Cook Islands
p. 41 · Read in the full issue
& Niue
WHILE the two “Microstates” have a lim ited resource base, their status as inde pendent, in free association with New Zealand, gives them significant benefits.
As New Zealand citizens, the islanders have access to the New Zealand and Aus tralian labour markets.
However, the attractions of the two re gional powers have tempted away the young and the skilled labour, which has made it difficult for those staying behind to develop the islands.
There are just 3000 people on the 250 square km island of Niue, while the Cook Islands together make up slightly less land area with considerably more people. There are 22,000 Cook Islanders on 15 islands.
Niue’s GNP is s4m, or almost $1550 per capita. The GNP of the Cook Islands is closer to s3om, giving them a per capita income of $2OOO. □