What is the Cook Islands's 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**:

  • *

    Bottle of Wine

    35 NZD *

  • *

    Cup of coffee

    5 NZD *

  • *

    1km taxi ride

    5 NZD *

  • *

    Dinner for two

    35 NZD *

  • *

    Snorkel set hire

    11 NZD *

How many dollars will I need?**

Please select your budget above.


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Total spending money needed:

  • *A budget
  • *for people for
  • * nights


*Recalculate

Must-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.
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  • 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.

  • 1. Click the ‘Buy Now’ button below
  • And tell us how much you need for your trip in Cash or Travel Card.

  • 2. Choose where to get it
  • Collect your currency from over 3,600 locations.

  • 3. Pay online
  • Use either PayID®, BPAY®, Visa or MasterCard®

Discover Where to Buy NZD for Cook Islands in your City

You can buy NZD for Cook Islands online or in-store at any of our branches around Australia.

Check our full list of branches, or click the links below to find stores around major cities and lock in buying NZD for Cook Islands at a great rate today.



FAQ Relating to Cook Islands Currency

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  • 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.

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Prefer to Buy in Store?

Prefer 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 Store

Travelling to Cook Islands in the Future?

Travelling 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!

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How to Keep your Money Safe while Travelling

How 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.

Read more

* Rates are subject to change throughout the day. In-store rates vary compared to online.

** The figures provided are indicative only and are there to provide an idea of the amount of travel money you may need during your trip.

*** Business days. Some stores open 7 days. The next available date will be displayed when ordering.

^^Based on mid-market and Travelex Online AUD to FX exchange rates as of the date of the relevant social media post and/or email communication. Rates are subject to change throughout the day. Any rates and savings are quoted as a guide only.

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