7 Sep 2004

Leader of NZ Niuean community says it's too early to talk of constitutional changes

3:48 pm on 7 September 2004

A leader of the Niue community in New Zealand says it is too early to talk of radical constitutional changes to Niue's status.

Wally Ranfurly was responding to comments by the High Commissioner to New Zealand, Hima Takelesi, who says the Niuean government and infrastructure would not be able to stay as it is now, if the population continues to decrease.

Mr Takelesi says quite drastic measures such as integration with New Zealand, or at the other extreme, complete independence in order to access international aid, may have to be taken.

But Mr Ranfurly says it's too early to talk of such things.

"I'm saddened to hear that we are looking so early to that area. It is all rushed because all this big frustration transport-wise to Niue. Second, it is our need in the health area. And our restructure is a bit slow as well."

Wally Ranfurly.