Cook Islands

From emotional ballads to powerhouse performances, from soul-felt guitar to traditional ukulele showcases, the competition uncovered hidden gems in the island community.

Four thousand athletes and staff participated in 25 sports, including beach handball, volleyball, rugby, athletics, speed coconut husking, and tree climbing.

"The Cook Islands is not doing anything that will change our constitutional relationship with NZ."

The Cook Islands leader is considering introducing a Cook Islands passport in the near future, while maintaining the New Zealand passport.

William Anthony Tauu Dave, 45, a New Zealand DJ was arrested last year for bringing cocaine and cannabis to Rarotonga.

Cook Islands has welcomed New Zealand barrister Andrew K Irwin, who has been admitted to the bar as a permanent barrister in the Cook Islands High Court.

Cook Islands has enacted seabed minerals harvesting regulations despite concerns about the lack of 'meaningful consultation'.

Over 3000 athletes, representing 11 islands, will be participating in the third edition of the two-week multi-sport event, which kick off in Rarotonga this weekend. Audio

Cook Islands is currently in its third year of a five-year exploration phase to determine the feasibility of deep sea mining for polymetallic nodules rich in cobalt, copper, nickel and manganese.

George Maggi is denying that the former deputy prime minister, jailed in March for fraud, is receiving special treatment after being hired by family on a prison work scheme.