Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island
For such a small island, Norfolk Island offers just so much in one holiday. Rich in history, friendly locals, & great shopping, you will be surprised how much there is to do. Stroll beneath the tallest tree ferns on earth and snorkel over coral reefs of tropical fish. A third of Norfolk is sub-tropical rainforest preserved within national parks and reserves. Bushwalking, mountain biking and bird watching are popular pastimes. With a climate similar to southern Queensland, and a range of accommodation to suit, we are sure your visit to Norfolk Island will be a memorable one you will want to do again.
Flying times (average)
Auckland to Norfolk Island - 1.5hours
Brisbane to Norfolk Island - 2 hours
Sydney to Norfolk Island - 2.5 hours
Omniche Holidays
www.omnicheholidays.com/destination.php?id=1
A big thank you to Omniche Holidays, who provided such an amazing and educational experience on Norfolk Island.
Please contact me directly to book your Norfolk Island holiday - charissa@mtatravel.com.au
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand provided all round great service. Check-in was smooth running especially considering the amounts of people checking in. In-flight entertainment was excellent. My special request meal was served with no hassles. Seating was comfortable and amenities were clean. Air New Zealand staff provided high class service. Flights were on time and in-fact our return flight landed early. I would definitely recommend this airline.
Governers Lodge Resort Hotel, 3.5*
www.governorslodgeresort.com
Well positioned and well maintained property. I found the rooms to be on the more basic end of the scale, yet very comfortable and spacious. The gardens were beautiful. There was a nice pool and spa area. The Bailey’s Homestead housed the restaurant and provided a delicious selection of food. This property caters for people travelling with disabilities and has one fully functional room for wheel chair bound travelers. It is well located a short distance from the city centre. On-site parking is provided at all properties. I would recommend this property to travellers wanting a well-priced 3.5* property with basic to mid range resort style accommodation.
Tin Sheds, 5*
www.tinshedsnorfolkisland.com
Wow, what a property! There are 3 fully self-contained luxury apartments with all the mod-cons. Some of which I didn’t know existed! This property would be perfectly suited for people wanting to have a peaceful break with luxury at their fingertips. This property boasts a full sized kitchens, private outdoor garden and entertaining area, private outdoor cooking area, large modern bathroom with separate toilet, large bedroom with personal pillow selection, spacious lounge area and fully internal equipped laundry facilities. There is also an area called The Pleasure Centre which has a heated swim spa, sauna, sunbathing deck, gym facilities, library and relaxation area. I think this property would be great for honeymooners or couples wanting that well-earned break or even a group of friends wanting a private getaway together. The rooms sleep a maximum of 2 adults so would be perfect for 3 couples travelling together. I was pleasantly surprised by the price of this property. It really is a luxury home away from home. Some added bonuses that this property offered are:
Each guest can choose one of the following:
1 hour personal training session at Norfolk Fitness & Health 9 holes of golf at the Norfolk Island Golf Club A history pack including a museums pass and a Cyclorama pass A personal introductory tour of Norfolk Island with Rick’s Personal Island Tours A voucher for a Forest and Bird Finder Tour with Margaret Christian (author, researcher and bird lover) Day passes for bike and kayak hire Two-course dinner voucher at a leading Norfolk Island restaurant Breakfast voucher (3 visits) for The Olive Café in The Village
Crest Apartments 3.5*
www.thecrest.nf
Beautiful property with an amazing host. You really felt welcomed at this property. It had a lovely family feel about it. The views were amongst the best from the garden areas. The rooms were to the more basic level but completely sufficient and well looked after. They offered 1,2, and 3 bedroom self- contained apartments, with some interconnecting rooms. The 3 bedroom apartment had a real homely feel to it and would be perfect for a family. There was no pool area however it is walking distance to a beach. This property offers fantastic 7 night deals. This would have to be my pick for families wanting the type of holiday where the kids can play in the area safely with lots of room around or to travelers who don’t mind being a little distance away from town (approx. 10mins drive) yet, be able to enjoy the peacefulness and beauty that Norfolk Island has to offer.
