Cook Islands gained independence in 1858, later became a UK protectorate in 1888 at its own request, the Cook Islands Federation title was adopted in 1893; the island was annexed by New Zealand in 1900 after chiefs ceded governance. Volcanic in origin, the largest island has a rugged interior, featuring Te Manga peak as a landmark, with HMS Bounty mutineers visiting in 1789, before missionary activity helped shape its political order. Today, it is the most populous island in the Cook Islands, home to ariki-led governance and long-term Christian conversion.
Rarotonga, largest island in the southern group of the Cook Islands, in the South Pacific Ocean about 2,100 miles (3,400 km) northeast of New Zealand. The island is volcanic in origin and has a rugged interior rising to 2,139 feet (652 metres) at Te Manga. Surrounding its mountainous core is a
www.britannica.comRarotonga is the largest and most populous of the Cook Islands. The island is volcanic, with an area of 67.39 km2 (26.02 sq mi), and is home to almost 75% of th...
www.wikiwand.comRarotonga facts for kids
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