WHEN TO TRAVEL TOKELAU

Location

Climate

Seasons: high and low season in Tokelau

Tokelau enjoys a tropical climate, with generally warm temperatures all year round. However, some periods are more suitable for travel than others, depending on weather conditions and tourist numbers.

High season: June to October

High season generally runs from June to OctoberThe summer months, when the weather is drier and sunnier. Temperatures vary between 25 and 30°C, with low humidity, making this the ideal time to enjoy the beaches and discover the archipelago's natural riches. The high season also corresponds to the school vacation period in the southern hemisphere, leading to an increase in visitor numbers and accommodation rates.

Low season: November to May

Tokelau's low season runs from November to MayWith slightly higher temperatures and increased humidity. Showers are more frequent, although generally short and intense. This period is less popular with tourists, resulting in more affordable accommodation rates and fewer visitors to tourist sites.

Major cultural events in Tokelau

In addition to its idyllic landscapes, Tokelau boasts a rich traditional culture, which manifests itself in a variety of events and celebrations throughout the year. Here are just a few of them:

1. Kilikiti: This is the Tokelauan version of cricket, a very popular sport on the archipelago. Friendly competitions are regularly organized between the various villages, giving visitors the opportunity to discover this unique activity.
2. Religious holidays : A large part of the Tokelauan population is Christian, and several religious holidays are celebrated throughout the year, such as Easter and Christmas. These occasions are often marked by masses, songs, dances and community meals.
3. Tokelauan Language Day: Celebrated every year on October 21, this day aims to promote and preserve the local language and culture. It's an opportunity for local people to showcase their heritage through artistic performances, workshops and conferences.

Public holidays and closures in Tokelau

As in every country, there are a number of public holidays in Tokelau that can have an impact on your stay, particularly when it comes to closures of public and private establishments. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main public holidays:

• January 1st : New Year's Day
• March/April : Good Friday and Easter Monday (dates vary)
• April 25 : ANZAC Day (commemoration of Australian and New Zealand soldiers killed in action)
• May 1st : Labour Day
• June 5 : The Queen's birthday
• August 4 : National holiday
• December : Christmas and Boxing Day (December 25 and 26)

It's important to note that most banks, stock exchanges and shops are closed on these days, as are some public services such as post offices and medical centers.

Some tips to help you plan your trip to Tokelau

To make the most of your stay in Tokelau, here are a few recommendations:

• Book in advance : If you're planning a trip in high season, remember to book your accommodation and transport several months in advance, as availability may be limited due to the high tourist numbers.
• Find out about local events: Don't hesitate to ask local people or tourist offices about the festivities and cultural events scheduled during your stay. This will give you a better understanding of the local culture and enable you to adapt your schedule accordingly.
• Bring suitable clothing: Given the tropical climate, it's advisable to pack light clothing, but also rain protection (umbrella, raincoat) in case of sudden showers. And don't forget to protect your skin from the sun with covering clothing and sunscreen.

With this information in mind, you can choose the best time to visit Tokelau and take full advantage of everything this archipelago has to offer!

Most popular visas in Tokelau

There are several types of visa available for entering and staying in Tokelau. Here are the most popular visas for foreigners:

• Visitor visa : This is a temporary visa for people wishing to visit Tokelau for tourism or family reasons, or to take part in cultural or sporting events.
• Work visa This visa is intended for people wishing to work in Tokelau for a specified period. It is generally granted on the basis of the job offer submitted by the local employer.
• Student visa Foreign students wishing to study in Tokelau can apply for this visa. It is issued according to the duration of the chosen study program.
• Residence visa This visa allows foreigners to settle and live in Tokelau on a permanent basis. It is granted on the basis of criteria such as professional skills, investment or family reunification.

Tokelau immigration statistics

The number of foreigners wishing to settle in Tokelau has increased in recent years. Here are a few key figures to help you understand the evolution of immigration in this territory:

Number of visas issued

In 2019, nearly 250 screws were issued by the Tokelau authorities, an increase of 10% on the previous year. Of these, some 60% were visitor visas, 25% work visas, 10% student visas and 5% residence visas.

Main nationalities represented

Nationals of the following countries are the most likely to apply for a visa for Tokelau:

1. Australia
2. Fiji
3. United Kingdom
4. UNITED STATES
5. Samoas

These nationalities represent around 80% of all visa applications for Tokelau.

Residence permits and expulsions

In 2019, nearly 200 residence permits were issued to foreign nationals living in Tokelau, mainly in the form of resident cards or work permits. At the same time, around 20 removals were carried out that year, a slight decrease on previous years.

International tourism in Tokelau

Tokelau is becoming increasingly popular as a tourist destination, thanks in particular to its heavenly beaches and unspoilt environment. Here are some key figures on international tourism in this territory:

Number of international visitors

In 2019, Tokelau welcomed around 1,500 international visitorsThis represents an increase of 5% over the previous year. The majority of these visitors came from Australia and New Zealand, closely followed by American and European nationals.

Average length of stay

The average length of stay for international visitors to Tokelau is around 7 days. Tourists generally stay in local accommodation such as guesthouses or small hotels.

Main tourist activities

Tokelau's most popular attractions include:

• The discovery of traditional villages and local culture
• The practice of water sports activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling or fishing
• Participation in local festivals and other cultural celebrations
• Exploring the flora and fauna exceptional territory