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Norfolk Island for International Visitors
For many purposes, Norfolk Island is considered part of Australia, however, when it comes to travelling there you depart from the International terminal as it is overseas and International customs regulations apply.
Customs & Quarantine
Australian Commonwealth Customs and Quarantine laws do not extend to Norfolk Island, however, local Territory laws apply. A local customs duty is imposed on most items entering the Territory. Some exemptions exist. Quarantine controls generally mirror those on the mainland. Imports of fruit, vegetables, flowers and seeds are prohibited as are pork and poultry from New Zealand. The duty-free allowance is one litre of alcohol and 200 cigarettes.
Time
Norfolk Island time is 11½ hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), one and a half hours ahead of Australian Eastern Standard Time, half an hour ahead of Eastern Daylight Saving Time nd one and a half hours behind New Zealand.
Postage
Norfolk has its own postage stamps and Philatelic Bureau (Post Code 2899). The Bureau trading hours are 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday (closes 4.00pm Wednesday).
Immigration
A passport or document of identity (Australian Residents only) is required. If you have a current Australian or New Zealand passport, a visa for entry into Australia or New Zealand or the right to enter either Australia or New Zealand without a visa then you are granted automatic entry to Norfolk Island. All other visitors must obtain a Visitor's Permit (valid for 30 days) from the Norfolk Island Immigration Office prior to arrival. Entry and residence are controlled by the Norfolk Island Government under the Norfolk Island Immigration Act 1980.
A $25 departure fee is payable at the airport on the day on the day you depart or you can pay in advance at the Visitor Information Centre. A mainland departure tax is not payable by persons travelling to Norfolk Island from Australia.
Banking
The Westpac and Commonwealth Banks have branches on Norfolk Island. Visa, Mastercard, Bankcard and other major credit cards are accepted in various establishments on the Island. There is limited EFTPOS access and one Commonwealth Bank automatic teller facility on the Island.
Telecommunications
Calls between Norfolk Island and the mainland cannot be received or transmitted via the local mobile phone network. Services include an international telecommunications network link, providing Internet, telephone (International Direct:Voice/Data/Facsimile and Operator), International Toll-Free, Country Direct,Pay phonesrivate Leased services, Bureau services and Payphones.
Electricity
240 volts AC, 50 cycles, three flat pin plug. Electricity is generated locally by large diesel generators and power surges are common so the use of surge protection devices is recommended for all electronic equipment, especially computers and modems.
Currency
Australian currency is used with bank notes for five, ten, twenty, fifty and one hundred dollars. The cost of the Australian dollar (AUD) does fluctuate, but is about $0.55 US Dollars. You can use this currency converter to get a more accurate conversion from 180 different currencies.
Exchange facilities are available for all incoming and outgoing flights at the Sydney International Airport. Changing foreign currency can be done quickly and efficiently at most banks and at Bureau de Change outlets.
Tipping
As a rule, tipping is not expected on Norfolk Island, however, it is customary so if you are happy with someone who has tried that little bit harder and gone the extra mile, then a tip is in order and always appreciated. Giving a small tip (10% of the bill) in a restaurant is in order if the service is good.
Getting Around
A taxi service is available on the Island, however, you can not simply flag one down - you will have to book a cab in advance if you want to go aanywhere There is no public transport on the Island but small rental cars are plentiful - rumour has it that there are more rental cars than residents.
Cars drive on the left hand side of the road. If you're not used to it, take care when crossing the road - you should always use a "zebra crossing" to cross safely. Look out for cows, they have free run of the Island (except in the town centre) and they have right of way - it is an offence to hit a cow and you will be fined if you do.
Seasonal Information
The temperature on Norfolk Island, on average, ranges from 26°C (77° F) in summer to 20°C (68° F) in winter. The seasons on Norfolk Island are :
- Spring : September 1 through November 30
- Summer : December 1 through February 28 or 29
- AAutumn: March 1 through May 31
- Winter : June 1 through August 31
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted in government buildings, in tour busses, taxis or on flights to and from the Island. Many restaurants are non-smoking, however, they often have a dedicated area for smokers. Smoking is permitted on licensed premises.
Emergency Services
In a life threatening emergency dial 911 for the Hospital, 977 for Police and dial 955 for Fire and other Emergency Services.
For non-emergencies and general eenquiriescall the Police on 22222 if you are on Norfolk and 24222 if you are calling from overseas. The general enquiries number for Fire Services is 22049 and to the general enquiries number for the Hospital is 2209.
Health Services
The 28 bed Norfolk Island Hospital has extensive facilities including a dental clinic and a prescription dispensary. Emergency services are provided on a 24-hour basis and in serious emergencies, evacuations are provided by the RAAF. Medical expenses cannot be recovered under the Australian or New Zealand Medicare programs so you should have private health insurance for the duration of your visit.
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