Niue’s Road Rules
With driving in a new country comes new road rules. Even if most seem to be the same as your home country, there’s usually at least some minor differences. It’s the same in Niue, where the speed limits are quite low, parking restrictions are in place, and you need a special driver’s license to drive in Niue if you are from overseas. We’ll go through all the road rules for Niue you need to know in this list!
For more driving talk, check out How to Drive in Niue.
1. You Need a Niue Driver’s License
First things first, you need a Niue Driver’s License to legally drive on the public roads in Niue. Niue Driver’s Licenses can be obtained from the Police Station in Alofi where you’ll need to present your overseas driving license and pay NZ$22.50. Learn more in How to Get a Niue Driver’s License.
2. The Speed Limit is 40km/h in Villages
The speed limit for villages and Alofi is 40km/h unless there is a speed road sign stating otherwise. Be mindful to stick to the speed limits at all times. For more road safety tips like this, see 10 Safety Tips for Driving in Niue.
3. The Speed Limit is 60km/h on the Open Road
The speed limit is 60km/h on most of Niue’s open road and applies on sections of the road with no road signs to indicate speed limit. If this is not the case, then another speed road sign will be in place to state the appropriate speed. Note that much of Niue’s road is unsuitable to drive as fast a 60km/h, considering the potholes and/or weather conditions.
4. Drive on the Left Side of the Road
Always drive on the lefthand side of the road in Niue. It’s easy to forget when pulling out onto a road, so keep reminding yourself! Plus, remind yourself to drive on the left every time you get into the car.
5. Sharing the Road with Cyclists
Niue’s roads are popular with cyclists, so be sure to slow down when you approach a cyclist on the road. Pass only when it is safe to do so, leaving a space of around 1.5m (5ft) between your car and the cyclist, if possible.
6. Motorcycle Helmets are Compulsory
If driving a motorcycle in Niue, it is compulsory to wear a helmet! Helmets will be included in your motorcycle rental. You will also need to have the appropriate license for riding a motorcycle to hire one. See The Guide to Renting a Motorbike in Niue for more information.
7. Stop at the Stop Signs
Where there is a stop sign in Niue, you must stop the car completely. This is so you have ample time to assess whether it is safe to pull out of an intersection. For more advice of driving safely in Niue, see Is it Safe to Drive Around Niue?
8. Don’t Park on the Yellow Lines in Alofi
Parking is prohibited on yellow lines. These can only be found on the main road in Alofi. On a similar note, it’s also forbidden to park at the Parliament building car park (unless you’re a visitor to the Parliament building, of course).
9. Don’t Do U-Turns in Intersections or at the Parliament Building
It is also prohibited to do a u-turn at any intersections in Niue. On top of that, doing a u-turn at the Parliament building in Niue is also prohibited.
10. Respect the “No Parking” Signs
Around Niue, you will see “No Parking” signs, typically outside of locals’ driveways or beside gravesites. Be respectful and don’t park there. That goes for gravesites on the side of any of Niue’s roads – show respect by not parking there.
More About Road Rules in Niue
Author
Laura S.
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Niue Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Niue. She knows the island inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Niue’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.