Cook Islands Facts & Worksheets

The Cook Islands is an island nation in the South Pacific Ocean known for its stunning coral atolls, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant Polynesian culture. This self-governing nation, in free association with New Zealand, comprises 15 picture-perfect islands that beckon tourists with the people’s warm hospitality. Whether exploring pristine beaches, engaging in traditional ceremonies, or immersing in marine adventures, visitors discover a haven where tranquility and Polynesian allure converge.

See the fact file below for more information about the Cooks Islands, or you can download our 24-page Cooks Islands worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

TOPONYMY

• The Cook Islands were named after the British explorer Captain James Cook, the first European to reach the archipelago. 
• In 1773, Cook became the first European to set foot on an uninhabited part of the Cook Islands called the “Manuae.”
• The islands were named as a tribute to Cook’s exploration and mapping of the South Pacific region, marking a lasting historical connection between the islands and the European explorer. 

GEOGRAPHY

• The Cook Islands are located in the South Pacific Ocean, positioned between Hawaii and New Zealand.
• The Cook Islands comprise 15 islands spread across an extensive area, with a combined land area of about 240 square kilometers.
• Renowned for their coral atolls, the islands boast vibrant coral reefs and azure lagoons. 
• Notable islands include Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and Mangaia; each offers unique landscapes and cultural experiences.
• Rarotonga is the largest, most populous one of them.

CLIMATE

• The Cook Islands enjoy a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year.
• Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 29°C (84°F).
• The Cook Islands experience a distinct wet season from November to March, while the dry season spans from April to October.
• The region can be susceptible to cyclones during the wet season, although direct hits are relatively rare.
• High humidity is common, especially during the wet season.

DEMOGRAPHICS

• As of 2022, the Cook Islands has a reported population of around 17,500 people.
• The population of the Cook Islands is predominantly of Polynesian descent.
• The majority of Cook Islanders are of Maori ethnicity.
• The official languages of the Cook Islands are English and Cook Islands Maori (also known as Rarotongan).
• The predominant religion in the Cook Islands is Christianity, with various denominations present, including the Cook Islands Christian Church (Protestant) and the Roman Catholic Church.
• Avarua is the capital and largest city of the Cook Islands.
• The capital is located on the island of Rarotonga.

HISTORY

• Polynesian navigators are believed to have settled on the Cook Islands between 600 and 800 AD. 
• The islands were likely discovered during the Polynesian expansion across the Pacific.
• European explorers, including British and Spanish navigators, discovered the Cook Islands during the 17th and 18th centuries. 
• In 1773, the Cook Islands were discovered by British explorer Captain James Cook.
• However, formal European contact and exploration increased only in the late 18th century.
• Christian missionaries (most of whom were from the London Missionary Society) arrived in the Cook Islands in the early 19th century. 
• They played a significant role in the conversion of the population to Christianity.
• In 1888, the Cook Islands became a British protectorate, which meant Britain had some degree of control over the Cook Islands’ affairs.
• This status was formalized through an agreement between the British government and local chiefs to protect against potential French annexation.
• In 1901, the Cook Islands were annexed by New Zealand. 
• This annexation continued for much of the 20th century and had a significant impact on the islands’ governance.
• In 1965, the Cook Islands gained self-government in free association with New Zealand.
• While maintaining close ties with New Zealand, the Cook Islands became a self-governing entity with its own government and constitution.
• In 1981, the Cook Islands and New Zealand signed the Compact of Free Association, solidifying the relationship between the two nations.
• As a result, the Cook Islands gained more control over its foreign affairs.
• The Cook Islands has maintained a stable political environment since gaining self-government. 
• The island nation continues to be a parliamentary representative democratic country with a close relationship with New Zealand.
• To this day, the Cook Islands has been facing economic challenges, including dependence on tourism and limited natural resources. 
• Emigration, particularly to New Zealand, has been a notable demographic trend.
• Efforts to preserve and promote Cook Islands culture, language, and traditional practices are ongoing. 
• Cultural events, festivals, and education initiatives play a role in maintaining the unique identity of the Cook Islands people.

