Different Ways to Travel Around Niue
It’s something you hear time and time again; you have to rent a car if you travel to Niue. But what if you’re just one or two people travelling or you simply don’t drive? Renting a car to yourself only increases your carbon footprint. Are there any eco-friendly alternatives to renting a car in Niue?
The short answer is yes! And we’ll show you your options in this list of sustainable ways to travel around Niue. By the way, you might also want to bookmark the 25 Ways to Travel More Sustainably in Niue.
1. Rent a Bike
Yes, there are bicycle rentals in Niue! Using a bike to explore the west coast of Niue, where most natural attractions, swimming spots and accommodations are, is a viable option for active travellers. However, cycling around the entire island is a mission, taking four to five hours for most to cycle the road around the island. Find out more about bike hire in Where to Rent Bikes in Niue
2. Rent an E-Bike
Get some extra assistance with cycling in Niue by hiring an electric bike. E-bikes are an easy alternative to renting a car in Niue, requiring electricity rather than fuel to travel. E-bikes use peddle assistance to take the exertion out of cycling, which is ideal if you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to travel Niue without too much effort. Again, check out bicycle rental companies that hire out e-bikes in Where to Rent Bikes in Niue.
3. Use “The Taxi”
Niue has one taxi, simply known as “The Taxi“. The large people-mover transports up to six to seven passengers, making it often used to transport a couple of different groups. If you’re staying at larger accommodations on the island, like the Scenic Matavai Resort, you’ll easily find others to share a taxi with and split the cost. Find out more about The Taxi in The Guide to Taxis in Niue.
4. Carpool Your Rental Car
Sure, renting a car in Niue is the most convenient way of getting around. If you’re renting a car for just one or two people, however, consider carpooling to minimise the fuel usage per head. The downside of this is that there’s no easy way to know who needs a ride in Niue other than chatting with fellow travellers. Nevertheless, you’ll be surprised by how many people turn up to Niue with no transport plan in mind (they’re the ones that don’t read Niue Pocket Guide – winky face). So, get chatting to people and offer a lift to the attractions you’re visiting.
5. Join a Guided Tour That Offers Transport
Some tours, albeit a small number, offer transport and pick-ups as part of the experience. Orientation tours with Niue Orientation Tours and Explore Niue offer tours to attractions on the island for up to eight people, which usually fill up fast! That way, you can get around the island to see some of the highlights (and get advice on how to visit others) while sharing a vehicle with other travellers. Learn more about these trips in The Best Guided Tours in Niue.
6. Walk
Ok, so we don’t expect you to walk around the entire 261.5km² (100.9mi²) island but you can save on travelling by choosing accommodation near the attractions, restaurants and services you wish to use. Stay within walking distance of Alofi to access the town’s shops, restaurants and sea tracks. Stay in Avatele to be near Avatele Beach and the Washaway Cafe (open Sundays). Or stay at Namukulu Cottages or Scenic Matavai Resort to sit by the pool all day.
More About Eco-Friendly Travel 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.