The National Flag of Tokelau
The national flag of Tokelau is a symbol of the territory’s cultural identity and heritage. The flag of Tokelau, also known as the Tokelau flag, features a dark blue field with a stylized representation of a canoe sailing towards four stars arranged in the shape of the Southern Cross constellation. Each element of the flag reflects the history, traditions, and values of Tokelau.
Table of Contents
Tokelau Flag Clip Art Images, Background, and Wallpapers
Free Download of the Tokelau Flag Image
To download an image of the Tokelau flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.
For Apple (iPhone/iPad):
- Press and hold the image.
- A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”
For Android:
- Press and hold the image.
- From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”
This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.
Design and Colors of the Tokelau Flag
The Tokelau flag features a design that is symbolic of the territory’s culture and natural environment:
- Canoe: The stylized yellow canoe represents the traditional Tokelauan canoe, a vital part of the islanders’ way of life and a symbol of their navigation skills and connection to the sea.
- Stars: The four white stars in the shape of the Southern Cross constellation signify Tokelau’s location in the South Pacific Ocean and its links to New Zealand.
- Dark Blue Field: (#00247D) Represents the vast Pacific Ocean surrounding Tokelau, highlighting the territory’s remote location and reliance on the sea.
- Yellow: (#FCD116) Symbolizes warmth, the sun, and the rich cultural heritage of Tokelau.
- White: (#FFFFFF) Represents peace and harmony within the Tokelauan community.
The Origins and Design of the Tokelau Flag
The flag of Tokelau was adopted on September 7, 2009, as a representation of the territory’s cultural identity and aspirations for greater autonomy. The design of the flag reflects Tokelau’s connection to its traditional ways of life and the importance of the ocean to its people.
The Birth of a National Symbol
The Tokelau flag was introduced as part of a wider movement towards self-determination and the recognition of Tokelau’s unique cultural identity. The elements of the flag—the canoe and stars—were chosen to symbolize the islanders’ heritage, navigational skills, and connection to the broader Pacific region.
Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism
The symbolism of the Tokelau flag has deepened as the territory has embraced its identity. The colors and symbols on the flag carry significant meanings:
- Yellow: Represents the warmth of the sun and the vibrant cultural traditions of Tokelau.
- Dark Blue: Signifies the vast Pacific Ocean, the source of life and sustenance for Tokelau.
- White: Symbolizes peace, purity, and the unity of the Tokelauan people.
The Central Design Elements
The central design elements of the Tokelau flag include the canoe and stars:
- Canoe: A traditional symbol of navigation, representing Tokelau’s seafaring heritage and connection to the ocean.
- Stars: The four stars represent the Southern Cross constellation, reflecting Tokelau’s geographical location and cultural ties to New Zealand.
Adoption and Official Recognition
The current design of the Tokelau flag was officially adopted on September 7, 2009. The flag is recognized as a symbol of Tokelau’s cultural identity and aspirations for self-determination. It represents the unity and resilience of the Tokelauan people.
The Flag in Modern Tokelauan Identity
Today, the Tokelau flag is a powerful symbol of national pride and identity. It is prominently displayed during national events, cultural celebrations, and in schools and government institutions. The flag serves as a reminder of Tokelau’s rich history, cultural heritage, and its ongoing journey towards greater autonomy.
The Significance of the Tokelau Flag
The flag of Tokelau holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the rich history, culture, and unity of the territory. Displaying the Tokelau flag is an act of respect and pride, and it is done according to specific guidelines on important days and during significant events in Tokelau.
When the Flag of Tokelau Can Be Displayed
The flag of Tokelau may be displayed on any day, but there are specific guidelines for when and how it should be presented. The flag should always be treated with the utmost respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It can be flown on public buildings, in schools, at cultural institutions, and during official ceremonies. Citizens are also encouraged to display the flag at their homes during national celebrations and important commemorations.
Flag Days and National Holidays
In Tokelau, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:
- September 7 – Flag Day: This day commemorates the adoption of the Tokelau flag in 2009. Ceremonies across the territory honor the flag, and people are encouraged to display it proudly.
- National Day: This day is a significant cultural celebration in Tokelau, where the flag is central to the events, with traditional music, dance, and feasts.
