Cooks Island Travel

Cooks Island

The Cook Islands (Cook Islands Maori: Kuki 'Airani) are a self-governing parliamentary democracy in free association with New Zealand. The 15 small islands in this South Pacific Ocean have a total land area of 240 square kilometres (92.7 sq. mi). Tourism is the country's number one industry, the leading element of the economy, far ahead of offshore banking, pearls, marine and fruit exports. A popular art form on the islands is tivaivai, often likened to quilting. Defence is the responsibility of New Zealand, in consultation with the Cook Islands and at its request. The Cook Islands has adopted an increasingly independent foreign policy, particularly after the adoption of an isolationist and non-aligned policy by New Zealand in the 1980s. more...

History of Cooks island

The Cook Islands became a British protectorate at their own request in 1888, then were transferred to New Zealand in 1901. They remained a New Zealand protectorate until 1965, at which point they became a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand. Today, the Cook Islands are essentially independent, but are still officially placed under New Zealand sovereignty. New Zealand is tasked with overseeing the country's foreign relations and defence, but may not impose legislation on the Cook Islands without the latter's consent. The Cook Islands are one of three New Zealand dependencies, along with Tokelau and Niue. more...

An overview on Cooks Island's Economy

Also Read: Economy of the Cook Islands | Music of the Cook Islands | Tourist Attractions in Cook Islands | Activities in Cook Islands | Weather in Cook Islands | Food and Dining in Cook Islands | Health care in Cooks Island |

Government of Cooks island s

Politics in Cook Islands

Facts for the Traveler

Geography of Cooks island

The Cook Islands are situated 3500km (2200 miles) northeast of New Zealand and 1000km (600 miles) southwest of Tahiti in the South Pacific, forming part of Polynesia. The islands fall into two groups: the scattered Northern Group are all coral atolls while the Southern Group is of volcanic origin. Rarotonga is the largest and highest island with a rugged volcanic interior, its highest peak being Te Manga, at 652m (2140ft). Coral reef surrounds the island and the population lives between reef and hills where rich soil supports both tropical and subtropical vegetation. Most of the island is covered by thick evergreen bush. Most of the larger islands include lagoons surrounded by small areas of fertile land, above which rise volcanic hills. more...

Shopping in Cooks island

Best buys are woodcarvings, pearls, shell craft, woven products, pottery, hats and baskets made out of coconut fiber. Coins and stamps are considered to be valuable collectors' items. Another popular buy is a brightly colored, all-purpose wrap-around cloth garment worn by both men and women called a Pareu, and ideal for casual wear in the hot climate. Island Craft has factories in Avarua where hand-carved items can be purchased. The art of carving may be observed in Punanganui Market Place. more...

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• Tourist Attractions in Cooks Island
• Honeymoon in Cooks Island