Must-see shopping in The Cook Islands

  • Croc Tatau

    Rarotonga

    Englishman ‘Croc’ is the only man on Rarotonga crafting tata’u (tattoos) the traditional way, using pigment and hand tools. Check out his blog (www…

  • Parua Tavioni

    The Cook Islands

    Working from her village house – a corner residence that doubles as the Terangi-Nui Cafe for dinners – Parua Tavioni crafts intricate tivaevae (appliqué…

  • Tivaevae Collectables

    Rarotonga

    Visit for beautiful Cook Islands tivaevae (hand-sewn quilted fabrics) harnessing traditional designs such as bedspreads and bed linen, but also reworked…

  • Perfumes of Rarotonga

    Rarotonga

    Near the airport, this place makes its own perfumes, soaps, liqueurs and scented oils. There’s another outlet in Cook’s Corner Arcade in central Avarua…

  • Philatelic Bureau

    Avarua

    Cook Islands coins and bank notes are sold here, plus Cook Islands stamps (highly prized by philatelists). The unique $3 Cook Islands note is available in…

  • Art Studio

    Rarotonga

    Contemporary art from owners Ian and Kay George combines with works from other Pacific artists. Handpainted or printed textiles are available, as are…

  • Bergman & Sons Pearl Store

    Avarua

    With unique and modern settings including necklaces, rings and bracelets. Hillary Clinton was gifted some Bergman black pearls when she visited the Cook…

  • Mike Tavioni

    Rarotonga

    Visit the workshop of Rarotonga’s most renowned sculptor and carver on the back road near Avarua. See his stone carvings at the Punanga Nui Market and the…

  • Tokerau Jim

    Rarotonga

    Located in Matavera, Tokerau Jim does beautiful and incredibly fine carvings on pearls and pearl shell. On Saturday mornings you'll find him at the…

  • BCA Art Gallery

    Avarua

    Houses a gallery specialising in contemporary Pacific art, an excellent gift shop selling pearls, clothing and designer homeware, and a relaxed courtyard…

  • Dive Shop

    Avarua

    Sells good-quality fins, masks and snorkels and surfwear. See the website for an interactive map of Raro's best snorkelling sites.

  • Perfumes of Rarotonga

    Avarua

    In Cook’s Corner Arcade in central Avarua, and also selling excellent fudge full of tropical fruit and coconut flavours.

  • M&M Ukalele & Crafts

    Avarua

    M&M sells handmade ukuleles and has a great selection of local music on CD. Phone ahead to make sure it's open.

  • Mangaia Airport Shop

    The Cook Islands

    This tiny shop opens for incoming flights. It also doubles as a booking office for tours and activities.

  • Turtles & Ocean/Earth

    Rarotonga

    Interesting designs spoofing global brands and also that Cook Islands rugby shirt you've always wanted.

  • Vainetini Te Akapuanga

    The Cook Islands

    Local crafts are for sale at this centre next to the Atiu Town Hall. Opening hours are flexible.

  • Ma'uke Market

    The Cook Islands

    From 8.30am on Friday morning you can buy fresh produce at Ma’uke market, near the wharf.

  • Bounty Bookshop

    Avarua

    Historical and pictorial books about the Cook Islands, and international and NZ magazines.

  • Kato's Store

    The Cook Islands

    Well-stocked grocery store. Also the island’s only bakery.

  • Island Craft

    Avarua

    The best-stocked souvenir shop is in Avarua.

  • Virginia's

    The Cook Islands

    The best of Ma’uke’s grocery stores.

  • Mareko

    Avarua

    Good for T-shirts.

More destinations you need to see