Geography and Environment

Geography and Environment of Tokelau

Terrain, climate, natural resources, hazards, and environmental conditions of Tokelau.

Natural Resources: Tokelau's natural resources are negligible. The remote coral atoll territory in the South Pacific lacks significant mineral deposits, fossil fuels, or commercially viable land-based resources. The low-lying atolls offer limited arable land, and freshwater is scarce, with rainfall being the primary source of potable water. Fish stocks in the surrounding exclusive economic zone represent the most notable natural asset, supporting subsistence fishing and limited commercial licensing activity. Coconut palms are a traditional resource, providing timber, food, and raw materials for local use. Given Tokelau's geographic isolation and minimal land area across its three atolls — Atafu, Nukunonu, and Fakaofo — large-scale resource extraction is neither practical nor environmentally viable.
Natural Hazards: lies in Pacific typhoon belt

Current Environmental Issues: very limited natural resources and overcrowding are contributing to emigration to New Zealand

Detailed geography