National Archives of the Cook Islands Ministry of Cultural Development

History and Founding

The National Archives of the Cook Islands was established in 1974 under the initiative of the Cook Islands' first Premier, the late Albert Henry. At its founding, the Archives was a division within the Premier's Department. It was initially housed at the Takitumu Hostel in Takamoa before moving to the Library and Museum Society building in August 1975. In April 1987, under Archivist George Paniani, the Archives relocated to the Seismological Observatory at Takuvaine Valley in Avarua, Rarotonga, its current location. In 1990, it came under the umbrella of the Ministry of Cultural Development – Tauranga Vananga. The Archives is affiliated with the Public Records Act 1984, the Official Information Act, the Copyright Act 2013, and the Traditional Knowledge Act 2013.

Collections and Holdings

The National Archives holds primary historical documents including the Cook Islands Parliament Minute Book (1897–1901), Rarotonga Council Minutes (1917–1941), and over 4,000 images from the 1950s in the Donald Stanley Marshall collection. Holdings encompass government records, official correspondence, historical photographs, and oral tradition materials. In 2013, the Cook Islands audiovisual collection was deposited with Ngā Taonga Sound and Vision in Wellington, New Zealand, for preservation.

Access and Usage

Access to collection materials requires membership (NZ $10 per annum) and approval by the Archivist. Researchers must submit an Access Form detailing their intended research purpose before viewing materials. Regular public exhibitions and school visits form part of the Archives' outreach program. Contact: mocd.staff@cookislands.gov.ck or mobile +682 80860.