Fakaofo Map

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Description:

Description:

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Fakaofo is one of three atolls that constitute the Tokelau territory, located in the South Pacific Ocean. Situated approximately 500 kilometers north of Samoa, it lies at coordinates 9°21′S 171°12′W.

The atoll consists of about 60 islets surrounding a central lagoon, with a total land area of approximately 3 square kilometers. The lagoon itself covers an area of about 45 square kilometers. Fakaofo is the most populous atoll in Tokelau, with a population of around 500 people as of 2016.

The main settlement, Fale, is located on the western islet of the atoll. Traditional Polynesian culture remains strong on Fakaofo, with the village life centered around communal activities and traditional customs. The inhabitants primarily engage in subsistence fishing and coconut cultivation.

Historically significant, Fakaofo was first sighted by European explorers in 1835 when Commander Smith of the United States Exploring Expedition visited the atoll. The island became a British protectorate in 1889 and was later transferred to New Zealand administration in 1926. Today, Fakaofo, along with the other Tokelau atolls, is administered by New Zealand, and its residents are New Zealand citizens.

Climate change and rising sea levels pose significant threats to Fakaofo's future, as most of the atoll lies just a few meters above sea level.

The Facts:
Population: ~ 500.
Area: 1.2 sq mi (3 sq km).
Villages: Fakaofo Village, Fale.

Islands: Mulifenua, Vini, Motu Pelu, Palea, Manumea, Ofuna, Kavivave, Heketai, Motuloa, Motu Akea, Avaono, Talapeka, Te Lafu, Olokalaga, Motu Iti, Niue, Fugalei, Manuafe, Otafi Loto, Otafi Loa, Nukamahaga Iti, Tenki, Pagai, Matakitoga, Vaiaha, Falatutahi, Kaivai, Nukuheheke, Nukamahaga Lahi, Lapa, Hugalu, Logotaua, Tafolaelo, Otano, Akegamutu, Pukava, Hakea, Te Kau Afua o Humu, Nukulakia, Te Papaloa, Te Loto, Kapiomotu, Metu, Hakea Mahaga, Pataliga, Nukumatau, Fale, Te Afua tau Lua, Fenua Fala.