The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) on Norfolk Island is a site of historical and cultural significance. Recognised as a World Heritage site, it reflects both early Polynesian settlement and European penal history. Today, however, this unique landscape is facing a serious environmental threat  that risks damaging its fragile ecology and cultural value.

In 2015, the Australian government unlawfully enacted the Norfolk Island Legislation Amendment Act 2015, stripping the island of its 1979 self-governance, abolishing its Legislative Assembly, and then moved to replace it with a regional council. 

This move and the decisions made for this area under KAVHA, alterations to the area’s natural water systems—particularly the blocking and modification of creeks—have disrupted long-established drainage patterns. As a result, areas that were once well-drained and ecologically balanced are now experiencing persistent waterlogging and swamp-like conditions.

These changes are already causing visible and concerning impacts. Native vegetation in the area, including the iconic Norfolk Island pine, is suffering due to prolonged water saturation and altered soil conditions. At the same time, stagnant water has created unpleasant odours and raises potential public health concerns for both residents and visitors.

The effects extend beyond the land. During heavy rainfall, contaminated runoff from the KAVHA area flows into Emily Bay, one of the island’s primary swimming locations. This reduces water quality, at times making the bay unsafe for swimming, and contributes to the degradation of nearby coral ecosystems, threatening marine life and the long-term health of the coastal environment.

If left unaddressed, these disruptions to natural water flow could result in irreversible damage to this irreplaceable cultural landscape. Immediate action is needed to restore the site’s natural hydrology. This includes reopening and rehabilitating historical watercourses, stabilising vulnerable areas, and implementing sustainable water management practices that respect the site’s heritage values.

Scientific research and expert guidance will be essential in determining the most effective restoration strategies. Involving local community groups and heritage specialists will help ensure that solutions are both practical and culturally appropriate.

We call on responsible authorities—KAVHA, The Department of Infrastructure Transport Regional Development Communications Sports and the Arts and NIRC—to prioritise the restoration and protection of KAVHA’s natural water systems. Safeguarding this site is essential to preserving its environmental integrity and cultural significance for future generations.

Sign this petition to support the conservation and restoration of one of Norfolk Island’s most important heritage sites.