Where is Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island is a subtropical island, 1,600 kilometre north-east of Sydney, 1,456 kilometres south-east of Brisbane, 1,100 kilometres north-west of Auckland and 772 kilometres south-east of Noumea. Norfolk Island is a volcanic outcrop 8 kilometres x 5 kilometres, and 3,455 hectares. Two smaller uninhabited islands, Nepean and Phillip, lie to the south at a distance of 1 kilometre and 6 kilometres respectively.

What airline flies there?

Air New Zealand operates direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane. Air Chathams operates flights from Auckland.
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Do I need a passport?

A valid passport is the preferred means of documentation; however, photographic identification such as a driver licence is acceptable for visitors from Australia. Visitors travelling from New Zealand require a passport as identification. Those without an Australian or New Zealand passport may require an Australian Visitor Visa.

What is the weather like?

The climate is subtropical with temperatures in summer ranging from 19° to 28° and during winter 12° to 19°.

When is the best time to visit?

With a pleasant subtropical climate, lots to see and do and a great Calendar of Events, Norfolk Island is a year-round destination. The warmer months are from October through to April.

Are there swimming beaches and what is the average water temp?

The two main beaches are Emily Bay and Slaughter Bay, both protected by a reef and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The water temp does not vary too much during the year, remaining around 19° to 22°.

What clothing do I need to pack?

Clothing is comfortable and casual year round. We recommend warmer clothes for winter and the evenings.

What type of accommodation is there?

There are over 60 accommodation properties to choose from, including hotels, cottages, holiday houses and self-contained apartments.

Do I need a hire car?

With over 120 kilometres of road on the island, a hire car is highly recommended. Roaming livestock has the right of way, and all drivers acknowledge passing vehicles with ‘the Norfolk wave’. Visitors are encouraged to wave also!

Do I need travel insurance?

It is highly recommended that all passengers travelling to Norfolk Island from both Australia and New Zealand obtain adequate travel insurance. Australian Medicare applies to Norfolk Island. Limited medical facilities are available on the island, with any serious illnesses or injuries requiring medivac evacuation.

What food can I take into Norfolk Island? 

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.
For further information visit the Australian Biosecurity website or send them an email.

Will my Australian mobile phone work on Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island operates with Norfolk Telecom’s 3G/4G mobile network - supporting voice, SMS and broadband data. Tourist Mobile Plan SIM cards are available to purchase for $30 and include 2GB data, 25mins local landline calls, 25mins local mobile calls, 5 mins AU & NZ calls, 100 local SMS.

Additionally, public WiFi access areas are available around the island. Norfolk Telecom Hotspot Vouchers are available to purchase prepaid internet using your device's WiFi capabilities. 

Norfolk Telecom does have international roaming agreements with most telecommunications providers; however, this is only available to postpaid customers (not prepaid accounts).

Can I have a hard copy of the destination brochure sent to me by post?

If you live in Australia and would like a copy of the destination brochure please email and we can post to you. Or you can view the brochure online.

What is the population? 

In the 2016 census, there were 1,748 people in Norfolk Island.

What is the highest point?

Mount Bates at 319 metres then Mount Pitt at 318 metres. You can drive to the top of Mount Pitt for a 360° view of the whole island and walk the summit track to Mount Bates.

What is the currency?

Currency used is the Australian dollar. There is a Commonwealth Bank which has the only ATM. Major credit cards are accepted and cash can be withdrawn from Australia Post. 

Where are the markets held?

The farmers markets are held in the Bicentennial Complex, near the Visitor Information Centre from 7.00am to 9.30am every Saturday. The art and craft markets are held in the Bicentennial Complex, near the Visitor Information Centre from 8.30am – 11.00am every Sunday.

Where is the Visitor Information Centre located?

In the Bicentennial Complex, 39A Taylors Road, in the main shopping precinct of Burnt Pine. The VIC is open 7 days a week from 8.30am and the friendly staff are happy to assist with all your holiday enquiries and tour bookings. Drop in to gather information or shop for locally crafted souvenirs. 

What is there to see and do on Norfolk Island? 

There really is ‘more to Norfolk Island’. You can choose from soft adventure activities such as fishing and kayaking to nature options like bushwalking and bird watching. Learn the many layers of our history and culture at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kingston with its Georgian buildings, convict sites and ruins, cemetery and museums. Or just take some time out to relax and enjoy the stunning landscape of the island. Taste the delicious home-grown produce, freshly caught fish, local beef, cheese, honey, wine and much more! There’s even a list of 101 things to do!