Staycation offers are assisting visitor accommodation providers to get through the quiet months on Rarotonga.

Both the Rarotongan and Edgewater resorts, two of the larger tourism operators in the Cook Islands, have extended staycation offers – after they were offered to locals during the pandemic when borders were shut.

The staycation deals helped operators stay afloat as Covid-19 presented multiple challenges.

Island Hotels Limited chief executive officer Andrew Whittaker said staycations had been well supported at the Edgewater over the festive season and would continue through to the end of March.

Meanwhile, the Rarotongan has staycation deals available until the end of this month at The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium, and Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach Adults Only (age 16+).

Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council president Liana Scott said operations such as the Rarotongan and Edgewater have big room stock and large staff levels that need to be maintained.

“Not surprisingly there are some good deals out in the marketplace for all potential clients which includes the local market,” said Scott, who is the general manager of the Muri Beach Club Hotel.

“I am not aware of others, but most savvy established properties will either be using the downtime for refurbishments/maintenance and/or offering good discounts to sway any last minute potential business.”

Scott said there are also a number of returning Cook Islanders on holiday, staying with family, who may want to enjoy some “holiday time” before they return to their overseas work commitments.