Avarua: The Heartbeat of the Cook Islands

• HelloKia Orana
  [Kee-ah O-rah-nah]
• GoodbyeKa Kite
  [Kah Kee-teh]
• YesAe
  [Eye]
• NoKare
  [Kah-reh]
• Please/You're welcomeMeitaki
  [May-tah-kee]
• Thank youMeitaki
  [May-tah-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryAro'a
  [Ah-roh-ah]
• How are you?E haere mai?
  [Aye hah-reh my?]
• Fine. And you?Meitaki. E koe?
  [May-tah-kee. Aye koh-eh?]
• Do you speak English?E korero koe i te reo Ingarangi?
  [Aye koh-reh-roh koh-eh ee teh reh-oh Ing-gah-rang-ee?]
• I don't understandKare au e 'akatangi
  [Kah-reh ow eh ah-kah-tang-ee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKa meitaki kia kite i te reta, 'ei a?
  [Kah may-tah-kee kee-ah kee-teh ee teh reh-tah, aye ah?]
• I don't eat meatKare au e kai i te kikau
  [Kah-reh ow eh kah-ee ee teh kee-kow]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-yah!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKa meitaki kia uanga, 'ei a?
  [Kah may-tah-kee kee-ah oo-ah-ngah, aye ah?]

• Help!Ara!
  [Ah-rah!]
• Go away!Tikaina!
  [Tee-kai-nah!]
• Call the Police!Tiki mai te Kuki Airani!
  [Tee-kee my teh Koo-kee Eye-rah-nee!]
• Call a doctor!Tiki mai te vaevae
  [Tee-kee my teh vah-eh-vah-eh]
• I'm lostKua 'oki au
  ['Koo-ah oh-kee ow]
• I'm illKare au e ora
  [Kah-reh ow eh oh-rah]

• I'd like to buy...Ka meitaki kia 'oko...
  [Kah may-tah-kee kee-ah oh-koh...]
• I'm just lookingKare au e 'oko
  [Kah-reh ow eh oh-koh]
• How much is it?E hia te moni?
  [Aye hee-ah teh moh-nee?]
• That's too expensiveTei te moni teitei
  [Teh teh moh-nee teh-ee-teh-ee]
• Can you lower the price?E taea e koe te oko i te moni?
  [Aye tah-eh-ah eh koh-eh teh oh-koh ee teh moh-nee?]

• What time is it?Ko e aha te taimi?
  [Koh eh ah-hah teh tah-ee-mee?]
• It's one o'clockKo te tahi
  [Koh teh tah-hee]
• Half past (10)Te rima 'ei 'ahuru
  [Teh ree-mah aye ah-hoo-roo]
• MorningApoapo
  [Ah-poh-ah-poh]
• AfternoonApo
  [Ah-poh]
• EveningPō
  [Poh]
• YesterdayAroa
  [Ah-roh-ah]
• TodayĀnei
  [Ah-nay]
• TomorrowĀpōpō
  [Ah-poh-poh]
• 1Tahi
  [Tah-hee]
• 2Rua
  [Roo-ah]
• 3Toru
  [Toh-roo]
• 4Whā
  [Fah]
• 5Rima
  [Ree-mah]
• 6Ono
  [Oh-noh]
• 7Whitu
  [Wee-too]
• 8Waru
  [Wah-roo]
• 9Iwa
  [Ee-wah]
• 10Tekau
  [Teh-kow]

• Where's a/the...?Kei a te...?
  [Keh ee ah teh...?]
• What's the address?Ko te tuiraa?
  [Koh teh too-ee-rah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?E taea e koe te 'akakite mai ia au ('i te mahere)?
  [Aye tah-eh-ah eh koh-eh teh ah-kah-kee-teh my ee-ah ow (ee teh mah-here)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Ahea ta runga 'ē?
  [Ah-heh-ah tah roong-gah ehh?]
• A ticket (to ....)Te pere (ki te...)
  [Teh peh-reh (kee teh...)]

Avarua, the capital of the Cook Islands, was established in the early 19th century as a focal point for trade and governance. The settlement grew around the natural harbor, making it a prime location for both local and foreign vessels.

In the 1820s, Christian missionaries from the London Missionary Society arrived in Avarua. Their arrival brought significant changes, including the introduction of Christianity, Western education, and new agricultural practices.

The Cook Islands became a British protectorate in 1888, and Avarua served as the administrative center. This period saw the construction of key infrastructure, such as government buildings and churches, which remain historical landmarks today.

During World War II, Avarua gained strategic importance as the Cook Islands were used as a base for Allied forces. The construction of airfields and military installations left a lasting impact on the town’s landscape.

In 1965, the Cook Islands achieved self-governing status in free association with New Zealand. Avarua became the political and economic hub, where modern governance structures and cultural institutions, such as the National Museum, were established.

Avarua is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as Te Maeva Nui, which celebrates Cook Islands' culture and history. These events highlight traditional dances, music, and crafts, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of the islands.

In recent decades, Avarua has seen significant development aimed at boosting tourism. The town now features modern amenities, resorts, and restaurants, yet it retains its historical charm through preservation efforts and cultural heritage sites.

Avarua, the capital of the Cook Islands, is located on the island of Rarotonga. The primary gateway is Rarotonga International Airport (RAR), which receives flights from major hubs like Auckland, Sydney, and Los Angeles. Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia are some of the airlines that operate routes to Rarotonga. Once you arrive at Rarotonga International Airport, Avarua is just a short 10-minute drive away. Taxis, rental cars, and shuttle services are available at the airport.

Avarua and Rarotonga, in general, are easy to navigate. The island has a well-maintained ring road that circles the entire island, making it convenient to explore. Public buses run clockwise and counterclockwise around the island, with Avarua being a central hub for many routes. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Renting a scooter or a car is a popular and practical option for tourists, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace. Bicycles are also available for rent and are a great way to experience the island more intimately.

The official currency of the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Avarua and accept major international cards. It is a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.

Avarua is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant, especially at night. The local police are friendly and helpful, and their presence is reassuring.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Rarotonga Hospital in Avarua provides medical services for most health issues, and there are several pharmacies in town for over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For lost or stolen passports, the New Zealand High Commission in Avarua can provide assistance.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending local events. Avoid wearing swimwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Churches are an important part of life here, and it's customary to dress modestly when attending services. Public Transport: Do be courteous and greet the bus driver when boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kia Orana,' which means 'hello' in Cook Islands Maori. A smile and a simple handshake are also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to experiencing new flavors. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Avarua like a local, visit the Punanga Nui Market on Saturday mornings, where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and enjoy live music. Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Explore the Avarua waterfront and visit local cafes and eateries to sample traditional dishes. Don't miss out on attending a cultural show to learn about the rich heritage and traditions of the Cook Islands.