Norfolk Island visitor comments

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Did the previous writers stay on a different island to the one we have visited 9 times? I suspect their expectations are far too high. Also you have to wonder how these people presented themselves to the locals. Do people travel expecting everything to be the same as AT HOME? Comparisons to Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch do not apply. The island is a RURAL place. Accommodation booking is always a risk, star ratings do not always give a clear indication but where else is a hire car and a half day tour INCLUDED in the tariff? Holiday costs on the island are much less the Vanuatu - where a hamburger and fries in our hotel was $40.00 each. Like wise dinner main courses in a New Caledonia resort were $90.00 each. Eating establishments have outside the MENU, PRICE LIST and a BOOKING PAD. You know in advance the cost. The pizzas we have had have been of high quality and taste but cost more than back home. Fresh filleted fish is available at Cascade Pier most days at around 11 am - you need cash. Meals at the clubs are pub type meals and are quite satisfactory - around $15.00 each for mains. Apartments have full kitchens if you want to eat in. Vegetable supplies vary as the eateries are supplied first. Tours and shows are no more costly than in New Zealand and you know the prices at booking time. Tch Tch no air con in a hire car. We were given a hire car by one of the big brands at Brisbane Airport with the air con not working. On arrival at our destination it was replaced with another car with a CRACKED WIDSCREEN. If you want a relaxing holiday without traffic, traffic lights, crowds of people this is the place but remember it is RURAL. Try staying a week in Te Puke, Otorahanga or Taumaranui and compare. Other drivers wave to you as they pass by. The people ARE friendly and helpful. The island is a beautiful, scenic island like no other in the South Pacific. FAR superior to Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia. We suggest visitors arrive with an open mind expecting things to be different, take a camera (great photos to be had) and have dinner at SEA WORLD at least twice. Are we going back for a tenth holiday you betcha!

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