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Few scams

Polynesia

Tourist scams in Cook Islands

Crime is rare in the Cook Islands, but petty theft can happen. The main concern is keeping your belongings safe; there are no specific tourist scam patterns to flag.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalPetty theftSmall items or valuables may be stolen. No particular theft method or location is identified.Across the country 3Read

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep phones, wallets and bags within sight.
  • Use secure storage for valuables when available.
  • Keep a separate copy of your passport and important contact details.

Money

  • The New Zealand dollar is used in the Cook Islands. Check which currency a price refers to before paying.
  • Spend or exchange Cook Islands dollars before leaving. They can only be used within the islands.
  • Pay the marked price for goods. Haggling is considered rude.
  • Tipping is unusual. A sincere thank-you is normally enough.
  • Compare direct Air Rarotonga fares with fares booked through Air New Zealand. Direct booking is usually cheaper.

Cards and ATMs

  • Plan cash needs before visiting the outer islands. ATMs are limited to Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
  • Cover your PIN and avoid help from strangers at an ATM.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your cards.

What travellers say about Cook Islands

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in the Cook Islands?

Crime is rare. Petty theft can happen, but no specific tourist scam pattern is identified.

Are there known scam hotspots?

No particular place is identified as a scam or theft hotspot. Keep your belongings secure wherever you travel.

How should I protect my valuables?

Keep bags closed and within sight. Carry only what you need, and use secure storage for spare cash, cards and documents.

What number should I call in an emergency?

Call 999 for emergency police help.

Can I find ATMs on every island?

No. There are a handful on Rarotonga and two on Aitutaki. There are none on the other islands, so plan your cash needs ahead.

Can I use Cook Islands dollars after I leave?

No. Cook Islands dollars can only be used within the Cook Islands. The New Zealand dollar also circulates there.

Should I bargain when shopping?

No. Haggling is considered rude. Goods have ticket prices, with no bargaining mark-up to negotiate down.

Am I expected to tip?

Tipping is unusual. Graciously thanking someone for their service or hospitality is normally enough.

Why might an inter-island flight cost more through Air New Zealand?

Booking Air Rarotonga flights through Air New Zealand is often more expensive than booking directly. A higher booking-channel price does not by itself mean fraud.

Does expensive imported alcohol mean I am being overcharged?

Imported beer, spirits and wine can carry premium prices. Check the price before ordering or buying; a high price alone does not show a scam.

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