Thinking about moving to Rarotonga and the beautiful Cook Islands? Here is everything you need to know about how to rent a house in Rarotonga.
Plus the good news? We have done it twice!
We are a travelling family from New Zealand – Away With The Steiners – settling in Rarotonga for the second time. So this is our second time living in Rarotonga and moving to the Cook Islands as a family.
And call us bias, but we always reaffirm that moving to the Cook Islands and renting a house in Rarotonga is one of the best decisions we’ve ever made!
Read All About Rarotonga:
- PART 1 – Moving to Rarotonga, Cook Islands
- PART 2 – Navigating Health Checks for Your Move to Rarotonga
- PART 3 – Shipping for Your Move to Rarotonga
- PART 4 – Finding & Renting a House in Rarotonga
- PART 5 – Buying a Car in Rarotonga
Renting a House in Rarotonga
The following is our guide to renting a house in Rarotonga with all the questions we wanted to ask the first time round.
- Rent a House in Rarotonga
- Short-Term vs. Long-Term
- Budget To Rent a House in Rarotonga
- What Furnishings?
- What to Look For?
- Utilities & Costs
- Finding a House to Rent in Rarotonga
Short-Term vs. Long-Term House Rental in Rarotonga
Deciding between a short-term and long-term house rental in Rarotonga depends on your purpose of stay, your budget, and need for flexibility:
- Short-Term Rentals: Ideal for extended holidays or temporary stays, offering fully furnished properties with flexible rental lease terms. These are generally more expensive but come with fewer commitments.
- Long-Term Rentals: Suitable for those planning to stay for several months or years, providing lower rental rates and more stable living arrangements.
Consider your objectives, financial situation, and preferred lifestyle when choosing between short-term and long-term rental options for Rarotonga.
Wondering seriously about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands? Send us a message and get in touch!
Houses To Rent in Rarotonga
When you look to rent a house in Rarotonga, you will find that the majority of long-term accommodation is comfortable, functional, and intentionally designed for tropical living.
We’ve done it twice! This is our second time living here on the island and we’ve moved house a few times to find the best longterm rental so have a few tips.
Most available properties are semi-furnished and provide the essentials needed to start your island life immediately. Here is what you can expect from the typical island home:
Construction and Layout
- Building Materials: Most homes feature a solid concrete base with block walls or synthetic cladding. If you are looking for a smaller studio or a one-bedroom home, these are often charming, freestanding wooden pole houses.
- Climate Control: You won’t find insulation here—it simply isn’t needed! Instead, most properties available to rent a house in Rarotonga now come equipped with ceiling fans or air conditioning to keep things cool.
- Outdoor Living: Tropical living is all about being outside. Most rentals feature a dedicated outdoor living space, usually a wooden deck or a sheltered area under an extended carport roof.
Utilities and Essentials
- Connectivity: You will generally have easy access to high-speed internet, local convenience stores, and nearby bus stops.
- Power: While 24-hour power is the standard, occasional outages can occur during stormy weather—it’s just part of the island’s charm!
- Key Checks: Before you commit to rent a house in Rarotonga, we recommend checking two things: whether the windows are fitted with mosquito screens and if the water heating system is powered by gas or solar (solar can save you a lot on the power bill).
Costs: Renting a House in Rarotonga
When you’re looking to rent a house in Rarotonga, understanding the breakdown of costs and what’s included can help you budget effectively for your island move. Prices can vary based on location and specific amenities.
What’s Included in Your Rent?
One of the perks of island life is that certain maintenance tasks are often handled for you.
- Lawns and Grounds: Typically, lawn mowing and garden maintenance are included in your weekly rent. This is a huge bonus given how quickly the tropical landscape grows!
- Negotiation Tip: If a landlord asks you to maintain the grounds yourself, this can be a great leverage point to negotiate a lower weekly rate.
- Internet: While usually an extra cost, some rentals—especially ex-holiday homes or those with recently installed Starlink—may include Wi-Fi in the base price.
Average Weekly Rental Costs (2026)
Below is a guide to current rental rates for long-term stays (3+ months) with standard furnishings included.
| Property Type | Features | Weekly Rent (NZD) |
| Large (3–4 Bed) | AC, Garage, Swimming Pool | $600 – $750+ |
| Large (3 Bed) | AC, Carport, Large Deck | $550 – $600 |
| Medium (3 Bed) | Ceiling Fans, Standard Deck | $450 – $500 |
| Small (2 Bed) | Basic Furnishings, Carport | $350 – $450 |
| Small (1 Bed) | Essential Furnishings | $250 – $350 |
| Studio | Compact, Semi-furnished | $200 – $300 |
Note: These prices are for long-term residential leases. Short-term or “holiday” rates are significantly higher, so always specify that you are looking for a long-term arrangement when inquiring.
