Local Information | Cook Islands | Underwater Australasia

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands scattered over some 2 million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean. They lie in the centre of the Polynesian Triangle, flanked to the west by the Kingdom of Tonga and Samoa and to the east by Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia. When in the Cook Islands as a visitor, it appears that time stands still and the whole country exists just for your pleasure, with welcome smiles, warm eyes, and a friendly sense of humour. Lose track of time, you won't even know what day it is! So leave your energies on relaxing and soaking up the tropical lifestyle in the midst swaying coconut trees and balmy sea breezes.

The Cook Islands culture lives on in the vibrant performance of song and dance. Cook Islanders are considered among the finest Polynesian singers and dancers and awards come often in international contests.

Images courtesy of Cook Islands Tourism Corporation

In the Directory

Photos

: Rocky overhang at the beach

: Snorkeler in limestone cave

: Inflatable diveboat

Climate

The Cook islands enjoy a pleasantly warm and sunny climate all year round. June to August are the cooler months, whilst November to March marks the warmer season, with occasional tropical showers expected. The drier months from April to November have an average temperature of about 26¬?C, whilst the warmer, more humid and damp season runs from December to March. During this season the temperature ranges between 22¬?C and 28¬?C.

Underwater Recommendations

Rarotonga and Aitutaki are excellent for diving, snorkeling, and fishing. The outer reef area offers a diverse range of diving locations with superb visibility, usually ranging from 100 to 200 feet, depending on wind and weather. Canyons, caves and varieties of coral, make it a most unusual terrain. There are also wrecks to explore and fish to hand feed. Rarotonga boasts crystal clear waters and warm inviting temperatures between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius. All diving is shore based with the diving boats in the 5 to 7 meter size range. Trips usually depart in both the morning and afternoon.