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…
Must-see shopping in Rarotonga, Samoa & Tonga
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…
Rarotonga
Visit for beautiful Cook Islands tivaevae (hand-sewn quilted fabrics) harnessing traditional designs such as bedspreads and bed linen, but also reworked…
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…
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…
Tongatapu
Starts when the boats come in around 5am (get there early). Trestle tables covered with bags of oysters, iridescent tropical fish, big crabs with taped-up…
Vava'u Group
An open-walled harbourside hall crammed with racks of brightly coloured island fruit and veg, plus stalls selling locally hewn weavings, carvings and…
Rarotonga
Contemporary art from owners Ian and Kay George combines with works from other Pacific artists. Handpainted or printed textiles are available, as are…
Avarua
With unique and modern settings including necklaces, rings and bracelets. Hillary Clinton was gifted some Bergman black pearls when she visited the Cook…
Apia
The handmade soaps, creams and goodies here are made with organic coconut oil; everything smells and feels divine. Stop by and you’ll probably get a tour…
Tongatapu
A nonprofit artists co-op representing 300-plus local artists. Inside you'll find brilliant Tongan jewellery, carvings, baskets, weavings, canvasses...and…
Savai'i
Salelologa's main market sells arts, crafts, souvenirs, trinkets and some fresh produce. It's a fairly languid affair, but worth a browse. Savai'i's main…
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…
Apia
High Samoan fashion in the form of well-cut dresses in traditional fabrics or painted with floral patterns. It’s a bit pricey but there’s something for…
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…
Avarua
Houses a gallery specialising in contemporary Pacific art, an excellent gift shop selling pearls, clothing and designer homeware, and a relaxed courtyard…
Apia
Stop in for high-quality, locally made art, craft and gifts, including hand-blocked fabric, lava-lava, prints, tailored shirts, bedding and jewellery.
Apia
This little nook has an on-site gallery and beautiful outdoor cafe. Locally made jewellery, carvings, art and more are all of exceptional quality.
American Samoa
The award-winning artists here specialise in clean, beautiful Polynesian designs; they take it easy on tourists with a modern, electric needle.
Avarua
Sells good-quality fins, masks and snorkels and surfwear. See the website for an interactive map of Raro's best snorkelling sites.
Avarua
In Cook’s Corner Arcade in central Avarua, and also selling excellent fudge full of tropical fruit and coconut flavours.
Avarua
M&M sells handmade ukuleles and has a great selection of local music on CD. Phone ahead to make sure it's open.
The Cook Islands
This tiny shop opens for incoming flights. It also doubles as a booking office for tours and activities.
Rarotonga
Interesting designs spoofing global brands and also that Cook Islands rugby shirt you've always wanted.
The Cook Islands
Local crafts are for sale at this centre next to the Atiu Town Hall. Opening hours are flexible.
The Cook Islands
From 8.30am on Friday morning you can buy fresh produce at Ma’uke market, near the wharf.
Avarua
Historical and pictorial books about the Cook Islands, and international and NZ magazines.
