Cook Islands Library & Museum: Preserving Pacific Heritage
Discover Cook Islands history and culture through artifacts, rare books, and maritime exhibits in the heart of Avarua.
Located in Avarua, the Cook Islands Library & Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Cook Islands. The museum, a private organization run and funded by volunteers, displays a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that narrate the story of the Cook Islands from ancient times to the present. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits featuring ceremonial artifacts, cooking utensils, traditional weapons, and intricate shell displays. The library houses a collection of rare books and historical texts. The museum also features maritime exhibits, including vaka (canoes) and a historic anchor. The Cook Islands Library and Museum Society formed in 1963, and the building was completed in 1963 and opened on 22 December 1964. The exhibits in the museum were set up by one Mr Riccarton of Canterbury Museum, New Zealand. Many of the artifacts are rare wooden and stone items donated to the museum.
Local tips
- Take your time to explore the exhibits, as there is a lot to read and learn about the history and culture of the Cook Islands.
- Check the museum's opening hours before you go, as they are limited.
- Consider purchasing a visitor membership to borrow library materials during your stay.
A brief summary to Cook Islands Library & Museum
- Makea Tinirau Rd, Avarua, CK
- +68226468
Getting There
-
Walking
The Cook Islands Library & Museum is located on Makea Tinirau Road in Avarua, a short walk from the main business center. From Cook's Corner, walk east along the main road (Ara Tapu), then turn left onto Makea Tinirau Road. The museum will be on your left. There are no costs associated with walking.
-
Public Transport
The Clockwise and Anti-Clockwise buses circle the island and stop near the museum. Both buses depart from Cook's Corner in Avarua. From Cook's Corner, take either the Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise bus. Ask the driver to let you off near the Cook Islands Library & Museum on Makea Tinirau Road. From the main road, it is a short walk to the museum. The adult single ride fare is NZ$3.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available in Rarotonga and can be pre-booked by phone. Several taxi companies operate on the island, including PriceTaxis (133 or +682 57303), Dorothy's Taxi (+682 21400 or +682 52355), AJ Taxi Services (+682 22592 or +682 52800), and H-K Taxi (+682 73549). A taxi from Cook's Corner to the Cook Islands Library & Museum is a short ride. Taxi fares in the Cook Islands are approximately NZ$3 per kilometer. The minimum day fare is NZ$10.
