Country Profile: Cook Islands
The Cook Islands, located in the South Pacific Ocean, is a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand. The islands are predominantly volcanic and lush, with Rarotonga being the largest and most populated. With a small population of approximately 7,761, the economy largely relies on tourism, copra, and tropical fruit exports. Governed as a parliamentary democracy, the Cook Islands enjoys considerable autonomy while benefiting from New Zealand's support in defense and foreign relations.
Geography
The Cook Islands consists of 15 islands, with most of the population residing on the volcanic island of Rarotonga. The region has a tropical oceanic climate, characterized by dry and humid seasons. Its total land area is approximately 236 square kilometers, surrounded by a 120-kilometer coastline.
- 236 sq km - Total land area
- 120 km - Length of coastline
- 12 nm - Territorial sea claim
- 200 nm - Exclusive economic zone
- 652 m - Highest point, Te Manga
People and Society
The Cook Islands has a population of around 7,761, predominantly of Cook Island Maori descent. English and Cook Islands Maori are the primary languages spoken. The society is characterized by a mix of Protestant and Catholic communities, reflecting its historical ties to missionary activities.
- 7,761 - Total population (2024 estimate)
- 86.4% - Percentage of the population speaking English
- 77.4% - Cook Island Maori ethnic group composition
- 41.1 years - Median age
- 76.2% - Urban population rate
Economy
The economy of the Cook Islands is classified as high-income, focusing heavily on tourism and agricultural exports such as coconuts and tropical fruits. The GDP has seen fluctuations due to impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic but continues to show signs of recovery.
- $401.155 million - Real GDP (2024 estimate)
- 10.5% - Real GDP growth rate in 2022
- $29,800 - Real GDP per capita (2024 estimate)
- 3.2% - Health expenditure as a percentage of GDP
- 44% - Percentage of imports from New Zealand
Government
The Cook Islands operates as a parliamentary democracy with its own legislative and executive branches. It has a unique constitutional relationship with New Zealand, responsible for its foreign affairs and defense. The Prime Minister is the head of government, while the King of the United Kingdom serves as the monarch.
- 1965 - Year of self-governance
- 24 - Total seats in Parliament
- 18 years - Minimum voting age
- 5 - Years since the last election in August 2022
- 25% - Percentage of women in legislative positions
Military and Security
The Cook Islands does not maintain a regular military but relies on the Cook Islands Police Service for security. Defense responsibilities fall under New Zealand's jurisdiction, with specific agreements in place for maritime law enforcement.
- No regular military forces
- 2025 - Year of the shiprider agreement with the US for local maritime law enforcement
- New Zealand - Responsible for defense
- USCG and USN - Collaborating under shiprider agreements
Energy
The Cook Islands uses a mix of fossil fuels and solar energy for electricity generation. The total installed generating capacity is 17,000 kW, with significant reliance on solar resources in recent years.
- 17,000 kW - Installed electricity generating capacity (2023)
- 60.9% - Percentage of capacity from fossil fuels
- 39.1% - Percentage of capacity from solar
- 700 bbl/day - Refined petroleum consumption (2023)
Environment
Environmental challenges in the Cook Islands include waste management, soil degradation, and overfishing. The islands participate in various international environmental agreements focusing on climate change and biodiversity.
- 65% - Percentage of forested land (2023)
- 76.2% - Urban population rate (2023)
- 103,000 metric tonnes - Carbon dioxide emissions (2023)
- 96.8% - Access to improved sanitation facilities (2022)
Transportation
Transport infrastructure includes 10 airports and a merchant marine fleet primarily for fishing and cargo. The main port is Avatiu, enhancing connectivity for imports and exports.
- 10 - Number of airports (2025)
- 190 - Total vessels in the merchant marine fleet (2023)
- 1 - Key port at Avatiu with oil terminal capabilities
Communications
Communication systems are developing, with a blend of fixed and mobile telephony. Internet use is relatively widespread, with around 64.8% of the population connected online.
- 17,000 - Mobile cellular subscriptions (2021)
- 7,000 - Fixed-line telephone subscriptions (2021)
- 64.8% - Percentage of population using the Internet (2021)
- 1 - Privately owned TV station in Rarotonga (2019)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,761 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 236 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP | $401.155 million | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 77.6 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 12.1 births/1,000 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | Data not provided | N/A |
| Electricity Consumption | 37.5 million kWh | 2023 estimate |
| Carbon Dioxide Emissions | 103,000 metric tonnes | 2023 estimate |
| Urban Population | 76.2% | 2023 estimate |
| Healthcare Expenditure | 3.2% of GDP | 2020 estimate |
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