Territory in free association with New Zealand
Date claimed 1901
Capital Alofi
Population 1857
Population density 7 per square km (18 per square mile)

 

 

 

 

 


DESCRIPTION

The world's largest coral island, Niue lies 2400 km (1500 miles) northeast of New Zealand. The subsistence economy produces tropical fruits, while tourism and the sale of postage stamps provide foreign currency. The island's financial services have recently earned warnings from international monitors. Mass emigration has seen the Niuean community on New Zealand grow to over 20,000. In an effort to stem the tide, New Zealand has invested heavily in the Niuean economy. Despite this boost, growth is slow.