Tokelau Power Plugs, Wall Sockets & Electrical Outlets
In Tokelau, power plugs and sockets (electrical outlets) of Type I (AS/NZS 3112, two angled flat pins plus vertical grounding pin, grounded) are used. Wall sockets run at 230V and 50Hz. Check if you need a travel adapter, electrical adapter or voltage converter before travelling to Tokelau.
Check Adapter Compatibility
Do you need an adapter for your trip?
Tokelau uses:
Electrical Standards in Tokelau: Voltage, Frequency & Plug Type
Tokelau power plug and outlet standards follow the Australasian system, running on 230V at 50Hz. This matches the electrical setup used across much of the Pacific and Australasia, meaning travelers arriving from Australia or New Zealand won't need any special equipment. Anyone bringing devices designed for 100-120V regions, however, should check compatibility before plugging in, since Tokelau's electrical outlet configuration and voltage differ from those systems.
Dual-Voltage Devices and Tokelau
Most modern electronics, such as phone chargers, laptop power supplies, and camera battery chargers, are dual-voltage and built to accept anywhere from 100V to 240V at 50 or 60Hz. For these devices, only a plug adapter is needed to physically fit the wall socket, not a voltage converter. Always check the fine print on your charger's plug top or power brick, as it will list the accepted voltage range and confirm whether your device is compatible with Tokelau's 230V, 50Hz supply.
What Plug Type Does Tokelau Use?
Tokelau uses the Type I plug, the Australasian standard defined by AS/NZS 3112. This plug features two flat pins angled at 30 degrees plus a vertical grounding pin, and it's rated for 10A at 220-240V. The angled pin arrangement not only maintains correct polarity but also creates a firm, secure connection with the electrical outlet, reducing the chance of accidental disconnection during use.
This design is shared with Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Argentina, and, alongside Type A, parts of China. Some two-pin ungrounded versions of the Type I plug also exist for double-insulated appliances that don't require an earth connection. Because dimensions can vary slightly between countries that use this standard, it's worth confirming your plug top fits snugly before relying on it.
Where to Buy a Travel Adapter for Tokelau
Travel adapters for Type I plugs are widely available at airport electronics kiosks, luggage and travel stores, and major online retailers. Look for adapters specifically labeled for Australia, New Zealand, or the Pacific Islands, as these are built to the same AS/NZS 3112 specifications used in Tokelau. It's a good idea to buy your adapter before departure, since availability on remote Pacific islands can be limited.
- Airport travel shops and duty-free stores
- Luggage and travel accessory retailers
- Online marketplaces (search for 'Australia/New Zealand travel adapter')
- Electronics stores in your departure country
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, unless your home country already uses Type I plugs like Australia or New Zealand. Tokelau uses the Type I plug standard, so travelers from regions with different plug shapes will need an adapter to fit the local wall socket.
In most cases, yes. Phone chargers are typically dual-voltage and can handle Tokelau's 230V, 50Hz supply without a converter, so you'll only need a Type I plug adapter to make the physical connection.
Tokelau operates on 230 volts at a frequency of 50Hz, consistent with the Australasian electrical standard.
Yes, Tokelau's Type I outlets are grounded, featuring a vertical grounding pin alongside the two angled flat pins. This provides reliable earthing for household appliances, electronics, and other equipment rated for the 10A, 220-240V system.
