Island, Cook Islands
Getting around Rarotonga
How to get around Rarotonga
A clockwise and anticlockwise bus loop circles the island; scooters, bikes and cars are easy to rent. Taxis fill the gaps.
Ways to get around Rarotonga
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Island bus | About NZ$5 single, day pass about NZ$16 | Clockwise and anticlockwise loops; limited evening and Sunday service |
| Rental scooter | About NZ$20–30 a day | Local licence from the police station; helmet is required |
| Taxi | About NZ$15–30 | Fixed prices; book for evenings |
| Bicycle | About NZ$10–15 a day | Flat coastal road around the island |
Taxis in Rarotonga
- No ride-hailing apps operate here. No ride apps. Taxis and the bus cover the island; book evening rides ahead.
Arriving in Rarotonga
Rarotonga International (RAR)
About 3 km from Avarua: taxi or hotel shuttle roughly NZ$15–35, 5–25 min depending on where you stay.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rented widely; visitors need a Cook Islands licence from the police station (short practical test). Helmets are required.
- Driving: on the left. Cars: home licence valid 6 months. Scooters need a motorbike licence or a practical test at Avarua police HQ.
- Onward travel in Cook Islands: Air Rarotonga flies to Aitutaki and the outer islands. On Rarotonga, clockwise and anticlockwise buses circle the island; otherwise rent a scooter, car or e-bike.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Rarotonga?
No ride-hailing apps work here. No ride apps. Taxis and the bus cover the island; book evening rides ahead.
What's the best way to get around Rarotonga?
A clockwise and anticlockwise bus loop circles the island; scooters, bikes and cars are easy to rent. Taxis fill the gaps.
How do I get from the airport to Rarotonga?
About 3 km from Avarua: taxi or hotel shuttle roughly NZ$15–35, 5–25 min depending on where you stay.
Is Rarotonga walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Rarotonga
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Sources
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.