Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island 2899 (Pop 1 900)

Norfolk Island is located in the South Pacific Ocean 1 100 km n-w of Auckland, 1 600 km n-e of Sydney, 900 km n-e of Lord Howe Island and has an area of 3 455 ha (8 km x 5 km). Together with two neighbouring islands, it forms one of Australia’s external territories. Following early Polynesian habitation (600 years ago), European ‘discovery’ took place in 1774 by Capt James Cook. It served as a harsh penal colony until 1855 after which it was settled by Pitcairn Islanders (descendants of the mutineers of the Bounty). Kingston is the ceremonial capital and Burnt Pine the largest settlement. This sub tropical island is home to the world famous Norfolk Island Pine (represented on the flag). English and Norfuk are both spoken here. Tourism is a major part of the economy together with exports of Norfolk Island Pine and Kentia Palm seeds as well as stamps. Foundation Day (Mar), Bounty Day (June) celebrates the arrival of the Pitcairn Islanders (1856) and Show Day (Oct).

Tourist Attractions & Info: 
Mt Bates (n-w) is the highest point of Norfolk (319 m) which is surrounded by the Norfolk Island NP which covers 10% of the island. Emily Bay (south) is a secluded swimming beach. Ball Bay (s-e) surfing.

Nearby:
Phillip and Nepean Islands (7 km south) included in the Norfolk Island NP that forms part of the territory island group and both are uninhabited.

Visitor Information Centre: www.discovernorfolkisland.com

Airport:

Norfolk Island International Airport (NLK). Tel (672) 322 445.

Hospital:

Norfolk Island Hospital, Grassy Rd. Tel 22091.