The CISNOC has scheduled the Cook Islands Games for October ©CISNOC

This year's Cook Islands Games is set to be the first major sports event held in the nation since the coronavirus pandemic hit after it was scheduled for October by the country's National Olympic Committee.

The Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC) organised Games is set to take place from October 3 to 17 on the island of Rarotonga.

Twenty-one sports are due to feature at the Games, which the CISNOC hopes will help develop domestic talent.

Everyone who is a Cook Islands Maori and who has blood ties to one of the islands is eligible to compete at the event.

The CISNOC has asked for team lists for all sports to be sent to the organisation by August 24.

"Since its onset, the COVID-19 pandemic has spread to almost all countries of the world," said CISNOC secretary general Owen Lewis.

"Social and physical distancing measures, lockdowns of businesses, schools and overall social life, which have become commonplace to curtail the spread of the disease, have disrupted many regular aspects of life, including our nation’s sport and physical activity.

"The Cook Islands Games represents a restart of sport and a celebration of our inclusive society, that bridges community participation and sporting excellence and offers Cook Islanders from all ages, and Islands the opportunity to be part of the Cook Islands exciting sporting landscape."