Cook Islands Library & Museum: A Cultural Heartbeat
Discover Cook Islands' heritage through artifacts, rare books, and historical exhibits in Avarua. A cultural gem for every visitor.
Located in Avarua, the Cook Islands Library & Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Cook Islands. The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that narrate the story of the Cook Islands from ancient times to the present day. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to provide insights into the customs, traditions, and daily life of the local people, making it an enriching experience for tourists and locals alike. The library boasts a wide selection of books and resources related to the Cook Islands, perfect for those interested in delving deeper into the islands' history and culture. Engaging displays showcase traditional crafts, historical events, and the natural environment, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and complexity of these islands. The friendly staff are on hand to share their knowledge and answer any questions, enhancing your visit with personal insights. The Cook Islands Library and Museum Society was formed and incorporated in 1963. The building was completed in 1963 and opened on 22 December 1964. Architect Ken Mills designed the building. It is located a short walking distance from the main business centre of Avarua, the capital and largest town. The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 1 PM and on Tuesday evenings from 4 PM to 7 PM.
Local tips
- Check the opening hours in advance, as the museum has limited hours and is closed on Sundays.
- Take your time browsing the rare book collection for unique insights into Cook Islands history.
- Engage with the friendly staff to learn more about the artifacts and local culture.
A brief summary to Cook Islands Library & Museum
- Makea Tinirau Rd, Avarua, CK
- +68226468
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-12 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
- Friday 9 am-12 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From Cook's Corner in central Avarua, the Cook Islands Library & Museum is a short walk east along Makea Tinirau Road. The museum is located on the north side of the road, set back in a parkland area near historic buildings. Walking from Cook's Corner takes approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
The Clockwise and Anti-Clockwise buses circle the island and stop along the main road. You can catch either bus from Cook's Corner in Avarua. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Cook Islands Library & Museum on Makea Tinirau Road. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the museum. A single bus fare is NZ$5.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Rarotonga but are not typically hailed from the roadside. It's best to pre-book a taxi by phone. Several taxi companies operate on Rarotonga, including PriceTaxis (Dial 133 or +682 57303), Dorothy's Taxi (+682 21400 or +682 52355), and AJ Taxi Services (+682 22592 or +682 52800). A short taxi ride from central Avarua to the museum will cost approximately NZ$10-15, with a minimum day fare of NZ$10.
