Cook Islands - Health
Health care is provided by the government, but the system is relatively basic. Each island has a hospital, but some of the more remote hospitals are very poorly equipped. People generally are sent to the hospital in Rarotonga (well-equipped with NZ trained staff and emergency services), or New Zealand for serious illnesses. Some people rely on traditional medicines and faith healers in addition to the Western medicine that is available.
The majority of good medical and dental services are available on Rarotonga, along with eye doctors and physiotherapists etc.
Visit the Cook Islands Ministry of Health (Te Marae Ora) website for a full registry of community health clinics and locations across the Cook Islands.
Visitors must meet their own medical costs during their time in the Cook Islands, including medical evacuation to New Zealand if specialist care is required. Health Insurance is recommended.
For any emergency call 999.
Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:
Although no vaccinations are required, one or two may be recommended by a doctor as a precaution: vaccinations for hepatitis A and hepatitis B and typhoid.
Food and Water Concerns:
It is always best to boil tap water before drinking it. There are filtered water stations around the island.
Mosquito-borne Diseases:
Outbreaks of dengue fever can occur.
Prevention:
- Use a repellent containing 20%-30% DEET or 20% Picaridin on exposed skin. Re-apply according to manufacturer’s directions.
- Wear neutral-coloured (beige, light grey) long-sleeved clothing.
- Pre-soak or spray outer layer clothing and gear with permethrin.
- Ensure that hatch and window screens work properly.
Mosquito repellent is essential and it is advisable to wear reef shoes when in the water.
Next Section: Formalities: Local Customs
Related to following destinations: Cook Islands
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It is no longer possible to clear into the Southern Cook Islands at Palmerston Island. All yachts must first clear at an official port of entry before proceeding to Palmerston. Landing fees on the island have also increased from NZ$5 to NZ$10 per person. Cruisers should also note that Suwar-row in the Northern Cook Islands is closed until June 1st, 2023.
From Brent Crack and Mary Bevan:
The people of Rarotonga are so friendly and welcoming. Feels much like Rapa Nui or Pitcairn. Bananas have already been delivered without being asked for.
The yachting facilities/infrastructure absolutely sucks. They are not set up in any way for us. Oh well.
We had planned to stay longer but have a weather window straight to New Zealand so we will leave today.
AITUTAKI. Dredging has started to improve the entrance and Channel to the harbour. When finished, it will be 5m deep and 15m wide. The south and north basin either side of the wharf, will be 4m deep. The north basin will be for visitors. The south basin will provide space for local boats and visitors. Initially, visitors will anchor and tie back. When funds are available, moorings and shore facilities wil be provided.
The Cook Islands Ministry of Transport and sports and Tourism will publish correct marine information relating to access as more details are known mid-2022.