Boasting crowd free picture-perfect beaches, lush interior landscapes and fascinating Polynesian history and culture, the Cook
Boasting crowd free picture-perfect beaches, lush interior landscapes and fascinating Polynesian history and culture, the Cook Islands is a bucket list destination for many.
Below are just some of the reasons to choose the Cook Islands as a holiday destination in 2025 and beyond.
The Cook Islands will celebrate its 60th anniversary of self-government in 2025
The Cook Islands’ 60th anniversary of self-governance will be celebrated during the Te Maeva Nui festival which takes place over the last week of July ending on the 4th August.
Cook Islands Prime Minister Hon. Mark Brown declared the theme for the country’s milestone year: “Kua kite au I toku turanga, e Avaiki toku – I know who I am, I have a homeland.”
Voted top travel destination
The Cook Islands was been named one of the top travel destinations in the world by Flight Centre’s FY24 Global Customer Survey. Ranking as the second most recommended country globally with a 93% satisfaction rate.
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Increased accessibility
Jetstar has announced its fifth weekly non-stop service from Sydney to Rarotonga starting from May 2025, strengthening connections from Australia to the Cook Islands.
Air Tahiti Nui and Air Rarotonga have announced an exciting new codeshare partnership, enhancing air travel connectivity between Europe, the United States and the Cook Islands via Tahiti and enabling a more seamless travel experience across the South Pacific. In addition, the two airlines have also announced an expanded schedule for the Tahiti-Rarotonga route, doubling the current service to four flights per week from June 29 to December 28, 2025. This marks the highest level of connectivity ever offered between the two island nations, with each airline operating two flights per week.
Cook Islands Establishes Destination Stewardship Advisory Group to Advance Sustainable Tourism
The Cook Islands Government has taken a bold step towards a sustainable and inclusive future with the establishment of the Destination Stewardship Advisory Group supported by a dedicated Project Management Unit, established alongside Cook Islands Tourism Corporation.
Led by Prime Minister Mark Brown, this initiative will work to ensuring tourism continues to deliver long-term benefits for all Cook Islanders while protecting its natural and cultural heritage.
Focus will be on:
- Equitably distributing tourism’s benefits across communities.
- Protecting and preserving the Cook Islands’ cultural and environmental assets.
- Aligning tourism strategies with national and global development goals to foster a sustainable and resilient future.
Prime Minister Brown concluded, “This is a defining moment for the Cook Islands. By establishing the DSAG and PMU, we are investing in a future where tourism not only drives economic growth but also reflects the values of sustainability and cultural pride that make our nation unique. Together, we are setting a gold standard for sustainable tourism in the Pacific and beyond.”
New openings
Nestled along the tropical white sand beaches and turquois lagoon of Rarotonga’s picturesque west coast, The Grand Resort is set to elevate the island’s luxury accommodation to new heights as the first 5-Star resort. Locally owned and operated, our resort comprising 61 suites presents a unique and ground-breaking luxury experience in the Cook Islands. The resort will allow guests to enjoy world-class amenities such as an exclusive spa and fitness centre, chef-driven restaurant, the grand canal swim-up pool, intimate rooftop skybar, skylounge and beach-side service.
2025 open date TBC.
Events
March- Te Mire Atu Composers Competition
Held at the National Auditorium the Te Mire ‘Atu competition is a celebration of original Cook Islands compositions and is a great chance to listen to some beautiful, traditional music from the Cook Islands.
This is a cultural cornerstone of the Cook Islands, showcasing and honouring traditional Polynesian music as well as the creative talents of cook Islanders.
21 April – 1 May- Aitutaki Marathon. Pursuit In Paradise.
Widely considered as one of the most beautiful marathon routes in the world,
Aitutaki is renowned for its crystal-clear lagoon, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical scenery. The marathon route takes runners along picturesque coastal roads and through charming local villages, offering views of the turquoise waters and palm-lined shores.
The event consists of a full and half marathon as well as fun runs.
May- Te Mire Ura- Dancer Of The Year Competition
Te Mire Ura is a vibrant and culturally significant dance competition in the Cook Islands that showcases the beauty and artistry of traditional Cook Islands dance. The event is deeply rooted in the islands’ heritage, celebrating the unique blend of Polynesian culture and storytelling through movement, music, and costume.
The competition takes place at the National Auditorium in Rarotonga with several categories bringing different levels of skill and technique as dancers vie for the title of best dancer for their age group. Winners are chosen on criteria such as costume, choreography and degree-of-difficulty.
This is one of the best ways for visitors to experience an entertaining evening of high-level Cook Islands dancing.
July- Te Maeva Nui
Te Maeva Nui will be the main celebratory event of the 60th anniversary of self-government in 2025 and will take place during the week of August 4, 2025.
This National Event has grown over the years, drawing international visitors from across the globe to Rarotonga for a week of cultural festivities and celebrations through arts, crafts, music, song, dance, and local food. Our Cook Islands people are our richest Asset. The whole Nation literally comes to a standstill as we celebrate our unique culture during Te Maeva Nui.
November- Vaka Eiva
Vaka Eiva is the premier paddling event in the Cook Islands and one of the largest annual outrigger canoe (or vaka) races in the South Pacific. Held in Rarotonga, this vibrant competition combines athleticism, cultural celebration, and the stunning natural beauty of the Cook Islands, making it a highlight for both local and international paddlers.
For more information on the Cook Islands go to www.cookislands.travel