TAXES ON NIUE

Press, Volume C, Issue 29511, 12 May 1961, Page 18

TAXES ON NIUE

Own System Introduced (N.Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON, May 11. The Niue Island Assembly recently passed an ordinance introducing its own system of income tax. • Previously all male Niueans over the age of 18 paid an annual poll tax and those earning sufficient have paid New Zealand income tax.'

Announcing the Assembly’s action, the Minister of Island Territories (Mr Gotz' said: “This gesture is typical of the mature outlook and sense of social responsibility frequently displayed by the people of Niue.” The new tax system is

similar to that which has been operating in the Cook Islands for the last five years. Since 1916 all male Niueans over 18 have been liable to pay a poll tax. Until 1956 it was 10 dollars a year. Then the Assembly doubled the tax because it felt the people of Niue should contirbute more to their own finances to match increased contributions from New Zealand. A further 2s 6d a year was added in 1958 to provide funds to assist old people without families.

All eligible taxpayers on Niue will now contribute to the new local income tax Revenue from it will be used to finartce public services on the island.

"The people of Niue have faced a drought and two disastrous hurricanes with great fortitude and with the help of New Zealand are rebuilding homes, schools, and hospital with tremendous energy. They deserve the greatest commendation, for their demonstration of selfhelp.”