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Escape to Norfolk Island

Only a couple of hours flying time but a world away.  With a small population (less than 2,000), subtropical climate and rich history, everything about Norfolk Island makes it such a unique place.

Unspoilt beaches, rocky cliffs, coral reefs, rainforest walks, adventure sports, historical architecture, friendly people, great shopping, over 40 restaurants and eateries – and more...

"Paradise" is how Captain James Cook described Norfolk in his log book when he discovered the uninhabited island in 1774. However, during the convict days Norfolk was not always described in such lustrous terms. Norfolk Island was to become renowned as "a place of the severest punishment short of death". The later arrival of the Pitcairn people, descendants of the Bounty Mutineers, provided a fresh dimension to Norfolk Island.

Visitors to Norfolk today come face-to-face with the island’s past in Kingston, once the main township, where ruins of convict-built structures are plentiful.  The cemetery, with graves of officers, convicts, free settlers and murderers alike show also the Bounty names of Christian, Quintal and Adams.

A new era has begun on Norfolk Island reflecting the growing trend of sustainable tourism growth that does not destroy the delicate balance of nature. There is a wide variety of accommodation offered, ranging from comfortable budget style resorts, motels, guest house style, serviced and non-serviced apartments, cottages and villas, houses and five star luxury to satisfy the most discerning traveler.  Nestled among some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, many properties offer stunning views while others rest in tranquil garden settings.

Norfolk is a unique destination, with many activities that could not be found in any other part of the world.  The range of activities you enjoy whilst on the Island is only limited by the duration of your stay.  From a beautiful breakfast amid the ruins to a marvelous "fish fry" sitting on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean at sunset, Norfolk can offer the visitor a superb holiday.

And don’t forget the shopping - GST free, tax free and duty free with over 70 specialty shops selling a wide variety of goods offered from around the world.  Much of the merchandise is 20-50% less than you would expect to pay in Australia.

Norfolk Island Facts

Currency: Australian dollars

Electricity: 240 volts/3pin plug

Climate: Subtropical enjoying mild climate all year round. Winter temperatures range between 12-18 degrees Celsius, with summer averaging 18-25 degrees.

Passport & Visa: Australian visitors require a valid Australian passport or an Official Document of identity issued by the passport office and available through the post office. For passport holders other than Australian and New Zealand, a valid re-entry visa is required. Please contact Traveldale Holidays or your travel agent for further advice.

Banking: Commonwealth and Westpac banks operate with ATM machines. Credit cards widely accepted.

Postage:
Norfolk Island Philatelic Bureau is famous for its regular issue of unique stamps

Shopping: Tax fee/GST Free/Duty Free shopping is an added attraction. Norfolk Island is known for the variety of international goods imported from around the world. This includes cosmetics, shoes, toys, clothes, cameras and electrical goods.

Departure tax: Norfolk Island Head Tax is included in your air ticket, however there is a departure tax payable at the airport when leaving Norfolk Island.  

Baggage Allowance:
20kg per person

Hire Car:
This is the most practical way to get around and Norfolk Island is one of the cheapest places on the planet to hire a vehicle. There is no public transport system on the island. A current driving license is required.  Drivers must give way to horses and cattle at all times.

Emergency: Norfolk Island has a hospital with dental clinic and pharmacy. Medicare does not apply to visitors to Norfolk Island, therefore international insurance is considered essential.

Approximate Flying Time: International flights operate from Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle, Brisbane and the Gold Coast with interstate connections available. Flying time Sydney to Norfolk Island is 2 hours 15 minutes while Brisbane to Norfolk Island is 1 hour 45 minutes.

Time Difference: One and a half hours ahead of Australian EST, half an hour ahead in summertime. Norfolk Island does not have daylight saving.