10 Tips for Visiting Niue on a Budget

Budget Tips for Niue

Niue is a small island where it’s easy to keep your budget small for savvy travellers in the know. And what do you know? You’re about to become one by blasting through this list of tips for visiting Niue on a budget! From saving money on accommodation to budget hacks for using transport, these tips are a sure-fire way to stick to your budget when visiting The Rock of the Pacific!

1. Stay in Alofi

If you’re really trying to save money during your stay in Niue, then it would be a no-brainer to base yourself in Alofi. This service hub of Niue not only provides easy access to shops, restaurants and car rentals, but it also has a number of attractions you can walk to, as well as tours that start from Alofi or at least offer pick-ups there. What’s more, some of Niue’s cheapest accommodations can be found in town, ideal for budgeting backpackers. Check out The Guide to Alofi on a Budget for advice on basing yourself in town.

2. Travel in the Low Season

Flights, accommodations and even some tours get discounted when there are fewer tourists visiting Niue. The low season in Niue is between November and March, where you’re more likely to find better deals, for instance, listed on the Niue Tourism website or on Booking.com. Another advantage of travelling Niue in the low season is that you are more likely to get your first choice when it comes to accommodation, rather than settling for something more expensive. See more reasons to travel Niue in the low season here.

3. Consider Only Renting a Car When You Need it

While it’s tempting to just pick up a car from the airport and have it handy for your entire stay, you can save a lot of cash by only renting for the time you need it. For instance, plan one, two or three days where you’ll explore the whole island, which you can only really do by car. Then you’ll find that you will still have plenty to do without a car around your accommodation if you’re staying in Alofi, Avatele or Tamakautoga. Alternative ways of getting around include the island’s one taxi, befriending your fellow travellers, or hiring a bike. More on the latter in the point below…

4. Or Rent a Bike!

Yes, bike hire is available in Niue and much cheaper than renting a car. While most of us don’t have the stamina or can stand the heat to cycle the whole island in a day, bikes can be a good way of making shorter trips or just explore a portion of the island. There are plenty of exciting bush trails to explore too, so be sure to look at The Best Bike Trails in Niue for tips. Plus, compare bike rentals in Where to Rent Bikes in Niue.

5. Pay with Cash

For New Zealanders, paying with card is all too easy in Niue considering Niue shares the same currency. However, most businesses in Niue have a credit card fee of around 3-5% of the transaction, while those using credit cards of another currency are likely to face service fees from their own bank, as well as unfavourable exchange rates. Paying with cash is definitely recommended in Niue to save some money, but come prepared, as there is no ATM on the island. Learn more in What is the Best Payment Method in Niue?

6. Cook for Yourself by Staying in Self-Catering Accommodation…

Luckily, most of Niue’s accommodations have some sort of a kitchen to spruce up your own meals. This can save a ton on eating out for every meal, where around NZ$15-$25 per person is typical for lunch and NZ$30-$40 per person is typical for dinner (not including drinks). Although the cost of everyday items is a little more expensive than in New Zealand and Australia, it’s still cheaper than eating out. Learn about where to get groceries in Where to Buy Food in Niue.

7. … But Treat Yourself to Some Cheap Eats Once in a While!

Ok, you don’t have to be a sweater vest-wearing accountant for your entire holiday. Eating out is all part of the holiday experience! But alas, if you still want to save some coins on dining out, then scout out the cheap eats across the island. For instance, Gill’s Restaurant, Wok of the Rock and the Tavana Cafe are all affordable choices in Alofi with main meals for around NZ$15-$20. The Washaway Cafe in Avatele is also worth heading down to on a Sunday for some of the cheapest burgers and pizzas on the island! See more suggestions in the Top Cheap Eats in Niue.

8. Stay in a Guest House

Not only do guest houses provide an authentic locals experience, but they are the cheapest type of accommodation in Niue. Some guest houses are large family homes split into private rooms with communal facilities (like a backpacker hostel without dorms), while other guest houses are available for a full holiday home hire. Either way, they are a cheaper option than some of the resorts, apartment and unit complexes and motels found around the island. Check out the 10 Best Budget Accommodation in Niue for recommendations, as well as 9 Best Budget Accommodation in Alofi for stays just in Alofi.

9. Compare Accommodation Inclusions

While some accommodations just provide a room for the night, others provide a whole experience. Inclusions like free use of bikes, car hire, tours of private caves or cultural demonstrations, free airport transfers, free WiFi, a breakfast starter pack or something else might make paying that little extra more worth the stay! Don’t just take the price of accommodation at face value.

10. Make the Most of the Free Attractions

Last but arguably the most important point, Niue is full of free attractions. Some of the best things to do here include snorkelling in crystal clear waters, exploring the many sea tracks, seeing epic coastal formations, discovering historical sites, browsing the local market, watching local women weave, seeing school children put on a cultural performance, watching whales and dolphins from shore… Need we go on?! Check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things To Do in Niue for more ideas!

More Tips for Visiting Niue on a Budget

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.

Contact Laura via our contact page