What is "patu-iki"

Patu-iki is the title that was given to the leader of the Pacific Ocean island of Niue. This indigenous monarchy ruled the island from the early eighteenth century, prior to which there had been no nationally organised government of the island, which was instead run by local chieftains. The Patu-iki system continued from the appointment of the first Patu-Iki, Puni-mata in around 1700 until the island was ceded to the British Crown by the eighth Patu-iki, Togia-Pula-toaki in 1900.

The concept of kingship in Niue may have arisen due to increased contact with the monarchial systems in place in Samoa and Tonga. Niue's kingship system was non-hereditary, leaders being elected by the population from among the heads of influential families.