Niue is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand, and most of its diplomatic relations are conducted by New Zealand on Niue's behalf.
According to Tony Angelo, professor of international law at Victoria University of Wellington, in practice this means that Niue develops its foreign relations freely, with assistance from New Zealand when it is required and assented to by Niue.
All Niueans are New Zealand citizens, and Queen Elizabeth II is Niue's head of state in her capacity as Queen of New Zealand.
