Wallis and Futuna has three main islands and 20 islets and covers a total land area of 274km2. Its nearest neighbour is Samoa.
The overseas collectivity is divided into three kingdoms: Uvea (Wallis Island), Sigave (Futuna Island) and Alo (Alofi Island). Wallis and Futuna is largely dependent on France for its income. France finances the public sector, health and education services as well as key development projects in infrastructure, environmental management, health facilities and economic development.
Only 20% of the 12,197 inhabitants is in paid employment, and 70% of employment is in the public sector. Many people from Wallis and Futuna, particularly those aged 18-30, move to New Caledonia for better work prospects.
New Zealand and Wallis and Futuna have limited official contact, but good shipping links between the two countries mean New Zealand exporters have a strong presence in that small market.