Set within the Kingston UNESCO World Heritage Site, this handsome Georgian mansion is the official residence of the Administrator of Norfolk Island. Having been around since 1829, Government House is steeped in history and still has many antique furnishings and period features.
Government House is accessible to the public only on select open days. On these days you can tour the formal reception rooms, where our official ceremonies and community functions are often held.
If you miss out on the rare opportunity to step inside, it’s still worth a visit to admire this stately building from afar. Surrounded by rolling hills covered in iconic Norfolk pines, the house makes for a picturesque photo opportunity. After you’ve taken a few artistic architectural shots, go for a stroll through the rest of Kingston to learn more about our fascinating history.
Visitor Information
Operating Hours: Open only on select days
Cost: $15 (open days only)
Getting Here: Located in Kingston, off Quality Row. A 5-10 minute drive from Burnt Pine.
Top tips for Government House
Ask the friendly staff at the Norfolk Island Visitor Information Centre about when the next Government House open day is scheduled.
You will have to pay a fee to enter on open days, but it’s a payment you can feel good about, with proceeds going to local charities.
The grounds of Government House back onto Norfolk Island Golf Club, where golf lovers have the rare opportunity to tee up within a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
More attractions at Kingston UNESCO World Heritage Site
Don’t let the gory legend of Bloody Bridge deter you; visit this historic landmark to admire the stonework and hard labour of the convicts who built it.
Visit the Commissariat to learn about Norfolk’s convict past. This historic building once held food supplies for the convicts and jailers on Norfolk Island.
Formerly the Surgeons Quarters, today this resilient little building houses a fascinating collection of photographs which bring the history of our island to life.
Visit Kingston Pier, which was a vital entry point for Norfolk’s settlers and still welcomes supply ships and fishing boats as it has done for two centuries.
Bring your camera along to capture this solitary tree that survived the mass felling of Norfolk pines and stood sentry over the island’s turbulent history.
Turn back to Norfolk Island’s convict chapter at No. 10 Quality Row, now a museum. Learn about the home’s inhabitants as you wander through the restored interior.
Our fascinating history takes on a new dimension at the Norfolk Island Cemetery. Read the grave stones marking two centuries of life on this South Pacific island.
The Old Military Barracks have served many purposes over the years. Visit the Kingston UNESCO World Heritage Site to find out what important roles it has played.
Wander the stone ruins of Crankmill, another one of Norfolk’s sites with a dark past. Book your holiday now to discover our island’s intriguing history!
