Island, Cook Islands
Healthcare in Rarotonga: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Rarotonga
Basic hospital care plus private GP clinics. Serious cases are evacuated to Auckland, so carry insurance covering medical evacuation.
Hospitals for foreigners in Rarotonga
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Rarotonga Hospital (Te Marae Ora) | Public hospital in Avarua with emergency services |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: NZ$60–120 ($34–67) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Cook Islands: Rarotonga Hospital handles basics and may want payment first; outer islands have small clinics. No decompression chamber; serious cases are evacuated to New Zealand at high cost.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in Avarua with limited stock; bring regular medicines with prescriptions.
- Emergency: Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 996 · All emergencies 999.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Cook Islands, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Rarotonga for foreigners?
Rarotonga Hospital (Te Marae Ora): Public hospital in Avarua with emergency services
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Rarotonga?
About NZ$60–120 ($34–67) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Cook Islands?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Cook Islands expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Rarotonga
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Cook Islands
- Cook Islands Tourism
- Rarotonga International Airport
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.