The creative traditions of the Cook Islands are as rich and layered as their history. From ancient tattoo arts and master wood carvers to hand-stitched heirloom quilts and flower garlands worn daily – the islands' artistic heritage is very much alive, and something every visitor is invited to experience.

The Art of Tattoo

The art of tatau – tattoo in Cook Islands Māori – is one of the oldest creative traditions in Polynesia, though it was among the many customs suppressed following the arrival of Christianity. Traditionally applied using a comb-like chisel fastened to a wooden handle, the tool was struck to penetrate ink into the skin. Today, while most practitioners use modern electric equipment, a number of artists are actively reviving the use of traditional tools and techniques.

Cook Islands Māori tattoos are characterised by geometric figures drawn from Polynesian mythology – the sun, the ocean and sea creatures that symbolise a deep connection to homeland, family and navigation. One of the most recognisable traditional motifs is the Tikitiki Tangata, depicting people holding hands as a symbol of unity. There are many skilled tattoo artists based on Rarotonga, all proud wearers of Cook Islands tatau.

Wood and Pearl Carving

Wood carving remains a living craft in the Cook Islands, with local artists continuing to work traditional Polynesian motifs into drums, decorative weapons, spears and historical idols – among them the Tangaroa, god of the sea and fertility. The foyer of the University of the South Pacific showcases a fine collection of paintings and wooden and stone carvings by local artists. One of the most gifted is Mike Tavioni, whose workshop sits across from the Whale & Wildlife Centre on Nikao back road and is well worth a visit.

Black pearls are one of the Cook Islands’ most prized natural treasures, cultivated exclusively on the island of Manihiki in the Northern Group. Tokerau Jim is among only a handful of pearl carvers in the world – his pieces are smaller, more intricate and more highly prized than almost anything else in the region. His stunning mother-of-pearl shell carvings are on display at his popular Rarotonga showrooms.

Parēu, Tivaevae and Flower Ei

Colourful parēu (sarongs) are found throughout the islands – in stores, mini-markets and at the vibrant Punanga Nui Market on Rarotonga. Versatile and beautiful, they can be worn casually or styled for a special occasion. Many local women create their own artistic parēu designs, and a number also practice the revered craft of hand-stitched Tivaevae quilts.

Introduced by Christian missionaries over a century ago, Tivaevae are deeply treasured heirloom quilts that showcase the remarkable artistic talent of Cook Islands women. Often depicting the islands’ vivid local flowers, these hand-stitched works are displayed in galleries, shops and occasionally at the Punanga Nui Market – though few are ever offered for sale, such is their personal and cultural significance.

The Cook Islands are blessed with an abundance of fragrant and exotic flowers, used daily for personal adornment and to grace homes and buildings. Visitors arriving on the islands are customarily welcomed with a flower neck garland – an ei kaki – a gesture of warm hospitality that sets the tone for everything that follows. Blooms of every shape and colour are also fashioned into flower head crowns, or ei katu, worn by local women on special occasions. At the heart of both creations is the Tiare Māori – the national flower of the Cook Islands.