So have you heard of it?

I didn’t think so.

Niue (pronounced new-ay) the world’s smallest independent nation, known as the ‘Rock of Polynesia’ is a small island in the South Pacific Ocean. It is called the Rock for a very good reason – it defies all stereotypes of a typical tropical island with barely a white sandy beach in sight.

Instead you can enjoy your adventurous side on the island’s rock coast which is rumored to be home to caves, tunnels and great diving spots around the reef and from June to October it’s waters are said to become a great place to check out the Humpback whales and their brand new offspring.

What’s even cooler, for me at least, is that Niue is in free association with NZ, meaning that all Niueans are good old kiwi citizens – pretty choice people if you ask me – and a fellow kiwi can easily go visit the coolest looking rock around. In saying that I’m confident anyone from anywhere will be welcome to explore this friendly island and experience it’s wonderfully different tropical shores.

Sometime when I’m back in that part of the world I shall visit and will make one heck of a post out of it. Until then Niue is added to my wish list and wistful imagination of rocky shores and whale watching continues.

Images by piawaugh