The story “What Life Is Like In Rarotonga” is written entirely from a tourist’s perspective.
Although I’ve never lived there, during my time on the island, I chatted with locals, asked questions, and took a cultural tour with Pativai to understand what life is like in Rarotonga.
The locals are so welcoming and really prioritize family, the culture is so engaging, and the beaches, lagoons, mountains, and forests are just breathtaking. Life there has a relaxed vibe, following the pleasant “island time.”
It’s impossible not to fall in love with this little slice of paradise!
Let’s start with the basics.
Language
The Cook Islands have two official languages: Maori and English. There are 15 dialects spoken across the 15 islands, all from the Maori language. Still, speakers of these dialects can understand each other, similar to how English speakers from the UK and the USA can understand each other.
For instance, in New Zealand, Maori people greet each other by saying “Kia Ora,” while in Rarotonga, the Cook Islands, they say “Kia Orana.” for more information, please read the Dictionary of Cook Islands Languages.
Capital
The capital of Rarotonga is Avarua, which is located to the north of the Island. Avarua is the adorable little town center of Rarotonga. You’ll find everything there, from banks to the Foodland grocery store, souvenir shops, CITC pharmacy, cozy cafes, lively bars, and the Empire Movie Theatre. If you’re looking to explore the area on a scooter but don’t have a full motorcycle license, pop by the friendly Police Station. Avarua is a lovely, clean, and peaceful place.
Population
The total population is estimated to be 20,200, reflecting an increase of 12.8% (2,300 people) compared to the previous quarter.
Currency
The official currency used in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand dollar. It’s worth noting that prior to 1967, the Cook Islands utilized the New Zealand pound, and the New Zealand dollar subsequently replaced this. Interestingly, despite the usage of NZ dollars, the coins in circulation still feature the inscription “Cook Islands.”
Religion
Most Cook Islanders adhere to Protestant Christianity, with nearly half of the Island’s population being members of the Cook Islands Christian Church. Additionally, the community has a notable presence of Catholicism, Pentecostalism, Mormons, Baha’i Faith, Seventh-Day Adventists, and Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Discovering the Island
Introduction to Rarotonga
In this video, our guide, Pativai Puka, briefly introduces his village and life in Rarotonga.
The island has three “Vakas,” which means districts. Puaikura is on the western side, Takitumu is on the eastern, and Te Au O Tonga is on the northern side, where Avarua, the capital, is located.
The residents of Rarotonga live in communities, believing that being together strengthens them.
Pati guides us to the Palace, where the island chief resides with his family. On the door of the Palace, it’s written ” AU MARU.” AU means peace
Adjacent to it stands the first church constructed on the Island.
Why is there no homeless in the streets of Rarotonga?
Pati believes in encouraging people who may feel discouraged by life to keep going. They should be encouraged to be present at home with their family and to engage in any work, whether mowing the lawn or picking up rubbish, to show their willingness to work. Among the community, there is a saying: “If you work, you eat. If you sleep, you do not eat. You are not a king or a queen.”
They raise their children with the same principle.
This motto emphasizes that you have to work if you want to eat. This may sound very basic, but it’s undoubtedly true.
Integration of Christianism in the Cook Islands.
Before the missionaries arrived on the island, the ancestors of the Pati people lived in the mountains. The tribes on the island were constantly at war. When the missionaries “London Missionaries Society” arrived, they taught the tribes how to resolve conflicts and live together peacefully. This brought peace and understanding between the tribes, and they gradually started living in harmony on the coast.
Today, they respect each other and thrive as a family.
Why do people bury their loved ones in front of their porch?
Only land owners or ministers can be buried at the church grounds. People can bury their loved ones in their properties. The people own their land.
Does Rarotonga have a prison? How it works?
Yes, it has one prison for both genders. Men and women are separate from each other. The prison does not have cells. They are a mixed commune. There are around 45 inmates, primarily for pity crimes and mostly youngsters aged 13 and younger.
There is no capital punishment. The sentence can be 6 months to 3 years, depending on the crime.
Inmates get an education with a certification that will guarantee a job when released to the community.
Escaping is not the best option, as the island is small. As Pati says, you can run but can’t hide!
What is the main source of income in the Cook Islands?
The Island’s primary industry is tourism, including the sale of clothing, handcrafted items, and black pearls. Despite having an abundance of fruits and vegetables suitable for export, the high cost of freight fees prevents them from being exported.
How is healthcare in the Cook Islands?
The Ministry of Health is the leading provider of health care in the Cook Islands and is directly responsible for seven legislative acts relevant to health.
Pati emphasized the need for additional medical equipment in their facility. He highlighted that the hospital lacks the autonomy to handle emergencies independently and must seek support from New Zealand hospitals.
Moreover, he explained that individuals needing urgent or specialized medical treatment must arrange appointments at the Rarotonga hospital; the Raro hospital will arrange transport and appointments to a hospital in New Zealand.
Additionally, Patty mentioned that healthcare is free for residents but can be costly for tourists.
