Introduction
Kia orana. If you are organising a Cook Islands holiday from New Zealand, Te Vaka helps you sort the practical bits before you leave home: airport transfers, island shuttles, private transport, and a warm welcome when you land on Rarotonga.
Many New Zealand travellers want a straightforward arrival, a clear plan for getting around, and a few trusted local options rather than a long list of unknowns. That is what these pages are for.
Te Vaka Group is a Cook Islands visitor experience business. We help visitors book and enjoy local tours, transfers, shuttles and private transport, with Ask Papa T for simple island questions along the way.
Arriving on Rarotonga
Rarotonga International Airport is the usual arrival point for Cook Islands holidays. Once you clear arrival formalities, your next step is getting to your accommodation around the island.
Have your accommodation name and village ready when you book a transfer. Shared airport transfers depart once guests are onboard. If you prefer your own vehicle and driver, a private airport transfer or charter is available to book as well.
Prices on Te Vaka are shown in New Zealand dollars (NZD), the same currency many New Zealand travellers already use day to day.
Airport transfers and getting around
Book a shared airport transfer for a simple arrival or departure ride, with zone pricing from $5 per person. Enter your flight details and accommodation so your driver knows where to find you.
For other days on island, Te Vaka Shuttles cover point-to-point rides across Rarotonga, market shuttles run to Punanga Nui on Saturday mornings and Muri Night Market on selected evenings, and private charters keep a vehicle and driver with you for your own pace.
Useful Te Vaka links
Pre-arrival checklist for New Zealand travellers
- Confirm your accommodation name and village on Rarotonga
- Book your arrival airport transfer before you fly
- Note your flight number for the transfer booking form
- Decide whether you want a shared transfer or a private ride
- Browse Te Waka Tour or Explore if you want a hosted cultural day planned ahead
- Save Ask Papa T for practical island questions once you are closer to travel
Common questions
Can I book a Rarotonga airport transfer from New Zealand?
Yes. Book online through Te Vaka before you travel. Choose arrival or departure, enter your flight and accommodation details, then confirm your transfer.
What transport can I organise before I leave Aotearoa?
You can book airport transfers, Te Vaka Shuttles, market shuttles, private charters and Te Waka Tour ahead of time. Ask Papa T can also help with simple trip questions.
Are prices listed in NZD?
Yes. Te Vaka booking prices are shown in New Zealand dollars (NZD). There is no live currency conversion on the site.