New Zealand's last colony remains
A mere 16 votes have kept the three tiny atolls of Tokelau a colony of New Zealand, after a five-day referendum – the second time in 15 months the South Pacific territory has failed to agree to decolonise.
The islanders already effectively govern themselves, with the islands’ Wellington-based administrator content to let the village elders run them along traditional lines. However, as a separate state, Tokelau would have opened itself up to international aid, rather than having to rely on funds provided by New Zealand. Wellington has promised to continue providing aid to the islands’ 1,447 citizens to the tune of around NZ$6,000 (£2,200) per head.
Like Tuvalu to the west, Tokelau, which is less than five metres above sea level at its highest point, is increasingly threatened by rising sea levels. Further rises could force the remaining islanders to join the estimated 6,000 Tokelauns already living in New Zealand.
Sam Chambers
January 2008
The islanders already effectively govern themselves, with the islands’ Wellington-based administrator content to let the village elders run them along traditional lines. However, as a separate state, Tokelau would have opened itself up to international aid, rather than having to rely on funds provided by New Zealand. Wellington has promised to continue providing aid to the islands’ 1,447 citizens to the tune of around NZ$6,000 (£2,200) per head.
Like Tuvalu to the west, Tokelau, which is less than five metres above sea level at its highest point, is increasingly threatened by rising sea levels. Further rises could force the remaining islanders to join the estimated 6,000 Tokelauns already living in New Zealand.
Sam Chambers
January 2008
2. Bangkok's ghost towers 3. UK population to exceed 100 million 4. Wild west a dusty place 5. NEW! Free Geographical wallpapers | |
 FREE DIGITAL ISSUE |
|