Government of Tokelau

The Land and the People of Tokelau:

Tokelau consists of three small coral atolls that lie between latitudes 8 and 10 degrees South and 171 and 173 degrees West. Atafu, the most northern atoll has a surface area of 3.5km2; Nukunonu, the central atoll is 4.7km2 and Fakaofo, the southern atoll is 4km2. From Atafu in the north to Fakaofo in the south, Tokelau extends for less than 200km and the atolls are 3-5 metres above sea level.

The coral atolls provide a sustainable subsistence lifestyle but within a fragile environment. Tokelau maintains strong social cohesion, active traditions and a strong communal culture, which places considerable emphasis on collective effort and reward.

Its total Exclusive Economic Zone is about 300,000km2.

Tokelau's population is 1383 (Dec. 2013 population count) with relatively large dependent groups-older and younger people­ because younger people and those with young children tend to emigrate to pursue better employment and education opportunities overseas. There is a significant population gap in the 25-34 age groups.

All Tokelauans have New Zealand citizenship and 7173 people indicating full or partial Tokelauan descent live in New Zealand (2013 NZ Census).

Tokelau currently has no air transportation, and the only means of transport is by sea from Samoa (the trip usually takes between 24 and 30hours). All travel and supplies into and out of Tokelau originate and terminate in Samoa, Tokelau's closest neighbour.