Trader Jack's Bar & Restaurant
Trader Jacks
A waterfront institution in Avarua since 1986, where you can eat seafood pizza while looking out at a 1916 shipwreck. It is the island's most iconic bar-restaurant.
Located on the eastern waterfront of Avarua, the capital. Founded in 1986 by New Zealander Jack Cooper, the business was rebuilt after a cyclone destroyed it. It has a main restaurant, a pizza shack and the Vaka Bar. From the terrace you can see a 1916 shipwreck in the harbour, and whales are sometimes spotted in season. For lunch, try the fresh fish sandwich; for dinner, order the catch of the day. Jack's Big Burger and the pizzas are also popular. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights runs late. It can be crowded and noisy, so book ahead or arrive early. The upper level is reached by stairs. Expect about NZ$40–60 per person.
Opening hours
Mon–Sat 11:00 until late
Nearby sights
- Avarua & Avatiu Harbour
- Cook Islands Christian Church, Avarua
- Punanga Nui Market
- Cook Islands Whale & Wildlife Centre
- Arai-Te-Tonga Marae
- Cross-Island Track (Te Rua Manga)
- Takitumu Conservation Area
- Raemaru (Flat Top Mountain) Hike