GOVERNMENT

• The Cook Islands recognizes the British monarch as the formal head of state, who is represented locally by the Queen’s Representative and appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Cook Islands government.
• The Cook Islands has a parliamentary system of government. 
• The Cook Islands Parliament, or Te Pae Ariki, is the legislative body responsible for making laws and overseeing the government.
• Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected by the Cook Islands citizens through a general election.
• Appointed by the Queen’s Representative, the Prime Minister serves as the head of government.
• The Cook Islands exercises a significant degree of self-government, managing its domestic and internal affairs independently.

CULTURE AND HERITAGE

TRADITIONS

• The Cook Islanders, like other Polynesian cultures, historically had advanced navigational skills, allowing them to explore the Pacific Ocean.
• Traditional Polynesian tattooing has been practiced for centuries, and ancient tattoo artists were highly respected members of society.
• Tivaevae is a traditional form of Cook Islands quilting where women create intricately designed quilts using appliqué and embroidery techniques.

MUSIC AND DANCE

• Traditional music includes drumming and percussion instruments, often used in ceremonial and dance performances.
• Modern Cook Islands music incorporates instruments like the ukulele and guitar. 
• The tamure is a traditional dance characterized by rhythmic hip movements and hand gestures.

ART AND CRAFT

• Traditional wood carving is a significant art form. 
• Carvings often depict ancestral figures, gods, or mythological creatures. 
• Examples are intricately carved items such as ceremonial adze handles and war clubs.
• Cook Islands women are skilled at tivaevae, a form of artistic quilting.
• They can make intricate baskets, mats, and hats from local materials such as coconut fronds and pandanus leaves.

FESTIVALS

• The Te Mire Tiare Festival is a colorful and fragrant celebration of nature and the art of flower arranging.
• Participants showcase their skills in creating intricate floral arrangements during Te Mire Tiare.
• Held annually in late July, Te Maeva Nui is the Cook Islands’ Constitution Celebration, where people commemorate the anniversary of self-government.
• During Te Maeva Nui, cultural performances, traditional sports, parades, and food festivals are held across the islands.

Cook Islands Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about the Cook Islands across 24 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about the Cook Islands. This self-governing nation, in free association with New Zealand, comprises 15 picture-perfect islands that beckon tourists with the people’s warm hospitality. Whether exploring pristine beaches, engaging in traditional ceremonies, or immersing in marine adventures, visitors discover a haven where tranquility and Polynesian allure converge.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

1. Cook Islands Facts
2. Cook Questions
3. Geography Challenge
4. Culture Quiz
5. Conservation Infographic
6. Island History
7. Tourism Presentation
8. Travel Brochure
9. Maori Phrases
10. Celebration Reflection
11. Cook in the Cook!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the Cook Islands located?

The Cook Islands are situated in the South Pacific Ocean, northeast of New Zealand. They are a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand.

What is the capital city of the Cook Islands?

The capital city of the Cook Islands is Avarua, located on the island of Rarotonga. Avarua serves as the political and economic center of the country.

What is the official language of the Cook Islands?

The official languages of the Cook Islands are English and Cook Islands Māori (also known as Rarotongan). Cook Islands Māori is widely spoken among the local population.

What is the economy of the Cook Islands based on?

The economy of the Cook Islands relies heavily on tourism, which contributes a significant portion to the country’s GDP. Other important sectors include offshore banking and the cultivation of agricultural products such as citrus fruits, taro, and coconut.

How is the political status of the Cook Islands defined?

The Cook Islands is a self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand. This means that while the Cook Islands has its own government and is responsible for its domestic and foreign affairs, it maintains a close relationship with New Zealand for defense and other key areas. The Cook Islands citizens are also citizens of New Zealand.

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