24 Mar 2017

Niue museum step closer

11:07 am on 24 March 2017

Niueans are hoping work on a new museum will start soon after a ground-breaking ceremony at its new site on Thursday.

Artefacts in Niue's temporary museum

Artefacts in Niue's temporary museum Photo: RNZI/Sally Round

The museum was destroyed in Cyclone Heta in 2004 and artefacts which weren't swept away in the storm have been housed in a temporary building.

New Zealand's Governor General Dame Patsy Reddy, who has been visiting the island, planted a coconut tree in a ground breaking ceremony for the project funded with aid from New Zealand.

"We see the opportunity to house your taoga, your memories as very important. It's a way of connecting your history with your present and your future."

The Governor General is adorned with garlands at Atupare Marae

The Governor General is adorned with garlands at Atupare Marae Photo: RNZI / Sally Round