Three Interesting Facts about The Cook Islands
1. The Naming of the Cook Islands
Captain James Cook only landed on Palmerston in the Cook Islands and named the islands the Hervey Islands. The Cook Islands name was given by the Russian explorer and map-maker, Adam Johann Von Krusenstern who fan-boyed Cook. In recent years there has been debate about returning to an original name...something like Avaiki Nui but that didn't go ahead as tourism is 75% of GDP and most Cook Islanders agreed that it would be confusing for future travellers.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/420385/renewed-calls-for-the-cook-islands-to-take-on-indigenous-name
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2. The Height of Buildings Rules and Foreign Ownership Rules
Building height restrictions are based on the height of typical coconut trees over here. The tallest buildings are a few government and business 3-story ones in town. Foreign investment and ownership are strictly controlled here. That's why we have no Subway, KFC (Cookies crying) or McDonalds. All foreign investors (that's Kiwi's as well) purchase a land lease starting at 60 years and working backwards. The rest of the world could learn from the Cook Islands with this policy.
3. Special Cook Islands Currency
While the Cook Islands uses the NZ dollar, it does have its own currency, including the unusual triangle $2 coin and dodecagon $5 coin. Keep an eye out for a special $3 note of a barechested woman riding a shark. This banknote depicts the legend of Ina and the Shark. It's worth keeping if you find one :-)
What our previous guests have said
We had an absolutely amazing stay at Muri Retreat and would 100% recommend it. Communication from the very beginning was outstanding, and Simon & Denise go
Jess | 19th June 2024, United Kingdom
This is a superb place for a holiday. All you need to do is chill out and enjoy. It has a great location and easy access to the beach, shops, and bus stops.
Wendy | 17th June 2024, New Zealand | China
Amazing location and well equipped apartment. The hosts are very responsive and helpful. A cozy retreat a few steps away from Muri lagoon. 5/5 Source: Google
Francesca | 9th June 2024, Italy
Muri retreat is fabulous. Quiet, private and off the main road,of Muri lagoon. Walking distance to local restaurants and bakery,and night food markets and
Kathy | 17th May 2024, Australia
Peaceful location with an exceptional host Muri retreat was everything I hoped for, well located near Muri beach, comfortable, with everything I needed, and
João | 14th May 2024, Portugal
Perfect accommodation on Rarotonga. Beautiful view towards the lagoon / sea even though you are a bit off. Beautiful layout of the apartment, also from the
Rick | 19th Feb 2024, Netherlands
My partner and I had a wonderful time at Muri Retreat! Walking distance from TEM’s, cafes, restaurants, Muri Beach and other memorable experiences! Our
Rosaria Martin | 10th Feb 2024, New Zealand
Exceptional! Amazing group of four apartments with dip pool with great views over the coast from the hill. Simon and Denise has done a first class job to
Keith | 13th Jan 2024, United Kingdom
Was the perfect place to stay. Location is Incredible and the apartments are immaculate. The service by Simon and his team is excellent. We stayed for a week
Eli & Emer | 11th Jan 2024, Australia & Ireland
Our Muri Retreat apartment completely exceeded our expectations. It was equipped with everything one would want and much thought had been applied to its design
David | 28th Dec 2023, Wales