Cook Islands explained to kids

The Cook Islands are a group of 15 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. They are located northeast of New Zealand and west of French Polynesia. The Cook Islands are part of Oceania. The capital of the Cook Islands is Avarua. The total population of the Cook Islands is about 17,000. The Cook Islands were named after Captain James Cook, who was the first European to visit them in 1773. The Cook Islands became a British colony in 1888. In 1901, the islands were annexed to New Zealand. In 1965, the Cook Islands became a self-governing colony. In 1980, the Cook Islands gained full independence from New Zealand. The Cook Islands are made up of two main islands, Rarotonga and Aitutaki, and 13 smaller islands. Rarotonga is the largest island and the capital. Aitutaki is the second largest island. The other islands are Atiu, Mangaia, Manuae, Mauke, Mitiaro, Nassau, Palmerston, Penrhyn, Pukapuka, Rakahanga, Suwarrow, and Takutea. The climate of the Cook Islands is tropical. The average temperature is about 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season is from November to April. The people of the Cook Islands are Polynesians. The official languages of the Cook Islands are English and Maori. The economy of the Cook Islands is based on tourism, agriculture, and fishing. The main products exported from the Cook Islands are copra, passion fruit, and black pearls. The Cook Islands are a beautiful place to visit. There are many activities to enjoy, such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, and hiking.