Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Final round of voting in Tokelau referendum on nationhood

Posted at 21:24 on 15 February, 2006 UTC

The last round of voting is under way in the referendum which is asking the people of Tokelau whether they want to become an independent state.

Counting of the votes is to take place after the vote on Fakaofo atoll, and a result is set to be known tonight.

Sara Vui-Talitu reports live from Fakaofo:

“There are about 200 voters registered to vote here on Fakaofo atoll, so far there’s been 100 per cent turnout for voting, and it’s hoped to be the same here. There’s a lot of anticipation as to the result of the referendum, and the counting of all votes will begin when voting closes officially at 5pm. The UN is also closely monitoring the process. Tokelau will need a two-thirds majority of registered voters if it’s to exercise self-determination in free association with New Zealand. In Fakaofo for Radio New Zealand International, I’m Sara Vui-Talitu.”