Country Profile: Niue

Niue is a small island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, known for its unique geographic features and vibrant culture. The population of approximately 1,815 (2024 est.) is primarily concentrated in coastal areas, reflecting the island's limited freshwater resources and agricultural land. The economy is categorized as upper-middle-income, heavily influenced by tourism and small-scale agriculture, with a significant dependence on New Zealand for economic and administrative support since its self-governing status was established in 1974. Niue operates as a parliamentary democracy with a strong emphasis on local governance while relying on New Zealand for external affairs and defense.

Geography

Niue is situated east of Tonga in Oceania, covering an area of 260 sq km, which makes it approximately 1.5 times larger than Washington, D.C. The island features steep limestone cliffs and a central plateau, with a coastline of 64 km. Niue's climate is tropical, moderated by the southeast trade winds, and it is one of the world's largest coral islands. The island's only source of fresh water has historically impacted its settlement patterns and agriculture.

Population distribution: Predominantly along coastal areas.
Natural resources: Includes arable land and a rich marine environment.
Geography note: Features the only significant break in its surrounding coral reef on the central western coast.

People and Society

The population of Niue stands at 1,815 (2024 est.), comprising about 65.4% Niueans, with the remainder being part-Niuean and non-Niuean residents. The official languages are Niuean and English, reflecting the island's cultural heritage and colonial history. The predominant religion is Christianity, particularly the Ekalesia Niue, which accounts for 61.7% of the population. Literacy rates are high at 99.5% (2022 est.), indicating a well-educated populace.

Urbanization: Approximately 48.2% of the population is urban.
Life expectancy: 71.8 years for males and 75.7 years for females (2016).
Health expenditure: Accounts for 7.8% of GDP (2020).

Economy

Niue's economy is fragile and heavily dependent on tourism, agriculture, and remittances from Niueans living abroad. In 2021, the real GDP (purchasing power parity) was estimated at $18.7 million, with a GDP per capita of $11,100. The main agricultural products include coconuts, taro, and tropical fruits. The island's exports are dominated by the United States, which comprises 54% of its export market.

Agricultural land: 18.5% of the total land area.
Top exports: Abrasive powder and commemorative coins (2023).
Imports: Primarily refined petroleum, constituting 87% from New Zealand.

Government

Niue operates as a parliamentary democracy and has been self-governing in free association with New Zealand since 1974. The government comprises an elected Assembly, with the Prime Minister serving as the head of government. The current Prime Minister, Dalton Tagelagi, was re-elected in May 2023. Niue's legal system is based on English common law and the country has no first-order administrative divisions; however, it is divided into 14 villages.

Suffrage: Universal for citizens aged 18 and over.
Executive branch: The chief of state is King Charles III, represented locally by the New Zealand Governor-General.
Legislative assembly: Comprised of 20 seats, all held by independents (2023).

Military and Security

Niue has no regular military forces but relies on the Niue Police Department for internal security. Under the Niue Constitution Act of 1974, New Zealand assists the island with defense and foreign affairs upon request.

Security assistance: Provided by New Zealand as needed.
No indigenous military forces: Reflects the peaceful nature of Niuean society.

Energy

The total installed electricity generation capacity in Niue is 3,000 kW, with all electricity generation relying on fossil fuels. The total electricity consumption as of 2023 is estimated at 3 million kWh, with losses in distribution amounting to 400,000 kWh.

Petroleum consumption: Averaging 61 barrels per day (2023).
Energy reliance: Entirely on fossil fuels for electricity generation.

Environment

Niue is increasingly focusing on conservation practices to combat soil fertility loss related to traditional agricultural methods. The island is party to multiple international environmental agreements aimed at promoting biodiversity and addressing climate change.

Carbon dioxide emissions: Estimated at 9,000 metric tonnes (2023).
Forest coverage: Represents 72.6% of land use (2023).
Urban population: Comprises 48.2% of the total population (2023).

Transportation

Niue has a single airport and a small but functional merchant marine fleet comprising 70 vessels across various types, including general cargo and oil tankers.

Key port: Alofi serves as the primary port.
Airport: Set to be operational in 2025 for passenger and freight transport.

Communications

The island has about 1,000 fixed-line telephone subscriptions, translating to 52 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants. Internet usage is high, with 80% of the population having access as of 2024.

Broadcast media: Consists of one state-owned TV station and one state-owned radio station.
Internet domain: Identified by the country code .nu.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	1,815	2024 estimate
Area	260 sq km	Comparative size
GDP	$18.7 million	Real GDP (PPP) 2021 estimate
GDP per capita	$11,100	2021 estimate
Energy consumption	3 million kWh	2023 estimate
Birth rate	N/A	Not explicitly provided
Unemployment rate	N/A	Not explicitly provided
Life expectancy (male)	71.8 years	2016 estimate
Literacy rate	99.5%	2022 estimate
Urban population	48.2%	2023 estimate