Safety and Security

Petty Crime

Crime in Niue is low but petty crime can occur.

We advise you to take basic precautions while travelling to Niue:

• Don’t carry your credit card, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Don’t carry your passport unless absolutely necessary and leave a copy of your passport (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid showing large sums of money in public. There are no ATMs in Niue but some businesses offer cashback. The New Zealand dollar is used.
• Keep a close eye on your personal belongings and hold on to them in public places.
• Avoid dark and unlit streets and stairways, arrange to be picked up or dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible.

Demonstrations

Public gatherings and demonstrations may take place from time to time.

We recommend that you stay clear of demonstrations, and should follow the advice of the local authorities.

Swimming

Swimming, snorkelling and diving are common activities. Take local advice before swimming as fatal accidents can occur at popular beaches.

At certain times of the year, some beaches in Niue are closed for traditional fishing activities.

LGBTQI+ Travel

Niuean law criminalizes male homosexual relations. If you are convicted, you could face imprisonment, though enforcement of the law is rare.

Road travel

You must apply for a local driving licence from the Niue Police Department.

Driving is on the left. You should avoid driving at night out of built-up areas. Vehicle safety regulations are not consistently enforced. Beware of pedestrians and animals on the roads.

Nature and Climate

Seismic activity

Niue is located in a seismically active zone, which can lead to tsunamis, even if an earthquake has taken place some distance from Niue. You should follow any instructions issued by the local authorities in respect of tsunami threats.

Tropical storms and Cyclones

In Niue, strong winds are expected from the beginning of November to the end of April, some of which can reach cyclone strength. During this time, intense rainfall and subsequent floods and landslides are to be expected.

The climate is tropical. The rainy season extends from November to April and the hot dry seasons occur from May to October.

You are advised to monitor local and international weather updates from World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) or the Fiji Meteorological Service website.

Local Laws and Customs

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Health

Check with your doctor well in advance of travelling to see if you need any vaccinations for this country. We advise you to take out comprehensive travel insurance before you travel.

Medical facilities in Niue are limited. In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation to New Zealand is likely to be the only option for treatment. Make sure your insurance policy includes provision for medical evacuation and covers you for all eventualities.

Health risks

There is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases, including dengue. You should take steps to avoid mosquito bites.

Ciguatera is an illness caused by eating fish containing certain toxins. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and tingling fingers or toes and sometimes serious illness. There is no way to tell whether fish has been contaminated, but reef fish tend to concentrate the toxins more than others. Deep water fish like tuna, mahi mahi or wahoo are better options.

Water

Boiling water and only drinking bottled water is strongly recommended.

Additional Information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Flights to Niue are only available through New Zealand, therefore you will have had to meet the entry requirements for New Zealand.

Travellers visiting Niue from outside of New Zealand (for example, by yacht) must meet the border entry requirements for New Zealand and Niue.

Tourists do not need a visa for visits of up to 31 days.