Politics will take a backseat in Te Maeva Nui celebrations which kick off in the Cook Islands today.
The week long event which celebrates nationhood, self governance, and independence, is held annually.
Recent reports have suggested corruption within the country's leadership following the conviction of One Cook Islands party leader Teina Bishop and investigations into allegations of bribery and misspending by other MPs including the Prime Minister Henry Puna.
But our correspondent, Florence Syme-Buchanan, said the country would focus on celebrating what had been achieved.
"This is a time in this country when politics are put to the side and the country comes together in celebration of self-governance and celebration of the time that we took off the shackles of colonialism and started taking care of our own affairs."
Florence Syme-Buchanan said everyone will focus on the festival events especially the dance and drum competitions which concludes on August 6th.
Young dancers prepare to welcome dignitaries at 50th celebrations in Rarotonga, Cook Islands Photo: RNZI/Sally Round
