Niue Ocean Wide
“From one of the world’s smallest nations comes one of the world’s biggest ocean commitments.”
Across the heart of the South Pacific, the island of Niue is proving that size is no measure of impact.
Through Niue Ocean Wide (NOW) — a groundbreaking partnership between the Government of Niue and the local non-profit Tofia Niue — this small island nation is protecting 100% of its ocean territory for the benefit of people, nature, and future generations.
About Niue Ocean Wide
Niue Ocean Wide was created to secure the long-term protection and sustainable use of Niue’s vast 317,500 km² ocean estate — an area filled with coral reefs, whales, sharks, and migratory species that sustain the island’s culture and economy.
At the core of NOW lies the belief that local leadership, global partnerships, and innovative financing can redefine how ocean conservation works.
The initiative includes the Niue Moana Mahu Marine Protected Area, which safeguards more than 40 percent of the island’s waters, and establishes the Niue & Ocean Wide Trust — a permanent fund supporting marine protection and community resilience.
Our Impact
Niue Ocean Wide represents a global first — a small island nation protecting 100% of its ocean estate through a locally-led, financially sustainable model.
The initiative not only preserves critical marine habitats but also strengthens Niue’s economy and resilience in a changing climate.
By turning bold vision into action, Niue has become a beacon of hope for other small island states — showing that even the smallest nations can protect the largest places on Earth.
- QUICK FACTS
- Founded: 2023
- 100% protection and sustainable management of Niue’s entire ocean territory (317,500 km²) through community leadership, science, and innovative ocean financing
- Website: niueoceanwide.com
- Email: info@niueoceanwide.com
- Location:
Utuko Junction,
Alofi Central, Niue
Niue Ocean Wide -
Ongoing Projects & Field Work
🪸 Marine Protection: Managing the Niue Moana Mahu MPA — one of the largest per-capita marine reserves on Earth.
💙 Ocean Conservation Commitments (OCCs): An innovative model allowing supporters to “adopt” and fund the protection of 1 km² of Niue’s ocean for 20 years.
🐋 Science & Monitoring: Collecting and sharing data on marine life, migratory species, and reef health to guide policy and education.
🌱 Sustainability & Climate Resilience: Strengthening Niue’s blue economy and community adaptation to climate change.
👩🏽🤝👨🏼 Community Empowerment: Ensuring local people lead decision-making and benefit directly from ocean stewardship.
How can you help
Every km² protected makes a difference.
You can be part of Niue’s ocean legacy by:
Adopting an Ocean Conservation Commitment
Supporting the NOW Trust or community initiatives
Sharing Niue’s story to inspire global ocean action
