Spring Has Arrived In Niue

Marine mammal conservation talks

Oma Tafua, an organisation dedicated to the conservation and protection of marine mammals in Niue and the wider Pacific, is holding free presentations at Scenic Matavai Resort every second Saturday at 5:30pm.

These are held to educate and raise awareness of the status of marine mammals in the Pacific, recognising this as an important part of Niue’s Plan of Management for its Whale Sanctuary and Whale Research Project.

Migrating Oceania Humpback Whales visit Niue each year (around July – October) and are endangered. Niue is a significant breeding ground for the whales. It is also one of the few places in the world where you can swim with them so these talks, along with strict regulations already in place are important for whale conservation.

The presentation is 1 hour, including videos. Donations are welcome.

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What’s happening in Niue lately?

• Last month we welcomed two new trainees staff at Niue Tourism – Arfa and Lino. Be sure to say hi and ask what their favourite spots are when you pop into the information centre next.
• We are about to launch our new Sustainable Tourism Policy which includes codes of conduct for both businesses and visitors.
• Hakupu Sea track and Anapala Chasm are currently closed to the public for an estimated period of 1 month to improve amenities.
• Due to a recently imposed fono (temporary tapu) on the area Avatele Beach is now closed until further notice.
• A donation box has been installed at Hikulagi Sculpture Park for the future development of the park and new sculptures.
• Niue now has it’s own post code. Officially being launched on 1st October our new postcode will be 9974.

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From Norway To Niue

Norwegian Erik Drilen visited recently after winning an eight-night fishing holiday to Niue, calling it an “unforgettable holiday.”

“Niue Island is a lovely island, and I would no doubt go back again. You get very close to the local people, and can easily make friends. Some people might think it is too quiet, i.e. it is not an island for party lovers. But if you want to get away from the city, work and stress, it’s perfect. There are exciting chasms and pools where you can swim, even cave pools. Fishing for big fish at sea also gives a boost that regular fishing at home doesn’t give you.” he said.

He highlighted how different Niue was to other South Pacific islands and encouraged visitors to explore the whole island. “It is different than any other place I’ve visited. I would certainly recommend the fishing trips and the snorkeling. Misa’s nature walk was also a treasure.”

We hope Erik does come back one day soon for another visit.

On-island events

• There are only a couple of spaces left for our Yoga Wellness & Adventure Retreat on island 20 – 24 October 2017. The five-day retreat includes daily yoga sessions, nutrition and wellbeing workshops, healthy meals and a massage, plus time to explore. Be quick if you’d like to book a spot: www.niueisland.com
• The upcoming event Savour Niue with internationally renowned chef, restauranteur and writer Peter Gordon has now sold out. This event takes place 29 September – 3 October. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates during the event.
• Both the Niuean and New Zealand flag will fly high on 20 October at the 43rd Constitutional celebration event. To honour 43 years of independence the annual flag-raising ceremony will take place with other local activities including the annual vaka race which at times includes a novelty section for visitors and expatriates.

EVENTS CALENDAR

Skink cause for celebration

Excitement is in the air in Niue following the discovery of a skink thought to have been extinct. Tourist Cindy Pannam sent a photo of a large skink she saw to Niue’s Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) after hearing that no trace of the Olive Tree skink, Emoia Lawesicould be found.

A recent reptile survey done by the Ministry and experts from the United States Geological Survey and Villanova University had concluded that the olive small-scaled skink had died out. But Ridge to Reef (R2R) technical officer Fiafia Rex set up traps and was able to capture three animals after the photo was received.

The next steps will be to look at the size of the skink population and find the best way to protect the them.

(Source: Niue Tourism 15 September 2017)