'We're recession-free', say the Cook Islands

Cook Islands Tourism Minister Wilkie Rasmussen has announced the islands will not be taking part in the recession. Photo / Cook Islands Tourism

The Cook Islands government has officially decided not to take part in the worldwide recession.

Tourism Minister Wilkie Rasmussen announced the Government's decision today in Rarotonga after the submission was presented to Parliament earlier this month.

"As industries around the world feel the weight of the current economic global recession and the international effects of slowing economies and cautious consumers, the Cook Islands is seeing local businesses grow, new businesses open and offshore investment increase," he said.

Tourism made up 67 per cent of the Cook Islands' GDP and the country's tourism industry was reporting sustained bookings and areas of growth.

New operators were opening businesses at a time where international reports told of business closures and rising unemployment, Mr Rasmussen said.

The country is using its financial growth as a marketing tool and inviting people to visit the "world's first recession-free oasis".

"Everyone is tired of hearing about the global economic doom and gloom.

"Travellers are now being given the opportunity to escape the recession by coming to a country where it doesn't exist," Mr Rasmussen said.

Air New Zealand deputy chief executive Norm Thompson said from Rarotonga the Cook Islands was the company's number one Pacific island destination.

"We are seeing strong interest and growth in bookings for flights to the Cook Islands despite slow-downs in other markets."

- NZPA