Overview
Said to be the largest coral island on earth, Niue is an idyllic retreat from the modern world. Its rugged coast, clear waters and coral reefs provide excellent conditions for various recreational activities such as fishing, diving, snorkeling and whale watching. Parrots, terns, weka and other exotic birds live here, and all kinds of butterflies swarm among the hibiscus and orchid blossoms. Despite its isolated location, Niue can’t complain about a lack of visitors. There are only a handful of hotels though, so it’s never overcrowded. Indeed, it is not difficult to imagine that you have the whole island to yourself. Most residents are descended from settlers from Tonga, Samoa and Fiji. The first Europeans came here after Captain Cook’s 1774 expedition. In 1900 Niue became a British protectorate and later became part of New Zealand as part of the Cook Islands. Since the association agreement signed with New Zealand in 1974, Niue has been self-governing, making it the smallest autonomous state with this status. See other countries in Oceania on dentistrymyth.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
There are no direct flights to Niue from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Air New Zealand (NZ) connects Auckland (New Zealand) non-stop with Niue twice a week. Lufthansa (LH) flies in cooperation with Air New Zealand (NZ) from Frankfurt/M. and from Munich via Auckland (New Zealand) to Niue; Flights to Frankfurt/M. and Munich from Vienna and Zurich with Lufthansa (LH) and the national airlines. Austrian Airlines (OS) connects Vienna and Zurich in cooperation with Thai Airways (TG) via Bangkok with Auckland; feeder flights to Vienna are also possible from Zurich with Swiss (LX).
Flight times
Frankfurt/M. – Auckland: 34 hrs 15 mins; Munich – Auckland: 31 hrs 5 mins; Vienna – Auckland: 34 hrs 25 mins; Zurich – Auckland: 34 hrs 40 mins (journey time varies depending on length of stops) Auckland – Niue: 3 hrs 25 mins (non-stop)
Departure fee
Approximately €20 (NZ$34) departing from Niue; Transit travelers who continue their journey within 24 hours and children under the age of 13 are exempt.
Arrival by ship
There is no international passenger ship traffic; However, berths for yachts are available.
Transportation
Traveling by car/bus
The network of paved roads covers around 120 km. A ring road encircles the island. From Alofi on the west coast, connecting roads lead to the east coast, including Lakepa, Liku and Hakupu.
Right-hand traffic/left-hand traffic
Left
Condition of the roads
The ring road and most of the roads connecting the capital with inland towns are paved.
Car rental
Rental cars are available from local car rental companies; Advance booking is recommended.
Taxi
A few taxis operate on the island. Many accommodations provide shuttle service to local restaurants.
Bicycle
Mountain bikes, motorbikes and scooters can be rented.
Coach
There is no regular bus service.
Regulations
Traffic regulations: – Helmets are compulsory for scooter riders. Speed limits: – urban: 40 km/h; – extra-urban: 60 km/h.
Roadside Assistance
The ADAC foreign emergency call offers ADAC members and holders of ADAC foreign health and accident insurance comprehensive assistance in the event of vehicle breakdowns, traffic accidents, loss of documents and money, and medical emergencies. The emergency number is available around the clock; in the event of vehicle damage: Tel. +49 (0)89 22 22 22, in the event of illness: +49 (0)89 76 76 76. In the event of breakdowns or accidents with the rental car, the car rental company should be contacted.
Documentation
In addition to the national driver’s license, the international driver’s license is required, as well as a local driver’s license, which can be obtained from the police. The local driving license is valid for 1 year.
Traveling in the city
There is no public transport on Niue.
