Niue Country Report
Niue is a self-governing country in open communication with New Zealand. It is a parliamentary constitutional kingdom and has been a member of the Pacific Community since 1980.
The overall security threat environment for business operations and international visitors is low. However, tropical cyclones tend to adversely affect the country from November to April every year. Bad weather may disrupt travel and service delivery. Heavy rain can also cause landslides and floods. Additionally, an incident along the Tonga Trench in southwestern Niue could trigger a devastating earthquake in the island nation.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
Security
Niue has a low crime environment and minimal risk of social unrest. Kidnapping, piracy, terrorism, and armed conflicts are still common. Misdemeanor offenses may occur from time to time. International travelers can seek assistance from local governments and relevant diplomatic missions abroad.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
Infrastructure
There are no major concerns about air travel to Niue and back, but commercial flight options are only available via New Zealand.
Niue has mostly paved roads, including a 40-mile (64 km) island loop that is popular with tourists, and an inter-island road that can be crossed in 30 minutes. Regional driving standards vary widely and land travel on the island is fraught with danger.
Sometimes the power goes out. Internet connection problems are common.
Cybercrime is not a serious concern.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
Environment
Niue has a tropical climate with a hot, humid, and rainy season from November to April and a cool and dry season from May to October. Tropical storms can affect the islands during the South Pacific tropical storm season, which usually lasts from November to April. Niue is located near the active Tonga earthquake plate. However, earthquakes usually occur in areas far from the coast and rarely cause significant damage. A large offshore earthquake poses a tsunami threat to Niue.
Last updated: April 21, 2023
Health and Medical
Local transmission of mosquito-borne viruses such as dengue and chikungunya is most common during the rainy season. Niue’s health system provides basic medical services. However, specialist care or complex medical emergencies may require evacuation to New Zealand. For long-term stays, we recommend purchasing health insurance. Tap water is not safe to drink. Use only bottled or boiled water.
Last updated: September 7, 2023
Political
Located in the South Pacific, Niue operates as a parliamentary democracy with a constitutional monarchy under the jurisdiction of New Zealand. It has close ties with New Zealand and provides defense and diplomatic assistance. Political stability is largely maintained, as local governments handle domestic affairs and New Zealand handles foreign affairs. Niue has low levels of corruption.
Last updated: September 1, 2023
