Cook Islands
Is CBD Legal in Cook Islands?
Status
Illegal
Covers
Jurisdiction
Last updated
May 29, 2026
The short answer
CBD is illegal in the Cook Islands. The Narcotics and Misuse of Drugs Act 2004 does not exempt cannabidiol from cannabis scheduling, and Te Marae Ora Cook Islands Ministry of Health has not authorized any cannabinoid medicine for prescription dispensing.
Unlike New Zealand, which reclassified CBD to a prescription medicine in 2017 and allowed Sativex and Epidyolex importation, the Cook Islands has not adopted equivalent reforms. CBD oils, capsules, and topicals are treated as cannabis-derived controlled drugs at the border. Rarotonga Hospital does not dispense cannabinoid prescriptions. Travelers arriving from Auckland have had CBD products seized at Rarotonga International Airport, even when accompanied by New Zealand prescriptions.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.
Key facts ·
Cook Islands
Key facts
Rules at a glance
THC limit
Prohibited
Regulator
Te Marae Ora Cook Islands Ministry of Health; Cook Islands Police Service
Key regulation
Narcotics and Misuse of Drugs Act 2004
Effective
January 1, 2004
Adult-use cannabis
Illegal
Medical cannabis
Illegal
For brands and importers
Import and export rules
CBD imports are prohibited. The Cook Islands has no medical cannabis import pathway, distinct from New Zealand's framework. Customs at Rarotonga International Airport seizes CBD products even with New Zealand prescriptions, under the Narcotics and Misuse of Drugs Act.
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