Flavours From the Rock of Polynesia

Niue is full of surprises and possibly none less than its fantastic food scene, which draws on fresh local produce from the land and sea.

Niue's inaugural food festival kicks off this September and will run from 19-22 September. The festival will be a showcase of local cuisine, producers and also a coupe of very special guest chefs.

Taking part in the four-day event will be award winning author and chef, Robert Oliver who was recently filming in Niue and is renowned as a strong advocate for increasing the use of local Pacific foods in island cuisine. Also joining the lineup is top New Zealand chef, Michael Meredith, of Meredith's restaurant who has a strong affinity to the Pacific through his Samoan heritage. Completing the culinary trio is Tongan born, Auckland based chef, Alex Kaihea, owner of The Beach House at Bucklands Beach.

In addition to showcasing local cuisine and produce from the sea and land, the trio of chefs will be demonstrating and cooking alongside locals as well as producing an exclusive luncheon on the lawns of the New Zealand High Commission. The festival promises to be a feast of food and culture with a local village hosting a traditional Umu feast, alongside a Kai Makete 'tasting market' in the centre of Alofi and special ticketed events.

Recognising that this tiny Pacific nation's star is very much on the rise and that food and travel go hand in hand, one of New Zealand's favourite food personalities, Helen Jackson has together with Niue Island Tourism put together an escorted 'food lovers' tour to the Kai Niue festival.

Spaces are strictly limited with guests staying at the Matavai Resort and enjoying all of the festival highlights.

For more information contact Niue Tourism on 1300 136 483.