Niue
Niue is in Polynesia.
Cities
Other destinations
Culture and History
Niue's remoteness, as well as cultural and linguistic differences between its Polynesian inhabitants and those of the rest of the Cook Islands, have caused it to be separately administered. The population of the island continues to drop (from a peak of 5,200 in 1966 to about 2,100 in 2002) with substantial emigration to New Zealand, 2,400 km to the southwest. It is self-governing in free association with New Zealand since 1974, with Niue fully responsible for domestic affairs, and New Zealand asked to retain responsibility for foreign affairs and defense.
The economy suffers from the typical Pacific island problems of geographic isolation, few resources, and a small population. Government expenditures regularly exceed revenues, and the shortfall is made up by critically needed grants from New Zealand that are used to pay wages to public employees. Niue has cut government expenditures by reducing the public service by almost half. The agricultural sector consists mainly of subsistence gardening, although some cash crops are grown for export. The sale of postage stamps to foreign collectors is an important source of revenue. Efforts to increase GDP include the promotion of tourism and a financial services industry.
The word "Niue" is not used in the local language to refer to this island, meaning in fact "Look! There's a coconut". Captain Cook called it "Savage Island", thinking (incorrectly) that the natives who came to greet them were painted in blood.
Climate
Tropical; modified by southeast trade winds.
Landscape
Steep limestone cliffs along coast, central plateau.
Travel to Niue, visa requirements
Flights to Niue, airtickets
The easiest way to arrive in Niue is by plane from Auckland. Be careful not to schedule your flights around religious holidays such as Easter, as seats are often at a premium since many Niueans return home at these times.
Air New Zealand is the only airline to fly into Niue using scheduled services with only one flight a week.
By boat
Get around
Hire a vehicle or bicycle on arrival at Niue. There is no public transport system. Getting around the island by car takes approximately 40 minutes. A Niue drivers license is required and can be obtained from the Police department.
Talk
English (often with a distinctive New Zealand accent) is widely spoken. The local Niuean language is increasingly falling out of favour.
Shopping, Niue souvenirs
Good restaurants and cheap meals
Niue nightlife, bars, clubs and pubs.
Hotels, youth hostels, lodging
Learn
Stay safe
Niue is a very safe island. The only jail is located next to the only golf course and is considered an open prison.
Stay healthy
Respect
Contact
Internet access is free on Niue, subsidized by the sale of .nu domain names.
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