Climate in Cook Islands

Cook Islands has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of 4°C in the coldest regions to highs of 30°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 127mm in drier regions to 392mm in wetter parts of the country. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain cool, making Cook Islands a country of sharp climate contrasts.

Temperature patterns across Cook Islands vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Central is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 30°C and an annual average of 27°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Central, where winter lows drop to 4°C and an annual average of 8°C. This 19°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Cook Islands they visit. The biggest regional differences emerge in summer, with up to 19°C variation across the country. For example, Enua Airport in the Atiu averages 27°C annually, while Penrhyn Tongareva Airport in the averages 8°C.

Cook Islands sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 127mm to 392mm per year. The Central receives the most rainfall, at approximately 392mm annually. The Central is the driest, with around 127mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.