How is the British monarch represented in the Cook Islands?

The Cook Islands is a self-governing state that recognizes the British monarch as its formal head of state. The monarch is represented in the islands by an appointed delegate.1

It is important to note that this role is distinct from the representative of the government of New Zealand, who is known as the high commissioner. While the Cook Islands maintains a relationship of free association with New Zealand, it exercises significant autonomy, including the ability to independently establish diplomatic relations and enter into international treaties.12