Cook Islands
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
In brief
About 14.2 thousand people live in the Cook Islands, on 240 km². The capital is Avarua.
- Capital
- Avarua
- Population
- 14,222
- Area
- 240 km²
- Official languages
- English and Cook Islands Maori
No land borders
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population (2023), capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in the Cook Islands?
Sockets take plug type I, at 240 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in the Cook Islands?
Call 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance and 996 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in the Cook Islands?
Not expected.
Which side of the road do they drive on in the Cook Islands?
Traffic drives on the left, so look right first when you cross the street.
What currency is used in the Cook Islands?
Prices are in New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
What language do they speak in the Cook Islands?
Official languages: English and Cook Islands Maori.
How do I call a number in the Cook Islands from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +682.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
