Tourism in Norfolk Island has picked up dramatically in the past few weeks as Australians revel in the opportunity to take what is effectively an overseas holiday.
The stone ruins of the colony, set on on the wave-swept coast, are now a major attraction for foreign tourists to the South Pacific paradise. Photo: AFP PHOTO/Lawrence BARTLETT
Norfolk's economy, largely built on tourism, was suffering even before the Covid-19 lockdowns.
However with options limited for would-be Australian tourist, there have been big numbers in February and now close to record arrivals in March which are delighting the industry.
The president of the Accommodation and Tourism Association, Rael Donde, said one indication of the influx of visitors was the shortage of rental cars.
He said there was significant latent demand from Australians forced to delay trips away.
Donde said there were now six flights, up from three previously.
He also noted marketing had stepped up further now in an effort to take further advantage of the borders opening between Norfolk and the Australian mainland.
