Key Facts

Total arrivals to the Cook Islands reached 18,755 in May 2026, comprising of 17,285 visitors and 1,470 returning residents and permit holders. Visitor numbers increased by 7.5 percent from April 2026, marking a strong start to the travel season. The islands usually see their high peak from May through October, driven by the cooler Southern Hemisphere winter.

The majority of visitor arrivals came from New Zealand with 62.0 percent, followed by Australia with 27.0 percent, Europe 3.8 percent, and USA 3.6 percent.

Total resident departures decreased by 1.5 percent this May 2026 (1,070), when compared to April 2026 (1,086)