19,103 (1996).

80.6 per sq km.

Avarua (on Rarotonga).

11,225 (1996, the whole island of Rarotonga).

The Cook Islands are situated 3500km (2200 miles) northeast of New Zealand and 1000km (600 miles) southwest of Tahiti in the South Pacific, forming part of Polynesia. The islands fall into two groups: the scattered Northern Group are all coral atolls while the Southern Group is of volcanic origin. Rarotonga is the largest and highest island with a rugged volcanic interior, its highest peak being Te Manga, at 652m (2140ft). Coral reef surrounds the island and the population lives between reef and hills where rich soil supports both tropical and subtropical vegetation. Most of the island is covered by thick evergreen bush. Most of the larger islands include lagoons surrounded by small areas of fertile land above which rise volcanic hills. The best beaches found on Aitutaki are also part of the 8-island Southern Group. The Northern Group comprises seven islands, the largest being Penrhyn, Manihiki and Pukapuka. The Cook Islands have been used as the setting for several films, the best known being Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence.

Self-governing state in 'free association' with New Zealand. (New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs.) Gained self-governing status in 1965. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Sir Apenera Short since 1991. New Zeland is represented locally by High Commissioner Rob Moore-Jones since 1998. Head of Government: Prime Minister Geoffrey A Henry since 1989.

The official languages are English and Cook Islands Maori. RELIGION: Mainly Cook Islands Christian Church, also Roman Catholic, Latter Day Saints, Seventh Day Adventists and Assembly of God.

GMT - 10.

240 volts DC, 50Hz.