What to know about Norfolk Island and its People? Or maybe what kind of cuisine they have and if there are any events or celebrations happening in Norfolk Island while you are travelling? Its all here.
The people of Norfolk Island is composed of Tahitian women, descendants of Fletcher Christian’s Bounty mutineers, and later immigrants from Pitcairn Island, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. The outcome of this complex blending is a unique cultural identity known as “Norf’k Ailen”. The “Norf’k Ailenas” language is a fusion of Tahitian and English from the 18th-century. Although, Norfuk language is not widely spoken in this day & age, it is a special symbol of the island’s heritage. Strong bonds define the “Norf’k Ailen” community. Norfolk Islanders have profound connection to their ancestral land. Visitors can experience their friendliness and hospitality from the moment they arrive at the Norfolk International Airport. Traditional crafts are still practiced today such as basket & flax weaving. These skills has been passed down through generations after generations. Contact Hideaway Holidays if you would like to be showcased some of this crafting.
Every year, numerous festivals and events are held on Norfolk Island, including Anniversary (Bounty) Day (June), HMS Sirius Shipwreck Anniversary (March), and Foundation Day (March). While Anniversary (Bounty) Day honours the historic mutiny and the arrival of settlers from Pitcairn Island on 8 June 1856, Foundation Day honours the arrival of the first immigrants on 6 March 1788. Most festival and celebration in Norfolk features parades, historical event re-enactments, traditional dances and music, and of course, delectable Australian and local cuisine. Ask Hideaway Holidays for the yearly calendar of events before your travel. Norfolk Island culture is heavily influenced by Christianity, and the Anglican, Seventh-day Adventist, and Uniting Church faiths have strong presence there. Beautiful choral singing is pretty common in church services and community events, which is evidence of the island’s rich musical history. Visit our Norfolk packages page to select and experience Norfuk singing. The artistic spirit thrives on Norfolk Island. Local artisans create exquisite pieces using traditional techniques like wood carving, quilting, and flax weaving. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring home a unique keepsake crafted by an islander. This also benefits the regional craftspeople whose trade has been passed down from the forefathers.
Norfolk Island people has had a long history of self-sufficiency thanks to its remoteness. Daily the local farmers work the rich volcanic soil to produce fresh fruits, vegetables, and breed cattle, while fishermen bring in fresh catches. The concept of “food metres, not food miles” results in dishes that are exceptionally tasty and fresh. Polynesian and British fusion have resulted in rich Norfolk’s cuisine. With robust roasts and stews, one can anticipate dishes such as earth oven cookery called “umu”. When booking your holiday with Hideaway Holiday, ask our consultants for breakfast options. A must-try breakfast dish in Norfolk is “pilgrims” – a breakfast dish with bacon, eggs, and fried breadfruit. Our travel experts highly recommend that you try the Norfolk fudge which is a delicious dessert that can be made with bananas or coffee from the local areas and the distinctive Norfolk Island tiny citrous fruit used for making chutneys and jams.
Visit the Kingston UNESCO World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Site, located just 5-10 minute drive from Burnt Pine to travel back in time, where buildings constructed by former convicts narrate tales of the island’s criminal past. Dive into the tragic story of the mutiny and see the interesting Bounty Folk Museum. Norfolk Island is a great place to visit to be out and about. Go hiking with friends & family in Mount Pitt Reserve, a haven for unique species such as the critically endangered Norfolk Island Boobook owl. Norfolk Island has immaculate beaches that are ideal for lounging in the sun and swimming in blue seas for people looking to unwind. Kayak through glistening bays filled with colourful fish, or dive into bright coral reefs. Emily Bay Lagoon and Slaughter Bay is recommended for swimming and snorkelling. While for sunrise, Cemetery Beach is the place and head down to Anson Bay to watch the sun set from the cliff. Riding a bike along peaceful country roads or exploring the island on horseback are two enjoyable options. Experience the world’s darkest skies for stargazing throughout the evenings.
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