Planning a trip to the Cook Islands? Already dreaming of beautiful gifts and souvenirs from Rarotonga? Shopping in the bustling Saturday market is the quintessential Rarotonga experience!
It is guaranteed on your holiday to the Cook Islands that you will come across a wealth of unique and colourful souvenirs from Rarotonga. The Cook Islands, known for its vibrant culture and breath-taking landscapes, offers a range of unique souvenirs that capture the essence of this South Pacific paradise.
Here are some of the most typical souvenirs from Rarotonga. We share where to find them as well as tips to navigate the market with confidence and take home some absolute treasures from your trip.
What sort of things can you find to buy in Rarotonga, Cook Islands?
Pupu necklaces, hand printed pareus and sarongs, local therapeutic oils and fragrances are some of the beautiful souvenirs from Rarotonga. There is coconut anything from the finest woven Rito hats to bikini bras, fans and pandanus mats.
You will find traditional carved wooden bowls, spears and paddles and above all the prized black pearls from the northern island of Manihiki.
If these are on your list of ‘must haves’ then do, make sure you buy in the Cooks. The islands are full of beautiful, handcrafted and tropical inspired souvenirs.
Where are the best places to shop for souvenirs from Rarotonga?
Whether you’re looking for a special 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.
Souvenirs 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 most typical souvenirs from Rarotonga.
Let’s do it!
1. Pareu – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
A Pareu is a versatile piece of cloth similar to a sarong, commonly worn in the Cook Islands. These brightly coloured and patterned garments can be used as beach wraps, skirts, or dresses.
They are made from lightweight fabric and often feature traditional Cook Islands designs, making them a popular and practical souvenir from Rarotonga.
- Find Pareu 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.
2. Pareu Wear – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
Pareu wear or Pareu shirts are brightly coloured, patterned shirts commonly worn in the Cook Islands. These iconic island style shirts are similar to the Hawaiian ‘Aloha’ shirt. Which here in the Cooks, feature tropical designs and are worn by both men and women.
They are a symbol of Cook Islands hospitality and are popular among tourists as a wearable reminder of their visit. The bright, warm colours of the pacific reflect the friendly and welcoming nature of the local culture.
- 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.
3. Cook Islands Black Pearls
The black pearls of the Cook Islands are renowned for their unique colour and lustre. These pearls are mostly from the northern Cook Islands, harvested from the pristine waters around Manihiki. They are often made into exquisite jewellery, including necklaces, earrings, and rings.
The natural beauty and rarity of black pearls make them a luxurious and memorable souvenir from Rarotonga.
BUT Cook Islands pearls are one of the most beautiful and rarest gems in the world. So, if you have the means, treat yourself!
Don’t forget also, that even buying one of the beautiful black pearls from Manihiki goes a long way to supporting the local families and pearl farming culture of the Cook Islands.
- 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.
4. Rito Hats, Fans and Earrings – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
The craft of Rito weaving is another traditional culture of the Cook Islands. Rito is the fine, young fibres from inside the coconut tree fronds. The fibres are dried and usually bleached white and woven into hats topped with a shining pearl shell.
In the Cook Islands, the tradition of Rito weaving is predominantly from the island of Penrhyn. This is one of the islands in the far north of the Cook Islands with a population of just 220 residents.
I think I admit to being bias. But these Rito earrings are hands down my favourite gift and souvenir from Rarotonga. (I confess I have a rather large collection of my own!).
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.
5. Wooden Carvings – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
Cook Islands crafts are beautiful, full of meaning and a part of ancestral artefacts. The islands have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional crafts such as woodcarving.
One of the most iconic and functional examples of Cook Island woodcarving is the Kumete – a traditional bowl. Historically the Kumete is used for serving food during feasts and special occasions.
As far as souvenirs from Rarotonga go, it would be an honour to bring a piece of it back home to be cherished.
On our first time living in the Cook Islands, I got a beautiful large Kumete from Gallery Tavioni. It is a stunning centrepiece and memory from Rarotonga!
