Cook Islands Culture
Social Conventions
Cook Islanders are known around the globe for being very hospitable, generous and high-spirited. They have a natural charm and are incredibly friendly people. The Islanders can also be somewhat reserved and this should be considered before visiting villages or attending church services. Appropriate, moderate attire should be worn and it is traditional to bring a small gift for one’s host.
Cook Islanders are also excellent entertainers with many people regarding them as the best dancers and drummers in Polynesia.
Language
There are five languages spoken in the Cook Islands with English and Cook Islands Maori being the official languages.
Other languages include:
Penrhynese - this language is unique to Penrhyn Island.
Pukapukan - spoken in Pukapuka and Nasau Islands, this language is similar to Samoan languages.
Rakahanga-Manihiki - there are approximately 2,500 Cook Islanders who speak this language with only half of them living in the islands it was named after, the rest of the people live in New Zealand.
Religion
Christianity is the dominant religion in the Cook Islands with 14 different Christian denominations in practice. There are approximately 70 churches located throughout the islands and Sundays are regarded as a day of rest island-wide. The Baha’i faith is the only non-Christian faith with an organized community, but only has around 1% of the population.
Cook Islands Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to the Cook Islands.
Learn about the history and culture of the Cook Islands, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about the Cook Islands' nature and wildlife, weather and geography, and 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering the Cook Islands for yourself. Start exploring...book one of our Cook Island vacations today!
Extend Your Stay
Consider an additional stopover after or before your Cook island vacation at one of Goway's other South Pacific destinations. You can choose from our selection of Australian vacations, New Zealand vacation packages, Tahiti vacation packages or perhaps one of our Fiji resorts.
Book your Cook Islands Vacation with Goway!
With a wide choice of Cook Islands vacations and experiences, Goway’s Downunder wizards can offer you many ways to explore and enjoy the Cook Islands. Relax with a romantic tropical island stay, escape winter on a Snowbird long stay, enjoy an air-land getaway and more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to the Cook Islands.
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