Prices, snorkelling, weather in January

I have a few questions about the Cook Islands, as I'm thinking of going there next month from NZ, before I head back to the US. First, how expensive are the Cooks, really? From the LP guide I looked at, it seems there is budget accomodation (>$20NZD) but LP always seems to be outdated, they certainly are with plane ticket prices. Speaking of which, is the Raro-Atiutaki-Atiu ticket for $400NZD still available?

Also, how is the snorkelling, especially compared to Australia? Is it good at Atiutaki or is the attraction there pretty much the lagoon?

Finally, how is the weather in January? I know that's the wet season, but the actual meaning of that can vary across the tropics.

Thanks for any help!

There is no NZD 400 special for the Rarotonga-Atui-Aitutaki-Rarotonga triangle. You have to buy three one-way tickets, which will cost you about NZD 550-600 total.

On Rarotonga you can find accommodation far about NZD 20 at places like Rarotonga Backpackers and Backpackers International.
On Atiu you can find a room from NZD 25 at Are Manuiri.
On Aitutaki, try Tom's beach cottages or Josie's.

On my last visit to Isle of Pines, I did see 2 people wearing wetsuits - I presumed that this was for bouyancy or water temp issues. Are stinger suits different?

oops - I replied to the wrong thread , sorry !

Yes, about NZ$20-25 will be the cheapest bed, at the places mentioned above, or Vara's, etc.
You can cook you own meals, and food is not all that expensive that way, maybe 15-20% higher than NZ. But locally caught fish is very cheap, as are the veggies, and this is the season for cheap tomatoes, etc.

It will be hot, but the main thing you'll notice is the humidity.

The lagoon will be warm, no need for a wetsuit.

Snorkeling on Aitutaki is OK, good near the area of the Lagoon Resort, but watch out for stonefish on the underwater coral, keep your hands off that coral. Also, wear reef shoes, you can get them at the Warehouse in NZ for maybe NZ$10-15.

Not much snorkeling on Atiu, as no lagoon, but interesting caves, bush beer places to drink ("tumunu"), and a small coffee plantation. Atiu is more interesting than Aitutaki if you want local culture, etc.