This fascinating island has a World Heritage convict history, spectacular scenery and a laid back culture.
Norfolk Island, roughly halfway between Australia and New Zealand is home to World Heritage convict buildings, sublime scenery and a unique culture with an intriguing past. It’s the only place in the world where the telephone book lists people by their nicknames, such as Book and Bing, Diddles, Pinky, Spud, Lettuce Leaf and Slugs.
“Discovered” by James Cook in 1774, the island was first settled as a convict colony. In 1855, Queen Victoria gave the island to the descendants of one of the most famous naval mutinies in modern history: the mutiny on the Bounty, led by Fletcher Christian. Wander around the beautiful stone buildings of Kingston, built during the convict settlement.
Norfolk Island is small, but much of the island is covered in national park, rolling green hills and towering Norfolk Island pine trees. Head to the protected national park on the northern edge of the island and explore the walking tracks. Stand on top of Mt Pitt for panoramic views of the stunning surrounds.