Love for the Flag and Patriotism
The Tokelau flag is not just a national symbol; it is a representation of the pride and love that the people of Tokelau have for their territory. The flag’s design—a canoe and four stars—embodies the nation’s history, unity, and enduring spirit. Tokelauans demonstrate their love for the flag and their patriotism in various ways. During national holidays, particularly on Flag Day, the flag is everywhere—from homes and public spaces to clothing and decorations. Schools instill a sense of respect for the flag from a young age, often including flag ceremonies as part of the daily routine.
Tokelau Flag Emoji Codes
1. Unicode Code Points
- Unicode: U+1F1F9 U+1F1F0
- UTF-16: D83C DDF9 D83C DDF0
2. HTML Entities
- HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇹🇰
- HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇹🇰
3. CSS
content: "\1F1F9\1F1F0";
4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java
// JavaScript Example
const tokelauFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF0";
// Java Example
String tokelauFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF0";
5. PHP & Ruby
// PHP Example
$tokelauFlag = "\u{1F1F9}\u{1F1F0}";
// Ruby Example
tokelau_flag = "\u{1F1F9}\u{1F1F0}"
6. Perl
my $tokelauFlag = "\x{1F1F9}\x{1F1F0}";
7. Python
tokelau_flag = "\U0001F1F9\U0001F1F0"
8. C#
string tokelauFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF0";
9. Swift
let tokelauFlag = "\u{1F1F9}\u{1F1F0}"
10. Objective-C
NSString *tokelauFlag = @"\U0001F1F9\U0001F1F0";
11. JSON
{
"tokelauFlag": "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF0"
}
12. SQL
INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF0');
13. Shell Scripting (Bash)
tokelau_flag=$'\U1F1F9\U1F1F0'
14. Go (Golang)
tokelauFlag := "\U0001F1F9\U0001F1F0"
15. Kotlin
val tokelauFlag = "\uD83C\uDDF9\uD83C\uDDF0"
About Tokelau
Geography and Topography
Location and Geography
Tokelau is a remote group of atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, located halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii. It consists of three atolls: Atafu, Nukunonu, and Fakaofo. The unique geography of Tokelau includes:
- Coral atolls surrounded by clear lagoons
- Low-lying land, typically not exceeding 5 meters above sea level
- Sandy beaches and coconut palm forests
- Small islets (motus) around the lagoons
- Rich marine ecosystems with vibrant coral reefs
Map of Tokelau
Area and Population
Tokelau covers a total land area of approximately 12 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest territories in the world. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 1,500 people, primarily of Polynesian descent, living on the three atolls.
Demographics and Ethnic Composition
Tokelau is known for its tight-knit community and rich Polynesian culture. The ethnic composition includes:
- Primarily Tokelauan Polynesians
- Small communities of people from neighboring Pacific islands
Name and History
Origin of the Name “Tokelau”
The name “Tokelau” means “north wind” in the Tokelauan language, reflecting the atolls’ geographic location in the Pacific. The islands have been inhabited for hundreds of years by Polynesians who navigated the vast ocean.
History
The history of Tokelau is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions and customs. European explorers first made contact in the 18th century. Key historical events include:
- Colonization by various European powers in the 19th century
- Becoming a British protectorate in 1889 and later a New Zealand-administered territory in 1926
- Efforts towards greater self-governance, with local councils established for each atoll
Government and Politics
Capital
Tokelau does not have an official capital. However, each atoll has its own administrative center, with the General Fono (council) rotating meetings between the three atolls.
Government and Politics
Tokelau operates as a non-self-governing territory of New Zealand. It has its own system of governance, consisting of village councils (Taupulega) for each atoll and the General Fono, which is the national legislative body. The Ulu-o-Tokelau serves as the titular head of government, rotating annually between the three atolls.
Values and Culture
Core Tokelauan values include community, respect, and the preservation of traditional customs (Faka Tokelau). The society emphasizes family, communal living, and the sustainable use of natural resources.
Religion
Christianity is the predominant religion in Tokelau, with the majority of the population adhering to the Congregational Christian Church of Tokelau or the Roman Catholic Church. Religious practices are deeply integrated into daily life and community events.
