Map of Norfolk Island | Norfolk Island Flag Facts | Places to visit in Norfolk Island
Are you one of those travellers who loves going to new unique places? Discovering what the world has to offer and places that are not on social media all the time or mainstream media? Well, look nowhere because we have just the right place for you to make it your next travel destination. An island that is not always on the news, Norfolk. A peaceful getaway for your worries to wash away in the beautiful clear water beaches that this place has to offer.
Map of Norfolk Island
Is Norfolk Island a country?
Norfolk Island is often mistaken for a country since all the other places in Oceania are mostly countries now. Most of the countries in Oceania were previously colonized by Europeans but after the world war, several treaties were signed that allowed other countries of the world to offer help to the badly affected Oceanic countries.
Norfolk Island is an Australian territory. It was initially colonized by the British but later in 1914, the United Kingdom handed over Norfolk Island to Australia to treat it as an external territory and now Norfolk is one of the oldest communities to be a part of Australia.
Is Norfolk Island duty free?
The most exciting part other than the experience of a new country is shopping! But paying duties on your items can bring all the joy down to zero. Just like other Australian territories, Norfolk Island also offers duty-free shopping.
A lot of other shops on the island also offer duty-free services that require you to show your air ticket to the seller. On top of this all, there is no GST charged on Norfolk Island! So, spend away and have the best time of your lives.
How many islands is Norfolk Island?
The territory of Norfolk Island is located towards the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is one of the many volcanic islands of Oceania. The territory of Norfolk Island also includes Phillip Island and Nepean Island. There are a total of 27 islands in Norfolk including some atolls.
Norfolk Island Flag Facts
Like every other country or territory, the Norfolk Island flag has its significance. The flag of the island was approved and adopted in 1979. There were certain rules set out that dictated the correct use of the flag. The designer of the flag was not disclosed. The flag is very distinctive and bears no resemblance to the flag of Australia.
Colors and Meaning of Norfolk Island Flag
The Norfolk Island flag is rather simple and unique with just two colors; green and white. The flag has three equal, vertical stripes. White in the middle while green stripes on each side. The white part has the Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla). The green on either side of the flag refers to the rich natural vegetation that Norfolk has to offer whereas the pine tree is commonly found in Norfolk Island and it now serves as a symbol. The flag bears great resemblance to that of Canada.
Population of Norfolk Island
This island is not the biggest one out there with just 2,169 inhabitants. Usually, to be able to live on the island permanently you often need to run a business or work in some manner except if you are an Australian or New Zealander.
The island has 4 main ethnic groups with Pitcairn being one of the first inhabitants followed by English, Scottish and Irish people. Every year on 8th June, the islanders celebrate Bounty Day which marks the anniversary of the day on which the Pitcairn Islanders came to live on Norfolk Island. The people here are very welcoming of the tourists and they value their culture a lot which can be seen through their incorporation of it everywhere.
Language of Norfolk Island
Other than English being one of the most widely spoken official languages, there is also Norfuk which is the language of the indigenous people of Norfolk Island. English became the official language due to the previous influence of English-speaking nations on this island starting from Great Britain and ending with Australia. Both the nations have had colonial powers over Norfolk Island. The language of the indigenous people, Norfuk is derived from Tahitian and English and bears great resemblance to Pitcairn.
Interesting Facts about Norfolk Island
Despite the lack of the island’s population, there are so many things that make this island so unique and interesting that it will make you want to experience it all for yourself. Here are a few interesting facts about Norfolk Island
- You can be incriminated for not giving way to cows!
- Kingston, the capital of Norfolk Island is considered to be the second oldest area of Australia.
- There is only one supermarket! Yes! The entire island buys and uses fresh produce.
- The island has 40 unique plant species and the government takes serious measures to preserve that.
- Looking for someone in the phonebook but can’t find the number? Well, that is because Norfolk Island allows you to enter your nickname instead of your real name if you wish since so many people have the same last name.
Places to visit in Norfolk Island
With an interesting culture and people come interesting places. Norfolk has a lot to offer starting from historical places. Here are a few that you should visit or experience during your stay
- Anson Bay – Love a beautiful secluded beach? Well, you have come to the right place. Anson Bay is one of a kind beach with clear water and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Bounty Folk Museum – Learn more about the history of this place and its people in the Bounty Folk Museum that will leave you amused.
- KAVHA (Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area) – You cannot complete your trip to Norfolk Island without visiting this place. The place is declared a world heritage by UNESCO and it used to be a convict settlement area. The place has remnants and artefacts from all four settlements of the islands and there are 4 museums situated there as well.
BOOK HOTEL IN ANY PART OF NORFOLK ISLAND AT GREAT PRICES
See Also
MAP AND FLAG OF COUNTRIES IN OCEANIA