Climate CHange & Environment
What you need to know
Climate Change and Life in the Cook Islands
As a migrant worker coming to the Cook Islands, it’s important to understand how climate change is affecting the islands and local communities. The Cook Islands are especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising sea levels, stronger tropical cyclones, coastal erosion, and changing weather patterns are already making a difference in everyday life. These environmental challenges can affect agriculture, fishing, housing, and infrastructure — key parts of both the economy and the culture here. Local communities are working hard to adapt, and the government has introduced plans to protect coastlines, and build more resilient infrastructure. As a valued member of the workforce, your awareness and participation in sustainability efforts will be appreciated. Whether through conserving water, supporting local eco-friendly businesses, or learning about traditional environmental practices, you can help the Cook Islands remain a beautiful and thriving home for everyone. Welcome — your contribution matters, and so does your care for the islands’ future.
Location
The Cook Islands are made up of 15 Islands within 2.2 million KM’s of ocean in the South Pacific. The Islands of Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Mitiaro, Mauke, and Palmerston make up the Southern Group of Islands. The Northern Group is made up of the Islands of Manihiki, Penrhyn, Pukapuka, Rakahanga, and Nassau, along with the unpopulated islands of Suwarrow, Takutea, and Manuae. Nassau.
The total population is around 15,000 with the majority of people living on the island of Rarotonga (70%) and around 20% in the other Southern Group islands. The North Group is sparsely populated.
Weather
The weather is generally warm and pleasant and there are two main weather seasons. The dry season is from April-October when it is cooler and less humid. Temperatures range from 18–32°C. The wet season is from November-March. This period sees more rainfall particularly in the form of short, heavy tropical downpours, and cyclones are possible during this time, although they have been relative rare in recent years. Humidity is high during this season but the trade winds make is more bearable.
The Importance of Raui and Sustainable Lagoon Conservation
In the Cook Islands, Raui is a traditional conservation practice that protects lagoon ecosystems, ensuring marine life thrives and fish stocks remain sustainable. Rooted in cultural values of respect and stewardship, Raui plays a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and supporting environmental balance.
For migrant workers, understanding Raui is essential when engaging with the local marine environment. While fishing is an important tradition in many cultures, lagoon areas under Raui protection are strictly off-limits. The optics of migrant workers fishing within Raui-protected areas can raise concerns about adherence to local customs and conservation efforts. By respecting these protections, all communities—local and migrant—can contribute to preserving marine resources and honoring the traditions that sustain them.
There are several passages around the Islands. These are openings of the reef from the lagoon to the ocean. These can be extremely dangerous and no activities should be undertaken there without an accredited guide or tour operator. Also, please be aware of the dangers of eating fish out of the lagoon as there can be cases of ciguatera poisoning from eating contaminated fish.
Helpful tips
The Cook Islands may feel like paradise, but adjusting to island life can take time—especially when it comes to the weather. The climate is warm and humid year-round, with a rainy season from December to March and cooler, drier months from April to November.
If you’re working outdoors, make sure to wear a hat, stay hydrated, and take breaks in the shade when possible. Lightweight, breathable clothing and good sun protection are essential. And don’t forget—rain showers can happen suddenly, so keep a raincoat or umbrella in your bag just in case!