The island awoke this morning to the news that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the United Kingdom’s longest-serving monarch had died at the age of 96, having reigned for seventy years.
Her Majesty was also the Head of State of the twelve Commonwealth Realms and was the Head of State of New Zealand and Niue.
King Charles III becomes Niue’s new Head of State immediately after the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II.
Premier Tagelagi, who is on his way to a meeting in Hawaii, issued a statement on behalf of the people of Niue to express condolences on the passing of Her Majesty.
“The passing of a most extraordinary woman, who reigned for over 70 years. Her faithfulness to her duties and dedication to her people was the reflection of a most remarkable leader.”
Acting Premier Hon. Sauni Tongatule conveyed a message of solidarity at this time “We send our prayers to the people of the United Kingdom and Her Majesty’s family, including our new Head of State, King Charles III. May the Lord guide them and comfort them in their time of sorrow and mourning.”
The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Hon. Hima Douglas said that it is a measure of the respect and love for the Queen and what she represents, that her passing is felt in the remotest corner of the world.
“It is a measure of the respect and love for the Queen and what she represents, that her passing is felt in the remotest corner of the Commonwealth and on the small little island of Niue in the middle of the vast Pacific Ocean”, said the Speaker.
Douglas told BCN News that her legacy will be remembered long after she’s gone and asked the people of the island to keep the late Head of State in our prayers.
“In our lifetime, we will probably see no other Monarch to have reigned for so long; her devotion to duty and her commitment to serve her people will continue to resonate for years to come. I ask the people of Niue to pray for the soul of our Head of State”.
Today all the flags around the island are at half mast and will remain until the day of the burial.
Even though the Queen did not visit Niue, her late husband, Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh, and their son Prince Edward did.
According to the government statement, the public will be informed in due course of the mourning observances.
The New Zealand High Commission at Tapeu has opened a condolence book for those wishing to pay their respects to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The condolence book will remain open for the official mourning period which ends when the New Zealand Memorial Service is held later in September.