Norfolk Island
About Norfolk Island
| Currency | Australian Dollar (AUD) |
| Language | English |
| Capital | Kingston |
Norfolk Island, located in the Pacific Ocean east of Australia, is non-self-governing overseas territory of Australia. The chief of state is the King/Queen of England, who is represented by a governor general in Australia and the head of government is an administrator of the Norfolk Island. The population of Norfolk Island is estimated to be approximated 1700 people (2016); the majority of people are of Australian descent.
The volcanic island was first settled by Polynesian peoples between 800 and 1400AD. In 1788 the island, once again uninhabited, was discovered by the British Captain James Cook. In the late 1700s and early to mid 1800s, the UK government attempted to make the Norfolk Island a penal colony but attempts were abandoned after a short time. In 1856, the island was settled more permanently by Pitcairn Islanders. During World War II, an air strip was constructed on the island to help with the Allied war efforts in the Pacific. After the war this air strip was converted into a commercial airport, sparking the development of a tourism industry on Norfolk Island.
Due to its location, Norfolk Island has a subtropical climate. Temperatures are warm, but temperate and the humidity is high. Rain fall is heaviest between April and August. Tropical cyclones season is between May and July.
The economy of Norfolk Island is highly dependent on tourism. A large portion of the island is home to the National Park which allows travellers to experience the natural beauty of the island and also plays an important role in the restoration of damaged ecosystems and the protecting of native species. Other popular tourist activities on include golfing, fishing, hiking and birdwatching.
Recommended Vaccinations For Norfolk Island
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Yellow Fever Vaccine
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Travellers from the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador are exempt.
Recommended Medications For Norfolk Island
There are no recommendations for Norfolk Island at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Norfolk Island
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with a sick person.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats, but has not been reported in domestic or wild animals in this country.
Yellow Fever
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Travellers from the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador are exempt.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Safety & Security in Norfolk Island
Personal Safety
Although the crime rate on Norfolk Island is extremely low, petty crime and theft can occur anywhere. Always remain vigilant.
Exercise caution when driving on Norfolk Island as road conditions may be poor and animals may wander onto roads. Be extra cautious at night as there is no street lighting. Driving is on the left. There is no public transportation on the island.
Always check the weather conditions and heed advice of local authorities before engaging in outdoor activities. Before hiking or exploring the islands, ensure someone is aware of where you are going and when you will return. Ensure you are prepared with the proper clothing and equipment. It is advised to travel with a guide. In the National Park, only walk on marked trails and keep away from cliff edges.
Travellers should note that the only safe location to swim on Norfolk Island is Emily Bay snear Kingston. Ensure travel insurance is purchased before departing as medical facilities are limited. In the case of a severe medical emergency, evacuation will likely be required. As in Australia, same-sex marriage is legal in Norfolk Island.
