Visiting Niue

Affectionately known as ‘The Rock of Polynesia,’ Niue is a small island nation located 2,400km northeast of New Zealand. With its Jurassic-like geological formations, it holds a unique position in the South Pacific region. Widely regarded as one of the world’s “best-kept secrets,” Niue is a treasure trove of nature-based activities and adventures.

Accommodation

Niue offers a mix of island accommodation for all traveller types and budgets, from private fales (holiday homes for rent), motels, guesthouses and a four-star resort.  Scenic Matavai Resort Niue sits atop one of the island’s most spectacular coastlines, it is a favourite spot across the island to marvel at the spectacle of a Niuean sunset. As the only full-service resort on the island, Scenic Matavai Resort is a hub for dining, entertainment and special occasions. A range of room types and locations across the resort offers plenty of choice for every traveller. A swimming pool with a view, complete with a swim-up bar, is a favourite among guests, as is the expansive terrace dining and entertainment area and garden settings within the resort grounds.

As an atoll rising from a deep ocean, Niue is Neptune’s playground. With deep sea fishing easily accessed from shore and myriad marine life, there are extraordinary experiences to be had on and under the water.

Niue is also on the migratory path of the humpback whale. From July – October, visitors to the island may be lucky enough to spot the fun-loving humpback playing with their juveniles in the pristine waters. Niue is one of the few places on the planet where you can engage in land-based whale watching.

As the ground is a coral base with a labyrinth of natural aquifers running beneath it, the island’s cultivation of crops is limited. Likewise, agriculture is non-existent due to the lack of pasture. This is what makes the water around Niue have some of the highest visibility in the world. Plenty of island produce is available from hydroponic gardens, organic honey production, organic vanilla, and of course, freshly caught fish. Regular flights also bring in fresh produce and supplies from New Zealand.

Visitors around the island will find secluded bays and chasms, each with a unique water experience. From limestone caves and cathedrals that you can swim through to the impressive Togo Chasm, time and nature have crafted crystal-clear swimming spots right around the island to be enjoyed by all who visit.

Getting to and around the region

Air New Zealand is the only airline to service Niue. Weekly flights from Auckland increase in frequency over the peak season, being the southern hemisphere winter months. The flight time is just over 3 hours, with travellers crossing the international date line en route.

On arrival in Niue, you will find a range of shuttles and transport operators. Scenic Matavai Resort Niue offers guests a complimentary shuttle service from the airport to the Matavai Resorts and the Matavai Apartments & Villa.

Rental cars are also available on the island for hire, as are mountain bikes. While motorbikes operate around the island, visitors generally opt for a small car hire as more suitable for the island roads.

Getting around the island is easy. With one main ring road, it is difficult to get lost. There is good signage for points of interest, whale-watching sites and swimming locations. Friendly locals are also too happy to share favourite local spots and help visitors along their way.

Dining in Region

Scenic Matavai Resort is a popular dining spot for locals and visitors alike. With an ever-changing Dolphin Bar & Restaurant menu, including the famous ‘Feast Night,’ accompanied by traditional dance and entertainment, many guests choose to dine at the resort.

During the day, visitors will find excellent cafes around the island, with spectacular clifftop views. In the central hub of Alofi, a range of cuisine is on offer, including a popular Indian restaurant. Freshly caught fish features on most menus and is often cooked and presented using traditional recipes.

Conferences, Business Events & Celebration Events

Scenic Matavai Conference Centre presents a purpose-built, contemporary facility within the Scenic Matavai Resort. This light-filled space offers flexible room configurations, with all rooms seamlessly connecting with the expansive terrace that stretches the length of the conference centre. From here, delegates and guests can enjoy cocktails, dining and easy access to breakout areas.

With its commanding views across a spectacular oceanscape, Scenic Matavai Conference Centre is also a popular venue choice for weddings and special occasions.

Conference and Meeting delegates can take advantage of the wide range of settings throughout the resort. From poolside cocktails to garden settings and terrace dining, there is plenty of scope for theming and creating a sense of occasion that differs by the day.

Scenic Matavai Resort’s onsite conference coordinator will make planning a conference, event or special occasion remotely seamless and stress-free. Likewise, for those planning a dream, tropical island wedding, every detail can be taken care of, including adding that touch of magic that is Niue!

Click here to learn more about planning an island event with a difference.