Norfolk Island’s dramatic cliffs, pine forests, and small-town charm make it a peaceful escape – but understanding money in Norfolk Island and how currency works is essential for a smooth trip. Whether you’re enjoying local produce, booking a tour, or shopping in the island’s quaint stores, knowing how to pay is key. This guide explains what currency to bring, how to get money and currency in Norfolk Island (Australian Dollar – AUD), tips for using cash and cards, and the most important dos and don’ts. With this information, you’ll avoid payment issues and enjoy Norfolk Island stress-free.
How to pay in Norfolk Island – cash or card?
On Norfolk Island, both cash and cards are accepted – major credit and debit cards are widely accepted across most tourist businesses. But cash is still preferred for many small or local transactions. The Australian dollar (AUD) is the official currency.
You can use cash for:
- Street Vendors and Markets: Local craft markets and food stalls usually take cash.
- Public Transportation: Taxis and community buses are cash-only.
- Small Businesses: Family-run cafés, bakeries, and small shops often prefer cash.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Many budget accommodations may require cash payment.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are appreciated for personal services.
- Remote Areas: Some rural spots may not have card facilities.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: Most hotels and resorts accept Visa and Mastercard.
- Restaurants: Many sit-down restaurants and tourist cafés take cards.
- Retail Stores: Larger shops and supermarkets accept card payments.
- Car Rentals and Tours: Cards are generally accepted for deposits and payments.
- Online Bookings: Flights and some accommodations can be booked by card in advance.
What’s the best currency to take to Norfolk Island?
The Australian Dollar (AUD) is the official and only accepted currency on Norfolk Island. Bring AUD in cash, or withdraw from local ATMs after arrival.
USD, EUR, GBP, or other currencies are not accepted for purchases, and there are no local exchange facilities for them. If you bring non-AUD cash, you’ll likely need to go to mainland Australia to convert it.
Where to get currency in Norfolk Island?
There are 2 main ways to get cash in Norfolk Island. They are:
- ATMs, or
- One bank for currency exchange, or
Types of cards to swipe in Norfolk Island
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Norfolk Island
If you’re withdrawing money in Norfolk Island from an ATM, the only ATM in Norfolk Island commonly accepts Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus, CUP, JCB, Maestro cards. Others like American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Norfolk Island?
Norfolk Island uses the Australian Dollar (AUD), so if you’re traveling from Australia, there’s no need to exchange money. If you’re arriving from another country, it’s wise to bring some AUD cash for initial expenses.
ATMs are available on the island but may be limited in number and occasionally out of service. Most accept Visa and Mastercard, though withdrawal fees may apply, especially for international cards.
Currency exchange services are not available on the island, so it’s important to arrive with AUD in cash, particularly in small denominations for local purchases.
Where to withdraw money in Norfolk Island
You can withdraw money in Norfolk Island at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Norfolk Island is that by Commonwealth Bank.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Norfolk Island.
Where to exchange currency in Norfolk Island
There are no dedicated currency exchange bureaus on the island. The only real option is the Commonwealth Bank branch in Burnt Pine, which is located in the main shopping area. They can exchange your foreign currency for AUD, and it’s the only formal channel. Opening hours are typically Monday-Thursday, 9 AM-4 PM, and Fridays until 5 PM.
Pro Tip: Bring enough AUD in cash before arriving. While cards and traveller cheques are generally accepted, cash is still king, especially in more rural or small business settings.
You can find good currency exchanges in Norfolk Island using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Norfolk Island. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Is carrying cash in Norfolk Island safe?
Carrying cash in Norfolk Island is very safe, as the island has an extremely low crime rate and a laid-back atmosphere. However, while some businesses accept cards, cash is still preferred in many places – especially for small purchases or at local markets.
To carry cash safely in Norfolk Island:
- Carry only what you need for the day and store the rest securely in your accommodation.
- Use a simple wallet or zipped pouch – more for convenience than safety.
- Avoid flashing large sums of money, even in casual settings.
- Use the island’s single bank ATM during business hours, as services are limited.
- Keep small bills for cafés, tours, craft shops, and roadside stalls.
- Cards may not be accepted in all locations, so be prepared with cash.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Norfolk Island
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