Holidays
Major public holidays in Tokelau include:
- Tokelau Day, celebrated on October 21
- Christmas and New Year, with community feasts and celebrations
- Other religious observances and local festivals unique to each atoll
Demographics and Society
Language
The official languages of Tokelau are Tokelauan and English. Tokelauan is the most widely spoken language, reflecting the islanders’ Polynesian heritage, while English is used for official and administrative purposes.
Society and Sports
Tokelau has a vibrant social life centered around family and village activities. Traditional sports like cricket, canoe racing, and rugby are popular, alongside modern recreational activities. Fishing and coconut gathering are integral parts of daily life.
Safety
Tokelau is generally a safe place for residents and visitors, with a low crime rate. The close-knit community and traditional governance contribute to a strong sense of security and mutual support among the inhabitants.
Economy and Currency
Economy
Tokelau’s economy is primarily based on subsistence activities and small-scale fisheries. Key economic activities include:
- Fishing and coconut cultivation
- Handicrafts and traditional weaving
- Remittances from Tokelauan communities abroad
The economy is supported by financial aid from New Zealand and limited revenue from domain registrations and stamps.
Currency
The official currency of Tokelau is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), symbolized by “$” and subdivided into 100 cents.
Culture and Arts
Culture and Arts
Tokelauan culture is rich in oral traditions, music, dance, and crafts. Traditional songs (Fatele) and dances are performed at community events and celebrations, preserving the cultural heritage.
Cuisine
Tokelauan cuisine is based on locally available ingredients and includes:
- Fish, coconut, and breadfruit as staple foods
- Traditional dishes like palusami (coconut cream wrapped in taro leaves)
- Seafood dishes, often prepared with fresh fish and coconut milk
National Anthem
The national anthem of Tokelau is “Te Atua,” reflecting the islands’ cultural and religious identity.
Infrastructure and Transportation
Transportation
Transportation in Tokelau is limited due to its remote location. The primary means of travel between atolls and to other countries is by sea, with supply ships connecting Tokelau to Samoa. There are no airports, and local transport on the atolls is typically by foot, bicycle, or boat.
Time Zone
Tokelau operates in the same time zone as Samoa, UTC+13, and does not observe daylight saving time.
Web and Phone Code
Tokelau’s internet country code is “.tk,” and its international dialing code is +690.
Tokelau: Things to See and Do
Tokelau is a place of serene beauty, with a focus on traditional culture and natural landscapes, offering a unique experience for visitors. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Tokelau:
Explore the Atolls
Tokelau’s three atolls offer pristine natural environments and a glimpse into traditional island life.
- Atafu Atoll: Known for its tight-knit community and beautiful lagoon, perfect for swimming and fishing.
- Nukunonu Atoll: Offers a blend of scenic beauty and cultural heritage, with opportunities to visit local churches and villages.
- Fakaofo Atoll: The largest of the three, with vibrant community life and traditional practices.
Enjoy the Beaches
Tokelau has stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters ideal for relaxation and water activities.
- Atafu: The lagoon offers calm waters, ideal for snorkeling and observing marine life.
- Nukunonu: Beautiful sandy beaches perfect for swimming and enjoying the sunset.
Experience Local Culture
Immerse yourself in the traditional Tokelauan way of life by participating in cultural activities.
- Village Tours: Learn about Tokelauan customs, traditional crafts, and daily life through guided tours.
- Traditional Dance: Enjoy performances of Tokelauan dance and music, showcasing the island’s cultural heritage.
Participate in Community Events
Community events are central to life in Tokelau and offer visitors a chance to engage with locals.
- Fatele Performances: Traditional songs and dances performed at celebrations and community gatherings.
- Church Services: Attend a local church service to experience the spiritual life of Tokelauans.
Explore Marine Life
The waters around Tokelau are rich in marine biodiversity, offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and fishing.
- Snorkeling: Discover vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species in the clear waters of the atolls.
- Fishing: Try traditional Tokelauan fishing methods or join local fishermen for a unique experience.
Relax in Tranquility
Tokelau offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
- Beach Relaxation: Enjoy the serene beaches and gentle ocean breezes.
- Nature Walks: Explore the atolls on foot and appreciate the simple beauty of the island landscapes.