At a Glance
Norfolk Island is an island in the South Pacific Ocean. It is 1600km east of Sydney Australia and 1000km northwest of Auckland. This external territory of Australia is home to the descendants of the Bounty mutineers whose barefoot manners, warmth and hospitality have been woven into the island’s unique and timeless rhythm. You can snorkel in the lagoons, hike amongst the world’s tallest tree ferns to find the world’s rarest bird, taste Norfolk’s own cuisine, beer, coffee and wine, explore the old convict settlement, play golf on one of the world’s greenest and most beautiful courses, go bush-bashing in a jeep and see vivid recreations of Norfolk’s time.
Entry Requirements
All visitors require an Australian passport or Australian Document of Identity valid for longer that their period of intended stay plus onward/return airline ticket and proof of accommodation. Australians can obtain a Document of Identity from Australia Post, free of charge. Passports from countries outside Australia/New Zealand must be valid for at least 1 month beyond intended stay. An Australian visa is required unless holding an Australia/New Zealand passport or Norfolk Island Permanent Resident visa label. Australian visa must be valid for 30 days beyond the period of intended stay.
Currency
The unit of exchange is the Australian dollar. The Commonwealth Bank and Westpac have branches at Burnt Pine. The Commonwealth Bank has an ATM. Travellers cheques and most credit cards are widely accepted.
Shop Hours
Usual shopping hours are 9 am - 5 pm. Some shops are closed all day Sundays, and on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. Supermarkets opens 7 days: Foodland Supermarket closes at 6pm, Marks Bakery closes at 8pm and Paw Paws mini mart closes at 9pm. The island markets are held every Sunday morning and offers local souvenirs, and seasonal fruit and vegetables.
Public Health
The World Health Organisation provides information for travellers and also provides useful tips for travelling with medicines and staying healthy while travelling overseas. We also recommend visiting the Commonwealth Government website: www.smartraveller.gov.au.
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive insurance cover that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.
Dress
Comfortable and casual day and night. It's wise to pack a sweater and light nylon jacket, strong shoes for walking and a torch for night outings.
Weather
Subtropical. Average rainfall 1328mm per year. Lovely summer days from 24 degrees but not exceeding 28.4 degrees, nights 19-21 degrees. Idyllic days mid-winter, with temperatures ranging from 12 at night to 19-21 degrees during the day.
Driving
The general speed limit is 50km/hour, reduced to 40km/hour in the shopping centre. All livestock roaming the roads have the right of way. Driving is on the left hand side of the road and locals wave to all passing vehicles. This is called the "Norfolk wave" Visitors are encouraged to do the same.
Medical
The Norfolk Island hospital provides a dental clinic, pharmacy and 24 hour emergency service. Private travel insurance is highly recommended, as Australian Medicare does not extend to Norfolk Island.
Essential Items to Pack
- Small sunblock
- Small umbrella (one that will fit in your suitcase)
- Raincoat
- Hand sanitizer (about 50 or 100 ml)
- Anti-bacterial wipes – useful at all times
- Sun hat
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Small torch




