Why did Niue choose the option of self-government in free association with New Zealand?

Abstract

On 19 October 1974, Niueans voted in a referendum to adopt self-government in free association with New Zealand (SGFA). While the Niue Constitution Act of 1974 has provided a foundation for the enduring relationship between Niue and New Zealand, 50 years on, it is time to reassess the arrangement in terms of whether it still meets Niue’s needs. What does this partnership look like today, and what will it look like in the future? With 34,944 people of Niuean descent living in New Zealand as of 2023—more than 20 times Niue’s population of 1,681—questions are raised about whether SGFA remains suitable or should be updated to reflect local and global changes, amid rising global tensions and shifting geopolitical alliances. Given the timeliness of discussion around Realm nations of New Zealand, as shown here in this special issue, there is a need to critically examine and review the agreement to ensure it remains relevant and effective for Niue.
To understand how Niue arrived at this arrangement, this article explores the reasons why Niue chose the option of SGFA with New Zealand, analysing Niue leader Robert Rex’s speech to the United Nations on 27 November 1973. Rex identified four key reasons for Niue’s decision: access to New Zealand, development under New Zealand, New Zealand’s perceived goodwill, and the perception that Niue already had a form of independence. On the basis of this speech, this article also explores the continuing impact of the arrangement for Niue and its people if it is maintained into the future.