Away To Rarotonga

20 Gift Ideas From Rarotonga & The Cook Islands That Officially Aren’t Lame. 

Sarah Steiner

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.

Hey! We are Away with the Steiners. Wondering about living in Rarotonga?

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!

Beautiful Pareu fabric purses and bags at the Punanga Nui Market on Saturday.

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.

Beautiful Manihiki Black Pearls.

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.

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. 

Handmade woven Rito hats, fans and earrings at Tini’s stall just by the main stage on Saturday.

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.

Some traditional and local Tangaroa – and some less so.

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.

Colourful paintings and art at the Beachcomber Gallery in Avarua.

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.

Carved Pate (wooden drums) at Punanga Nui Market.

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.

Art and paintings at the market.

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. 

Stunning Tivaevae quilts at Tivaevae Collectables at Punanga Nui Market. 

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.

Beautiful hand painted Pareu and Tivaevae at Punanga Nui Market.

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.

Brightly coloured Pareu wear and island shirts at Mareko in Avarua. 

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.

Locally made Rito products at Punanga Nui Market.

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.

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.

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!

Paul’s Hot Sauce makes a great gift or souvenir from Rarotonga at the Punanga Nui Market.

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.

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. 

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

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. 

Exit mobile version