This report marks an important step forward in deepening our understanding of poverty and vulnerability in our country, the Cook Islands. Drawing on the 2015–2016 Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES), this report presents a comprehensive assessment of poverty lines, the incidence of poverty, and the characteristics of households and individuals most vulnerable to poverty and hardship.

Behind every statistic in this report are real families, neighbours, and communities across the Cook Islands. Poverty is not only about numbers – it is about the daily struggles of putting food on the table, meeting basic needs, and having the security to face life’s unexpected challenges.

The findings are both encouraging and informative. The Cook Islands records one of the lowest incidences of poverty in the Pacific, with only 0.2 percent of the population living below the Food Poverty Line (FPL) and 8.4% below the Basic Needs Poverty Line (BNPL). Yet, the report also highlights that around 10 percent of households live below the BNPL, and a further 13.6% are vulnerable to slipping into poverty due to income instability, health and other disruptions.

Reliable poverty data provides the foundation for evidence-based decision-making. These insights will enable the Cook Islands Government, development partners, and stakeholders to design precise and targeted interventions, ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.

I extend my sincere appreciation to the team at Pacific Community’s Statistics for Development Division (SDD) for their technical expertise and acknowledge the valuable contributions of our development partners. This collaborative effort strengthens our collective capacity to address poverty and safeguard the wellbeing of all Cook Islanders.