This is the recently launched Norfolk Island brand.

It is very appropriate as it encapsulates the Norfolk Island experience.  From the moment you step off the plane, you will feel like you have come to another world.  The clock has slowed down, maybe you have stepped back in time. You drive out on to the slightly beaten Norfolk Island roads and random people wave to you. The cows may be leisurely picking at the green grass on the roadside or standing on the road without a care in the world.

You visit some of the stunning scenic spots - so pristine, so naturally beautiful and unspoilt by man, so peaceful. You will find yourself oblivious to the pressures, problems and stresses that you left back home.  And the more you delve into the Norfolk Island history and culture you will realize that this is a truly unique place in a world of its own.

Norfolk Island is a self-governing territory under Australia, and is a bit over two hours flying time from Brisbane, two and a half hours flying time from Sydney, and just over one hour and a half from Auckland.

For the Australian and New Zealand traveller, Norfolk Island is an opportunity to enjoy an overseas experience without travelling far from home.  For those coming from further afield, you will discover the best that this part of the world has to offer, in a unique and special location!

There is evidence of early Polynesian settlement and visits to Norfolk, but the first occupants on a more permanent basis were the convicts, officials and free settlers of the two penal settlements that were established here between 1788 and 1856. 

In 1856, Queen Victoria offered the island to the Pitcairn descendants of the Mutiny on the Bounty, as Pitcairn was becoming too small.  Although some returned to Pitcairn, most remained to make Norfolk Island their home, and carry on their special traditions and way of life here.  These descendants still make up a large part of the population, and are proud to have visitors visit and see for themselves how special and beautiful this island is.

We may seem to be remote and isolated, but you will be surprised to find that we enjoy most modern facilities and conveniences here.  On the other hand, we are pleased to say we have avoided the fast pace, the high rises and the crowded development of most modern holiday destinations, and both visitors and locals enjoy a more peaceful and laid back way of life, surrounded by natural beauty.

We use Australian currency, and the time difference from Australia and New Zealand is half an hour or one and a half hours, depending on Daylight Saving in those countries. 

We have excellent phone and internet communications with the rest of the world, but like to think that Norfolk Island is still a place where you can 'get away from it all'.

The climate here is best described as 'equable' and mild, although we do have a winter (frost-free) and a summer (rarely above 26 degrees).  The most striking feature of our landscape is our majestic Norolk pines, but we have a great deal of rainforest vegetation, and colourful plants you normally associate with the Tropics.

Norfolk Island is a place where you can still see the stars at night, and our sunrises and sunsets over the sea are magnificent!!

Our island is 8 miles by 3, and although there is much to explore and enjoy on foot or on a tour bus, it is large and hilly enough for most people to need a car to be able to see all it has to offer.  Most of Norfolk is surrounded by cliff, but on the south side, where the penal settlement buildings are located, there are beaches and coral lagoons.

Great shopping has long been a feature of Norfolk Island, and our goods, imported from all over the world, are duty free, although a local GST applies.  Jewellery, perfumes, toys, fine china and shoes are popular buys on this island.

The permanent population of Norfolk Island is a little under 2000, a number that is swelled at any one time by visitor numbers.  Tourism is our main industry, and because it is so important to us, we set high standards with our service and facilities, seeking to offer you the best of what we can offer here, so that your holiday experience on Norfolk Island is a positive and enjoyable one.

Q.  Do I need travel insurance?

A.  Yes. Travel Insurance is highly recommended.  Although Norfolk is small and safe, a medical emergency or an accident could be very costly and may not be covered by Australia or NZ or your existing insurances.  It will also be extra peace of mind should there be delays with the planes.

Q.  Why do the cows stand around in the middle of the roads?

A.  Because they have right of way on the roads at all times and they know it. If you hit and injure a cow on the roads you could be liable for a fine of up to $200.00. Another reason for travel insurance. 

Q.  If Norfolk is such a small place, surely I don't need a car.  We're youngish and fit, we will just walk everywhere.

A.  Luckily here at Fletcher Christian the shopping, cafes, clubs and visitor facilities are all within walking distance. However to make the most of Norfolk's spectacular scenery and to get to all the idyllic spots easily, no matter how young and fit you think you are, a car is adviseable! Norfolk Island has over 140km of roads,  most of the coastline is rugged and the terrain is far from flat.   If you don't drive there are plenty of touring companies and other options to get you out and about the island.

Q.  I saw a huge spider outside. Is it dangerous?

A.  No. Norfolk does not have any dangerous spiders, nor does it have any snakes. The spider you saw would be helping keep insects under control. 

Q.  Can I use my mobile phone on Norfolk.

A. No. Not at this stage, you will not be able to use roaming on Norfolk Island. Norfolk does has it own little mobile network, and if you feel you need a mobile phone over here you can purchase a Norfolk Island SIM card and use it in your network unlocked phone. Alternatively you can hire a mobile while you are here.

Q.  Is there much unemployment on the Island?

A.  No. Norfolk has virtually 0% unemployment.  Norfolk Island mostly runs its own financial affairs, and while there are some local taxes, Norfolk does not pay Australian taxes, nor does it receive the Australian social welfare benefits.

Q.  Is there much crime on the Island?

A.  No. The crime rate on Norfolk Island is extremely low. Our older visitors often say they feel very safe here.

Q.  Are there more stars in the sky over here on Nofolk Island?

A.  No. There are the same number of stars in the sky as your country. However since our air is so clear, fresh and unpolluted, you can usually see them better and more of them.

Q.  How much liquor can I take back?

A.  If you present your airline ticket at the Norfolk Island Liquor Bond Store, you are entitled to a huge 30% off the already cheap price of most of the spirits and liquers up to 3L per person.  The Australian Duty Free Allowance for taking liquor back is 2.25L of spirits, beer or wine per person over 18.  The New Zealand Duty Free Allowance is 1.125L of spirits or 4.5L of beer, wine or sherry per person over 18. You can pool your duty free concessions if you are a family travelling together.

Q. What is the time difference?

A. Norfolk is normally half an hour behind New Zealand. When New Zealand is on daylight savings, Norfolk is one and a half hours behind.   Norfolk is 1.5 hours ahead of NSW and QLD, however when NSW is on daylight savings, it is half an hour ahead. Norfolk Island does not have daylight savings.

Q.  I will be coming over from New Zealand.  Will it be easy to exchange my money?

A.  Norfolk Island uses Australian currency. It is serviced by two Australian banks who are open during normal business hours and can do currency exchange.  Most retailers and business outlets will accept Visa or Mastercard. There are also two ATM machines which will allow you to draw cash from your NZ Eftpos card and do cash advances from your credit card if you have a PIN number.