Cook Islands is located in Polynesia, and its capital is Avarua. Its official currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD).
What stands out
Practical reference
New Zealand dollar (NZD)
Cook Islands uses New Zealand dollar (NZD), calling code +682, internet domain .ck.
About Cook Islands
The Cook Islands, a tropical paradise in the South Pacific, is a self‑governing nation of 15 small islands known for its crystal‑clear lagoons, friendly locals, and a unique blend of Polynesian heritage and modern island life.
Scattered over 2,000 km of ocean, the Cook Islands consist of 15 islands divided into the northern volcanic group, including Rarotonga’s lush, mountainous interior, and the southern coral atolls such as Aitutaki, famous for its stunning lagoon and pristine white‑sand beaches.
Cook Islands culture bursts with vibrant dance, rhythmic drumming, and the art of tivaevae quilting; its cuisine celebrates fresh seafood, taro, and the beloved coconut cream‑infused dish ‘poke’, while community gatherings often feature the traditional ‘Ura’ dance celebrating legends and the sea.
First settled by Polynesian voyagers around the 6th century, the Cook Islands entered the modern world in 1888 when they became a British protectorate, later administered by New Zealand, and finally achieved self‑government in 1965, becoming the first Pacific nation to gain internal autonomy.
Key facts
The islands are home to more than 1,000 species of marine life, making them a top destination for snorkeling and diving.
Population: approximately 17,000 people spread across 236 km² of land area.
Rarotonga’s capital, Avarua, is one of the world’s smallest national capitals by land size.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
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Cook Islands: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Cook Islands?
The capital of Cook Islands is Avarua.
What currency is used in Cook Islands?
Cook Islands uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD), with the symbol $.
Where is Cook Islands located?
Cook Islands is located in Polynesia, Oceania.
What are people from Cook Islands called?
People from Cook Islands are referred to as Cook Island.
What is the phone calling code for Cook Islands?
The international dialing code for Cook Islands is +682.
What is the internet domain for Cook Islands?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Cook Islands is .ck.
What time zone is Cook Islands in?
Cook Islands uses the Pacific/Rarotonga time zone.
What is Cook Islands known for?
The Cook Islands, a tropical paradise in the South Pacific, is a self‑governing nation of 15 small islands known for its crystal‑clear lagoons, friendly locals, and a unique blend of Polynesian heritage and modern island life.
Polynesia