Symbolism
Blue represents the Pacific Ocean and the peaceful nature of the people. The ring of fifteen white stars stands for the fifteen islands of the Cook Islands group. The Union Jack in the canton reflects the free association with New Zealand and historical ties to the Commonwealth.
History
Adopted on August 4, 1979, when the Cook Islands gained self-government in free association with New Zealand. The design replaced earlier colonial flags while retaining the Union Jack canton familiar to Pacific territories.
Construction
A 1:2 ratio. A blue field with the Union Jack in the canton and a ring of fifteen white five-pointed stars in the fly.
Color Meanings
blue: The Pacific Ocean and peace
white: The fifteen islands and purity
red: The Union Jack and Commonwealth connection
Country Facts
- Continent
- Oceania
- Subregion
- Pacific
- Landlocked
- Island state
- ISO 3166-1
- CK
Flag Identification
- Adopted
- August 4, 1979
- Proportions
1:2
- Total Colors
- 3
- Key Symbols
- Emblem, Stars
Influences
New Zealand flag layout
Union Jack canton tradition
Flags with resemblance
Related flags
Flag Protocol
- The fifteen stars must form a circle in the fly
- Used as the national flag in self-governing free association with New Zealand
Practice
Think you know the flags of Oceania? Test your recognition in a quick practice round.