Which Cook Islands capital is on Rarotonga?

Avarua is the Cook Islands capital located on the island of Rarotonga.

Avarua is both a district and township on Rarotonga’s northern coast. Rarotonga is the largest island in the Cook Islands, and Avarua serves as the country’s administrative, commercial, and cultural center. The name Avarua is commonly translated from Māori as “two harbours,” referring to the area’s historic harbor sites.

The settlement grew in importance after missionaries from the London Missionary Society established their headquarters there in 1823. It later became the islands’ main religious and commercial center. The Cook Islands became self-governing in free association with New Zealand in 1965, with Avarua continuing as the seat of government.

Avarua is home to key national facilities, including government offices, Rarotonga International Airport, Avatiu Harbour, the National Museum, and the Sir Geoffrey Henry National Culture Centre. A common mix-up is Alofi, which is the capital of nearby Niue, not the Cook Islands. Avarua District is divided into 19 traditional tapere, or sub-districts.