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Flag of Tokelau Design

The flag of Tokelau features a dark blue field symbolizing the Pacific Ocean, with a golden stylized Polynesian canoe (vaka) sailing towards four white stars. The canoe represents Tokelau’s cultural heritage, seafaring traditions, and forward movement towards a hopeful future. The four stars are arranged in the shape of the Southern Cross constellation, a prominent feature in the night sky over Tokelau, and symbolize the four atolls of Tokelau: Atafu, Nukunonu, Fakaofo, and Swains Island. The proportion of the flag is 1:2, reflecting traditional flag dimensions. The current design of the Tokelau flag was adopted on May 7, 2009.

Exact Colors and Color Codes of the Flag

  • Dark Blue (Field): #002B7F
  • Gold (Canoe): #FFCC00
  • White (Stars): #FFFFFF

Emojis

  • Tokelau Flag Emoji: 🇹🇰
  • (select, copy, and paste)
  • Tokelau Emojis: 🇹🇰, 🌊, 🚤, ✨
  • (select, copy, and paste)

Meaning of the Tokelau Flag

  • Dark Blue Field: Represents the vast Pacific Ocean surrounding Tokelau’s islands.
  • Golden Canoe (Vaka): Symbolizes Tokelau’s Polynesian culture, heritage, and the importance of navigation and seafaring in its history.
  • Four White Stars: Represent the four atolls of Tokelau and the guiding Southern Cross constellation, symbolizing unity and the islanders’ connection to the ocean and sky.

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.