Must-see shopping in Rarotonga, Samoa & Tonga

  • Croc Tatau

    Rarotonga

    Englishman ‘Croc’ is the only man on Rarotonga crafting tata’u (tattoos) the traditional way, using pigment and hand tools. Check out his blog (www…

  • Parua Tavioni

    The Cook Islands

    Working from her village house – a corner residence that doubles as the Terangi-Nui Cafe for dinners – Parua Tavioni crafts intricate tivaevae (appliqué…

  • Tivaevae Collectables

    Rarotonga

    Visit for beautiful Cook Islands tivaevae (hand-sewn quilted fabrics) harnessing traditional designs such as bedspreads and bed linen, but also reworked…

  • Perfumes of Rarotonga

    Rarotonga

    Near the airport, this place makes its own perfumes, soaps, liqueurs and scented oils. There’s another outlet in Cook’s Corner Arcade in central Avarua…

  • Tu'imatamoana Fish Market

    Tongatapu

    Starts when the boats come in around 5am (get there early). Trestle tables covered with bags of oysters, iridescent tropical fish, big crabs with taped-up…

  • Art Studio

    Rarotonga

    Contemporary art from owners Ian and Kay George combines with works from other Pacific artists. Handpainted or printed textiles are available, as are…

  • Mailelani

    Apia

    The handmade soaps, creams and goodies here are made with organic coconut oil; everything smells and feels divine. Stop by and you’ll probably get a tour…

  • Langafonua Handicrafts Centre

    Tongatapu

    A nonprofit artists co-op representing 300-plus local artists. Inside you'll find brilliant Tongan jewellery, carvings, baskets, weavings, canvasses...and…

  • Salelologa Market

    Savai'i

    Salelologa's main market sells arts, crafts, souvenirs, trinkets and some fresh produce. It's a fairly languid affair, but worth a browse. Savai'i's main…

  • Mike Tavioni

    Rarotonga

    Visit the workshop of Rarotonga’s most renowned sculptor and carver on the back road near Avarua. See his stone carvings at the Punanga Nui Market and the…

  • Mena

    Apia

    High Samoan fashion in the form of well-cut dresses in traditional fabrics or painted with floral patterns. It’s a bit pricey but there’s something for…

  • Tokerau Jim

    Rarotonga

    Located in Matavera, Tokerau Jim does beautiful and incredibly fine carvings on pearls and pearl shell. On Saturday mornings you'll find him at the…

  • Plantation House

    Apia

    Stop in for high-quality, locally made art, craft and gifts, including hand-blocked fabric, lava-lava, prints, tailored shirts, bedding and jewellery.

  • Pacific Jewell

    Apia

    This little nook has an on-site gallery and beautiful outdoor cafe. Locally made jewellery, carvings, art and more are all of exceptional quality.

  • Off Da Rock Tattoos

    American Samoa

    The award-winning artists here specialise in clean, beautiful Polynesian designs; they take it easy on tourists with a modern, electric needle.

  • Mangaia Airport Shop

    The Cook Islands

    This tiny shop opens for incoming flights. It also doubles as a booking office for tours and activities.

  • Turtles & Ocean/Earth

    Rarotonga

    Interesting designs spoofing global brands and also that Cook Islands rugby shirt you've always wanted.

  • Vainetini Te Akapuanga

    The Cook Islands

    Local crafts are for sale at this centre next to the Atiu Town Hall. Opening hours are flexible.

  • Ma'uke Market

    The Cook Islands

    From 8.30am on Friday morning you can buy fresh produce at Ma’uke market, near the wharf.

  • Janet’s

    Apia

    Janet's stocks a large range of woodcarvings, siapo and gifts.

  • Kato's Store

    The Cook Islands

    Well-stocked grocery store. Also the island’s only bakery.

  • Prison Craft Shop

    Rarotonga

    A good spot for unique gifts including handmade ukuleles.

  • Frankies

    Savai'i

    The biggest and best-stocked supermarket on Savai'i.

  • Virginia's

    The Cook Islands

    The best of Ma’uke’s grocery stores.