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Few scams

Australia and New Zealand

Tourist scams in Norfolk Island

Crime on Norfolk Island is very low, though theft can happen. Opportunistic theft is the main concern described here; no specific tourist scams or fraud schemes are identified.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalOpportunistic theftThieves take advantage of easy access to belongings. Many islanders leave homes and cars unlocked, sometimes with windows open, but visitors should still take normal precautions.Across the country 1Read

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Lock cars and accommodation, even if others leave theirs open.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and avoid leaving bags unattended.
  • Carry only the cash and valuables you need for the day.

Money

  • Use Australian dollars. Other currencies are difficult to use on the island.
  • Arrange currency exchange through banks during business hours.
  • Keep some cash available. Most shops and restaurants accept cards, but some take cash only.
  • Keep backup cash separate from your main wallet.

Cards and ATMs

  • Plan around the island's single ATM, at the Commonwealth Bank in Burnt Pine.
  • Withdraw cash before your supply gets too low.
  • Cover your PIN and check the amount before approving a payment.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details available in case a card goes missing.

Taxis

  • Confirm the total fare and number of passengers before setting off.
  • Check whether a quoted fare is per person or for the whole vehicle.
  • Confirm whether your destination falls inside or outside the operator's central fare area.

Questions

Is Norfolk Island a high-risk place for tourist scams?

No. Crime is very low, though it does happen. Normal precautions against opportunistic theft are sensible.

What theft risk should I watch for?

Easy access to unattended belongings. Lock doors, close windows and keep valuables out of sight.

Are there known scam hotspots?

No specific scam, pickpocket or tout hotspots are identified here. Take normal care wherever you leave belongings.

Can I leave my car or accommodation unlocked like locals do?

Lock them when you leave. The island's relaxed habits do not remove the risk of opportunistic theft.

What should I check before paying for a ride?

Agree the total fare first. Island Rides lists one-way fares of A$10 per person within its central area, from the Queen Elizabeth Ave roundabout to Leagues Club, and A$15 per person outside it. Confirm the fare before travelling.

Which currency should I bring?

Australian dollars. Other currencies are difficult to use. Banks convert currency during business hours.

Can I rely entirely on cards?

Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but some take cash only. Keep enough cash for those purchases.

Where can I withdraw cash?

The island has a single ATM at the Commonwealth Bank in Burnt Pine. Avoid waiting until you have almost no cash left.

What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, freeze missing cards and report the theft to police. Keep a report reference for insurance. For a stolen passport, contact your country's embassy or consulate.

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