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What changes did the Tokelau Islands Act of 1948 make?

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Map showing the three main atolls of Tokelau-Atafu, Nukunonu, and Fakaofo-located in the Pacific Ocean north of Samoa. Insets provide detailed views of each atoll, highlighting village locations, reefs, and islets. A small locator map in the top right shows Tokelau's position relative to New Zealand and the Pacific region.
Tokelau

The Tokelau Islands Act of 1948 formally incorporated the Tokelau group into New Zealand as a territory.1

While the act established the legal framework for this administration, it has been amended several times since its inception to reflect the evolving governance of the islands. Under this arrangement, Tokelauans hold New Zealand citizenship. Although the act initially placed the territory under New Zealand's jurisdiction, subsequent developments have seen significant authority transferred to local institutions, such as the General Fono and the Tokelau Council for Ongoing Government, allowing for increased self-governance while maintaining the constitutional link to New Zealand.1