English: The Cook Islands, since 1901 a territory of New Zealand, attained internal self-government on August 4, 1965. The 20, 000 inhabitants of this scattered South Pacific group, however, remain New Zealand citizens, and the former administrating country retains responsibility for the Islands' defence, and External Affairs.

Tuberculosis, once a major problem in the Cook Islands, is now on the decrease. Sufferers from this disease are treated in a modern, well-equipped sanatorium pleasantly situated on the lower slopes of mountainous Rarotonga, principal island of the group.

Here, the sanatorium's occupational therapists Miss Limena Robati (right) and Mrs Louisa Cowan instruct patients in cane basket and ukulele making. Cook Islands, Health, Rarotonga publicity photograph. (1965)

Photographer: Unknown

Archives New Zealand Reference: AAQT 6539 W3537 R3415