The moment you leave Rarotonga, a small piece of your heart stays behind. The best way to bring a piece of that paradise home isn’t just in your memories, but in the tangible treasures you find along the way.
Gifts and souvenirs from the Cook Islands are more than just trinkets; they are a reflection of the island’s unique culture, its rich natural resources, and the incredible talent of its people.
Whether you’re searching for souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, clothing, or unique gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, the island offers a treasure trove of options.
This guide will walk you through some of the most sought-after and meaningful gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands, items worth splurging on, and cheap yet charming buys you shouldn’t miss: ensuring your memories of Rarotonga last a lifetime.
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Where Are the Best Places to Shop for Gifts from Rarotonga?
Whether you’re looking for a special gift, keepsake or simply want to soak up the local culture, the Saturday Punanga Nui Market is a must-visit destination on your Rarotongan adventure.
But the Avarua shops, the Muri Night Market and the Rarotonga Saturday Punanga Nui Market are a treasure trove of goods and beautiful trinkets from the Cook Islands. They make magical mementoes from your trip!
- Read more about visiting the Punanga Nui Saturday Market in Rarotonga.
Gifts from Rarotonga, Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is home to talented craftspeople creating an array of clothing, jewellery, carvings, musical instruments, skincare, perfumes and more.
Here are some of the best gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands.
Let’s do it!
JEWELLERY – Souvenirs and Gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands
The Cook Islands is a treasure trove for exquisite, handcrafted jewellery, each piece telling a story of the ocean and the land.
Black Pearls
No discussion of Cook Islands gifts is complete without mentioning the legendary black pearl. While Tahitian pearls are famous, the Cook Islands’ own Manihiki atoll is a major producer of these stunning gems.
Rarotonga is the perfect place to buy a black pearl, as you can find them in various shapes, sizes, and price ranges. Reputable stores and pearl farms will provide certification of authenticity, ensuring you’re taking home a genuine piece of the Pacific.
A single pearl pendant, a pair of elegant earrings, or a full necklace makes for an unforgettable, luxurious gift from Rarotonga.
- Find Cook Islands Black Pearls at Bergman and Sons, Beachcomber Art Gallery, Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport) and at the resort gift shops on Rarotonga.
Shell Necklaces (Ei Poreo)
A Shell ‘Ei, or ‘Ei Poreo, is a quintessential symbol of welcome and farewell in the Cook Islands. While flower ‘eis are given upon arrival and departure, shell necklaces are a beautiful and durable alternative.
Crafted from tiny, polished seashells, these necklaces are a work of art, often woven into intricate patterns. They are a beautiful and affordable way to carry the spirit of the islands with you.
‘Ei Pupu’ refers to necklaces made from pupu shells, a specialty of the island of Mangaia in the Cook Islands.
- Find Shell Ei’s at Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Mareko Island Creations (Punanga Nui Market and Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Beach Hut (Rarotonga Airport), Tuki’s Pareu (Avarua) and the gift shops at the resorts in Rarotonga.
Rito Earrings – Gifts from Rarotonga
For a gift that is both unique and deeply connected to local craftsmanship, look for earrings made from ‘Rito.’ This is the fine, bleached fibre from the unopened frond of the coconut palm.
Rito earrings are my favourite gifts from Rarotonga to recommend!
Weavers meticulously prepare and braid the Rito into delicate patterns, creating lightweight and elegant jewellery. It is often adorned with a small black pearl or a decorative bead. Rito earrings are a stylish and natural accessory that embodies island artistry.
My friend Tini has a Rito stall at the Punanga Nui Market just to the right-hand side of the main stage. Tini is from Penrhyn where most of the Rito crafts in the Cook Islands come from. Her family in Penrhyn make the beautiful, polished pearl shells on the earrings and hats and she dries, dyes and weaves the Rito here in Rarotonga.
- Find Rito hats, fans and earrings at the Punanga Nui Market. Look for Tini’s stall just to the right of the main performance stage at the market and learn how these are crafted on her home island of Penrhyn.
- Read all about the Cook Islands craft of Rito weaving.
ART – Souvenirs and Gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands
The creative spirit of the Cook Islands is evident in its vibrant art scene, from powerful carvings to colourful paintings.
Tangaroa
A carving of Tangaroa, the Cook Islands god of the sea and fertility, is a powerful and significant piece of art.
Tangaroa is often depicted as a larger-than-life figure with smaller figures emerging from his body, symbolising the creation of life.
