Manners in Cook Islands

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Oceania / Oceania

Greetings

  • Kia Orana
  • Handshake
  • Light hug

Etiquette

  • Sunday is observed as a day of worship and many shops close
  • Common practice to remove shoes when entering homes
  • Polite to ask permission before photographing subjects
  • Avoid excessive skin exposure in public places
  • Island Time means things progress slowly as normal
  • Coral collection on atolls is prohibited by law
  • Churches prefer clothing covering shoulders and knees
  • Custom of gifting fresh flower leis as greeting
  • Traffic flows on the left, be mindful when walking
  • Waste separation and reuse are encouraged

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