The Low Down on Cook Islands Currency
| Currency: | New Zealand dollar |
| Currency code: | NZD |
| Central Bank: | Reserve Bank of New Zealand |
| Currency symbol: | $ (dollar) |
| Nickname: | kiwi |
| Currency sub unit: | c (cent) |
| Bank notes: | $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 |
| Coins: | 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, $1, $2 |
In the Cook Islands, the official currency is the New Zealand dollar. 1 Dollar is divided into 100 cents, although some 50 cent coins carry the denomination as ’50 tene’.
Until 1967 the New Zealand pound was used in the Cook Islands, before being replaced by the New Zealand dollar. In 1972, Cook Island specific coins were produced and in 1987 Cook Island banknotes also appeared.
The Cook Islands dollar is pegged at par to the New Zealand dollar and the two are treated as much the same and are both accepted throughout the Cook Islands.
What to spend your dollars on**:
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Bottle of Wine
35 NZD
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Cup of coffee
5 NZD
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1km taxi ride
5 NZD
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Dinner for two
35 NZD
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Snorkel set hire
11 NZD
A budget
RecalculateMust-sees in Cook Islands
- Avarua
- Nestled on the north coast of Rarotonga, Avarua is the capital of the Cook Islands. Enjoy the vibrant and colourful fresh fruit at the Punanga Nui waterfront market, hike the local mountains or relax with a beverage and soak up this town’s rejuvenating vibes.
- Mount Maungapu
- Mount Maungapu is the highest point on Aitutaki and a thirty-minute hike will get you to its peak where you’ll enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding hill and palm studded landscape. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a camera on this scenic adventure.
- Aitutaki Lagoon
- This picturesque spot is the region’s most-famous; where translucent blue waters meet multiple small islands and sandbars. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to swimming, snorkelling and exploring the inlets via kayak on this large and lovely lagoon.
Exchanging New Zealand Dollars Online is Easy
Order New Zealand dollars online, lock in the rate and collect at your local store or at the airport before you fly.
FAQ Relating to Cook Islands Currency
Back to top- What is the official currency of the Cook Islands?
The two official currencies of the Cook Islands are the Cook Island dollar and the New Zealand dollar. These currencies are pegged to each other at par and are both widely used throughout the Cook Islands.
- Why is the NZD used in the Cook Islands?
The NZD is used in the Cook Islands due to the political and cultural ties shared between New Zealand and the Cook Islands.
- Is cash or card preferred throughout the Cook Islands?
Although there are ATMs scattered throughout Rarotonga and Aitutaki (and cards are widely accepted there), you may need cash for travel on many of the smaller islands.
International SIM Cards
Stay connected when travelling overseas. Choose from a range of prepaid International SIMs.
SHOP NOWPrefer to Buy in Store?
If buying online is not your thing, visit your nearest Travelex store around and one of our friendly sales consultants will help you organise your euros for your trip to Cook Islands.
Find a StoreTravelling to Cook Islands in the Future?
Track Rates and get notified when the NZD matches your ideal rate so you can decide if it’s a good time to buy!
Track RatesHow to Keep your Money Safe while Travelling
Dealing with lost or stolen funds while taking a trip is not only a hassle, but also extremely stressful. Learn how to keep your money safe while travelling.
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