Norfolk Island
Watwaweih! Norfolk Island packs a lot of history into an exciting holiday. This castaway island moored in the South Pacific and ringed by reefs truly plays host as one of the world's last great escapes.
Your time on this remarkable island just two hours flight from Sydney and Brisbane will be filled with special moments and the genuine warmth of people who want to share their fantastic home with you. You will experience a surprising culture, enjoy balmy sub-tropical weather and shop ‘til you drop - Duty Free and GST Free. More than 70 stores offer prices up to 50% less than you would find in Australia. Thanks to the sensitive revitalisation of its historic heritage and the careful preservation of its pristine environment, every nook and cranny of Norfolk reveals a surprising story. Discovered by Captain Cook, Norfolk was the only one of the hundreds of islands he charted including Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawaii that he called "paradise".  Captain Cook was not one to exaggerate. Even the first arrivals, a party of convicts in 1788, thought it was paradise, although for them it soon became "hell in paradise". In the context of their experiences, they formed a different view of the term escape!
Historic Kingston's legacy is a fascinating glimpse of a colonial past through the plentiful ruins of convict-built structures, superbly preserved Georgian buildings, and a cemetery that is the final resting place of officers, convicts, free settlers and murderers alike. Nearly a century later, a second remarkable group arrived on Norfolk Island, the descendents of the Bounty Mutineers and their Tahitian wives who migrated here from Pitcairn Island. Names such as Christian, Quintal and Adams are still among the most common of Norfolk Island's 2000 people. Today Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia, yet it boasts its own nine-member government, own customs and immigration laws, own stamps, phone cards and even has its own Commonwealth and South Pacific Games teams. We look forward to sharing this oasis of tranquillity - its history, towering pine trees, lush shady forests, palm groves, rugged cliffs, safe quiet beaches, and the cuisine and genuine hospitality of the islanders - with you! Norfolk Island Fast FactsClimate: Balmy and subtropical, summers average 24°C with sunny winter days around 20°C. Clothing: Dress is casual by day and smart casual by night. We recommend you include a warm sweater or jacket, walking shoes and a torch for evening walks (Norfolk Island has only 4 street lights). Time Zone: Norfolk Island is 1½ hours ahead of Australian EST (½ hour in summer). Currency: The Australian dollar is the basic unit of currency. Languages: Australian English and a unique "Norfolk" language, a mixture of Tahitian and 18th century English spoken amongst the descendents of the Bounty Mutineers. A time honoured friendly acknowledgement of other drivers typifies the Norfolk Islanders. Electricity: 240 volts - same plug as Australia. Tax: Currently exempt from Australian Departure Tax and GST. A Norfolk Island Departure Fee of $30 per adult (16 years or older) must be paid at the Visitor Information Centre or the airport on departure. Shopping really is tax free with prices generally lower than mainland duty free - alcohol and cigarettes are approximately 20 - 50% cheaper than the mainland. Passport: All visitors must have a valid passport and a return airline ticket. Health and vaccinations: Vaccinations are not necessary. The Norfolk Island Hospital offers 24 hour emergency service. Travel insurance is essential as Norfolk Island is not covered by Australian Medicare.
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