Country Profile: Tokelau

Tokelau is a small territory in the South Pacific Ocean, composed of three low-lying coral atolls: Fakaofo, Atafu, and Nukunonu. With a population of approximately 2,453 (2024 estimate), the islands have a unique blend of Polynesian cultures and a governance system led by a Council of Elders. The economy is limited, primarily relying on New Zealand for support, with many residents living abroad, particularly in New Zealand. Despite its challenges, Tokelau maintains a strong cultural identity and community cohesion.

Geography

Tokelau is located in Oceania, halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, encompassing an area of just 12 square kilometers. The atolls are characterized by their tropical climate, low elevation, and encircled lagoons. The region is prone to cyclones and has no land boundaries, but possesses a coastline of 101 kilometers.

• 12 sq km total area
• 0 m lowest elevation, with the highest point at 5 m
• 60% of land is used for agriculture (2023)
• 101 km of coastline
• 200 nm exclusive economic zone

People and Society

The population of Tokelau is approximately 2,453, with a slight majority of females. The Tokelauan ethnic group constitutes the largest portion of the populace, alongside mixed heritage individuals. Tokelauan is predominantly spoken, alongside English and other Pacific languages. The society is predominantly Christian, with various denominations represented.

• 100% literacy rate (2022)
• 99.7% of the population has access to improved drinking water (2022)
• 52.7 total dependency ratio (2024)
• 3.84 net migration rate per 1,000 people (2021)
• 0% urban population (2023)

Economy

Tokelau's economy is minimal, heavily dependent on New Zealand for funding and support. Many residents work in New Zealand or Australia, leading to significant remittances. The local economy includes small-scale agriculture and fishing, with a focus on solar-powered infrastructure.

• $12.658 million GDP (2017 estimate)
• $6,004 GDP per capita (2017 estimate)
• 4% inflation rate (2020 estimate)
• 60% of agricultural land is used for permanent crops (2023)
• $24.3 million budget revenues (2017 estimate)

Government

Tokelau is a non-self-governing territory administered by New Zealand, with a parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy. It has its own political institutions, including a rotating capital and a Council of Elders. Citizenship is linked to New Zealand, and Tokelauans participate in local governance while still being recognized as New Zealand citizens.

• Ulu o Tokelau: Esera Fofō Filipo Tuisano TUISANO (head of government since 2025)
• 20 seats in the General Fono (legislature)
• 21 years is the voting age for universal suffrage
• 15% of legislature seats held by women
• 1948 Tokelau Act formalized governance under New Zealand

Military and Security

Defense responsibilities for Tokelau fall under New Zealand, ensuring the territory's security without its own armed forces.

Environment

Tokelau faces environmental challenges such as overfishing and pollution of its coastal waters. The region's climate is tropical, influenced by trade winds, and its land use reflects a focus on agriculture without any forest coverage.

• 0% forest area (2022)
• 40% of land classified as other use (2023)
• 60% of agricultural land is used for permanent crops (2023)

Communications

Communication infrastructure includes limited fixed-line subscriptions and radio services on each atoll. Internet access covers approximately 58.3% of the population, showcasing a growing connectivity trend.

• 300 fixed-line subscriptions (2010 estimate)
• 58.3% of the population are internet users (2021 estimate)
• Access to Sky TV for about one-third of residents

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	2,453 (2024 est.)
Area	12 sq km
GDP	$12.658 million (2017 est.)
GDP per capita	$6,004 (2017 est.)
Literacy	100% (2022 est.)
Dependency Ratio	52.7 (2024)
Inflation Rate	4% (2020 est.)
Urban Population	0% (2023)
Improved Water Access	99.7% (2022 est.)
Telephone Subscriptions	300 (2010 est.)