_#_Type: self-governing in free association with New Zealand; Cook Islands fully responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs, in consultation with the Cook Islands
_#_Capital: Avarua
_#_Administrative divisions: none
_#_Independence: became self-governing in free association with New Zealand on 4 August 1965 and has the right at any time to move to full independence by unilateral action
_#_Constitution: 4 August 1965
_#_National holiday: NA
_#_Executive branch: British monarch, representative of the UK, representative of New Zealand, prime minister, deputy prime minister, Cabinet
_#_Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament; note—the House of Arikis (chiefs) advises on traditional matters, but has no legislative powers
_#_Judicial branch: High Court
_#_Leaders: