After an action-packed adventure exploring the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand or the vibrant cities of Australia, what better way to unwind than on a pristine island paradise? Enter the Cook Islands—a hidden gem in the South Pacific, offering crystal-clear lagoons, white-sand beaches, and a laid-back island vibe. With Downunder Travel’s vacation packages to the Cook Islands, you can extend your trip and enjoy the ultimate tropical escape as a perfect stopover before heading home.
Whether you’ve been hiking New Zealand’s fjords, road-tripping the Great Ocean Road, or soaking in Māori culture, a few days in the Cook Islands is the ideal way to relax, recharge, and experience island bliss before ending your adventure.
Why Choose the Cook Islands for Your Last Stop in Paradise?
Rarotonga. Photo by Stargrass
The Cook Islands offer a pristine, unspoiled paradise with a rich Polynesian heritage and modern comforts, making it the perfect final stop on your Australia and New Zealand adventure. Unlike crowded tourist destinations like Hawaii, the Cook Islands welcome fewer visitors, ensuring a more authentic island experience. Here’s why you should end your journey here:
- Seamless Stopover Option – Easily add the Cook Islands as your final destination after exploring Australia and New Zealand with Downunder Travel.
- Minimal Jet Lag – Located in the same time zone as Hawaii, making it a perfect, stress-free stop before heading home and slowly decompressing from all your adventures.
- Untouched Beauty – White-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and a tropical climate year-round.
- Unique Experiences – Explore Rarotonga on a scooter, and sail across Muri Lagoon on a Day Cruise Excursion to visit remote islands like Aitu.
- Authentic Island Culture – Warm, welcoming locals, Sunday Avarua Markets, and stunning church hymns.
- Romantic Escape – Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply unwinding before returning home.
After an action-packed tour of New Zealand and Australia, there’s no better way to end your adventure than by relaxing on a tropical beach in the Cook Islands. Add a couple of days to your trip to make this the final stop to your Downunder Travel itinerary!
Add the Cook Islands to Your New Zealand & Australia Vacation Package
The Cook Islands stopover is available as an optional addition to Downunder Travel’s expertly crafted itineraries. Whether you’re exploring New Zealand, Australia, or both, adding a few days to this tropical paradise is the perfect way to wrap up your adventure in style.
- New Zealand Adventure Sale (from Auckland) – After road-tripping through Hobbiton, Rotorua, and Milford Sound, unwind in the Cook Islands’ turquoise waters before flying home.
- Down Under Adventure Sale (Australia & New Zealand from Auckland & Melbourne) – Extend your dual-country adventure with a stopover in paradise, enjoying the beaches of Rarotonga after experiencing the vibrant energy of Melbourne and Auckland.
- Australia Adventure Sale (from Brisbane) – Experience Australia’s East Coast with the freedom of a campervan road trip, stopping at Byron Bay, the Sunshine Coast, and hidden national parks—then top it off with a relaxing Cook Islands retreat.
The Perfect Finale Destination
Muri Lagoon. Photo by Photomattryan
After an action-packed tour of New Zealand and Australia, there’s no better way to end your adventure than by relaxing on a tropical beach in the Cook Islands. Add this final stop to your itinerary with Downunder Travel and experience the ultimate blend of adventure and relaxation.
