The first Cook Islands Digital & Financial Literacy Survey 2025 of its kind, which has evaluated the knowledge, and skills of residents in navigating the digital and financial world, has been launched.

Using the methodological approach, 471 residents were interviewed aged from 15 – 74 years, and 51 per cent of residents feel that technology is leaving them behind.

According to the report, the Digital and Financial Literacy Index Scores show that residents have a fair level of digital and financial know-how, but there is still plenty of room to improve—especially when it comes to using digital financial services (DFS).

Te Tango Akatereanga Moni O Te Ipukarea/MFEM (Ministry of Finance and Economic Management) in partnership with UNCDF (United Nations Capital Development Fund), presented the report which aims to advance financial inclusion and digital empowerment in the Cook Islands.

“This is a significant milestone in our national journey toward a more inclusive, digitally integrated, and financially empowered Cook Islands,” said MFEM secretary Garth Henderson in his opening address.

Henderson said that in the face of global uncertainty, going digital isn’t just a choice, “it is imperative”. As more services and systems move online, it’s becoming clear that knowing how to manage money and use digital tools is key to helping everyone take part in the economy, build a more sustainable future, and keep communities financially secure.

MFEM sees this survey as “a strategic tool that will inform policy, shape investment in human capital, and guide our public and private sector institutions in delivering more accessible, effective, and equitable services.”

The Cook Islands National Digital Strategy 2024–2030 has laid a clear roadmap for building digital infrastructure and skills.

Insights from the DFL Survey validate the ministry’s current direction and identify where more must be done - particularly in supporting those in the Pa Enua, women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Henderson said this shows that digital access is widespread, particularly via smartphones, but confidence and skills lag behind - especially in navigating digital financial tools safely.

The detailed findings from the 471 individuals surveyed include: Digital Access, Usage and Literacy – smartphones 93%, laptops, tablet or desktop computer 76%, smart TV 55%, router 55%, Starlink kit 50%, smartwatch 23%. Participation in digital and online activities: social media 92%, searched online for information about Goods and Services 84%, online banking 82%, bought something online 62%, completed or submitted a government form on line 47%.

The report notes that as a high-income country, the Cook Islands has seen strong mobile phone usage—especially since the COVID-19 pandemic—with mobile saturation reaching about 110% in 2024 and expected to rise further. It also highlights that smartphones are far more common than basic mobile phones, with access rates of 93% compared to just 39%.

Also read: Digital and Financial Literacy:  Keeping every Cook Islander empowered and connected

Barriers to internet usage include: costs 71%, and connection quality/stability 69%, concerns about security of services 42%, and other reasons 23%.

In the Financial Inclusion and Literacy report, nearly all Cook Islands residents (93%) have a local bank account, and about 35% also have access to an overseas account. Around 26% use a digital, mobile, or e-wallet service, while 11% hold cryptocurrency. When it comes to payment cards, 72% have a debit card and 37% own a credit card.

Sixteen percent have lost money because of online scams, phishing attacks or similar since using DFS, and only over half of Cook Islands  residents use a banking app.

From the MFEM perspective, “digital and financial literacy is a cornerstone of economic resilience.

“As we look to diversify our economy, strengthen our public financial management, and expand access to climate finance and sustainable investments, we need a population that is digitally aware, financially confident, and economically included,” said Henderson.

The UN Capital Development, through the Pacific Digital Economy Programme (PDEP), is working with government, the private sector and development partners to enhance digital financial literacy in the Cook Islands.

PDEP is supported by the Governments of New Zealand and Australia and the European Union.

UNCDF, Jitka Markova, Country Coordinator Cook Islands said the study shines a light on both the opportunities and challenges in building an inclusive digital economy.

“At UNCDF, we’re committed to empowering individuals and businesses with the skills and tools they need to thrive. This launch is just the beginning of a collaborative effort to foster financial futures that leave no one behind.”