What to Expect: Standard Furnishings
Most long-term rentals in Rarotonga are semi-furnished. While every home is unique, you will typically find the following essentials provided:
- Bedroom Furniture: Bed frames, mattresses, and storage (wardrobes/drawers).
- Lounge Furniture: Sofas and basic seating.
- Major Appliances: Usually includes a fridge, stove, and washing machine.
- Kitchenware: Basic pots, pans, plates, and cutlery.
- Linens: Standard bed sheets and towels are often included. But – not always!
This time round our latest house didn’t have any bed linen or towels. Though I had heeded our own advice and packed it in our shipping. Last year our house had towels so we didn’t need the ones I brought originally. But this time round I was very glad – they cost an arm and a leg here!
Pro-Tips for Your Move
Having moved to Rarotonga twice and assisted many others in doing the same, we’ve found a few “local secrets” to making a house feel like home:
- Pack Your Own Linens: Even if sheets and towels are provided, we always recommend packing a fresh set of your own. It adds an immediate layer of comfort to your new space. Plus they cost much more here than in New Zealand. (Way more!).
- Small Appliance Upgrades: While the basics are covered, you might miss specific luxuries. We found it helpful to bring (or buy locally) items like a high-quality blender (for island smoothies) or even an Air Fryer.
- The “Disclosure” Rule: Properties vary significantly. Some might be “turn-key” ready, while others are more sparse.
Crucial Step: Always have a detailed conversation with your landlord or rental agent before you arrive. Ask for an inventory list so you know exactly what you need to bring or buy.
What To Look For: Rent a House in Rarotonga
Beyond the location and the number of bedrooms, there are a few essential questions and things to look for when viewing a potential rental.
📝 The Essential Checklist
- Utilities & Connectivity: Ask if Wi-Fi, power, and phone connections are included in the rent. This is common for “minor dwellings” (smaller units on a shared property), but in larger homes, these are usually additional costs.
- The “Mozzie” Factor: Check that the house has mosquito screens on the windows. These are essential for enjoying the island breeze without the bites.
- Maintenance & Grounds: Confirm if lawn mowing and garden maintenance are included in the rent. Rarotonga’s lush landscape grows fast—you’ll want to know if you’re responsible for the upkeep!
- Parking: Is there dedicated on-site parking or a carport? Keeping your vehicle out of the direct sun (and rain) and salt air is a big plus.
- Included Furnishings: As mentioned in our furnishings guide, clarify exactly what stays in the house and what you’ll need to provide.
- Financials: Confirm the exact amount for the bond (security deposit) and how much rent is required in advance.
🤝 Agreements: Renting a House
Rental culture in the Cook Islands can be a bit more relaxed than what you might be used to.
- Written vs. Handshake: While many rentals use a written tenancy agreement, some are still managed via a “handshake deal.”
- Don’t Panic: If there isn’t a formal contract, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a red flag—it’s simply the way some local landlords prefer to operate.
Pro-Tip for Peace of Mind: Regardless of whether you have a written agreement, we highly recommend taking photos of the property’s condition alongside the landlord or manager during your walkthrough. Email these photos to yourself and the landlord so you both have a dated digital record of the move-in state.
Location: Rent a House in Rarotonga
When looking at a map of Rarotonga, the general shape of the island is almost roughly square.
Rarotonga’s layout makes it simple to choose a location based on your work or lifestyle preferences:
- The North (Avarua): This is the island’s hub. It is home to the main town, shops, and government offices. While the mountain views are breathtaking and the coast is ruggedly beautiful, the reef is very close to the shore here, making it less ideal for swimming.
- The East (Muri): Famous for the Muri Lagoon, this is the most popular area for tourists. It’s vibrant and high-density, perfect if you want to be close to cafes, water sports, and a social atmosphere.
- The South: If you’re looking for peace and quiet, the south is your best bet. It lacks large commercial centers but makes up for it with stunning, expansive lagoons that are perfect for a long afternoon swim.
- The West (Arorangi): This is where we have chosen to live both times! Known for postcard-perfect swimming beaches and iconic sunsets, it offers a great balance of beauty and local life.
Addresses: Rent a House in Rarotonga
One of the most charming (and sometimes confusing) parts of island life is that most houses to rent in Rarotonga don’t have a formal street address. Instead of a house number and street name, your address will likely be a landmark description.
You’ll find yourself telling people you live “opposite the big mango tree in Matavera” or “just past the sign for the Fishing Charter.”
