There’s so much more to discover on Norfolk Island…

There is so much to see, do and experience on Norfolk Island and, as I recently found out, 5 nights is just not enough time to experience all this gorgeous island has to offer – a 10 night visit would be perfect! 

First and foremost the island is small – just 8km x 5km – which lulled me into thinking that it could be ‘walked around’.  However, although the island might be small in size, it is quite hilly so, for me driving around was definitely the way to go. 

That said there are some amazing walks you can do. From strolling around and taking in the beauty of Emily Bay's turquoise lagoon, to exploring the heritage listed convict ruins at Kingston, to exploring the islands botanical gardens and national parks you will be spoilt for choice.  You will also be rewarded with some of the most stunning and diverse scenery. The stately Norfolk pines form part of the islands backdrop which includes rolling hills, country charm, rugged coastlines and giant Banyan trees. 

Hightlights:

Bedrock. Heidi Adams runs this glorious establishment situated in lush, tranquil gardens set high on a hill overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean.  Not only is she an amazing chef – her garlic prawns are the best I have tasted  – she is a talented remedial masseur.  She offers the ultimate cliff top massage and she has a magical touch.

The cemetery tour.  This one and half hour guided tour brings to life the people, events and 200 years of history including the background story to 'for whom the bell tolls'.  When the sound of the bell tolled across the island you knew someone had died and it rang once for each year of the person's life.  

An early morning bushwalk with John Christian of Pinetree tours.  This walk finishes with a delicious hotl and cold buffet breakfast in a park – you may even be lucky enough to see, as I did,  one of the world's rarest birds, the Green Parrot.  Found only on Norfolk Island this species was brought back from the brink of extinction through clever conservation and sheer determination.

Cyclorama.  This is an incredible experience that took local artists, Tracey Yager and Sue Draper 2 years to complete.  A stunning and realistic 360 degree artwork that you walk throughis not to be missed.  It offers a spectacular 3D effect and it has been voted Australia's Best Tourist attraction.

Dining Out.  The food offerings on the island are extensive with many restaurants and café’s offering a true ‘paddock to plate’ experience. A standout was Norfolk Blue Restaurant where Chef Paul served up perfectly cooked ‘Norfolk Blue’ beef plus a wonderful selection of other seasonal dishes. ‘Norfolk Blue’ is a unique breed of cattle developed by Robyn Menghetti’s and bred on her 100 Acre Farm – from paddock to plate at less than 1km food miles!  Coffee from Joel and Angie Textor's 'Joel’s café' is a daily must do as is breakfast at Naomi (Nomes) Thompsons' Olive café – their omelette is superb.  Everywhere you go you will be met by the smiles of locals who are always happy to share a tale or tell you a joke or two.

Accomodation. Sarah and Tony Watts – owners of Castaway – will make your stay memorable with their hospitality and gorgeous, newly renovated rooms are situated in twon and close to shopping and dining.

Island Life:

On Norfolk time moves slowly.  Day's just seem longer and offer more time to reflect, which encourages you to reconnect, relax and rejuvinate.

As there is no public transport on the island a hire car is highly recommended and most accommodation properties can include a hire car in their rate.  The speed limit on the island is 50 km per hour and 40km per hour  in town.  Remember that wandering livestock have the right of way on the roads and that driving is on the left hand side of the road.  All locals wave to passing vehicles – called the "Norfolk wave" – you are encouraged to do the same.

The language spoken on Norfolk Island is English, but you'll often hear the Islanders speaking Norfolk, a unique language derived from the speech of the Bounty Mutineers and their Tahitian wives and companions who settled Pitcairn Island in 1790.

Don't forget your hat, sunglasses and sunscreen! The island offers an understated, relaxed vibe combined with excellent accommodation options, sophisticated dining and experiences galore.  It also can boast at being named in the top 10 South Pacific Island category in the Trip Advisor awards and its Emily Bay Lagoon has been voted in the top 100 best beaches in Australia.

Getting There:

Air New Zealand operates 5 flights to Norfolk Island every week: ex Sydney every Friday and Monday, ex Brisbane every Saturday and Tuesday and every Sunday from Auckland.

Norfolk Island is a tiny 8km x 5km island located between Australia and New Zealand in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean, a place where history, culture, friendship and community abound.

Less than 3 hours flying from Sydney, Brisbane or Auckland, the island boasts a pristine environment with beautiful beaches, a rugged coastline, World Heritage convict site and National Parks and Reserves dotted with the iconic Norfolk Island pines.

Best Premium Economy Class and Best Economy Class:

Air New Zealand has been honoured for the third consecutive year for its continuous passenger innovations, environmental commitment, and operational safety after being again voted Best Premium Economy Class and Best Economy Class by Airlineratings.com.

AirlineRatings.com’s editorial team took special note of Air New Zealand’s comprehensive long haul offering which has two multi-award winning products in the Skycouch and Spaceseat for economy passengers.

“Air New Zealand’s focus on its staff has resulted in outstanding performance right across the airline at every touch point,” said AirlineRatings.com Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas.

“The innovation at Air New Zealand continues to dazzle and the airline has rolled out some stunning new technology including innovative tracking of unaccompanied children and a wonderful App to get you a prefect cup of coffee before your flight.”

“Put simply Air New Zealand remains the industry leader and a textbook case of what an airline should be in today’s intensely competitive market.”

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Christopher Luxon says the airline is thrilled to receive the prestigious accolade three years in a row.

“None of this would be possible without the contribution of our 10,500 employees globally who turn up every day with the most fantastic attitude and the passion for making Air New Zealand a truly great company,” he said.

Alison Carmichael-Rulten

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