transport
What you need to know
Passenger arrivals into the entry point of Rarotonga is by air, with direct flights from Auckland, Sydney, and Taihiti.
Rarotonga consists of 32km of a ring road on the seaside, and an inner road closer to the hills. Scooters and motorbikes are a very popular form of transport as they are cheaper to run than a car. There is one bus service, Cook’s Buses have two routes, Clockwise and Anti-Clockwise www.cookislandsbus.com . There are also taxis available, but there is no uber or other ride apps available at this time.
Helpful tips
Getting around in the Cook Islands is pretty straightforward—but there are a few things to keep in mind if you’re working in transport or using it for work.
Scooters and cars are the most common ways to get around Rarotonga. If you’re planning to drive, you’ll need a Cook Islands driver’s license, which you can get from the Police Station in Avarua. Helmets are required for scooters, and driving is on the left side of the road.
If your job involves deliveries, passenger transport, or working around vehicles, always follow road safety rules and wear proper gear. Island roads can get slippery after rain, so take extra care—especially on a scooter.
And don’t forget: a friendly wave or “Kia Orana” goes a long way on the road here!