These wood carvings range from small, intricate desktop pieces to large, commanding sculptures. Owning a Tangaroa carving is more than just having a souvenir; it’s having a piece of Cook Islands mythology and history in your home.
- Find Wooden Tangaroa & Handicrafts at Gallery Tavioni (Backroad Avarua), Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Beach Hut (Rarotonga Airport), Perfumes of Rarotonga (Nikao) and Avatea Cafe (Aitutaki).
Painting
The stunning beauty of Rarotonga inspires a multitude of local artists. From lush landscapes and vibrant floral scenes to portraits of local life, you’ll find a wide range of paintings in galleries around the island.
A painting is a fantastic way to capture a specific memory or view of the island, and it’s a wonderful way to support local artists directly.
- Find Polynesian Paintings at Punanga Nui Market, Beachcomber Art Gallery (Avarua), Gallery Tavioni (Backroad Avarua), and Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport).
Wood Carving
Beyond Tangaroa, local carvers create beautiful and detailed pieces from native wood. Look for carvings of turtles, fish, and other traditional symbols. Or the beautifully carved wooden drums – Pate.
These carvings showcase incredible skill and patience, and they make for an authentic and lasting reminder of your time on the island.
Note to check whether these really are traditional wooden carvings that are made here in the Cook Islands. Each item that you purchase supports local artisans and helps preserve the Cook Islands cultural heritage. Though there are many parallel imports these days.
Although these do look iconic and might absolutely be cheaper. They aren’t the real deal!
Take the time to speak with the craftsmen and learn the stories behind their work. It will make your souvenirs and gifts from Rarotonga more meaningful.
- Find Wooden Handicrafts at Gallery Tavioni (Backroad Avarua), Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Beach Hut (Rarotonga Airport), Perfumes of Rarotonga (Nikao) and Avatea Cafe (Aitutaki).
Painted Cards
For a smaller, more affordable art gift, many artists sell beautiful hand-painted cards. These are perfect for sending a note back home or for framing as a small piece of art.
They often feature local scenes, flowers, or traditional motifs and are a charming way to support local talents.
- Find Painted Cards at Punanga Nui Market on Saturday.
Tivaevae Linen
Tivaevae in Rarotonga refers to the traditional Polynesian art of quilting, specifically practiced in the Cook Islands. You will find beautiful coloured Tivaevae adorning many of the beds of hotels and resorts in Rarotonga.
It involves creating intricate, colourful patchwork and embroidery. Often it features floral and other natural motifs.
In the Cook Islands however, these Tivaevae are not just bedcovers. They are highly valued gifts, presented at significant life events like weddings and funerals, and are considered a symbol of love and community.
But due to the intricate nature of this style of traditional embroidery, these huge bedspreads and quilts it don’t come cheap as a souvenir from Rarotonga. Though if you don’t have room in your suitcase – or budget – for a quilt sized Tivaevae. You can get a smaller, but beautiful, pillowcase set, or cushion covers of Tivaevae too.
- Find Tivaevae Linen at Tivaevae Collectables (Avarua and Punanga Nui Market), Beachcomber Art Gallery (Avarua) and Mareko Island Creations (Avarua).
CLOTHING – Souvenirs and Gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands
The island’s culture is also beautifully expressed through its colourful and comfortable clothing.
Pareu
The Pareu, or sarong, is the unofficial uniform of the Cook Islands. Made from lightweight cotton or rayon, it’s a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn in dozens of ways.
You’ll find Pareus with stunning, hand-painted or block-printed designs, often featuring tropical flowers or traditional patterns. A pareu is a practical and stylish gift from Rarotonga that you can wear on the beach or as a cover-up long after you’ve returned home.
- Find Pareu Wear at Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Mareko Island Creations (Punanga Nui Market and Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), CITC (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Beach Hut (Rarotonga Airport), Tuki’s Pareu (Avarua) and the gift shops at the resorts in Rarotonga.
Island Shirt and Dress
The traditional ‘Island Shirt’ for men and the ‘Island Dress’ for women are staples of daily life in the Cook Islands.
Known for their loose fit and vibrant floral patterns, these garments are perfect for embracing the relaxed island vibe. They are comfortable, stylish, and a great way to bring the feeling of a tropical holiday back to your wardrobe.
- Find Island Wear at Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Mareko Island Creations (Punanga Nui Market and Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), CITC (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Beach Hut (Rarotonga Airport), Tuki’s Pareu (Avarua) and the gift shops at the resorts in Rarotonga.
