Culture

Since arriving on Norfolk Island from Pitcairn Island on 8th June 1856, the descendants of the Bounty Mutineers have continued to cultivate their distinctive culture and language, and preserved the rich history of the Island. 

Island dancing, music, singing, basket weaving, and arts and crafts remain very important elements of the Norfolk Island culture. Norfolk Islanders also have their own unique cuisine and visitors can sample many tasty local dishes such as Pilhai (baked kumera), Mudda (banana dumplings), and Hihi Pie (made with periwinkles). The Norf'k language is a unique mixture of 18th Century English and Polynesian. While English is the most commonly used language on the Island, visitors frequently hear the Islanders talk to one another in Norf'k. 

For many years agriculture formed the basis of the Island's economy. The majority of the Islanders lived a subsistence lifestyle, growing their own food. In later years their incomes were supplemented by exporting produce and by whaling. 

Bounty Day, or Anniversary Day as is it more formally called, on 8th June remains the most significant date on Norfolk Island calendar each year and is a public holiday where the people of Norfolk Island celebrate the arrival of their forebears. Bounty Day has not altered over generations and even today the food, friendship and style of clothing still portray the traditions of yesteryear. One of the features of the day is the re-enactment of the landing of the Pitcairn people on Norfolk Island, and the procession march through the historic ruins at Kingston.

The Island is home to 1800 permanent residents, of which 40% are descendants of the most famous naval mutiny in modern history. With many shared surnames of the mutineer descendants, the local telephone book identifies many by their nicknames such as Lettuce Leaf, Spuddy, Bubby, Diddles, Loppy to name just a few. 

During the Second World War an airstrip was built on the Island proving a catalyst for change. With easier access to Norfolk, tourism developed to the point where it became the mainstay of the economy. Tourism remains Norfolk's main industry, although farming and fishing are still important aspects of Island life.

 Here's a taste of the local language: