|
The Cook Islands
comprise 15 islands, with a land area of 240 km2 (93 miles2),
spread over an area of 1.3 million km2 (0.5 million miles2) of
ocean. The Southern Group, of which Rarotonga is the main island,
also includes Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke and Mitiaro. The
Northern Group composed of Penrhyn, Pukapuka, Nassau, Manihiki,
Rakahanga and Palmerston (see map below). The population is estimated
at 13,000 (February 2003 census report) with 60% living in the
capital island of Rarotonga. The people are descended from Polynesians
and Europeans. The official language is English, while Cook Islands
Maori is widely spoken. The local currency is the New Zealand
dollar.
Click
here to read about Small Islands Voice in the Cook Islands
© Copyright
2003 Lonely Planet Publications. All rights reserved. Used with
permission. www.lonelyplanet.com
|
