Capital: Alofi
Administrative divisions: none
Independence: 19 October 1974 (became a self-governing territory
in free association with New Zealand on 19 October 1974)
National holiday: Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of
Waitangi established British sovereignty)
Constitution: 19 October 1974 (Niue Constitution Act)
Legal system: English common law
Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952)
is a hereditary monarch; the queen and New Zealand are represented
by New Zealand High Commissioner Warren SEARELL (since NA August
1993)
head of government: Premier Frank Fakaotimanava LUI (acting premier
since NA December 1992, premier since 12 March 1993) was reelected
by the Legislative Assembly; election last held 23 February 1996
(next to be held NA March 1999)
cabinet: Cabinet consists of the premier and three ministers
Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly: elections last held 23 February 1996 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (20 total, 6 elected) NPP 9, independents 11
Judicial branch: Appeal Court of New Zealand; High Court