NZ commits funding to support Niue progress

A new justice building in Niue's capital is among the initiatives receiving support from New Zealand.

Niue’s Prime Minister, Dalton Tagelagi, is in Wellington for high-level meetings.

This includes discussions with his counterpart, Christopher Luxon, Foreign Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters, Defence Minister Judith Collins and her associate, Chris Penk.

Peters says the meetings reinforce the free association relationship between the two nations.

"Niue’s future is interconnected with the Pacific region, and New Zealand remains steadfast in supporting its Realm partner’s development across a range of sectors," Peters says.

"We are proud of the partnership we have built with Niue, and we look forward to continuing to work together to realise our shared goals of resilience, prosperity and sustainability."

In addition to supporting the new justice building, New Zealand will assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Niue.

Niue Justice Building. Photo/Niue Pocket Guide

This will be done through a partnership between Business Link Pacific and the Niue Development Bank.

The partnership offers eligible SMEs loans at reduced interest rates and subsidised advisory support to assist with their applications.

The funding comes from New Zealand’s International Development Cooperation programme, with the size of the financial contribution being determined.

PM Christopher Luxon in Niue last year opening the resealed runway. NZ commited $40 million to the airport upgrade. Photo/PMN News/Ala Vailala

Last year, during Luxon’s first Pacific visit to Niue, he confirmed New Zealand’s investment of $20.5 million in a new, large-scale renewable energy project in the island nation.

The project aims to bring Niue’s renewable generation to 80 per cent.

The development comes as New Zealand and Niue celebrated 50 years of self-government in free association last year.

Peters and delegation during their visit to Niue High School last year. Photo/Winston Peters X

The island nation has a population of around 1600 and struggles to retain its people.

Under the Citizenship Act 1977, people born in Niue automatically become New Zealand citizens.

But, Niue maintains its own government and legal system.

Watch PM Christopher Luxon's visit to Niue.

During Peters' visit to Niue last year, he committed $13 million over the next five years to build the island’s public sector.

This includes funding critical roles within key government departments and strengthening its public financial management systems.