It’s a local quirk you’ll get used to quickly—just remember that on this island, nothing is taller than a coconut tree!
How to Find Your Rental in Rarotonga
If you don’t have a home provided by an employer or family, your search will primarily happen online.
1. Timing is Everything
Availability fluctuates with the seasons. Many expat contracts (especially for teachers) end in December. Because of this, November and December are the peak months for new long-term listings as people prepare for the year ahead.
2. Join the Right Communities
Facebook is the primary marketplace for rentals in the Cook Islands. We recommend joining and monitoring these pages:
- Cook Islands Long Term Rentals: The go-to spot for residential listings.
- Rarotonga Holiday Homes: Often lists short-term stays that may be open to long-term arrangements.
- Jeff Tikitau Real Estate: A local agency that frequently lists formal residential rentals.
Utilities: Rent a House in Rarotonga
Moving to Rarotonga is an incredible adventure, but setting up a household here is quite different from life in New Zealand or Australia. Having made the move twice now, we’ve learned exactly what it takes to get a home up and running.
Here is everything you need to know about utilities and managing your home on the island.
⚡Power and Electricity
Electricity on the island is reliable but significantly more expensive than on the mainland.
- Costs: Expect to pay more for power. For a home with solar water heating and gas cooking, our monthly bill averages around $200 NZD.
- Solar: If you can find a rental with solar panels for water heating, it will drastically reduce your monthly expenses.
- Compatibility: The Cook Islands uses the same three-pin plug and 240V voltage as New Zealand and Australia.
👩🏻🍳 Cooking Gas: Rent a House in Rarotonga
Most homes for rent in Rarotonga use gas for cooking. You likely won’t have a gas line; instead, you’ll use “Swap & Go” bottles.
- Where to swap: Most village petrol stations (like CITC Oasis or KAPS Matavera) or Toa Gas in Avarua.
- Approximate Costs: * 9kg Bottle: $51.00
- 13kg Bottle: $73.00
- Tip: Most rentals come with a bottle already connected; you just pay for the refills.
🌐 Internet Connectivity
You have two main paths for staying connected. Vodafone Cook Islands is the local provider, but Starlink has become a game-changer for expats.
| Option | Setup Cost | Monthly Plans |
| Vodafone WIFI | $75 Install + $89 Modem | $89 (80GB) to $299 (500GB) |
| Starlink | Cost of Hardware | Fixed Monthly Subscription |
Note: Starlink offers faster speeds and better value once you own the hardware, while Vodafone is easier to set up immediately upon arrival.
💧Water: Drinking and Supply
Rarotonga uses a gravity-fed system from 12 freshwater intakes. Because the water is not chemically treated, tap water is generally not safe to drink unless the house has its own filtration system.
Your Drinking Water Options:
- Home Filtration: Check if your rental has a UV or carbon filter installed.
- Community Water Stations: There are 48 UV-filtered stations across the island. They are free to use; just bring your own container!
- Vaima Water: Many expats use Vaima in Nikao. You can buy a 15L bottle ($36) and a dispenser. Refills are only $6, and they will professionally sterilise your bottle for you.
Important Tip: If you choose a house on a hill (higher elevation), remember that your water is pumped. During the dry season, high-elevation homes are usually the first to experience low pressure or water shortages.
🚮 Waste Management and Recycling
Waste is a major concern on a small island. We highly recommend being mindful of packaging when you shop.
- Collection: Rubbish and recycling are collected weekly.
- Schedule: Each district has a specific day (e.g., Monday for Matavera, Tuesday for Ngatangiia, Thursday for Nikao and Saturday for Tupapa).
- Recycling: Ensure you separate your recyclables; they are picked up on the same day as your general waste.
Reach Out to Anyone Who Might Be Able to Help
This could be a travel blogger or a friend, a connection through a mutual friend – or anyone. It never hurts to ask people who have experience renting a house in Rarotonga.
That has essentially been the biggest motivator for us to write this blog. We love hearing from people looking at making the jump and moving to the Cook Islands.
People are surprisingly friendly and helpful. So don’t be shy!
Wondering seriously about living in Rarotonga, Cook Islands? Send us a message and get in touch!
Read More About Rarotonga
- 12 Fruits Of Rarotonga You Need To Try.
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Hiring A Scooter In Rarotonga.
- Renting A Car In Rarotonga.
- How To Buy A Car In Rarotonga.
- Is Dengue Fever A Worry For Travel To Rarotonga?
- Getting Around Rarotonga.
Travel Planning for Cook Islands & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, adventure ticket, local tours and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Make sure you have insurance before embarking on travel to Rarotonga!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
