Country Profile: Tokelau
Tokelau is a small non-self-governing territory of New Zealand, comprising three atolls: Fakaofo, Atafu, and Nukunonu. Located roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, Tokelau's population of approximately 2,453 is primarily distributed across these atolls. The local economy is limited, heavily reliant on remittances and New Zealand funding, with minimal industries focused on crafts and fishing. Governance is based on a parliamentary democracy under New Zealand's constitutional monarchy, facilitating a degree of self-rule through local councils.
Geography
Tokelau consists of three low-lying coral atolls, each encircling a lagoon and characterized by a tropical climate influenced by trade winds. The atolls have no land boundaries and cover a total area of just 12 square kilometers. The region is vulnerable to natural hazards, including cyclones, given its geographic location in the Pacific cyclone belt.
- Area: 12 sq km
- Coastline: 101 km
- Highest Point: 5 m above sea level
- Exclusive Economic Zone: 200 nm
- Population Distribution: Fairly evenly spread among atolls
People and Society
The population of Tokelau is composed of predominantly Tokelauan individuals, with a mix of other Pacific Islander ethnicities. The society exhibits high literacy rates at 100% across genders, and the primary languages spoken are Tokelauan and English. Most of the land is allocated for agriculture, facilitating the cultivation of root vegetables and fruits, while a large portion of the population resides in New Zealand.
- Total Population (2024 est.): 2,453
- Dependency Ratio: 52.7
- Net Migration Rate: -3.84 migrants per 1,000 (2021 est.)
- Drinking Water Access (Improved): 99.7%
- Literacy Rate: 100%
Economy
Tokelau's economy is small and primarily reliant on New Zealand's financial support. The local workforce often migrates to New Zealand or Australia for employment. Key economic activities include small-scale production of crafts, fishing, and agricultural products. The territory's significant remittances from abroad bolster its economy, although infrastructure remains largely solar-powered.
- Real GDP (PPP, 2017 est.): $7.7 million
- GDP per Capita (PPP, 2017 est.): $6,004
- Budget Revenues (2017 est.): $24.3 million
- Major Exports: 92% to Czechia
- Major Imports: 31% from Samoa
Government
Tokelau operates under a unique governance structure as a non-self-governing territory of New Zealand, with its political framework consisting of village councils and a rotating head of government. The legal system follows New Zealand's common law, while the General Fono serves as the legislative body. Tokelauans are New Zealand citizens and have participated in referendums for self-governance, but these have not met the necessary thresholds.
- Head of Government: Ulu o Tokelau, Esera Fofō Filipo Tuisano (since 2025)
- Legislative Body: General Fono with 20 seats
- Voting Age: Universal suffrage at 21 years
- National Holiday: Waitangi Day, observed on February 6
- Judicial System: Appeals to New Zealand's Court of Appeal
Military and Security
Defense responsibilities for Tokelau rest with New Zealand, reflecting its status as a territory. There is no military presence or infrastructure on the atolls.
Energy
Tokelau relies primarily on solar energy for its infrastructure, aligning with its sustainability goals while maintaining minimal energy consumption.
Environment
Tokelau faces environmental challenges, including overfishing and pollution of coastal waters. The atolls' ecological health is of concern, given the reliance on marine resources and agriculture.
Communications
Telecommunications services in Tokelau are limited but accessible, with around 58.3% of the population using the internet. Each atoll maintains a radio service, and there is limited fixed-line telephone service.
- Internet Users: 58.3% (2021 est.)
- Fixed-Line Subscriptions: 300 (2010 est.)
- Radio Service Availability: Operates on all atolls (2019)
- Internet Country Code: .tk
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,453 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 12 sq km | Total land area |
| Real GDP (PPP) | $7.7 million | 2017 estimate |
| GDP per Capita (PPP) | $6,004 | 2017 estimate |
| Budget Revenues | $24.3 million | 2017 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 100% | Total population (2022 estimate) |
| Drinking Water Access | 99.7% | Improved sources (2022 estimate) |
| Dependency Ratio | 52.7 | 2024 estimate |
| Urban Population | 0% | Total population (2023) |
| Net Migration Rate | -3.84 migrants/1,000 | 2021 estimate |
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