Jacaranda Cottages, 4*
www.jacarandapark.nlk.nf
This would have to have been my favourite 4* property and most likely the one that I personally would choose to go back to (apart from Tin Sheds). There are 5 fully self-contained, free standing apartments. I had that ‘log home’ vibe when I entered. The views over the rolling green hills were amazing and there was a certain peace and tranquility which stood out here. There was a central deck area with gorgeous gardens surrounding. Each apartment offered a 2 person spa and private laundry facilities. It wasn’t really walking distance to town, but an easy 5-10 minute drive. I would recommend this property to people of all ages who would like a modern property offering all the amenities of a comfortable and relaxing apartment. There were no pool facilities.
Baunti Escapes – Traditional Island BBQ
www.worldofbounty.com/WebPages/Dining.htm
What a way to start a holiday and really experience the true feel of Norfolk Island and it’s talked about reputation for down to earth hospitality. I wasn’t really sure what we were in for however that fast changed as we pulled into a local’s driveway and entered their home for a fantastic evening of food, fun, entertainment and laughs. We were very warmly welcomed into our host’s home. We received a little tour around this beautiful old style home with gorgeous balconies surrounding the home. We were provided with wine and delicious home-made garlic breads with avocado dipping sauce and wine. We had time to sit back and relax and enjoy the company of our hosts. We listened to their intriguing stories of past history and present. Our host’s teenager children performed a local dance routine – similar to Polynesian, which left us all with smiles. What talent and wonderful entertainment. The chef for the evening served a scrumptious dinner, which is all made from local produce. Special diets were catered for – and well (being a vegetarian). Desert was equally as satisfying. And the rest of the evening was spent mingling amongst our new found friends. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone travelling to Norfolk, of any age. It was one my most memorable experiences and such a relaxed environment where I really felt like I was being spoilt in the true local way.
Paradise Hotel and Resort, 3.5*
www.paradisehotelnorfolk.com
Centrally located property, just a short distance from Burnt Pine Shopping area. This property would be great for larger functions / conventions due to their large hall which caters for larger groups. They provided a friendly and informative service and delicious meals were served. The rooms were clean and spacious. The rooms ranged from basic standard to recently refurbished. They offered small single rooms for the budget/solo traveler. This property is one of very few on the island which offers a pool area. This property would be great for a family getaway or anyone wishing for a mid-range stay.
Baunti Escapes - Taste of Bounty Escapes Tour - http://www.worldofbounty.com/
This tour incorporated a taste of 7 tours that Baunti Escapes offers:
- Discover our World Tour
- Farm and Industry Tour
- Coffee Plantation Tour
- Progressive Dinner Tour
- Art Trail Tour
- Home and Garden Tour
- Helen Reddy’s World Tour
I really enjoyed this combination and thought that it would be great to offer to the general public. It truly was a ‘Taste of Baunti Escapes’. I was intrigued at the idea of actually entering Helen Reddy’s personal home and the way that she had provided such a welcomed atmosphere, yet very homely. I found it very interesting to see all of her personal memorabilia and numerous awards that she had won. The gardens in her place were amazing, not to mention the secret creek at the rear of her home. The Coffee Plantation Tour was certainly one for the coffee connoisseur. It provided an informative and very interesting background to how coffee plantations operate and the way of Norfolk Island. We visited Cyclorama which was a spectacular 360 degree artwork which cleverly described the famous mutiny which created the Pitcairn and Norfolk Island communities. Certainly a must see! The farm and industry tour was very interesting also, we even had the opportunity to visit a live pig farm and witness same day new born piglets. Hold your nose for this one but definitely a worthwhile tour.
Hilli’s Restaurant
www.norfolkisland.com.au/things-to-do/where-to-eat/norfolk-island/hilli-restaurant-cafe
We headed to the famous Hilli’s Restaurant where we were served one of the most delicious fine dining meals on the island. Hilli’s offered a great range of wines to match every taste. They catered for all dietary needs and I must say they did this with excellence. The restaurant provided an intimate setting for couples or small groups. It would be a perfect venue for a small wedding reception or group function. Highly recommended.
