FAO is assisting the Government of Niue by providing technical assistance towards improved management of its conservation and protected areas. Development of eco-cultural tourism is a component of the GEF “Forestry and protected area management” project  in Niue. The eco-tourism component for Niue is implemented by the Niue Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Department for Tourism.

Consultation with local stakeholders to identify potentially viable eco-cultural tourism opportunities and conducting market research  are vital to develop eco-cultural tourism further in Niue.

Tourism consultant, Janet MacKay recently visited Niue to further develop and strengthen handicrafts and tourism. In consultation with local stakeholders, Ms Mackay’s focus was looking at opportunities for the community to benefit from the Huvalu Forest which is a protected conservation area. A workshop was conducted in Hakupu on her findings and recommendations of ways forward for Niue, Huvalu and more specifically the guardian villages of the protected area - Hakupu and Liku.

Ms Mackay stressed the importance of encouraging local tourism operators and providers to work collaboratively together to provide tourists with a more 'genuine' experience of Niuean culture and traditions.  Participants commented on positive outcomes of the workshop and how enthusiastic they are to start activities within their villages by providing a genuine Niuean experience to attract tourists.

Discussions at the workshop pointed to needed support for the community for potential tourism related activities. The Niue Chamber of Commerce has offered to provide needed assistance and support to interested groups.  

A visitor market survey will commence in July to determine if visitors are satisfied with available products or whether new products/activities are required. Visitors will also be asked if they would be prepared to pay a green levy to finance environment conservation activities on the island. More than 500 tourists will be approached to participate in the research survey.

A long-term business plan will be prepared and implemented based on the results of the survey.

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