Facts About Alofi |
|
|---|---|
| Country | Niue |
| State | Alofi North and Alofi South |
| Founded | 1774 (By James Cook) |
| Area | 46.48Â km2 |
| Population | 581 (2006) |
| Lat Long Coordinates | 19° 3′ 31.94″ S, 169° 52′ 31.48″ W |
| Time Zone | UTC−11:00 |
| area Code | 683 |
| Language | Niuean And English |
| Major Religion | Christian (Congregational churches are Protestant Christian) |
| Point of interest | Tomb Point, Huanaki Cultural Centre and National Museum, Opaahi Landing, Utuko Beach, Alofi Rugby Club, Hikulagi Sculpture Park, Ekalesia Church, Omahi Beach |
About City
The smallest national capital with a population of just above 600 people, Alofi is the capital of Niue, the only country in the whole world to have free internet all across it. It is the largest settlement in the country; about 50 sq km in size. Niuean and English are the widely spoken languages here.
It was discovered b y Captain James Cook in 1774 who named it Savage Island. In the 1900, Britain annexed it but it was captured by New Zealand in 1901 as a part of the Cook Islands. Currently it is an independent nation associated with New Zealand.
In January 2004, the island was hit by Cyclone Heta, a fierce tropical storm which destroyed most of the city’s buildings, especially those of south Alofi.
Geography
Alofi lies on the Pacific Ocean, along the west coast of Niue. It is located at the center of the Alofi Bay, near the only break in the coral reef surrounding the country. The world’s largest toothbrush fence is situated here. It is divided into two parts, North Alofi and South Alofi. Most of the administrative buildings are located in South Alofi. The city is mainly famous for its underwater caverns and whales.
How to Reach (Transport)
Alofi is connected to the Niue International Airport which is about 2 km away from the main city. The port doesn’t have regular ferries but one can reach it using a private yacht. Alofi is connected to other places in Niue via an extensive road network.
The city itself can be scaled on foot because of its tiny size. Bicycles are also available for rent Alofi Rentals and Niue Rentals.
When to Visit
Alofi has a typically tropical climate, warm throughout the year, with a constant rainfall. The best time to visit would be from June to September when it is considerably drier.
Fairs and Festivals
The main festivals of Alofi are listed below:
- Show Days, celebrated by all of Niue’s villages are days when every village on the island puts up a grand show. Celebrations include delicious food, workshops, dances and shops filled with local handicrafts.
- The Niue Culture & Arts Festival, held in April is celebrated by the people of Alofi with much grandeur.
Other festivals include fishing tournaments, the traditional Christmas Feast, etc.
Points of Interest (Places to Visit)
Noteworthy points of visit in Alofi are as follows:
- Loka Cave about 2 hours from Alofi has a shrine dedicated to St. Bernadette and is a popular tourist spot.
- Niue Dive, a popular spot for Whale Watching and Snorkeling offers diving lessons and is home to the sea snakes like Niuean Sea Krait.
- Tomb Point is one of the most historical walking areas, with an amazing view across the wharf. It is right next to the church and at times, whales can be spotted from here.
- Utoko Reef is an excellent spot for snorkeling.
- The Huanaki Cultural Centre and National Museum is a brave attempt to rebuild all that was lost by Cyclone Heta and has interesting exhibits.
- The Chimney, a popular diving spot is located along the coast of Alofi.
- Opahi Landing, the spot where Captain James Cook attempted to land in the 17th century is another popular tourist attraction.
- Vatla, a protected “no-take” marine area is open to visitors. It is famous for its rock pools.
Other places to visit are Ekalesia Church, Hei Niue Spa, Omahi Beach, Hikulagi Sculpture Park, etc.
Accommodation
Alofi offers both posh hotels and modest Bed & Breakfasts for comfortable accommodation. Luxurious choices would be the Namakulu Cottage and Coral Gardens Motel. Other choices include Matavai Motel, Kololi’s Guest House and Peleni’s Guest House.