Rarotonga is the most populous island in a group of islands known as the Cook Islands, with about 9,500 residents. The Cook Islands' Parliament buildings, as well as the international airport, are located on the island. Because it is the most populous island, Cook Islanders may be referred to as Rarotongan, but they may in fact hail from the other 15 islands in the group, such as Aitutaki or Mangaia.

The island's chief town, Avarua, is also the administrative center for the Cook Islands.