salon Located in the long building by the wharf.
Open Mon thru Fri 10:30am to “late”. #31790
and Mobile #56216 located in the Aitutaki market place
-Digital photo shop and specailty coffee,
located adjacent to Aquila gas station, in the Sunny
side lodge.
-Local radio: FM 91.8
Top of Page
Currency & Banking
Currency
The Cook Islands unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, supplemented by notes and coinage minted for local use. The unique local coins and notes are not negotiable outside the Cook Islands, but are keenly sought by collectors worldwide. While on Aitutaki you will be able to collect the popular triangle shaped $2 coin along witht eh $3 bill.
Banking
There are 3 banks on the island, (1 ANZ bank 1 Westpac bank and 1 BCI, bank of the Cook Islands).
Two of them are located next to the Post office, the Westpac has an ATM.
The other ANZ located just down from the Pacific resort next to spider cafe also has an ATM.
Westpac is open Mon-Wed-Fri 9:30am-3pm
ANZ is open Mon thru Thurs 9am-12 noon & 1pm-3pm
BCI is open Mon - Fri 9am-3pm
Western union
Located inside the Post office at the main 4 way junction.
Open - Mon-Fri 8am-4pm
Top of Page
Customs and Imports
No duty is levied on clothing or personal effects (including sports equipment).
In addition, each visitor may bring the following items, free of duty, into the Cook Islands:
200 cigarettes or up to ˝ pound (1 kg) of tobacco or up to 50 cigars,
2 litres of spirit or wine or 4˝ litres of beer.
Goods with total value of up to NZ$250 are not open to duties, however goods in excess of NZ$250 are liable to duty.
Fruits and plants are not allowed into the country.
You are permitted to bring frozen food, canned food and vacuum packed products. These must be declared to Customs on arrival. If not declared, Customs have the right to confiscate any items/products
Quarantine service
Ministry of Agriculture
Government of the Cook Islands
Phone - Int 682 28710 Local 28710
Fax - Int 682 21881 Local 21881
Email - quaranti@oyster.net.ck
Top of Page
Departure taxes
Upon departure from Rarotonga all visitors will be charged the following taxes:
There are no departure taxes for Aitutaki.
Adults NZ$30,
Children under 12 years NZ$15,
Children 2 years and under are exempt.
This must be paid upon departure, and is not included as part of prepaid taxes with airline tickets.
Departure tax can be purchased from the Westpac Bank at the International Terminal (Open for all International Flights), or at Westpac Bank in the main town Avarua on Raro.
Top of page
Driving/road safety
Vehicles are driven on the left hand side of the road.
The maximum road speed limit is 50kph in the town and villages and 60kph outside of populated areas.
Drivers of all vehicles are required to have a current Cook Islands Drivers Licence, which can be obtained from the Police Station located behind the Aitutaki market on the waterfront pier, just right at the main 4 way junction, a charge or $2.50NZ applies, you only need to present your own license in order to recieve a cook islands license, this applies to Aitutaki only.
The Cook Islands asks you to be sensible when on our roads. In many areas, we do not have footpaths so please make sure that you stay on the grassy verges of the roadside. Please do not walk on the road.
At night, please ensure you are visible when walking on the roadside. If possible, take a torch or wear something that will glow in the dark.
When cycling the same rules apply.
Please do not speed on our roads. And remember, never drink and drive.
Top of Page
Electricity
Voltage is 220 AC/50 cycle, the same as Australia and New Zealand.
In some cases a two pin adaptor may be required.
Some hotels and motels have provisions for 110 volt AC electric razors.
Northern Hemisphere travellers will need adpator plugs suited for New Zealand to use dual-voltage applicances, such as hairdryers.
All laptop computers will work on 115 volts or 220 volts so all you need is the 2 pin adapter to plug into the local receptacle.
Top of Page
Entry requirements
The main point of entry to The Cook Islands is Rarotonga International Airport.
This is a fully functional airport, operating since 1974, catering to the increased tourist numbers arriving each year.
Stays of up to 31 days require a valid passport and a return ticket. Adequate financial means of supporting stay, and suitable accommodation. Extensions are granted on a monthly basis - up to five additional months only.
A fee is payable with each application within 14 days prior to the expiration of the permit. Extensions are granted at two levels.
Up to three months NZ$70 (15 years and older),
up to five months NZ$120 (15 years and older).
Children under 15 years of age are exempt from charges but must report to Immigration for official paperwork to be completed.
For further information contact the Department of Immigration, phone 682 29347 or email tutai@immigration.gov.ck
For those wanting to stay in the Cook Islands longer than 6 months, you must apply for a visa from your home territory, prior to their arrival in the Cook Islands.
Please direct applications to:
Principal Immigration Officer
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration
PO Box 105
Rarotonga Ph: (682) 29347
COOK ISLANDS Fax: (682) 21247
Top of Page
Medical services
There is a small hospital on Aitutaki should the need arise.
Aitutaki has an ambulance service as well.
Rarotonga has a larger facilty with New Zealand trained doctors.
For an medicines you will have to see a doctor at teh local Aitutaki hospital, there are no seperate pharmacies on Aitutaki.
Mosquito repellent is essential and we recommend reef shoes to all our visitors.
Hospital - Phone# 31-002 Emergency # 31-698
Top of Page
Public transport
Aitutaki has no bus system in place.
There is a local taxi- Pacifica Taxi 31220
Most visitors rent a scooter to see the island and go shopping etc, most resorts rent push bikes (normal pedal bikes), the island is mostly flat so push bikes are fine for most people.
Most resorts will meet you at the airport and provide transport to your accommodations.
There is also a passenger bus that meets all flights and will deliver you to your resort for a fee.
Of course Aitutaki gets the more adventurous types that like to walk, most things are within a 3 km or less radious of most resorts.
Top of Page
Taxes & Tipping
Their is a 12.5% vat tax on all goods and services in the Cook Islands, most places will include this is the price, some resorts may add it to the cost of the stay.
Tipping isn’t expected and is contrary to Cook Island’s custom. However if you receive excellent service and want to acknowledge it, please feel free to do so.
Top of Page
Fun Stats
| ˇ | Geographic coordinates of Aitutaki 18 50S, 159 46W |
| ˇ | Wet season, hot months, November - April |
| ˇ | Dry season, cooler months May - Oct |
| ˇ | Aitutaki population, appox - 1500 - 1700 |
| ˇ | Official language - English, but most people on Aitutaki speak Maori as well. |
| ˇ | International dialing code for Aitutaki 682 |
| ˇ | This magnificent and remote island has a triangular-shaped 'almost'-atoll rising up 4000 meters from the floor of the Pacific Ocean. It consists of three volcanic and 12 coral islets (motus) |
| ˇ | Aitutaki measures just 20 square kilometres |
| ˇ | The magnificent lagoon of Aitutaki measures 45 kms in circumference and is approx 3-25ft deep. Top of Page |
Quick facts Aitutaki
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Stay Aitutaki Enterprises 2008 l all photos property of stay Aitutaki l webmaster
Stay Aitutaki Enterprises 2008 l all photos property of stay Aitutaki l webmaster