Niue:

Region: Oceania

Capital: Alofi

Official Language/s: Niuean, a Polynesian language, and English

Population: 1, 300

Currency: New Zealand Dollar

Government: Self-governing parliamentary democracy

Demographics: The population of Niue is made up mostly of Niuean natives, some Pacific Islanders and a small population of Europeans. Europeans first came to Niue in the 19^th century with the London Missionary society, introducing Christianity to the country.

Politics: Niue is self governing yet is in free association with New Zealand, so executive authority is given to Queen Elizabeth II and her representative, the governor-general of New Zealand. Everyday practice sovereignty is exercised by the Niue Cabinet of Ministers, comprising of one premier and three ministers. The premier and ministers work with the Parliament, consisting of people elected by their village. Parliament members must have New Zealand citizenship.

Economy: Niue’s economy is small, and was greatly affected by a cyclone in 2004 which wiped out the south of Niue’s capital, Alofi. The government is working to rebuild the economy and develop the private sector. Many Niueans grow their own crop which is sold at markets as a way of income. Niue’s primary income is foreign aid for New Zealand which is slowly being reduced with the expectation for Niue to develop their economy. Vanilla is the main crop of production in the country.

Religion: As Christianity was the first and only religion to be introduced to Niue in the mid 19^th century, a majority of Niueans practice Christianity. Most are Ekalesia Niue Christians, a protestant church related to the London Missionary Society, whilst there are also Roman Catholics, Latter Day Saints, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Seventh Day-Adventists.

Health: Health care if offered as a basic requirement of the government in Niue and is primarily funded by New Zealand aid. The government is hoping to develop village resources to improve health care. There is a cabinet minister in charge of health in Niue.