NIUE

104 team members
Adopt-a-country school: Aitutaki schools
Accommodation: Avarua School
Dining: Sinai Hall

Administrative Centre:     Alofi
Land Area:      259 sq km
Languages:     Niuean, English
Currency:     NZ Dollar

The land of Niue is commonly known as the ‘Rock of Polynesia’. Niue’s terrain extends to 259 km² and is one of the world’s largest coral islands.
Polynesian settlers arrived just over 1000 years ago, traditionally living in many caves in the steep limestone cliffs that interlace the island.
The arrival of missionaries in the mid 1800s brought Christianity to the island, altering the people’s traditional ways.
In 1900, the now Christian Kingdom of Niue feared colonisation by American and French forces. Consequently Niue allied with the British and gave power to the English throne.
In 1901 Britain annexed Niue to New Zealand and in 1974 New Zealand returned sovereignty back to Niue.
The population of Niue is about 1500 people, however, approximately 20 000 Niueans live in New Zealand.
It is believed that Niue was settled by migrating Tongans, Samoans and Cook Islanders.
The majority of people are Protestant and the national language is a blend of Tongan and Samoan.
Niue is currently one of the smallest self-governing states in the world. It is ruled in free association with New Zealand.
Niue’s Constitution Act of 1974 vests executive authority in Her Majesty the Queen in Right of New Zealand and the Governor General of New Zealand.
The country uses the New Zealand dollar and relies on New Zealand aid as a main source of support.