Fun facts about Cook Islands

1. The Cook Islands are spread across 2 million square kilometers of ocean.
2. Rarotonga is the most populous island and home to the capital, Avarua.
3. The islands are named after British explorer Captain James Cook.
4. Traditional Cook Islands music features ukuleles and drumming.
5. There are no traffic lights on the Cook Islands.
6. The Cook Islands use both the New Zealand Dollar and their own local currency.
7. Aitutaki Lagoon is considered one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world.
8. Cook Islands are in free association with New Zealand.
9. Residents are New Zealand citizens.
10. The islands were once known as the Hervey Islands.
11. Tattooing is a traditional cultural practice in the Cook Islands.
12. Tourism is the largest industry in the Cook Islands.
13. The Cook Islands have their own national airline: Air Rarotonga.
14. The national flower is the tiare maori, a fragrant white bloom.
15. Canoe carving is an important traditional skill.
16. Christianity is the dominant religion in the Cook Islands.
17. The islands have a tropical climate, with a wet season from November to April.
18. Dance plays a major role in cultural expression and storytelling.
19. Coconuts and taro are staple foods in Cook Islands cuisine.
20. Fishing is a vital source of food and income for locals.
21. Most of the islands are surrounded by coral reefs.
22. Te Maeva Nui is the country’s most important cultural festival.
23. The Cook Islands became self-governing in 1965.
24. The country has no standing military.
25. There are 15 major islands in the group, including Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
26. Some Cook Islands coins are shaped like triangles and flowers.
27. The islands are known for black pearl farming.
28. The legal drinking age is 18, but the vibe is generally relaxed.
29. Only 2% of land in the Cook Islands is arable.
30. The islands have their own national rugby team.