Natural Treasures for the Body: The Scents of the Tropics
The rich natural environment of the Cook Islands provides the perfect ingredients for luxurious and authentic beauty products.
Rito Cream
Many small, family-run producers on the island create fragrant creams and lotions. One of the most popular is rito cream, a coconut oil-based moisturizer infused with the scents of local flowers like frangipani (tipani) or gardenia (tiare).
It’s a wonderful, natural product that will transport you back to the island with a single scent.
- Find Rito products at Rito Cook Islands (Titikaveka), Perfumes of Rarotonga Factory (Nikao), Muri Beach Club Hotel, ID.CK (Avarua) and Beachcomber (Avarua).
Akari Pi
This is the local name for virgin coconut oil. It’s a pure, natural product of the Cook Islands, used for everything from cooking to moisturizing skin and hair.
Akari Pi is a healthy and versatile gift that supports local producers and brings a little bit of the island’s wellness traditions into your home.
- Find Akari Pi at the Punanga Nui Market on Saturday.
EDIBLE – Souvenirs and Gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands
The island’s culinary scene offers some fantastic gifts for the foodie in your life.
Atiu Coffee
A special treat from the small, outer island of Atiu, Atiu Coffee is a small-batch, high-quality coffee that has a unique flavour profile. The coffee plants were introduced to the island in the 19th century and have flourished.
Buying a bag of Atiu coffee is not only a fantastic gift for coffee lovers but also a way to support the economy of the Pa Enua; the outer Cook Islands.
Tavake Liquor
The Cook Islands has a small but growing craft liquor industry. You can find delicious rums, gin and vodka made by Tavake infused with local flavours like vanilla, pineapple, or coconut.
These make for a sophisticated and tasty gift to share with friends.
- Find Tavake Liquor gift packages at Tiare’s Café (Muri); Maire Nui Gardens (Takitumu), Raro Liquorland (Arorangi), Prime Foods (Avarua) and at the Duty Free at Rarotonga International Airport.
Pauls Hot Sauce
For a gift with a kick, look for Pauls Hot Sauce, a local favourite. Made on the island using local chillies, this sauce is known for its intense flavour and heat.
It’s a fun and fiery souvenir that will liven up any meal and remind you of the tropical warmth of the Cook Islands!
- Find Pauls Hot Sauce near the entrance to Punanga Nui Market in Avarua on Saturday.
Other Souvenir and Gifts Ideas from Rarotonga
Whether exploring, shopping, or just soaking up the vibes, there are always treats and treasures that will catch your eye in Rarotonga.
- Handmade Soap
- Woven Baskets
- Pareu Purses
- Rito Woven Fans
- Artwork
- Bed Linen
- Magnets
- Hats
- Coconut Oil
- Cushion covers
There are endless beautiful souvenirs and gifts from Rarotonga to choose from. The Cook Islands has many talented artisan craftspeople creating gifts to purchase from the shops and markets!
Tips for Shopping for Souvenirs and Gifts from Rarotonga
Albeit shopping in Rarotonga at the market can sometimes feel a little chaotic. It is especially busy on a Saturday morning.
These are a few tips to make the experience smoother.
- Carry Cash: The market in Rarotonga is predominantly cash only. Especially for smaller items. Some larger stalls will offer EFTPOS.
- Support Local Sellers: Check that what you buy supports Cook Islands artists. With online shopping and ever-increasing imports of cheap and imitation
crapgoods, it’s nice to know you are supporting local. - Pack Gifts Carefully: You might need to check your luggage allowance for your stash of gifts and souvenirs from Rarotonga! But pack them carefully. Ask for paper and packaging for ceramics and bulky items – like your new carved wooden Tangaroa.
Souvenirs and Gifts from Rarotonga and the Cook Islands
Whether you choose a priceless pearl, a beautiful carving, or a delicious bottle of hot sauce, a gift from Rarotonga is always more than just an object. It’s a reminder of a special place and the kind, generous spirit of the people who call it home.
Read more about Rarotonga
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Essential Tips On Visiting Cook Islands.
- All About The Markets In Rarotonga.
- Places To Eat In Rarotonga On Sunday.
- Renting A Car in Rarotonga.
- How To Buy A Car In Rarotonga.
- Finding And Renting A House In Rarotonga.
- Rarotonga Reef Explorer Tour With Ariimoana.
- Is Dengue Fever A Worry For Travel To Rarotonga?
More About Travel Planning for Cook Islands and Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 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. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s 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 – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads including those who have already left home. Make sure you have travel insurance before traveling to the Cook Islands!
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.