Tintoela Cottages and Homestead, 3.5 - 4.5*
www.norfolkisland.com.au/accommodation/norfolk-island/tintoela-of-norfolk
Tintoela provided self contained cottages and a homestead with stunning views across The South Pacific Ocean. There was a very peaceful, relaxed and secluded feel to this property. The décor was modern and well kept. This property was perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing, quiet time away. It was more suited to couples and was approximately 10 minutes drive from the Town Centre.
Tradewinds Country Cottages, 4-4.5*
http://www.tradewindsnorfolkisland.com/accommodation.html
This property comprised of 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartments. It was a boutique style property with recently refurbished accommodations. The setting was of a rural atmosphere with a relaxed, calm setting and beautiful gardens. The apartments were fully self- contained with modern appliances. The caretakers provided wonderful local knowledge and were there to look after every need of their guests. This property is great for a tranquil getaway with a very homely feel.
South Pacific Resort, 3.5*
www.southpacresort.com.au
South Pacific Resort provided a wonderful location – one of the closest to Burnt Pines Town Centre. This resort has undergone extensive renovations to all room types except their Garden Room. I would strongly recommend paying the small amount extra to upgrade to their Superior Room. Their penthouses provided great views and direct access to the pool area. This property is perfect for large group getaways as well as the solo traveler. It really catered for every need. There was a tour desk, games room, bar and public entertaining area. The restaurant offered delicious dining options – I would have to say my favourite lunch on the island. They catered for most dietary requirements and the resort was wheel chair accessible.
Omniche Car Rally
www.traveldaily.com.au/photos/omniche-holidays-norfolk-island-famil/156665
Wow - this was certainly one of my highlights. Although this tour is not an organized tour we may arrange this specifically for your group. We were separated in to two groups and provided all of the tools necessary for this activity, including our own convict outfit, fitting in perfectly with the local history. It truly provided an action packed, fun filled 3 hours. During the car rally we were able to explore some of the most beautiful parts of the island and experienced some of the true history that Norfolk Island has to offer. From scenic views to entering local’s homes to grave yards and golf courses not one participant was left without a smile on their face. I would 100% recommend participating in this tour. I must add here – my team WON the rally!
Pinetree Tours - Murder Mystery Dinner
www.pinetreetours.com/?page_id=46
The evening began with a transfer from our hotel to the private home of a local family. There were approximately 20 people that attended the dinner. From the moment we stepped off the bus we were greeted by our host and almost instantaneously the evening was transformed into a murder mystery themed evening. Our hosts played their characters extremely well. I had never participated in an evening like this and found it very interesting and exciting. The theme was based on true local history so apart from the fun of participating we were also taken on a ride of local history. The hosts catered for special dietary needs and the meals were absolutely delicious. We were provided with a 3 course, homemade meal. Being unlicensed premises we were permitted to take our own alcohol.
Olive Café
www.norfolkonlinenews.com/cafes-and-restaurants.html
Our last breakfast on Norfolk Island was hosted by the local Olive Café, located on a side street in Burnt Pine Town Centre. This was a relaxed atmosphere (like most of the Island) and provided all of the delicious foods you would expect on a breakfast menu. Their coffee was delicious and smoothies were to die for.
Life as a Convict tour
www.worldofbounty.com/WebPages/History.htm
Although I am not a passionate historian, I actually found this tour to be one of my favourites. We were taken on a journey through time, explaining in depth history of The Life as a Convict on Norfolk Island. This was an easy walking tour that took us through the scenic area of Kingston. Our guide explained an abundance of historical events and occurrences which amazed all that partook in the tour. It was an extremely informative activity and our guide was more than happy to spend all the extra time that was needed to answer our many questions. Did you know that Norfolk Island provided food and necessities to Australia when it was first settled?
Rumours Bar and café
www.norfolkisland.com.au/things-to-do/clubs-and-pubs
Our Omniche hosted getaway unfortunately came to an end and what better way to say goodbye than with a delicious light lunch served by the manager of Rumors. The food was delicious and the venue was in a perfect location for a bite after exploring the local shopping area or a nice cold drink after a beautiful day on Norfolk Island.