Despite a duplication of a New Zealand lifestyle in Niue the island’s population continues to decline reaching an all time low of less than 1 800. [2005] about 22 000 Niueans currently live in New Zealand and all are citizens of that country.
A negative growth of 2% ia a matter of concern for the Government of Niue which needs a larger population base to successfully implement its economic and social policies with special regard to maintaining and sustaining a living community.
Life expectancy for both men and women is 69.5 years, infant mortality is 17.5 per 1000 live births and there is a 98% literacy rate. All these are indicative of a living standard that is much higher than most of its Pacific neighbours.
Within each village there is a mixture of income groups together with mutual support amongst extended families. While there is no welfare benefit for the unemployed, old age pensions, school children welfare benefits and other financial assistance can be made available, under mitigating circumstances, to those with real needs. All major medical, educational, financial, communications, entertainment and employment facilities are centrally and conveniently located.
