It has been revealed New Zealand is to provide a purpose built ship for Tokelau, nearly seven years after it began looking at options to replace the current vessel.
Presently it can take up to two days to reach the three New Zealand atolls from Samoa in the south.
The vessel will be used to carry people and freight.
TVNZ reports the announcement on the ship purchase has been made by the Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae who has been making his first formal visit to the atolls.
