Norfolk Island-the land and people are an inherent part of this island located in the South Pacific Ocean. It lies on the geographical coordinates of 29º 02 S and 167º 57 E. Kingston is the capital of this island. Captain Cook discovered this island in 1774. The people of Norfolk Island are known as Norfolk Islander (s). There are about 2,114 people inhabiting in this island (2007 report). The rate of population growth is 0.006%.
The religions followed by the people of Norfolk Island are Anglican (34.9%), Australian Christian (2.4%), Roman Catholic (11.7%), Jehovah's Witness (0.9%) and others. The various ethnic groups of Norfolk Island include descendants of Bounty mutineers, Polynesian, New Zealander and Australian. English is the official language of the island people. Besides, they also speak in Norfolk language that is a blend of 18th century English and ancient Tahitian.
The land of Norfolk Island covers an area of 34.6 square kilometers. It has a coastline of 32 kilometers. The area covered by the territorial sea and fishing zone are respectively 12 and 200 nautical miles. Mount Bates situated at a height of 319 meters is the highest point of Norfolk Island. The land features volcanic formation with rolling plains. There is a sub-tropical kind of climate in the island.
About 10% of the population is engaged in agricultural activities. The rest 90% are employed in industries and service sector. The major agricultural products are fruits, cereals, Kentia palm seed and pine seed. The industries include ready mixed concrete industry, light industry and tourism industry.
The government of Norfolk Island has made education free and compulsory for the children belonging to the age group of 6 to 15 years. The government also provides primary and secondary school education to the people of the island.
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Norfolk Island-The Land and People |
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