The Cook Islands are just northeast of New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean. The islands control 2.2 million square kilometers of ocean and consist of fifteen major islands. The major islands are divided into two distinct groups: the Southern Cook Islands and the Northern Cook Islands. The Northern groups of islands are the oldest ones, but all of the islands were formed by volcanic activity. Any New Zealand travel would not be complete with out a visit to these majestic islands.

It is easy to fall in love with the Islands with their gorgeous white-sand beaches lined with palm trees, beautiful coral reefs and the most breath-taking lagoons you have ever seen. It truly is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The most defining thing about the Cook Islands is that there are no huge hotels, high-end resorts or overcrowded tourist attractions. It is unlike any other tropical vacation spot you can imagine which makes it the perfect retreat from your normal life. This is the best place to just kick back and relax and forget all of your everyday stressors.

All of the islands create a population of only 14,000 inhabitants and everyone knows one another by name. The community is very close and they like to create a living environment that is peaceful, relaxing and everyone enjoys one anothers company. As a vacationer, you will love the friendly nature of all the natives and will feel right at home among them. This type of atmosphere is what makes it so hard to ever leave there once you make the journey across the Pacific in your New Zealand travels.

While in the South Pacific, there are so many things to see and do. Not everyone wants to just simply relax for an entire vacation; the Islands can satisfy your adventurous side as well. Some things you must do on these beautiful beaches are: snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing in the beautiful aqua blue lagoons and hiking on the Island tracks of Rarotonga. The Cook Islands also offer some wonderful culture trips as well as golfing and bowling clubs on the island of Rarotonga. These Islands are ideal for any type of person, whether you are looking for the ultimate escape from your high stress, everyday life or for some adventure that you cannot find anywhere else. The Islands are a once in a lifetime chance to experience the South Pacific at its best. Planning a New Zealand travel vacation here for yourself or your entire family is an extraordinary opportunity for any traveler.