THE COOK ISLANDS - the best kept secret of the Pacific

The Cook Islands consist of 15 islands scattered over some 2 million square kilometres of the Pacific Ocean and with a total population of approximately 18,000. They lie in the centre of the Polynesian Triangle, flanked to the west by The Kingdom of Tonga and Samoa and to the east by Tahiti and the islands of French Polynesia. The Cook’s are split into two groups. The Southern Group includes the mountainous main island of Rarotonga, the scenic beauty of Aitutaki and the raised coral atolls of Mangaia, Atiu, Mauke and Mitiaro. The makatea (uplifted coral reef) on these islands hides deep caves and supports extensive native forest and scrubland. The Northern Group islands are recognised for their turquoise lagoons fringed by white sand beaches and coconut palms.

The Cook Island Maori are related to New Zealand Maori and the Maohi of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. Historians believe the first Cook Islanders migrated from the Society Islands around 500AD. By 1901 all the islands had been annexed by New Zealand and eventually became self-governing in August of 1965. Strong links remain between the two countries, and all Cook Islanders hold New Zealand citizenship.

Cook Islanders are renowned as incredibly friendly people, who have succeeded in keeping a strong sense of their heritage and culture alive. As a nation they have a talent and love for music and song, and are famous throughout the Pacific for their distinctive dancing and drumming. Christian music is extremely popular, originally derived from Western missionary hymns. Traditional songs and hymns are referred to as himene metua (hymn of parent/ancestor). Traditional dance is the most prominent art form of the Cook Islands, each island having its own unique dances that are taught from childhood and accompanied by dynamic drumming. Traditional arts and crafts are still strong, from the finely woven mats, fans, baskets and rito hats, to the beautifully colourful tivaevae. Woodcarving is also prevalent, with strong reference to traditional culture and religion such as the god Tangaroa.

Pictures cited:

Vaka: www.dkimages.com/discover/previews/741/110242.jpg

Cook Island Dancers

www.cook-island-travel.com/images/cook-island

Beach

community.iexplore.com/photos/journal_photos/..