Cook Islands Country Report

The Cook Islands is a self-governing country in free association with New Zealand. It has a parliamentary democratic government and is a member of the Pacific Community.

The overall threat to business operations and visitors is low, with minimal security threats. Nevertheless, tropical cyclones can affect the country between March and December, and can cause severe travel and service delivery disruption. Associated heavy rainfall can trigger landslides and flooding.

Cook Islands can experience earthquakes as they are located in the highly seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire region. While most tremors are of low-to-moderate in intensity, some powerful onshore and offshore earthquakes could result in casualties and infrastructural damage. The country is also susceptible to tsunamis associated with offshore earthquakes, some of which can be localized. Tsunami warnings are broadcast via radio but notice of incoming tsunamis may be as short as several minutes.

The security environment is largely permissible with a low risk of crime, and minimal risks of civil unrest, kidnapping, piracy, terorrism, and armed conflict. Petty crime can occur occasionally. International travelers can seek assistance from local authorities and their respective diplomatic missions.

There are no major concerns over air travel to or from Cook Islands.

Cook Islands features mostly paved roads. Local driving standards vary significantly, and overland travel on the island is subject to a number of hazards.

Power outages occur occasionally. Internet connectivity problems are common.

Cybercrime is not a serious concern.

The Cook Islands have a warm, tropical climate. There is a rainy season December-March and a dry season June-September, although rainfall is fairly abundant year-round. Tropical cyclones can impact the region November-April; intense storms can cause flooding, damage, and casualties. Major earthquakes are uncommon in the Cook Islands; however, the islands are prone to tsunamis generated by large tremors in more active areas of the South Pacific.

Medical care is limited in the Cook Islands, especially in rural areas and less populated islands. Serious injuries or cases typically require evacuation to the New Zealand. Outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases including dengue, chikungunya and Zika do periodically occur. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

The Cook Islands is a self-governing territory in an associated relationship with New Zealand. There is a high level of stability, characterized by a representative democratic system led by the prime minister as head of government and a King's Representative as ceremonial head of state. Legislative power resides in the unicameral parliament.

The region's regulatory frameworks are well-established, with strong enforcement and a high degree of transparency in public institutions, resulting in a low risk of corruption. The judiciary operates effectively and independently, contributing to the fair enforcement of the rule of law. The territory is not subject to any active international sanctions.