The Miss Cook Islands is the national beauty pageant in the Cook Islands organised by the Miss Cook Islands Association (MCIA). The current titleholder is Tajiya Sahay won in October 2019.
The pageant was held for the first time in 1960 and was usually happening in every two years. The pageant encompasses physical attributes and qualities that are seen to represent the community at large; respectability, talent and commitment to Cook Islands value.
In 1998 the Miss Cook Islands franchised the Miss Universe and Miss South Pacific licenses. The pageant was patronized by Pa Te Ariki Upokotini Marie and Ui Ariki. Between 1983 and 1999 the Miss Cook Islands winners went to the Miss Universe competition.
Today, the pageant is patronised by the First Lady - Mrs Akaiti Puna - the wife of Prime Minister - Hon. Henry Puna. The Miss Cook Islands association is a non-profit organisation that owns and operates the pageant, based on Rarotonga, the Cook Islands. It has evolved into a professionally operated pageant with a passion and focus on developing young Cook Islands women to be the best versions of themselves; and giving them opportunities to showcase their talent & skill on a world stage.
'Identity & Heritage' are the core themes of the pageant, as it strives to ignite cultural pride and self-worth in Cook Islands youth. The main sponsors of the pageant include the government of the Cook Islands and the largest companies in the islands. Every year the pageant sends its top three to Miss World, Miss International and Miss Grand International competitions. In 2018, the second runner up will represent the country at Miss Grand International. The first runner up will represent the country at Miss International. The winner will represent the country at Miss World. 2020 will see the return of the pageant to Miss Universe, in addition to Miss World and Miss Grand International 2020. Miss Cook Islands 2019 coronation is scheduled for Saturday 26 October 2019 at the National Auditorium at Rarotonga, Cook Islands.