Cook Island Maori is widely spoken by locals, but English is in common use.
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The currency of the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Foreign currency exchange is available at the airport and two banks in Avarua. ATMs are available in Avarua at the banks and at major stores and restaurants. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted at restaurants and hotels in the main towns, and travelers checks in small denominations as well as major foreign currencies can be exchanged at larger shops and hotels. Australian dollars are the preferred currency for travelers checks.
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The country code for the Cook Islands is +682, and the outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City codes are not required. International Direct Dialing is available, but operator assistance may be required. In the main town of Avarua there is a telecommunications office (Telecom Cook Islands) offering international telephone, fax, e-mail, Internet connections and other services. GSM cellular mobile services are only available on Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
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Tipping is not expected and is contrary to Cook Islands custom.
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Visits to the Cook Islands are usually trouble-free. There is relatively little crime, but it is advisable to protect your valuables.
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There is little risk of disease on the Cook Islands, but visitors should take precautions against insect bites and sunburn. Recommended vaccinations are hepatitis A, hepatitis B (infants and children), typhoid and rabies. Locals consider the tap water safe, but boiled or bottled water is advised for visitors, particularlyin rural areas. A range of medical and dental services are available on Rarotonga, including a hospital and various pharmacies, but medical facilities in the Cook Islands in general are limited and a comprehensive medical insurance is advised toinclude air evacuation for emergencies.
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Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz; the same as New Zealand and Australia. A two-pin adapter is required at some establishments.
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