History of Niue
The history of Niue is interesting but also typical to the history of the South Pacific. Legends tell of the first settlement by Huanaki and Fao, together with the Fire Gods from Fonuagalo (Hidden Land). Centuries ago Polynesian settlers from
Tonga,
Samoa and Pukapuka Island in the
Cook Islands, gave Niue the name of Motusefua (Island on its own). The English navigator James Cook sighted Niue in 1774, but was refused landing by the locals. He then named Niue 'Savage Island'. Missionaries from the LMS (London Missionary Society) established Christianity in 1846.
Niuan chiefs gained British Protectorate status in 1900, and in 1901 Niue was annexed to
New Zealand. In 1974 Niue gained independence in free association with New Zealand and government to this day has followed a Westminster-style rule with a 20 member assembly. The Premier is selected by the House and then the Premier selects 3 other members for Cabinet posts.