South Pacific, Polynesia.

GMT - 10.

237 sq km (91.5 sq miles).

15,537 (2008).

90.2 per sq km.

Avarua (on Rarotonga). Population: 6,000 (2006).

The Cook Islands are situated 3,500km (2,200 miles) northeast of New Zealand and 1,000km (600 miles) southwest of Tahiti in the South Pacific, forming part of Polynesia. The 15 islands fall into two groups: the scattered Northern Group are all coral atolls while the Southern Group is of volcanic origin. Most of the larger islands include lagoons surrounded by small areas of fertile land above which rise volcanic hills. 

Rarotonga is the largest and highest island with a rugged volcanic interior, its highest peak being Te Manga, at 652m (2,140ft). 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 in the Cook Islands are found on Aitutaki, which is part of the eight-island Southern Group. The Northern Group comprises seven islands, the largest being Penrhyn, Manihiki and Pukapuka.

Self-governing state 'in free association’ with New Zealand. (New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs.) Gained self-governing status in 1965.

HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Sir Frederick Goodwin. New Zealand is represented locally by High Commissioner Tia Barrett since 2008.

Prime Minister Jim Marurai since 2004.

Jim Marurai, of the Democratic party was sworn in as prime minister in December 2004 after winning the backing of MPs. His predecessor Robert Woonton stood down after a recount of the September 2004 general election votes revealed a tie for the seat between Mr Woonton and his challenger. Marurai's Democratic party went on to win the 2006 election.

Executive power is formally held by the New Zealand high commissioner (High Commissioner Tia Barrett since December 2008) but effectively devolved to the cabinet. The House of Ariki, which is composed of all the paramount chiefs of the Cook Islands, serves as an advisory body. Advice is given on legislation concerning customs and traditions, though the House of Ariki has no powers of legislation itself. New Zealand is responsible for defence and foreign affairs.

The official languages are English and Cook Islands Maori.

Mainly Cook Islands Christian Church (58%); also Roman Catholic, Latter Day Saints, Seventh Day Adventists and Assembly of God.

220 volts DC, 50Hz. The New Zealand and Australian three-pin plug is used as standard, but, in some cases, a two-pin plug is required.

Dress code is informal, though modest attire should be worn when visiting towns or villages. Women are expected to wear dresses for church services and social functions.