South Pacific.

GMT - 11.

262.7 sq km (101.4 sq miles).

1761 (official estimate 2004).

6.7 per sq km.

Alofi. Population: 404 (2004).

Niue is an isolated island located 480km (298 miles) east of Tonga, 560km (348 miles) southeast of Western Samoa, 980km (609 miles) west of Rarotonga and 2400km (1500 miles) northeast of New Zealand. Affectionately known as ‘the rock’, Niue is reputedly the largest upraised coral atoll in the world. It has 6178 acres (2500 hectares) of the most undisturbed forests in the world, designated tapu areas by the locals, where no humans were allowed to set foot for centuries. Now all the tapu forests, except the one controlled by Hakupu village, are penetrable. These forests are full of lush undergrowth, coconut palms and some of the oldest-known ebony trees on earth. Light and scattered forest covers approximately 34,594 acres (14,000 hectares). At the edge of the forest, the coast gives way to coral outcrops.

Niue has self-government in association with New Zealand, which looks after the island’s external affairs and defence. The head of state is the British monarch, who is represented on behalf of both Britain and New Zealand, by a Governor-General. Executive roles rest with the premier and three other ministers. The 20-member parliament, the Fono Ekepule, which is elected every three years, is responsible for legislation. Fourteen of the members represent the 14 village constituencies and the other six are ‘common roll’ members.

Self-governing state in ‘free association’ with New Zealand. (New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs.) Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by High Commissioner Sandra Lee. Head of Government: Premier Young Vivian since 2002.

Niuean and English.

Most people belong to the Ekalesia Niue, a Protestant denomination; also Apostolic, Bahaii Faith, Christian Outreach Church, Latter Day Saints (Mormon), Jehovah’s Witness, Roman Catholic and Seventh Day Adventist.

Niuean children are bestowed with gifts of money or handmade mats and cloths from their relatives upon coming of age, when girls have their ears pierced and boys receive their first haircut. It is polite to ask permission before entering private land. Niueans consider Sunday as a serious day of rest and most attend church both in the morning and afternoon. While many people play golf, go swimming or sightsee, certain activities, such as boating and fishing, are not allowed on Sunday. For further information on Sunday protocol, contact the Niue Tourism Office (see Top Things To See & Do). Clothing is usually casual, cool and comfortable but women often wear a hat and cover their shoulders for church and men wear long trousers. Swimming attire is not acceptable in towns or villages.

240 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are the standard three-pin type.