Cook Islands

The Cook Islands, located in the South Pacific, are pioneering the exploration of deep-sea mining for minerals crucial to the production of electric car batteries. These mineral deposits have not been extracted on a large scale before, but their vast reserves could potentially enable a transition away from fossil fuels.

1. The Cook Islands, a 15-island chain that was once a colony of New Zealand has been self-governing since 1965.

Location:

1. Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, the Cook Islands is a self-governing island state in free association with New Zealand.
2. Its 15 islands are divided into two groups: the northern group and the southern group.

Northern Islands:

1. The northern islands consist of 6 low-lying and sparsely populated coral atolls: Manihiki, Nassau, Penrhyn, Pukapuka, Rakahanga, and Suwarrow.
2. These islands are characterised by their white sand beaches, light vegetation, and crystal-clear waters.

Southern Islands:

1. The southern islands are generally larger and higher, with volcanic origins.
2. They are also more densely populated than the northern islands.
3. The southern island group includes Rarotonga, Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Manuae, Mauke, Mitiaro, Palmerston, and Takutea.

Highest Point:

1. The highest point in the Cook Islands is Te Manga, which rises to 652m on the island of Rarotonga.
2. Population: The majority of the population resides on the island of Rarotonga, which serves as the administrative and economic center of the Cook Islands.

Capital City:

1. The capital city of the Cook Islands is Avarua, located on the island of Rarotonga.
2. It is a vibrant hub of activity, with a blend of traditional Polynesian culture and modern amenities.

Volcanic Islands:

1. The southern islands of the Cook Islands are of volcanic origin, formed when volcanoes erupted underwater and built up new land above the water's surface.
2. These islands are characterised by their vegetation, fertile soils, and rugged landscapes.

Significance of Volcanic Islands:

1. Volcanic islands play an important role in the ecosystem, providing habitats for diverse flora and fauna.
2. They also contribute to the formation of coral reefs, which support marine biodiversity and protect coastlines from erosion.

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