Getting Around Norfolk Island. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transport & Taxis

Norfolk Island does not have a formal public transportation system. You will not find metros, public buses, or trams operating regular routes. This absence of public transit means that independent mobility relies entirely on other options.

Given the complete absence of public transport, renting a car is the most efficient and practical way to navigate the island independently. This offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, reach remote lookouts, and visit attractions spread across the island.

Taxi Services

Limited licensed taxi operators work on the island.
Taxis are usually pre-booked; you cannot typically hail them on the street.
Fares are set by individual operators; payment is usually cash. Confirm fare when booking.
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are not available.

No Public Transit

Norfolk Island lacks metros, public buses, or trams. Independent mobility relies on other options.

Car Rental Preferred

Renting a car is the most efficient and practical way to navigate the island independently.

Safe Taxi Option

Taxis are safe and operated by trusted local drivers, but pre-booking is important due to limited availability.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Most common and practical for visitors.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Local operators include Norfolk Island Rental Cars, Cascade Motors, Pine Tree Tours Car Hire, and Christian's Hire Service.

Bicycle & Motorcycle

Bicycle rentals are available from some local shops or accommodation providers.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are limited and not common for tourists.
Island's hilly terrain and roaming livestock make these less practical for general touring.

Car Rental Companies Comparison

Norfolk Island Rental Cars

Reliable service, diverse vehicles, discounts for longer rentals.

Cascade Motors

Good value for basic transport, often includes airport pick-up.

Pine Tree Tours Car Hire

Modern fleet, some eco-friendly options, can combine with tour packages.

Christian's Hire Service

Local family-run business, personalized and friendly service.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer different ways to experience Norfolk Island's beauty, though challenges exist due to the terrain and roads.

Pedestrian Areas

Kingston: Flat area, excellent for walking around KAVHA, historic buildings, and Emily Bay foreshore.
Burnt Pine: Commercial area is walkable for shopping, dining, and accessing services.
National Park: Extensive network of well-maintained walking tracks of varying difficulty for bushwalking and coastal cliffs.
Walking tours: Guided walking tours of KAVHA are popular. Self-guided walks are possible with maps from the Visitor Information Centre.

Cycling Information

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes.
Helmets are recommended and often provided with rentals.
Cyclists should be confident sharing roads with vehicles and should always be alert for cows.
Cycling can be challenging due to numerous hills, narrow roads, and roaming cows.

Specialized Transport for Tourism

Tour buses: Guided bus tours cover historical sites, natural attractions, and cultural experiences. No hop-on-hop-off services.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: Popular tours from Emily Bay view coral reefs and marine life.

Phillip Island Tours: Boat tours depart from Kingston Pier or Cascade Pier (weather permitting).
Accessibility Services: Limited infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs.
No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport infrastructure.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws

Drive on the left. Speed limit 50 km/h. Cows have right of way. Seatbelts compulsory. Strict drink driving laws.

Road Conditions

Main roads sealed. Many smaller roads unsealed, gravel, or dirt tracks. Drive carefully, especially after rain.

Parking

Ample and free parking at attractions, beaches, and in Burnt Pine.

Getting Around Challenges

Limited Mobility Options

Absence of formal public transportation.
Very limited taxi availability; ride-sharing is non-existent.
Steep hills and narrow roads can pose difficulties for walking and cycling.

Specialized Transport Limitations

Accessibility features for mobility needs may be limited in older buildings and terrain.
Many tour operators and accommodations are not fully wheelchair accessible; direct inquiry is .
No unique local transport like cable cars or funiculars.

Best Ways to Explore

Rental Car Freedom

Explore at your own pace, reach all corners of the island, and visit remote lookouts.

Highly Recommended

Organized Tours

Convenient way to see many sights, with local guides providing insights and handling navigation.

Stress-Free Exploration

Walking for Immersion

Ideal for Kingston, Burnt Pine, and National Park trails. Experience the island's tranquility closely.

Intimate Discovery

Driving Tips & Warnings

Driving Safely

Always drive on the left side of the road.
Adhere to the low speed limits (max 50 km/h).
Be vigilant for free-roaming cows and other livestock; they have right of way.

Road Hazards

Unsealed roads can be slippery or have loose gravel, especially after rain.
Watch for narrow sections, blind corners, and potholes on smaller roads.
Slow-moving local vehicles may be encountered.

Final Safety Considerations

Always wear seatbelts; they are compulsory.
Drink driving laws are strict; do not drive under the influence.
Pre-book airport transfers if not renting a car.
Secure valuables and lock your accommodation, even though crime rates are low.

Carry digital copies of important documents.
Consider comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation.
Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
Protect from sun and insects; use appropriate repellents and SPF.

Final Recommendation

Norfolk Island offers a tranquil escape with rich history and stunning natural beauty.

Prepare well, respect local customs and environment, and embrace the island's unique pace for an unforgettable experience.

Getting Around Norfolk Island