Hidden Paradise

Niue

Where: Niue is located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga. It is commonly known as the "Rock of Polynesia." Natives of the island call it "the Rock."

People: Approximately 1,492

Ethnic groups: Niuen, Pacific islander, European, mixed, Asian

Religion: Ekalesia, Latter-Day Saints, Roman Catholic, Jehovah's Witnesses, Seventh - day Adventist

Languages: Niuean, English


History: Niue was first settled by Polynesian sailors from Samoa in around 900 AD. Further settlers (or invaders) arrived from Tonga in the 16th century.
The first European to sight Niue was Captain James Cook in 1774. Cook made three attempts to land on the island but was refused permission to do so by the Polynesian inhabitants. He named the island "Savage Island" because, legend has it, the natives that "greeted" him were painted in what appeared to Cook and his crew to be blood.


Attractions: Niue has clear waters for snorkeling and diving. There's also an extensive network of underwater caves. Fantastic rock formations twist and turn all along the coast, and the interior is dominated by rain forests. A limited number of hotel rooms means a true island paradise off the beaten nautical path.

How to get there: Via Auckland, New Zealand by Air New Zealand

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