Norfolk Island

Pacific Ocean-Norfolk Island-Burnt Pine   What a beautiful Island to visit. I was surprised by how much there was to see and do. Here for 5 days and enjoyed it all. Not like at all the rest of the islands in the Pacific. Also on this trip had the most tourists as that is really what the island relies on . Famous for its Norfolk pine trees. 

It was only when I arrived on the island did I become aware that the Island was to become an Australian non self governing territory in July 2016. Publicity most everyone was upset over loosing their own self government . But privately I found more happy to see how it goes. One of the results of this is that Australian Post will take over the mail services. As such then Australian stamps will be used , though it is expected that Norfolk Island will have own issue stamps from time to time , just like Christmas Island and Cocos (Keeling ) Islands. Quite a selection of stamps here to be seen. A lovely Post office, but it will in future be attached to a Grocery store across the road. Glad I got here , before it all changed. 

Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is a very beautiful island. The Norfolk Pines are everywhere. 

Above is the settlement in Kingston. However the administration and centre is now in Burnt Pine. 

Norfolk Post office in Burnt Pine. The big news is that Norfolk Island is to loose its status as a self dependent territory of Australia from July 1. Many people on the island are not happy. What that means from a Stamp point of view is that Norfolk Post office will no longer exist. Australia Post will take over and a new Post office . Australia stamps will only be valid from July 1. It is expected that Australia post will issue Norfolk stamps from time to time like Cocos and Christmaas Island. No issues are planned as yet. There is only a registered service for mail using a Australia Post envelope with a AU code. 

The Post office counter has a selection of stamps . The philatelic bureau is upstairs and I was able to pay a visit. However the ladies up there are camera shy. They do not know what will happen . However I did happen to meet the new people from Australia post setting up the new office on the plane , so got on the info . Norfolk have some beautiful stamps. Loads of tourists here and plenty of postcards. 

Many people not happy losing their parliament .