The flag of the Cook Islands (Maori: Te pīwari o ngā Kuki Airani) is a striking blue ensign featuring the Union Flag in the top left corner and fifteen white stars arranged in a circle on the right. The prominent Union Flag represents the nation's historical relationship with the United Kingdom and its status as a member of the Commonwealth. The fifteen stars symbolize the fifteen islands that collectively form the Cook Islands, epitomizing unity and solidarity among the archipelago's communities. The blue backdrop signifies the surrounding ocean, emphasizing the Cook Islands' marine resources and its vital connection to the Pacific Ocean. This design, therefore, encapsulates the nation's history, unity, and close association with the sea.
| Proportion: | 1:2 |
|---|---|
| Adopted: | August 4, 1979 |
| Flag image: | Animated GIF (25 frames looped) |
| Flag emoji code: | 🇨🇰 |
The coat of arms of the Cook Islands is a rich amalgamation of indigenous symbolism and cultural heritage. Its central shield, resonant with the nation's flag, is adorned with a striking circle of fifteen white stars, representing the collective unity of the Cook Islands. The shield is flanked by two significant endemic creatures, the flying fish (maroro) and the white tern (kakaia), emphasizing the deep connection to the surrounding ocean and the abundant avian life. A remarkable display of cultural significance is embodied in the ariki headdress (pare kura) of red feathers, situated atop the helmet, symbolizing the paramount importance of the traditional rank system within the islands. The name of the nation displayed on a scroll beneath the shield serves to cement the identity and pride of the Cook Islands. Completing this intricate emblem are the cross and the Rarotongan club (momore taringavaru) placed in saltire behind the shield, signifying the influence of Christianity and the richness of the Cook Islands' traditional heritage, respectively. This coat of arms stands as a poignant representation of the nation's history, unity, and cultural values.
The Cook Islands is a self-governing island country in the South Pacific Ocean that is in free association with New Zealand. Its capital is Avarua, and its population is about 17,459 (2016).
| Capital and largest city: | Avarua |
|---|---|
| Other major city: | Amuri |
| Official languages: | English, Cook Islands Māori |
| Region: | Polynesia |
| Ethnic groups: | 81.3% Māori, 6.7% Part-Māori, 11.9% Other |
| Religions: | 96% Christian, 0.1% Muslim, 0.1% Hindu, 0.1% Buddhist, 0.1% Folk Religion, 0.1% Jew, 3.2% Unaffiliated |
| Nationality name: | Cook Islander |
| Area: | 236.7 km² (91.4 sq mi) |
| Population: | 17,459 (2016) |
| Country codes: | CK, COK (ISO 3166) |
| Internet Top-Level Domain: | .ck |
| Calling code: | +682 |
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