People and Society of Cook Islands

Nationality

Cook Islander(s)

Ethnic Groups

Polynesian (full blood) 81.3%, Polynesian and European 7.7%, Polynesian and non-European 7.7%, European 2.4%, other 0.9%

Population

17,011

Life Expectancy at Birth

Life expectancy at birth in the Cook Islands is relatively high compared to many Pacific island nations, reflecting the country's access to healthcare services, its close ties with New Zealand, and ongoing public health initiatives. Current estimates place overall life expectancy at approximately 76 to 77 years, with women typically outliving men by several years — female life expectancy averaging around 79 years and male life expectancy around 74 years. These figures are notable given the Cook Islands' small, dispersed population spread across 15 islands in the South Pacific. The country benefits significantly from its free association status with New Zealand, which allows Cook Islanders to access New Zealand's healthcare system and provides a pipeline of medical training and resources back to the islands. Rarotonga Hospital serves as the primary referral center for the entire island group, while outer islands rely on smaller health clinics and regular visits from medical teams. Despite these advantages, the Cook Islands faces persistent health challenges that put pressure on longevity outcomes. Noncommunicable diseases — particularly cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity — are leading causes of illness and premature death. The prevalence of obesity in the Cook Islands is among the highest in the world, a factor strongly linked to shifting dietary patterns, reduced physical activity, and the widespread availability of imported processed foods. Emigration also complicates health statistics for the Cook Islands. A significant portion of the indigenous population lives in New Zealand or Australia, meaning that health data collected locally reflects a smaller, sometimes older or more health-compromised resident population. This demographic reality can affect how life expectancy figures are interpreted and compared internationally. Public health authorities continue to prioritize programs targeting diet, physical activity, and chronic disease management. Regional organizations, including the Pacific Community and the World Health Organization's Western Pacific office, provide ongoing support for health surveillance and capacity building across the islands. Reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases remains the most significant lever for improving life expectancy outcomes in the coming decades.

Infant Mortality Rate

The Cook Islands maintains a relatively low infant mortality rate compared to many Pacific Island nations, reflecting the country's commitment to public health infrastructure and maternal and child care services. The infant mortality rate stands at approximately 9 to 10 deaths per 1,000 live births, a figure that places the Cook Islands in a favorable position regionally, though still above rates seen in many developed nations. Several factors contribute to this outcome. The Cook Islands benefits from a government-funded health system that provides free or heavily subsidized medical care to residents, including prenatal and postnatal services. The main island of Rarotonga hosts the Tupapa Hospital, which serves as the primary medical facility for the country and offers maternal and neonatal care. Outer island communities, however, face greater challenges in accessing timely medical services, which can influence health outcomes for vulnerable newborns. Geographic isolation remains one of the most significant challenges to reducing infant mortality further. Emergency medical evacuations to New Zealand, which handles complex cases beyond the capacity of local facilities, are sometimes necessary, and logistical delays can affect outcomes in critical situations. The country has a close health partnership with New Zealand, and many Cook Islanders hold dual citizenship, allowing them to access New Zealand's healthcare system when needed. The government, in collaboration with international organizations, has worked to improve trained birth attendance, neonatal nutrition programs, and community health education. Breastfeeding promotion and immunization coverage have been key pillars of child health initiatives in recent decades. While progress has been steady, the small population size of the Cook Islands — estimated at fewer than 20,000 people — means that even a handful of infant deaths can cause noticeable statistical fluctuation from year to year. Continued investment in outer island health services and maternal care training remains a priority for sustaining and improving upon current outcomes.

Literacy Definition

NA

• Christian55.0%
• Roman Catholic17.0%
• Adventist8.0%
• Other7.0%
• Protestant6.0%
• Latter Day Saint (Mormon)4.0%
• None3.0%

English (official), Maori

• English
• Maori