The Government of Niue announces that the late Hon. Sani Lakatani, former Premier of Niue, will be honoured with a State Funeral in recognition of his dedicated service and leadership to the nation.
The late Hon. Sani Lakatani will arrive in Niue on Friday, 30 January 2026, from New Zealand. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister Hon Dalton Tagelagi will conduct a brief official ceremony to present the Niue flag to the family for the draping of the casket. Following this ceremony, the casket will be escorted in a formal procession to the Tuapa Ekalesia Church, where the State Funeral will be held, before the burial is undertaken.
Senior Public Servants and Members of the Niue Assembly are expected to attend. The Government has declared Friday, 30 January a Public Holiday to honour the legacy of the former Premier.
All Government departments and the general public are hereby advised that the Niue Flag is to be flown at half-mast on Friday, 30 January 2026, and shall remain at half-mast until the conclusion of the State Funeral. This is for respect and in honour of the occasion.
All attendees at the Tuapa Ekalesia Church are respectfully requested to observe the established protocols and follow the funeral programme.
The Government of Niue asks for the cooperation of everyone to ensure this occasion is conducted with dignity and respect.
The late Hon. Sani Lakatani is remembered with deep gratitude for his immense contribution to Niue and his enduring service to the people.
