The information in this document is intended for people currently living overseas who are considering applying for a position advertised by the Cook Islands Ministry of Education – either a teaching position or a position within the Ministry headquarters.

LOCATION    

The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands scattered over some 2 million square kilometres of the Pacific Ocean. They lie in the centre of the Polynesian Triangle, flanked to the west by Niue and Samoa and to the east by Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia.

RAROTONGA

The island of Rarotonga in the southern group is the main and most populated island. It is the centre of government, government ministries and the commercial hub of the nation. Entry and departure to the other islands is through Rarotonga via the international airport at Nikao and main port at Avatiu. 

POPULATION

All islands with the exception of Suwarrow (Northern Group) and Manuae and Takutea (Southern Group) are populated and have established schools, providing education from pre-school to secondary.
Populations vary considerably from island to island, but since the mid 1990’s the populations of the outer islands have been declining. This has created additional challenges for the Ministry. 

CLIMATE

The Cook Islands enjoy a pleasantly warm and sunny climate all year round. June to August are the cooler months, whilst November to March marks the warmer season, with occasional tropical showers expected.
The drier months from April to November have an average temperature of about 26°C, whilst the warmer more humid and damp season runs from December to March. During this season the temperature ranges between 22°C and 32°C.
The table below indicates the prevalence of sunshine and temperatures. Severe weather is rare and infrequent. 

CURRENCY AND BANKING

The denomination of currency used in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZ$). Westpac, Bank of Cook Islands (BCI) and ANZ Bank in Avarua are open Monday to Friday 9:00am – 3:00pm and Saturday mornings. BCI services are available in all outer islands. Banking facilities are also provided at the airport for currency exchange and cashing of travellers cheques. Major credit cards are accepted throughout Rarotonga at most shops, and restaurants. ANZ , BCI and Westpac have recently installed ATM machines. EFTPOS facilities are becoming more widespread throughout local businesses and cash advances on major credit cards are accepted.