Niue voted and gained independence and a status of free association with New Zealand in 1974; its Constitution came into effect at that time. This constitution states that Niue has full control over its internal affairs with external affairs and defence being overseen by New Zealand; however, with the understanding that this is in consultation with the government of Niue.

There are three branches of government in Niue: the executive and the legislative, and a third branch, the Judicial, which is independent of the executive and legislative branches. The Head of State is the queen of England, with her New Zealand representative, Governor General Anand Satyanand, acting on her behalf. Niue then elects a local Premiere, the present one being Premier Toke Talagi (2008). There is a Cabinet, made up of three ministers, appointed by the Premiere. The Legislative Assembly has 20 seats, 6 elected by popular vote from a common roll and the other 14, representatives from the villages. The members appoint a Speaker from outside the Cabinet. The Judiciary is made up of a High Court and a Court of Appeal with the right to appeal to the Privy Council in London.

Elections are held every three years, the last being 2008. There are two parties, the Alliance of Independents (AI) and the Niue People’s Action Party (NPP).

Niue’s only diplomatic mission is in New Zealand, its diplomatic services being administered by New Zealand’s mission abroad.