- Find Wooden Carvings at Gallery Tavioni (Avarua), Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Beach Hut (Rarotonga Airport), Perfumes of Rarotonga (Nikao) and Avatea Cafe (Aitutaki).
6. Wooden Handicrafts – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
Another staple of Cook Islands craftsmanship is the decorative wooden carvings. Albeit these range from decorative Tangaroa statues to functional bowls. But each piece tells a story of the Cook Islands’ heritage.
Note though 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 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).
7. Cook Islands Drum – Pate
I’d also recommend a Pate as a great souvenir from Rarotonga. A Pate is a traditional Cook Islands drum. It is carved from a log of wood. Each Pate comes with two sticks to beat it with to create beautiful sounds.
The Pate drum is an important part of Cook Island music and dance. It is used in many different styles of music, from traditional songs and dances to modern island music.
The sound of the pate drum is said to represent the heartbeat of the islands, and its rhythms and melodies are used to tell stories, express emotions, and celebrate life.
- Find Wooden Pate at Gallery Tavioni (Backroad Avarua), Punanga Nui Market (Avarua), Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport).
8. Tahitian Coconut Oil
Monoï oil is an infused perfume-oil made from soaking the petals of the Gardenia tahitensis flowers. In the Cook Islands, the Gardenia is known as ‘Tiare’. It is the national flower of the Cook Islands and the one that is used in traditional flower ei’s (flower crowns).
Albeit this souvenir from Rarotonga is officially called ‘Tahitian Oil’. However, this style of coconut oil from French Polynesia has uses and principles that are historically relevant to the Cook Islands. It is a luxurious cosmetic oil made by infusing the petals of the Tiare flower (Gardenia tahitensis) in refined coconut oil. The result is a fragrant, deeply hydrating oil that is prized for its many benefits.
In the Cook Islands there are similar oils like Tamanu oil that are locally sourced and utilized for skincare and healing purposes. Though there isn’t the same production of coconut oil to the cosmetic standards of the Tahitian Monoi Oil.
The use of Monoi Oil dates back over 2,000 years, and it has been an integral part of Polynesian culture ever since. It makes a great gift or souvenir from Rarotonga.
- Find Monoi Oil at Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport), Punanga Nui Market, CITC Pharmacy (Avarua), Muri Beach Club Hotel.
9. Ukelele
In the Cook Islands, ukuleles are more than musical instruments. They are symbols of joy, community, and cultural expression. Ukelele are often played at celebrations, ceremonies, and gatherings.
These small, four-stringed instruments carry the vibrant melodies of Polynesian music.
Plus, even if you don’t play the Ukelele they do make a cool souvenir from Rarotonga to display back home!
- Find Ukelele at Punanga Nui Market on Saturday in Avarua.
10. Art and Paintings
Local art and paintings in Rarotonga often depict the stunning landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural traditions of the Cook Islands.
These artworks, created by local artists, range from oil paintings and watercolours to batik and screen prints.
11. Woven Baskets and Bags
Baskets and bags woven from pandanus leaves and coconut fibres are a staple of Cook Islands handicrafts.
These items are often adorned with traditional patterns and are used for various practical purposes. They make unique and eco-friendly souvenirs reflecting Cook Islands craftsmanship.
I absolutely love my woven Kete (basket). The first time we lived here I took it proudly home to New Zealand as an ornamental souvenir from Rarotonga. But this time, living in Rarotonga, I carry it everywhere with me – every day!
- Find Woven Kete at Punanga Nui Market on Saturday in Avarua.
12. Rito Soap – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
Rito is a locally owned and produced brand of skincare, haircare and coconut oil. It is all made a sourced from the Cook Islands and South Pacific!
Owner Susan Turou, together with her husband Robert and a NZ-based scientist have combined traditional Cook Island ingredients with scientific discoveries to create a premium range of bio-active skincare products.
The Rito product range uses a virgin coconut oil which has nurtured local people for centuries. It is an organic coconut oil that is locally and sustainably sourced.
