Norfolk Island is a small island territory located in the Pacific Ocean, between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia. It has a total area of 36.5 square kilometers and a population of approximately 1,750 people. The island's capital and largest town is Kingston.
The island was first settled by Polynesian seafarers, who called it "Nukunonu," and then by British convicts in the 19th century, who used it as a penal colony. It was later resettled by descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers, who arrived on the island in 1856.
Norfolk Island has a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The island's economy is largely based on tourism, agriculture, and fishing. The island has no major natural resources, and most of its food and other goods are imported.
The island is known for its natural beauty, with stunning coastal scenery and unique flora and fauna. There are many hiking trails and outdoor activities available, including fishing, snorkeling, and surfing. The island's historic sites, including Kingston and the Norfolk Island National Park, are also popular tourist attractions.
Norfolk Island is a self-governing territory of Australia, with its own legislature and government. The island has a unique political status, and its residents have been granted Australian citizenship since 2016. The official languages of Norfolk Island are English and Norfolk Island language, a mixture of English and Polynesian languages.
Telephone Code
672
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 911; Fire: 955; Police: 977
Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations
Climate
Subtropical; mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Currency (Code)
Australian dollars (AUD)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): I
Major Languages
English, Norfolk, Fijian
Major Religions
Protestant 46.8%, Roman Catholic 12.6%, other Christian 2.9%
Potable Water
Yes, but some opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
Emily Bay; Norfolk Island Cemetery; St Barnabas Chapel; Kingston Pier; Kingston & Arthur's Vale Historic Area; Fletcher's Mutiny Cyclorama; Pitcairn Settlers Village
Major Sports
Soccer
Cultural Practices
Most shops close on Wednesday, Saturday afternoons, and all day Sunday.
Tipping Guidelines
Tip restaurant staff between 10-15% of the bill if the service is good. Tip taxi drivers around 10%. Bellhops usually received about $2 (USD) per bag.
Souvenirs
Hand-woven cloth items, woven baskets, carved statues, landscape art
Traditional Cuisine
Pilhi — sliced bananas or kumeras (sweet potatoes), salt, and flour spread in a baking dish and baked until golden