Estimate population 1,500
Tokelau consists of three atolls known as Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo. These amazing islands cover less than 12 km2 in land area. The first recorded European visitor to the the group of islands was Commodore Byron of the Royal Navy, in 1765. Tokelau became a British Protectorate in 1877 and it was known then as the Union Islands. Tokelau is now dependent on and managed by the New Zealand Government. Over population within the tiny land area has caused emigration of some people to the New Zealand mainland.