The Cook Islands are one of the best places on earth, spreading their beauty in the form of clearest blue water and beautiful white sandy beaches with amazing surroundings. It consists of 15 islands, whose total land area is 240 square kilometers. The Cook Islands and New Zealand share a close and unique relationship. It acts as a self-governing island country in the South Pacific Ocean in free association with New Zealand. The islands were included within the boundaries of the Colony of New Zealand in 1901. The Islands are named after Captain James Cook, who visited the islands in 1773 and 1777. Rarotonga is the most populous island of the Cook Islands, and the main administration and government centre. Approximately 70% of the total population live on the island of Rarotonga. It is a volcanic island which stands over 14,750 feet above the ocean floor.
The Exclusive Economic Zone of the Cook Islands covers 1,800,000 square kilometers of ocean. The 15 major islands are divided into two separate groups: the Southern Cook Islands and the Northern Cook Islands of coral atolls. The northern group is older and consists of six atolls. The northern group includes Penrhyn, Suwarrow, Rakahanga, Nassau, Manihiki, and Pukapuka. The southern group includes Palmerston, Mangaia, Aitutaki, Rarotonga, Manuae, Mauke, Takutea, Atiu and Mitiaro.
The main Cook Islands language is Rarotongan Māori and has its own education system. New Zealand is responsible for the defence and foreign affairs of the Cook Islands. Tourism plays a great role in the economy of the country. It is the leading element of the economy. The cook islands have a very interesting wildlife. Its national flower is Tiare māori, and have a large population of Ship rat and Polynesian rat.
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