Overview of Norfolk Island

Profile

Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia, floating approximately 1,400 km east of the Australian mainland with an area of 34.6 km2. The landscape features native Norfolk pines towering across the island, emerald-green Emily Bay lagoon, and World Heritage-listed penal colony ruins, harmonizing nature and historical heritage. Residents are centered on descendants of Bounty mutineers who migrated from Pitcairn Island and Australian/NZ settlers, with English and Creole language Norfuk spoken daily. Tourism is the economic pillar, with approximately 35,000 annual travelers enjoying whale watching, diving, and historical walks. While under Australian federal law, it maintains strong independent culture and community identity.

Official name: Norfolk Island (Australian Territory)
Common name: Norfolk Island
Numeric code: 574
Alpha-3 code: NFK
Alpha-2 code: NF
Population: Approximately 2,200 (2021)
Population density: Approximately 63 per km2
Primary languages: English, Norfuk (Norfolk language)
Major religions: Christianity (Anglican, Uniting Church, Catholic, etc.)
National anthem: Come Ye Blessed (island song) / God Save the King (official)
Calling code: +672
Internet TLD: .nf

History

Uninhabited island made British penal colony in 1788, later abandoned and reopened, Pitcairn Islanders settled, currently Australian external territory with limited autonomy.

Ancient traces of East Polynesian temporary settlement remain, but when James Cook landed in 1774, it was uninhabited. In 1788, convicts were sent from New South Wales colony, opening a penal colony aimed at securing naval flax and pine. Lack of natural harbor led to abandonment in 1814, but reopened in 1825 as stricter penal colony, feared as "Hell Island." In 1856, 194 descendants of Bounty mutineers migrated from Pitcairn Island, becoming the island's central residents thereafter. Became Australian federal territory in 1914, gaining limited autonomy through Norfolk Island Act of 1979 establishing legislative council. 2016 saw autonomy law abolished, transitioning to regional council system under New South Wales law, with debate over autonomy rights continuing currently.

Geography & climate

Centered on plateau uplifted by volcanic activity, sea cliffs and white sand lagoons alternate. Norfolk pines stand throughout island, inland fertile red soil hills.

Temperate subtropical maritime climate

Area: Oceania / 34.6 km²
Capital: Kingston
Largest city: Burnt Pine
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Fertile volcanic ash soil, Norfolk pine timber, Coastal fishery resources, Basalt rock, Freshwater springs, Wind resources, Scenic tourism resources

Politics

Government: Australian external territory (regional council system under limited autonomy)

Economy

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)

GDP (nominal):

GDP (PPP):

Language & timezone

Primary languages: English, Norfuk (Norfolk language)

Time zone: Norfolk Island Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Pitcairn descent, Australian white, New Zealand white, British, Polynesian, Other European

National sports

Rugby League, Cricket, Golf, Surfing, Fishing