Norfolk Island info
Norfolk Island is a tiny island in the South Pacific Ocean. British attempts at establishing the island as a penal colony (1788-1814 and 1825-55) were ultimately abandoned. In 1856, the island was resettled by Pitcairn Islanders, descendants of Fletcher Christian and his band of mutineers from the ship Bounty and their Tahitian companions. Under their gentle care, Norfolk Island returned to paradise and remains so today. The island offers an enticing mix of old world charm, spectacular scenery, a host of activities, a warm welcome from the locals and the chance to indulge in tax free shopping. The terrain is volcanic with mostly rolling plains and sandy beaches tucked away at the base of high cliffs. Norfolk Island has 178 species of native plants, 40 of which are unique to the Island. The National Park has some of the world's best remaining rainforest which can be explored via walking tracks on foot or bike. Predominant among its trees is the stately Norfolk Island Pine which can reach a height of 57m.