Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is a small island in the Pacific Ocean located between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia. It is part of the Commonwealth of Australia, but it enjoys a large degree of self-governance. Together with two neighbouring islands, it forms one of Australia's external territories.

History

Norfolk Island was first settled by East Polynesian seafarers either from the Kermadec Islands north of New Zealand or from the North Island of New Zealand. They arrived in the thirteenth or fourteenth century, and survived for several generations before disappearing. The island was subsequently inhabited by the British in 1788, shortly after the establishment of a settlement at Port Jackson. The island was used as a convict penal settlement until May 1855, except for an 11-year hiatus between 1814 and 1825, when it lay abandoned.

Geography

Norfolk Island is located in the South Pacific Ocean, east of the Australian mainland. It has an area of 34.6 square kilometres, with no land boundaries and 32 kilometres of coastline. The island's highest point is Mount Bates reaching 319 metres above sea level, while its lowest point is the Pacific Ocean. The island's terrain is mainly rolling plains.

Climate

The island experiences a subtropical climate and temperatures remain fairly constant throughout the year, with average high temperatures ranging from 19 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Demographics

As of the 2016 Australian census, the population of Norfolk Island was 1,748. The majority of residents are of either Norfolk Islander or Australian descent.

Economy

The economy of Norfolk Island is largely driven by tourism, which generates around 30% of the island's GDP. Other major sectors include public administration and safety, and education and training.

Government

Norfolk Island is a territory of Australia and has a multi-tiered system of government that includes a local Legislative Assembly.

Culture

The culture of Norfolk Island is deeply influenced by its Polynesian and British heritage. The island is known for its distinctive Norfolk language, a blend of 18th-century English and ancient Tahitian.

See also

• List of islands of Australia
• History of Norfolk Island
• Geography of Norfolk Island

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