On what date was the Cook Islands Ensign adopted?

The Cook Islands Ensign was adopted on 4 August 1979. It is the blue ensign still associated with the Cook Islands, featuring the Union Jack in the canton and fifteen white stars in a ring.

The design reflects the islands’ historical ties to Britain and the Commonwealth. The Union Jack occupies the upper-left corner, while the blue field represents the surrounding ocean and the peaceful character traditionally associated with the Cook Islands.

The fifteen stars correspond to the fifteen islands of the territory: Tongareva, Rakahanga, Manihiki, Pukapuka, Nassau, Suwarrow, Palmerston, Aitutaki, Manuae, Takutea, Atiu, Mitiaro, Mauke, Rarotonga, and Mangaia. Their circular arrangement conveys unity among the islands.

The 1979 date can be confused with earlier flag milestones. A 1973 contest produced a green ensign with gold stars, which was first raised in January 1974. That design was replaced by the current blue ensign in 1979. In 2023 and 2024, political leaders also discussed whether the older design should return, but the 1979 flag remains the current one.