Coat of arms of the Cook Islands orators during traditional discourses, respectively symbolizing Christianity and the richness of Cook Islands' tradition, placed in saltire behind the shield. The coat of arms was designed by Papa Motu Kora, a mataiapo, a traditional chiefly title from the village of Matavera in Rarotonga. Coat of arms of the Cook Islands The coat of arms of the Cook Islands has a shield as its focal point. The shield is blue with fifteen white stars arranged in a circle, as found on the national flag, and is supported by a flying fish ("maroro") and a white tern ("kakaia"). The helmet is an
Parliament of the Cook Islands election, or until they are defeated on a motion of confidence. The Democratic Party is currently in government. The Prime Minister is currently Henry Puna. The current leader of the opposition is Jim Marurai, who leads the Democratic Party. The Cook Islands has a two-party system, though independent members are not uncommon. The Cook Islands Parliament follows the model common to other Westminster systems for passing Acts of Parliament. Laws are proposed to Parliament as bills. They become Acts after being approved three times by Parliament and receiving the assent of the Queen's Representative. Most bills are introduced by the