Countries > Cook Islands > Main

The Cook Islands are located more than 2,100 miles northeast of the New Zealand mainland, about halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii. it is named after Captain James Cook, who sighted them in 1770.

They became a British protectorate in 1888. In 1965, the Cook Islands became a self-governing territory of New Zealand, although New Zealand is still responsible for its defense and foreign affairs.

Olympic Tradition:
Has never won a medal. Made its Olympic debut in 1988, sending seven athletes to Seoul.

Beijing Outlook: 
Cook Islands is not expected to contend for a medal at the Beijing Games.