7 Dec 2017

NZ commits funding for Tokelau cable link

3:02 pm on 7 December 2017

New Zealand is committing an extra $US15.1 million to Tokelau for a new undersea internet cable.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced the funding yesterday, which follows a $US10.8 million paycheck for "ship-to-shore" infrastructure signed off in November.

Mr Peters said both projects were critical to improving opportunities for Tokelau.

He said sea journeys from Samoa to Tokelau were dangerous and slow without proper safety measures in place.

Tokelau made a bid for air services last year with the purchase of two helicopters, which are currently being sold off after New Zealand's rejection of the project.

Tokelau's Faipule, or leaders, met in Wellington this week with Mr Peters, Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito Su'a William Sio and Administrator to Tokelau Jonathan Kings.

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