This tiny island resides in the Pacific Ocean, north west of New Zealand. Just 35km2 in size, it is a place
where just about everything the world has to offer can be savoured … seriously!
Tales of history, heritage and hardship escape from Kingston’s
crumbling ruins and the pristinely preserved buildings that have pride of place by
the sea.
Sparkling waters offer outstanding surf-breaks, abundant
fishing and rugged, rocky bays.
Surrounded by Norfolk pines and overlooked by the old salt
mine ruin, the tranquil lagoon of Emily Bay is a turquoise gem. The reef-protected waters, trimmed by golden
sands, are perfect for swimming.
The cemetery overlooking the golf-course whispers of young
lives lost; museums and artworks tell stories of adversity and heroism. The
Cyclorama, one of few in the world, is magnificent and entrancing as it showcases the story of the Mutiny on the Bounty.
Known by nicknames (there are only handful of surnames on the island), the locals welcome you into their homes and regale you with colourful tales, tossing in words from their unique language.
Genuine high-quality bargains from around the world beg to be
found; international chefs create fresh, stylish dishes as good as anywhere;
enchanted forests really do abound; and unhurried cows have right-of-way. An aquaduct appears from nowhere. Old prisons are now restaurants of the very best quality. Wherever you stay, you'll find a friend.
There are a myriad of local events and festivals that draw people from afar. Artists are tucked away all over the island,
creating special things. The sunsets are
picture postcard perfect.
About the only thing this magic place doesn’t have is
traffic lights!
Only 1½ hours from Auckland, you are on holiday the moment
you set foot on land. Having explored
and adored Norfolk Island’s many treasures, charms and traditions, I reckon
this place is heaven on earth. I’ve been
mesmerised twice already and would go again in a heartbeat.
The memory of sipping local wine at the top of Mt Pitt, watching sunbeams strike the horizon whilst laughing into the vast azure sky will be with me forever. I hope to experience again some day.
The memory of sipping local wine at the top of Mt Pitt, watching sunbeams strike the horizon whilst laughing into the vast azure sky will be with me forever. I hope to experience again some day.
An under-rated holiday destination if ever there was one!
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| Sunbeams |
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| Cows have priority on Norfolk Island! |
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| Kingston, with Emily Bay to the north |
