Money in Cook Islands: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping

The Cook Islands use the New Zealand dollar (NZ$) alongside local coins and notes. ATMs are limited to Rarotonga; bring enough cash for smaller islands and market stalls. Credit and debit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and larger retailers on Rarotonga, but not on remote islands. Tipping is not expected in any setting.

Currency: The official currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZ$). Local Cook Islands coins and notes exist but cannot be exchanged outside the islands.

Cash: Bring NZ$100–200 in small bills for the first days. Markets, roadside stalls, and the outer islands (e.g., Aitutaki, Mitiaro) only take cash.

ATMs: Available in Avarua (Rarotonga) and a few other towns. They dispense NZ$, often with a surcharge of about 2–3 %.

Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at resorts, larger restaurants, supermarkets and car‑rental agencies on Rarotonga. Some smaller shops have card terminals, but many still require cash.

Tipping: Not customary. If service exceeds expectations, a small rounding up of the bill (e.g., NZ$1–2) is appreciated but not required.

Withdraw enough cash in Avarua before traveling to outer islands; machines are scarce.

Notify your bank of travel to avoid card blocks.

Keep a mix of small and medium NZ$ bills for easy payment at markets.

Use a prepaid travel card if you prefer to limit cash handling.