The Largest Settlements in Niue
For a country with a landmass of 261.5km² (101sq mi) and a population of 1,600, there’s no such thing as a “big town” in Niue. Even Niue’s capital is best described as a small town, while the rest of the island’s 13 settlements are villages. We go through the five biggest towns and villages in the list below.
1. Alofi
Unsurprisingly the largest and only town in Niue, Alofi is the nation’s capital with a population of approximately 640 residents. Alofi is located on the west coast of the island, sprawled along the coast and also encompassing inland areas such as around Hanan Airport. The town has supermarkets, shops, a gas station, a Visitor Information Centre, restaurants and a market and is where the main wharf is located for the island’s supplies to be delivered by cargo ship twice a week. Many of Niue’s tourist accommodation is also based in Alofi.
Learn more about Alofi in the 10 Things to Do in Alofi.
(c) niuepocketguide.com2. Hakupu
Niue’s second-largest settlement is Hakupu, located on the southeast corner of the island. The village is known as the southern gateway to the Huvalu Forest Conservation Area where highlights such as the Toga Chasm and Vinivini Bike Trail are located. Some attractions within the village itself include the Anapala Chasm and its nearby sea track, as well as the village church, which is a recommended church for visitors to experience on a Sunday.
Learn more about Hakupu in the 5 Things to Do in Hakupu.
(c) Niue Tourism3. Avatele
And on Niue’s southwest corner is the village of Avatele, pronounced “ava-sele”. The village offers a range of accommodations, while also being the base for activities like Taue Uga Tours. What’s more, Avatele Beach is a popular snorkelling spot.
Learn more about Avatele in the 10 Things to Do in Avatele.
(c) niuepocketguide.com4. Tamakautoga
A little further north from Avatele, Tamakautoga is Niue’s fourth-biggest village in terms of population. The village is famously home to the island’s only resort, the Scenic Matavai Resort, which has a restaurant open to casual diners. Next door you’ll also find a dive and whale swimming operator. Places to visit include Tamakautoga Beach, located down the short Togulu Sea Track. Don’t miss Pofitu Beach, between Tamakautoga and Avatele.
Learn more about Tamakautoga in the 5 Things to Do in Tamakautoga.
(c) Niue Tourism5. Mutalau
And on Niue’s northern coast, Mutalau is Niue’s fifth-largest village and one of historical significance. Visit Tauei Fupiu Fort where the island’s bringer of Christianity was protected by warriors and the Uluvehi Sea Track where many historical interactions took place including when Peruvian slave traders took 109 young Niuean men away in 1863. Today, the sea track has some interesting caves to check out, while A5 Tours can show you Niuean rainforest and plantations.
Learn more about Mutalau in the 5 Things to Do in Mutulau.
(c) niuepocketguide.comMore About the Biggest Towns and Villages in Niue
That’s it for our list of the biggest towns and villages in Niue. For more about Niue’s towns/villages, check out our alternative guides:
- Understanding the Niue Villages
- The Best Villages to Visit in Niue
- The Best Small Towns & Villages to Visit in Niue
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed about the wonderful island of Niue, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to Niue.
