The Cook Islands exemplify that sustainable tourism is not just a possibility but a necessity. Discover how this South Pacific gem is safeguarding its natural beauty for future generations.
Arriving in Rarotonga, the largest island in the Cook Islands, felt like a journey back in time. As we traveled from the airport to our accommodation, we were immediately captivated by the lack of towering hotels, fast-food outlets, and corporate franchises. Instead, we were greeted by coconut palms lining the roads, the fragrant air filled with salt and frangipani, and a stunning landscape where the jungle seamlessly meets the ocean. It was reminiscent of Hawaii in the 1960s: serene, unspoiled, and authentically charming.
Our taxi driver pointed out a modest resort along the coast, explaining, “No building can exceed the height of a coconut tree.” This is not merely a local custom but a law established in 1965 by the first premier of the Cook Islands, Albert Henry, aimed at preventing overdevelopment. She elaborated that land ownership is restricted to Cook Islanders, ensuring that large corporations do not overshadow the natural beauty of the islands. We admired hotels that harmoniously blended with their surroundings and pristine beaches bordered by lush green parks, all free from litter and crowds.
We soon discovered that this commitment to preserving paradise is a deliberate choice. The people of the Cook Islands have consciously decided to avoid the overdevelopment seen in places like Honolulu. Instead, they have embraced conservation, low-impact tourism, and sustainable practices that benefit both residents and visitors. “Tourists come here because it is a paradise free from the clutter of overdevelopment,” shared Jeremy Goodwin, a regenerative tourism manager. “Our sacred duty as guardians of the land is to protect our paradise.”
The Cook Islands, an archipelago of 15 islands nestled between New Zealand and Hawaii, has been self-governing in free association with New Zealand since 1965. With a population of 21,000, the islands are divided into two groups: the more accessible Southern Cook Islands, which include Rarotonga and Aitutaki, and the remote Northern Cook Islands, characterized by low-lying coral atolls. The locals speak their own Māori language, with various dialects across the islands. While tourism plays a significant role in the economy, the islanders have ensured that sustainability remains at the heart of their culture.
“For centuries, the protection of the Cook Islands has relied on the traditional Ra’ui System, which restricts access to certain resources or areas for specific periods,” explained Karla Eggelton, CEO of the local tourism corporation. “This system aims to conserve food resources and protect the ecological balance in lagoons, reefs, and other marine environments.”
This philosophy continues today and extends beyond the ocean. On the northern island of Pukapuka, for instance, locals have practiced sustainable living for generations, moving their belongings and sailing to another atoll within the lagoon during certain seasons to prevent resource depletion. They fish and farm only what is necessary, maintaining a delicate balance with nature.
Upon arriving at our resort, we were greeted with a warm “Kia Orana,” which translates to “may you live long.” This unique gesture reflects the hospitality and warmth of the islanders. The resort overlooks the Aroa Lagoonarium, a snorkeling paradise and sanctuary for various marine life, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, and angelfish. This area serves as both a coral nursery and a protected habitat for marine life to thrive.
The vibrant Muri Night Market showcases the islands’ commitment to sustainability, featuring a Rent-a-Plate initiative that allows visitors to borrow reusable plates and cutlery instead of using disposable plastic. Vendors prepare local dishes like ika mata (raw fish marinated in lime and coconut milk) and rukau rukau (taro leaves in coconut cream), all made with fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, the islanders promote clean water initiatives, encouraging visitors to purchase reusable bottles and refill them at free UV-treated water stations, a project led by the Te Ipukarea Society to reduce plastic waste.
How You Can Contribute
1. Support the local economy by purchasing handmade crafts, clothing, and food. Participate in cultural tours or shows to embrace the traditions and lifestyle of the islanders.
2. Conserve water by taking shorter showers and minimizing electricity usage.
3. Volunteer with local environmental groups. Visitors can join efforts to protect the lagoon by participating in soil restoration projects and planting native trees to control sediment flow.
4. Opt for eco-friendly experiences and products, use reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid single-use plastics.
Beyond sustainable dining, the Cook Islands have taken marine conservation to a global level. In 2017, the country established a vast marine protected area, making it the world’s largest multi-use marine sanctuary, covering 1.9 million square kilometers. This legislation prohibits large-scale commercial fishing and seabed mining within 50 nautical miles of each island.
“This marine park represents a shared space concept, creating a sanctuary that allows for sustainable activities,” said Eggelton.
Aitutaki, a picturesque island neighboring Rarotonga, also offers opportunities for sustainable tourism. Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear lagoons, the Pacific Resort Aitutaki has initiated a coral restoration project where guests can help by attaching coral fragments to underwater mesh tables, aiding in reef regeneration.
“This project embodies Mana Tiaki, or island guardianship,” explains Goodwin. “For most Polynesians, the ocean holds sacred significance. The beaches attract tourists, but they also connect the Cook Islanders to their marine heritage.”
As our journey continued, we explored the endless stretches of powdery white-sand beaches surrounding Rarotonga, from Aroa Beach, where vibrant sunsets painted the sky, to the tranquil Titikaveka Beach. Each beach was pristine and uncrowded, adorned with palm trees and picnic areas, offering unobstructed views of the ocean.
During our time at Muri Beach, we participated in a sea turtle snorkeling tour. Our guide, Eric, emphasized the importance of turtles to the Cook Islands’ economy, environment, and culture. Daily tour operators earn a living by taking visitors to observe these graceful creatures, which are also vital indicators of coastal ecosystem health. Eric shared stories of a rescuer who freed a turtle caught in a fishing net, which was later rehabilitated by the local sea turtle society. Visitors are encouraged to help track turtle movements through a citizen science project by submitting photos.
As our trip came to a close, we gained a deeper understanding of how the Cook Islanders have crafted a model for preserving their paradise by merging ancient conservation practices with modern environmental initiatives. “It’s about leaving both the people and the place better than you found it,” stated Eggelton.
Goodwin echoed this sentiment, saying, “This is our little paradise; if we all take care of it, it will take care of us.”