Rito is the only premium skincare brand made on the island of Rarotonga and contributes positively to the local economy. It makes an incredible, natural and traditional souvenir from Rarotonga!
- Find Rito products at Rito Cook Islands (Titikaveka), Perfumes of Rarotonga Factory (Nikao), Muri Beach Club Hotel, ID.CK (Avarua) and Beachcomber (Avarua).
13. Cook Islands T-Shirts – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
There are several shops in Avarua and Muri that sell funky, funny and stylish locally made t-shirts. These make a cool gift or souvenir from Rarotonga. Plus, one that you can wear and enjoy while on holiday in the Cook Islands!
Check out Kuki’s in Panana, not far from the airport. Or try Ollie’s Surf Gear at the Punanga Nui Market (open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday from 8:00am to 1:00pm).
- Find Cook Islands T-Shirts at Ollie’s Surf Gear in Avarua, Kuki’s in Panama and at Vonnias and Mareko in Avarua.
14. Tivaevae Linen – Souvenirs from Rarotonga
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).
15. Shell or Floral Garlands
Beuatiful ‘Ei Kaki (neck garlands) and ‘Ei Katu (head garlands) are part of your Cook Islands experience from the minute you arrive in Rarotonga! But the good news is that they don’t just come in fresh, short-lasting flower versions. These beautiful garlands are commonly crafted and worn made of shells.
The tiny yellow shells that are commonly used for the ‘Ei Kaki are called ‘Pupu’. They make a beautiful necklace gift or souvenir from Rarotonga.
Or you can buy fake floral ‘Ei Katu (head garlands) from the markets and shops in town for the full, colourful island look even after you return home.
- Find ‘Ei Katu and ‘Ei Kaki at Punanga Nui Market, Island Craft (Avarua and Rarotonga Airport) and at the Muri Beach Gift Shop.
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
- Tavake spirits
There are endless beautiful gifts and souvenirs from Rarotonga to choose from. The Cook Islands has many talented artisan craftspeople creating gifts to purchase from the shops and markets!
Frequently Asked Questions
These are a few of the Frequently Asked Questions about shopping and souvenirs from Rarotonga.
What are some unique souvenirs I can buy from the market?
The Saturday Punanga Nui Market in Rarotonga offers a variety of Cook Islands crafts. There is hand-woven baskets, traditional printed Pareu cloth, carved wooden figurines, Rito woven gifts and Polynesian art.
You can also find fresh local produce to try on the spot. Or hunt out the famous Paul’s Hot Sauce to take home.
Where can I find authentic Cook Islands fashion and resort wear?
You can find unique Cook Islands fashion and resort wear at boutique shops in Avarua. There are a number of local shops – like Mareko, Vonnia’s and Manini Wear – on the main street in town. As well as smaller resort gift shops at The Edgewater and Rarotongan resorts.
Look for garments made with traditional patterns and local materials.
Where can I shop for high-quality Cook Islands jewellery?
You can find both traditional and contemporary Cook Islands jewellery in boutique stores on the main road in Avarua. Try Bergman & Sons or the Beachcomber Art Gallery for authentic Manihiki black pearl jewellery. Or additionally, the resorts have shops that feature a small selection of jewellery made by local artisans.
Are there any luxury shopping options for souvenirs in Rarotonga?
The most famous luxury shopping choice for stylish and traditional Cook Islands fashion is at Tav Pacific.
Tips for shopping for gifts and souvenirs 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 your souvenirs carefully: You might need to check you 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.
Whatever treasures you take home, shopping in Rarotonga is a chance to connect with the rich and beautiful culture of this Pacific country – in a way you won’t forget anytime soon!
Read more about travel to Rarotonga
- 10 Foods To Try In Rarotonga.
- All About The Rarotonga Bus.
- Hiring a scooter in Rarotonga.
- 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?
- Transport And Getting Around Rarotonga.
More about travel planning for Cook Islands and beyond
These are the companies we use 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. Easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for.
- 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 including those who have already left home. Make sure you have travel insurance before holidaying 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.
