Cook Islands |  |
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Cook Islands | |
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| capital: | Avarua |
| geographic coordinates: | 21 12 S, 159 46 W |
| time difference: | UTC - 10 |
| daylight saving time: | NO |
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Named after Captain COOK, who sighted them in 1770, the islands became a British protectorate in 1888. By 1900, administrative control was transferred to New Zealand; in 1965, residents chose self-government in free association with New Zealand. The emigration of skilled workers to New Zealand and government deficits are continuing problems. |