Cook Islands

Population About country profiles The country profiles are intended to provide some background and context for the descriptions of the churches. These profiles should be read in conjunction with those of the churches in the country. Click here for the sources of the statistical data *:	21,388
Surface area:	240 km²
GNI per capita:	5,000 US$
Classification:	Developing economy
Languages:	English Maori
Religions:	Christian: 90.00%

Christianity:	Protestants: 15,000 Catholics: 3,600

The Cook Islands are a group of fifteen small islands situated in the Polynesian part of the Pacific. They are named after the British explorer Captain Cook. The islands became a British protectorate in 1888, and came under administrative control of New Zealand in 1900. In 1965 the Cook Islanders opted for self-government in free association with New Zealand. The economy of the Cook Islands is based on agriculture and some small industries. Copra and citrus fruit are the main export products. Many skilled people emigrate to New Zealand or elsewhere. The population is predominantly Protestant. The largest church is the Cook Islands Christian Church. The Cook Islands have a Religious Advisory Council which besides the Protestants, Catholics and Pentecostals, also includes the Mormons.