Total estimated population for September quarter 2009 was 23,600
showing an increase of 4.9% when compared to the previous quarter. Total resident
population is currently estimated at 13,000. The increase in visitor arrivals was
due to the sporting events held in Rarotonga, that is the World Youth Netball and the
Pacific Mini Games during the months of August and September.
Total births recorded for this quarter was 62, tracking at the same trend when
compared to September 2008 but fell by 11.4% compared to last quarter. The quarterly
crude birth rate (number of births per 1000 population) stood at 4.8, approximately 5
children born to every thousand population.
Total deaths for this quarter increased by 20% when compared to last quarter,
giving an average of 6 deaths per month. The quarterly crude death rate (number of deaths per 1000 population)
stood at 1.4 approximately 1 death to every thousand population. There were no Infant deaths registered in this quarter.
Of the 191 marriages officiated this quarter, over 90% (174) were for non-residents and 9%
(17) were for Cook Islands residents. A South Seas wedding is very popular with visitors to the South Pacific.
Rarotonga is a favourite choice because of its low cost.
