A holiday in the Cook Islands is what inspired a New Zealand author to write a children's book highlighting the country's traditional crab racing game.
'The Cook Islands Crab Race' is a picture book based on the much loved Cook Islands pastime of hermit crab racing.
Its recent launch was attended by the Cook Islands Consul General to New Zealand Roseline Blake, Takitimu paramount Chief Pa Tepaeru Teariki Ariki and others in the Cook Islands education sector.
Author of "The Cook Islands Crab Race" June Allen (centre) wants to see more Pacific stories in children's literature. Photo: Supplied
79-year-old Auckland author June Allen said the response from the Cook Island community had been great.
"They came along and they have enjoyed the book and they've given me so much support about the idea of having it out there in the community one way or another, for people to read about one of these traditional games."
June Allen said there needs to be more children's literature on the pacific.
