Cook Islands tourists told to cover up

  • 21/10/2022
"Please remind guests to show consideration towards our customs and traditions by dressing appropriately."
"Please remind guests to show consideration towards our customs and traditions by dressing appropriately." Photo credit: Getty Images

Visitors to the Cook Islands have been told to be respectful with their clothing choices after complaints from locals.

The Cook Islands Tourism Corporation's latest newsletter said a number of people have raised concerns about some visitors and their choice of attire.

"Please remind guests to show consideration towards our customs and traditions by dressing appropriately in public places especially when visiting towns, churches or villages," it said.

"Advise guests to carry a pareu and cover up when wearing swimsuits if not on a beach or around a pool. Nude or topless sunbathing will cause offence."

A pareu is a wrap-around skirt similar to a sarong.

Cook Islands Tourism Corporation chief executive Karla Eggelton told the Cook Island News now and then they have to remind visitors of expected behaviour.

"We usually always find if you approach the problem in a friendly way, emulating our Kia Orana Values, the response is always positive, and for the visitor it is simply not knowing that their behaviour or action was viewed as offensive and are only too happy to fix it," Eggelton said.

"In these cases, it is a request to cover up."