Niue Culture

Niue is a small but beautiful island in the South Pacific. It’s nickname is the Rock because the whole island is a raised coral atoll. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit you will know that Alofi is the capital of Niue. The water in Niue is crystal clear so it’s great for snorkelling and swimming. Many visitors to Niue have swum with whales, explored the amazing caves or just enjoyed a bit of fishing!

The name Niue means ‘behold the coconut’. The island used to be called ‘Savage Island’ because in 1774 when Captain Cook tried to land on the island, the local people scared him away. Like many Pacific islands, there are lots of coconut trees in Niue. There is a giant crab called an ‘uga’ or coconut crab which is a popular food in Niue. The taro grown in Niue is known as one of the best in the Pacific. Slices of taro, slices of pawpaw and coconut cream is used to make a delicious Niuean dish called Takihi. 

A Haircutting ceremony or ‘Hifi Ulu’ is a traditional Niue custom . Usually it is the eldest boy in the family who grows his hair until he is a teenager or young man. An Ear-piercing ceremony or 'huki teliga' is a traditional Niue custom for girls. Religion plays a huge role in the life of many Niue people. Sunday is considered as a day of worship and rest. 

If you haven't already checked out this YouTube channel called 'Life on the Rock - Niue Island' then you are missing out! There are many high quality videos with some stunning footage of life on Niue. Click on the images below which will take you directly to the YouTube channel.