Aitutaki, Cook Islands

Aitutaki, also traditionally known as Araura, Ararau and Utataki, is one of the Cook Islands, north of Rarotonga. It has a population of approximately 2,000. Aitutaki is the second most visited island of the Cook Islands. The capital (main village) is Arutanga (Arutunga) on the west side.

Aitutaki is famous for its turquoise central lagoon, uninhabited islands and palm-fringed beaches. Another advantage is that until now it has been spared by mass tourism. Noteworthy also are an old church (the oldest in the Cook Islands) and some gigantic Banyan Trees.

One Foot Island, a small islet in the south-east of the lagoon, is often said to be the most important attraction. It is regarded as providing the visitor with the best views of the Aitutaki lagoon and depending on the tide one is able to walk on a sandbank a decent distance away from One Foot Island.

Things to See & Do

* Explore the island on foot or hire a bike
* Ministry of Marine Resources
* One Foot Island
* Lagoon Tour
* Scuba Diving

General information

Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency - New Zealand dollar
(Cook Islands dollar also used) (NZD)
Language – English, Cook Islands Maori
Population – 2000 approx
Electricity – 2 round pins European style, two parallel flat pins Japanese style
Time - GMT minus 10
International Country Telephone Code – + 682

Port Location – The port is located in the main village of Arutanga.

Transport Links – Aitutaki Airport is served by Air Rarotonga with daily flights from Rarotonga. There are flights four or five times daily (except Sundays) that take approximately 45 minutes.