An international film competition has begun that aims to present the culture of the Cook Islands to the rest of the world.
Film Raro will bring teams of film makers to Rarotonga who will then work with locals to create a series of short films about the Cook Islands.
The initiative is being supported by the New Zealand film industry and Cook Islands government.
The creator of Film Raro, Stan Wolfgramm, says he doesn't want to turn the Islands into a South Pacific Hollywood, but to instead create new opportunities for the Cooks.
"I think it's a great opportunity for the country to be able to look at a new industry to help boost the economy and to help preserve their own language and heritage. I think it will be a Pacific Island style, or a Cook Island style Cookiwood."
Stan Wolfgramm.
Entries close in December and filming will take place next year.
