Exploring the Cook Islands by road has never been easier – or more rewarding. From the moment you touch down, you’ll find a range of transport options to suit your style, whether you prefer the freedom of two wheels, the comfort of four, or the charm of pedal power. And there’s no need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads – think low speed limits, zero traffic lights and just a few roundabouts. Getting around the Cook Islands is not only simple but part of the fun.
How Big is Rarotonga? (And Why Transport Matters)
Rarotonga is the largest of the Cook Islands, encircled by a single 32km ring road – and while the island may be small, having your own transport is essential to make the most of it.
A full loop takes just 45 minutes by car, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you jump on the local bus or hire a vehicle, it’s the best way to uncover Rarotonga’s stunning beaches, vibrant eateries, cultural attractions and hidden treasures.
Car hire on Cook Islands
Car hire on Rarotonga is easy – car rental companies operate across the island so you can hire a car from the airport on both Rarotonga and Aitutaki, or a vehicle can be dropped at your accommodation. Better still, let Spacifica Travel organise it for you as part of your holiday package so you can just arrive on the island and start your adventure.
Take your pick from vehicles including hatchbacks, SUVs and minivans, most of which have an automatic transmission and are easy to drive. If you’re travelling with young children, check that a car seat is available or bring your own from home.
Car hire in the Cook Islands is no different to any other holiday destination. You’ll need to provide your driver’s license, your chosen vehicle will be inspected, and you’ll be offered insurance cover. Although the legal driving age in the Cook Islands is 16, most vehicle rental companies have age restrictions for drivers of either 18 or 21 years old.
Remember to return your hire car with a full tank of petrol – several fuel stations are located along Rarotonga’s main road and there are four on Aitutaki.
Scooter & Motorbike Hire in Rarotonga
If you’re travelling solo or as a couple, it’s cheaper to hire a scooter or motorbike than a car and a great way to zip around the island. Feel the breeze on your face but be sure to wear a helmet – new laws require all motorcyclists on Rarotonga to wear helmets or face a fine.
Bicycle hire in Rarotonga
Hiring a bicycle in Rarotonga is as easy as… riding a bike! Two wheels are a cheap and cheerful way to travel short distances and explore the beachfront. While many of Rarotonga’s roads are flat, the island’s steep inland roads are better suited to four wheels.
Many hotels will have bicycles available to borrow on a first come first served basis, but to ensure you don’t miss out it’s recommended to hire one. Mountain bikes, beach cruisers, jumbo bikes and e-bikes are all available for rent.
Public transport in Rarotonga
Rarotonga’s public transport is a fantastic way to explore – two buses circle the island in a clockwise/counterclockwise direction hourly throughout the day so you can hop on and off as you need. The buses will stop anywhere along the main road – all you have to do is smile and wave them down. A full trip around the island takes 45 minutes, and tickets can be purchased onboard (cash is preferred). Rarotonga’s bus service is the perfect way to experience the Cook Island vibe and culture.
Several taxi services operate in Rarotonga and are another convenient way to get around the island. While they can be more expensive than other options like the local bus or renting a car, taxis offer a direct and readily available service.
Road rules & license requirements in the Cook Islands
Driving in the Cook Islands is especially easy for those coming from Australia or New Zealand. Not only is your driver’s license accepted, but you drive on the left-hand side of the road, just like at home.
Drivers’ licenses from Canada, EU, Switzerland, Japan, Norway, UK and the US are also accepted in the Cook Islands. International visitors (over 16 years) can drive in the Cook Islands for up to six months using their full overseas licence, provided it does not expire, is revoked, suspended or disqualified during that time.
If you hold a driver’s license from any other country, you will need to obtain a Cook Islands visitors license.
Speed limits vary across the Cook Islands – in Rarotonga, the maximum speed limit outside of populated areas is 50km/h, while in most of Aitutaki it’s 40km/h. In Avarua and Muri, the speed limit is 30km/h.
And while wearing a seatbelt isn’t mandatory in the Cook Islands, it is strongly recommended for the safety of you and your passengers. Helmets are mandatory for motorbikes and scooters, and only two people are permitted to ride and must be seated astride, not sideways. Pillion passengers must sit behind the driver. If you’re cycling, you must stick to the side of the road, not the middle.
Getting around Aitutaki and other islands
Car and scooter hire is available in Aitutaki, and bikes are also popular for resort to town trips. You can hire a car from the airport in Aitutaki or have a vehicle delivered to your accommodation – Spacifica Travel can make all the arrangements for you.
On the outer islands, car hire is provided by the resorts. Given public transport is limited on the smaller islands, hiring a car is best. On some islands, like Atiu, guided tours are offered instead of car hire.
On Aitutaki, if you’re not already licensed for motorcycles in your home country, you will need to take your passport and driver’s license to the Police Station in Arutanga, where you’ll be issued a visitor scooter license in paper form. There is no test required, and the fee is significantly cheaper (this scooter license is also valid on Rarotonga).
Most of the roads on Aitutaki are sealed and in relatively good condition, but on the outer islands they can be gravel, dirt or flattened coral. It takes about 40 minutes to drive around Aitutaki, around 35 minutes to drive around Atiu, Mangaia and Ma’uke, and roughly 30 minutes to drive around Mitiaro.
Travel made easy with Spacifica
Spacifica Travel takes the hassle out of getting around the Cook Islands, offering packages that include airport transfers and optional car hire. As specialists in Pacific Island holidays, the team can recommend the best transport options to suit your accommodation and travel style, organise hire vehicles in advance, and take care of all the logistics – so you can simply relax and enjoy the ride.
Contact the Spacifica Travel team to find the transport solution that best fits your itinerary.
FAQs: Getting around the Cook Islands
Do I need a licence to drive in the Cook Islands?
Yes - All visitors over the age of 16 can drive in the Cook Islands provided they have a current driver’s license from their home country or have obtained a Cook Islands visitors license.
Can I hire a car on Rarotonga with an Australian license?
Yes - Australian and New Zealand Driver licenses are accepted in the Cook Islands. Although the legal driving age in the Cook Islands is 16, most vehicle rental companies have age restrictions for drivers of either 18 or 21 years old.
Do I need a special licence for scooters?
If your current license does not permit you to ride a motorbike or scooter in your home country, then you will need to obtain a Cook Islands visitor license.
Is there Uber or rideshare in the Cook Islands?
No – however several taxi services are available, particularly in Rarotonga, and can be a convenient way to get around.
Is public transport reliable in Rarotonga?
Yes – buses circle the island every hour and can be waved down from the side of the main road and taxis offer a direct and readily available service.
What’s the best way to get around Aitutaki?
Public transport is limited in Aitutaki, but car and scooter hire are readily available. Bikes are also a popular option for short distance trips.