Planning a trip to Norfolk Island or just curious about this stunning destination? Our FAQ section has everything you need to know. From travel tips and local attractions to accommodation and activities, we’ve got you covered. Browse through the most commonly asked questions to make the most of your island experience.
1,600kms east from Byron Bay – an 8x5km island in the South Pacific Ocean.
Located about two hours’ flight from Brisbane and 2.5 hours from Sydney, it feels wonderfully remote without being hard to reach.
You can fly direct to Norfolk Island with Qantas from Brisbane or Sydney, departing from the international terminal even though it’s considered a domestic route. If you’re connecting from another Australian city, be sure to allow at least two hours to transfer between terminals.
No, you don’t need a passport to travel to Norfolk Island from Australia. A valid form of government-issued photo ID is accepted, though a passport is preferred. Children can travel using a valid Medicare card.
Visa requirements for Norfolk Island are the same as for Australia. No Visa is required when travelling from Australia. If you are travelling directly to Norfolk Island from overseas, you will require a visa. This also applies to cruise ship passengers.
Currency here is the Australian dollar. While major credit cards are often accepted, there is a Commonwealth Bank with the only ATM.
It’s strongly recommended that all travellers to Norfolk Island from Australia or New Zealand take out comprehensive travel insurance. This should cover amendment or cancellation costs, additional expenses, luggage loss, rental car excess, travel delays, special events, loss of income, disability, accidental death, and personal liability. While Australian Medicare does apply on Norfolk Island, medical facilities are limited, and serious illness or injury may require medical evacuation.
Norfolk Island has a mild subtropical climate, making it comfortable year-round. Summer temperatures range from 19° to 28°C, while winter stays cooler but pleasant, between 12° and 19°C.
With its pleasant subtropical climate, diverse experiences and a vibrant calendar of events, Norfolk Island is a year-round destination. The warmer months run from October to April, offering long days and plenty of sunshine.
Yes, there are swimming beaches on Norfolk Island – Emily Bay and Slaughter Bay are the two main spots. Both are protected by a reef, making them ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The water temperature stays fairly consistent year-round, averaging between 19° and 22°C. Be sure to bring your own snorkelling gear.
Comfortable, casual clothing is suitable year-round on Norfolk Island. We recommend bringing some warmer layers for winter and cooler evenings.
With more than 120 kilometres of road to explore, hiring a car is highly recommended on Norfolk Island. Keep in mind that livestock has right of way – and don’t forget to return the friendly ‘Norfolk wave’ to passing drivers!
The Visitor Information Centre hires out snorkelling sets (including fins), push bikes, and e-bikes. E-mopeds are also available (a motorcycle licence is required). Contact the centre directly to enquire or book.
Visitors can bring commercially cooked and packaged, unopened grocery items, but all food items must comply to the strict Bio Security laws and must be declared on arrival. Vegetables, fruit, plants and seeds are prohibited imports to keep the island free of introduced disease. Pork and poultry from New Zealand is strictly prohibited. Please be assured our grocers, butchers, farmers, bakers, Chefs and Cooks are amazing, but occasionally grocery stocks maybe in short supply. For further information visit the Australian Biosecurity website or send them an email.
Yes. You may purchase wine and beer at Duty Free shops in the international terminal and carry them on board. Alternatively, the Norfolk Island Liquor Bond on Taylors Road offers a wide selection and is open 7 days a week.
Yes, Norfolk Island’s tap water is safe to drink – it’s fresh rainwater. During drier periods, we kindly ask all visitors to use water thoughtfully.
Australian phones won’t roam automatically on Norfolk Island. You can purchase a $35 Tourist Mobile SIM from Customer Care (Bicentennial Complex) or the Visitor Information Centre. Free Wi-Fi is available at the Public Library, some restaurants, and clubs. Wi-Fi calls can be made when connected to the internet.
Drones are welcome, but must adhere to specific regulations and permissions, especially within the National Park, near the airport, and over private property. Permits are required for some areas including KAVHA and Norfolk Island National Park and Botanic Garden. Please contact the Airport Manager for using a Drone on Norfolk Island.
For National Parks: Contact Norfolk Island National Park Office.
For KAVHA & Heritage Sites: Contact the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Communications.
For Airport Zone Approval: Contact Norfolk Island Airport Management and CASA.
English is the main language, but you’ll also hear “Norf’k Laengwij” a blend of 18th-century English and Tahitian. Pick up a “Useful Phrases” guide from the Visitor Information Centre to give it a go!
According to the 2021 Census, Norfolk Island has a population of 2,188 people.
Mount Bates is the highest point at 319 metres, followed closely by Mount Pitt at 318 metres. Drive to Mount Pitt for sweeping 360° views and enjoy the summit walk to Mount Bates.
Yes. Daylight Saving Time starts on the first Sunday in October and ends on the first Sunday in April.
You’ll find the Visitor Information Centre in the Bicentennial Complex on Taylors Road in Burnt Pine. It’s open daily from 9:00 am, with friendly staff ready to assist with travel enquiries, bookings, and locally made gifts.
Funerals are significant community events on the island, and we ask visitors to join us in showing quiet respect. You may notice flags at half-mast, floral wreaths by the roadside, or flower-adorned cemetery gates. If you see a funeral procession, please pull your vehicle over to the side of the road, and avoid visiting the Kingston Cemetery during the service. Read more about funerals on Norfolk Island here.
No, duty-free and tax-free shopping is no longer available on Norfolk Island. All purchases are subject to the same taxes and pricing structures as mainland Australia.
For accessible accommodation, tours and activities, please contact the Visitor Information Centre. The team will be happy to help you plan a comfortable stay.
