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Few scams

Polynesia

Tourist scams in Niue

Niue has extremely low crime, and no specific tourist scam patterns are identified. The main money concerns are unreliable card payments, no ATMs and a stated 3% surcharge on credit-card purchases.

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    Habits that keep you safe

    Money

    • Bring more New Zealand dollars than you expect to need. There are no ATMs.
    • Keep a spare cash supply separate from your daily spending money.
    • Check prices and count your change before leaving.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Ask whether card payments are working before buying or ordering. Payment systems can be down.
    • Expect a 3% surcharge on credit-card purchases. This stated fee is not itself a scam.
    • Some businesses accept Visa and MasterCard, but carry enough cash for places that cannot take cards.
    • Check the amount on the payment terminal before approving it.

    Your belongings

    • Keep your passport, cash and cards secure even though crime is very low.
    • Avoid leaving valuables unattended.
    • Keep copies of important documents separately from the originals.

    Where you stay

    • Arrange your airport transfer with your accommodation before arrival. Almost all accommodation options include free transfers.
    • Keep your booking confirmation and the property's contact details available offline.
    • Confirm any transfer charge in advance. There are no taxis or public transport meeting flights.

    Tours and guides

    • Use a guide for caves, especially Vaikona, unless you have suitable experience. People have become lost or injured.
    • Agree on the route, price and what is included before a guided trip.
    • Get travel insurance that covers your planned activities.

    Nights out

    • Keep track of your spending and check your bill before paying.
    • Avoid getting drunk or causing trouble. Local police take this seriously.
    • Plan how you will return to your accommodation before drinking.

    Questions

    Are tourist scams common in Niue?

    Crime is extremely low, and no specific tourist scam patterns are identified. Normal precautions with money and belongings are still sensible.

    Are there known scam hotspots?

    No named scam, pickpocket or tout hotspots are identified.

    Can I withdraw cash after I arrive?

    There are no ATMs. Bring enough New Zealand dollars for your stay, plus a spare supply.

    Can I rely on paying by card?

    No. Some businesses accept Visa and MasterCard, but payment systems can be down. Check before buying and carry cash.

    Is a 3% credit-card surcharge a scam?

    A 3% surcharge on credit-card purchases is a stated charge. Check the total before approving payment.

    How should I arrange an airport transfer?

    Arrange it with your accommodation before arrival. Almost all accommodation options include free transfers. There are no taxis or public transport meeting flights.

    Should I leave valuables unattended because crime is low?

    Keep valuables secure and carry only what you need. Low crime does not remove the need for basic care.

    Do I need a guide for caves?

    A guide is strongly advised for some caves, especially Vaikona, unless you are experienced. People have become lost or injured. Agree on the price and route before going.

    What should I do about an unfamiliar card payment?

    Contact your card issuer through its official app or contact details. Freeze the card if necessary and keep receipts and payment records.

    Who should I contact after theft?

    Report it to police and ask for a report or reference number. Contact your insurer and card issuer as needed. Call 999 if you need emergency help.

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