Seal of Niue, 1974

Before self government was granted on 19 October 1974, Niue had been using the Coat of Arms of New Zealand. That year a unique seal was created for Niue, which was again the New Zealand Coat of Arms, but placed on a white circle with “Public Seal of Niue” along the top, and “Niue” at the bottom. The New Zealand Arms consists of a shield divided into quarters, with: the constellation of the Southern Cross; a golden fleece; a sheaf of wheat; and two crossed hammers. Over the shield's centre is a white band with three black ships. The shield is supported by a woman dressed in a white robe carrying the flag of New Zealand, representing the European (mainly British) immigrant people and a Maori warrior armed with a spear, representing the indigenous population. Over the shield is a Royal crown, and at the foot of the shield is a silver fern (Cyathea dealbata, an unofficial national emblem) and a ribbon with the words “New Zealand”.