Niue National Awards 2025

The Government of Niue is pleased to release the Honors List on the occasion of celebrating the 51st year of self-government. The Niue National Awards recognizes the members longevity of service, selfless volunteering, innovation, and entrepreneurial efforts to enhance the well-being of the Niue Community.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD

1. Honourable Va’aiga Paotama Tukuitonga
   With over 60 years of public service, Honourable Va’aiga Paotama Tukuitonga is a trailblazer for women in politics and education. She served 24 continuous years in the Niue Legislative Assembly (1999–2023), holding senior Cabinet portfolios including Education, Justice, Women's Affairs, and Taoga Niue. A respected educator for 36 years and cultural guardian of Vagahau Niue, she has also served as a Justice of the Peace, President of the Niue Writers’ Group, and leader in village and church communities.

Today, we honour Honourable Tukuitonga with this Distinguished Award in recognition of her exceptional service, leadership, and lifelong dedication to the people of Niue.

2. Honourable Hima Ikimotu Douglas

Honourable Hima Ikimotu Douglas is a distinguished Niuean leader with a diverse career as an academic, broadcaster, politician, diplomat, and musician. After earning a scholarship at 14, he studied at Wanganui Boys Technical College and later Victoria University, becoming the first Niuean to graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce. He worked in Niue’s Treasury and Administration departments, then pursued broadcasting, including founding "Radio Sunshine." Hon. Douglas served as a regional broadcasting officer and consultant with the South Pacific Commission. He was pivotal in establishing Niue’s first satellite dish and Matavai Resort. He entered politics, serving in the Niue Assembly, and later became Niue’s first High Commissioner to New Zealand. Hon. Douglas was Speaker of the Niue Assembly (2020-2023), where he implemented reforms to separate the legislature from the executive. His contributions significantly shaped Niue’s political landscape and broadcasting sector, leaving a lasting impact on the island.

Today, we honour Honourable Hima Ikimotu Douglas with a Distinguished Award in recognition of his outstanding leadership, vision, and enduring contribution to Niue’s political landscape, broadcasting sector, and national development.

PUBLIC SERVICE AWARDS

1. Mrs. Ketiligi Saniteli Fereti
   Mrs. Ketiligi Saniteli Fereti dedicated over 37 years to the Niue Department of Health, exemplifying leadership, excellence, and service. After completing nursing training in New Zealand (1966–1974), she returned to Niue and progressed from Senior Ward Sister to Principal Nursing Officer, serving in that role from 1997 until her retirement in 2012. She championed the nursing profession, mentored future nurses, and represented Niue through the Pacific Nurses Association. A committed community leader in Avatele, she held roles including Lay Preacher, FCW Secretary/Treasurer, Vice Deputy of Mataginifale Women’s Group, GCCA Climate Change Project Team Leader, and Founding Member of Liolau Playcentre. Her legacy reflects lifelong dedication to health care, women’s empowerment, and community development.

Today, we honour Mrs. Fereti with a Public Service Award for her outstanding service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the people of Niue.

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

1. Reverend Hariesa Faitala
   Reverend Hariesa Faitala has served in ministry, education, and community service for decades. Formerly a home economics teacher, she studied theology at Victoria University and also spent time in the United States, where she engaged in further theological and ministry-related experiences. She earned a Bachelor of Divinity and was ordained in 1999, becoming the first ordained female Reverend in Niue and the Ekalesia Kerisiano Niue. She has served as Pastor for Namukulu and continues to support Tuapa and Hikutavake. Her roles include hospital chaplain, marriage celebrant, Girls Brigade officer, and advocate for women’s empowerment. At 80 years of age, she remains active in church and community life.

Although she is not here in person to accept this honour, we present Reverend Faitala with the Community Service Award in recognition of her decades of faithful service, leadership, and dedication to uplifting her community and church.

2. Mr. Bill Joe Potiki Tulevihi
   Mr. Bill Joe Potiki Tulevihi has worked for over 20 years in waste management, helping maintain Niue’s pristine environment. His role with Makani Waste Collection Contractors under the Department of Environment has been vital to public health and environmental protection. Known for his dedication and humility, he is considered an unsung hero in Niue’s efforts to remain clean and beautiful.
   Although he is not here in person to accept this honour, we present Mr. Tulevihi with the Community Service Award in recognition of his dedication and invaluable contribution to protecting Niue’s environment and public health.

Note: This is only the sixth year for Niue’s Honors List, giving recognition to those of our people who have given exemplary service for their island. Before submitting for an award, nominators must contact the Office of the Prime Minister.

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