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Embassies and consular services for Tokelau
| Location | Service areas |
|---|---|
| Administrator of Tokelau |
Key documents
Our relationship with Tokelau
Tokelau is a non-self-governing territory within the Realm of New Zealand. Over time, New Zealand has progressively devolved administrative powers to Tokelau, supporting its development of autonomous governance and public services.
Tokelau has its own political institutions, judicial system, and public services—including telecommunications, shipping, and budget management. Its unique political structure includes the Ulu o Tokelau, the titular head, a role that rotates annually among the lead representatives (Faipule) of Tokelau’s three atolls. The General Fono, Tokelau’s national legislative body, meets three times a year and comprises elected representatives from each atoll.
In close consultation with Tokelau, New Zealand retains responsibility for Tokelau’s international obligations, defence and security, and the management of its Exclusive Economic Zone.
Tokelau also engages in some regional and international organisations in its own capacity. It is a member of the Pacific Community, the Forum Fisheries Agency, and the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). Tokelau is also an associate member of UNESCO, FAO, and the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).
Development cooperation and sustainability
New Zealand and Tokelau share a vision for building stronger governance, delivering more effective public services, improving inter-atoll connectivity, and addressing the impacts of climate change.
New Zealand supports Tokelau in delivering essential public services and infrastructure to meet the needs of its communities. This includes assistance across health, education, transport, and communications.
Tokelauan scholars are eligible for the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme(external link) which offers undergraduate and postgraduate tertiary scholarships, thematic short-term training, and vocational/professional short-term training. More information, including availability and application processes, are available here(external link).
For detailed information on our development cooperation activities—including project descriptions, timelines, sectoral and geographic focus, and expenditure data—please visit DevData(external link).
Trade and investment
Tokelau’s economy is primarily supported by two key revenue sources: fisheries licence fees and budget support from the New Zealand Government.
Due to the physical characteristics of its three atolls, Tokelau has limited natural resources and agricultural capacity. As a result economic development opportunities are constrained, and local production is sufficient only to meet basic needs.
Tokelau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) spans approximately 318,990 square kilometres. Revenue from fisheries licences within this zone makes a significant contribution to Tokelau’s national budget.
For the latest data on New Zealand’s international trade with Tokelau, please visit the New Zealand Trade Dashboard(external link).
People and culture
Tokelau is a territory within the Realm of New Zealand and its people are New Zealand citizens. This constitutional relationship reflects shared history, values, and ongoing cooperation.
A significant number of Tokelauans live in New Zealand, contributing to the cultural diversity and strength of communities across the country. These close people-to-people connections continue to reinforce the strong ties between Tokelau and New Zealand.