7 Best Art Galleries in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands

Set within the coral limestone walls of the historic Beachcomber Building, the Bergman Gallery represents artists from the Cook Islands and the Pacific region.

The free art gallery in Avarua features ever-changing exhibitions in a spacious exhibition room across the courtyard from a quirky cafe with its own interesting pieces at "the vinyl revival club". The Bergman Gallery is open from Monday to Friday, 10 am to 3 pm and Saturday 10 am to 12 pm. See more activities nearby in the 10 Best Things to Do in Avarua.

Location: Coastal side of the main road (Ara Tapu), opposite Makea Tinirau Road, the eastern end of Avarua (north side of Rarotonga).

See the works of two bubbly "mamas", Maria File and Maureen Kemp, at the aptly named 2Mamas Gallery. They have a variety of paintings and prints on display and for sale at their gallery on the back roads of Arorangi.

Be inspired by stunning landscape paintings, flowers, Pacific wildlife and more. You can also find the 2Mamas at the Punanga Nui Market on a Saturday morning, which you can learn more about in the 5 Best Markets in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

The gallery in Arorangi is open from Monday to Wednesday, 9 am to 2 pm.

Location: The turnoff to 2Mamas Gallery is on the inland road (Ara Metua) just north of the turnoff to Highland Paradise, Arorangi (west side of Rarotonga).

Discover a vibrant slice of Cook Islands culture at Ani's Art Gallery, also known as Art Box, nestled in Akaoa, Arorangi on Rarotonga's west side. This charming gallery showcases the work of local artist Ani, whose colourful creations draw inspiration from the islands' rich cultural heritage.

Through her art, Ani beautifully preserves and shares the myths, legends, and icons of her ancestors. You'll find an array of affordable pieces painted on various surfaces, including ply, tapa cloth, metal, canvas, and canvas boards.

Don't miss the eye-catching wall hangings crafted from thick cotton linen. Best of all, these unique souvenirs are customs-friendly and perfect for travellers to take home.

Location: Akaoa No.2 Road, Akaoa, Arorangi, west coast of Rarotonga.

Blue Moon Art Gallery is a quirky, artist-run gallery located on Rarotonga's southwest coast. This casual space offers a unique blend of digital and handmade art, including eye-catching ceramics. With its flexible "when awake" opening hours, you'll feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem.

The gallery's relaxed vibe extends beyond its walls, with artworks scattered throughout the house and the surrounding garden. It's a delightful pitstop as you journey along Rarotonga's main road, offering a refreshing glimpse into the local art scene.

One of Blue Moon Art Gallery's standout features is its ability to produce prints within just two days – perfect for picking up a last-minute souvenir!

Location: Main Road (Ara Tapu), Ruataki, southwest coast of Rarotonga. Between The Rarotongan and Wigmore's.

Turtle tour guide and award-winning photographer, Charlotte Piho, showcases her stunning work at the Charlotte Piho Gallery in Muri. Here, you can browse her captivating underwater photography and purchase prints on various items like puzzles, cushions, greeting cards and bags.

The gallery operates with limited hours, officially open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 2 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 3:30 pm, while Saturdays are closed. However, we've found that it's not always open during these stated times, so it's best to check ahead.

If you're keen to capture your own turtle moments, consider booking one of Charlotte's turtle swimming tours, and compare options in the 10 Best Turtle Swimming Tours in Rarotonga & the Cook Islands.

Location: Main Road (Ara Tapu), Muri (east side of Rarotonga).

While not a traditional gallery, Rarotonga Fabric Arts offers a unique hands-on experience for art enthusiasts. This vibrant workshop invites you to create your own masterpiece through tie-dye fabric arts. Running six days a week (Sunday to Friday, 10 am to 3 pm), the 1 hr 30 mins sessions cater to all ages, making it a perfect activity for families or solo travellers alike.

Choose from a bedspread, tea towel, or pareu (sarong) and unleash your creativity using a wide array of stencils and custom-made blocks. Once you've finished painting, your creation is ironed to set the colours, ensuring it's machine washable. You can pick up your unique souvenir just an hour later – talk about instant gratification!

Location: Main Road (Ara Tapu), Takitumu, southeast coast of Rarotonga. Well signposted along the main road.