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Pacific Islands Tourism GuideLevel One, 534 Colombo Street
PO Box 7576, Christchurch 8240
New Zealand
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Cook Islands banking, currency, money and finance information. Find out what currency the Cook Islands use, how to go about using banking facilities and finance options.
The Cook Islands offers a range of banking facilities and finance options, including operating as an international finance centre.
Banking facilities are available for all international arrivals. There are Westpac and ANZ Banks on Rarotonga. Banks are generally open 9:00 am to 3:00 pm weekdays, with some also open on Saturday morning. There is an ATM at both the ANZ and Westpac banks. Westpac represents American Express.
The currency in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand dollar. Coins have values of 10, 20 and 50 cents, $1 and $2; notes have values of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. New Zealand notes are used throughout the islands but the Cook Islands have their own decorative $3 note in circulation as well as a few old coins. New Zealand coins are used mostly throughout the islands.
There is a 12.5% Value Added Tax (VAT) on all goods and services. This is included in prices at most places but you should ask if it's not displayed, just in case.
Tipping is not encouraged in the Cook Islands. If you wish to offer a tip, tip with a smile and a meitaki ma'ata (thank you).
Bargaining can also be taken as an insult.
Regional Information
Key information and facts about the Cook Islands & Rarotonga region.
Activity Highlights
Major activities and attractions in the Cook Islands & Rarotonga region.
Scenic Highlights
Major natural attractions in the Cook Islands & Rarotonga region.
History
History of the Cook Islands & Rarotonga region.